i just got this scanner and this is also my first handheld.. i am looking for a better ant myself.. something that would extend the range or at least pickup more clearly
For what you've listed, the Diamond RH77CA would be a good choice. BUT giving a mileage improvement figure is impossible due to so many variables.
also im planing on going to some motocross races and air shows with this so i didnt know how good the stock ant was or if i needed something better
You might find that the stock antenna at a race or airshow to be adequate since you are so close in proximity to the action. It might even be a good thing to use the less-efficient stock duck in this application, typically saturated with RF. And, if you are climbing around static airshow displays and crowds of people, the short stock antenna might be more convenient when all is said and done at the end of the day. Bring both and test in the real world.
when i goto the air show the freq is 139 - 148 (pilots air to air) and a little 225. 235. 322. & 413. so i just wanna make sure i can pick these up..
Do you mean this airshow event in Smyrna:
The Great Tennessee AirShow
You've listed some UHF military-air freqs that the 95xlt won't cover. If you really want to listen to milair, the new Uniden BC125AT will do what you want. In any case, plan on using headphones / earphones.
While waiting for the airshow to arrive, why not try your hand at monitoring the M33 Galatin, TN airport:
123.050 CTAF/Unicom
118.400 Nashville approach / departure
It is listed as open to the public, so maybe you can make a burger-run there (if they have any food services), and kick back with your 95 watching the action....
also is it worth buying the usb cable to program this scanner.. will that allow me to name the channel?
I think it is worth it, but you won't be able to use text labels for the frequencies.
ive been listening to my police freqs and noticed that the 153.-155. freqs havent yet poped up with anything.. maybe they just aint talking when my scanner is on or maybe its not picking the freq up due to the type of ant??
Have you searched the database here for Sumner County, TN to make sure you are on the right frequencies?
http://www.radioreference.com/apps/db/?ctid=2510
It is possible that you are just too far away, but try the freqs listed in the database first. Also visit the Aircraft Monitoring forum here for more accurate airshow frequencies...