Anyone ever use Comtelco Antennas??

[DewAddict]

Hi All,

I am looking at their 800mhz 3db gain Mobile antenna and mag mount. Anyone have any opinions on them? I am going to order through RFWIZ online. I thought I'd ask before I bought one. I am also looking at a comparable antenna from Antenex. Which is better?

Thanks,

Rob

 

[Al42]

You're only going to listen to 800 MHz? (I prefer something like the Larsen 150-450-850)

 

[DewAddict]

Yep, all of the stuff I listen to is all P-25 here in Michigan so I will need only 800 capabilities. So what I am trying to do is find the best 800 antenna under $50.00.

 

[N_Jay]

Yep, all of the stuff I listen to is all P-25 here in Michigan so I will need only 800 capabilities. So what I am trying to do is find the best 800 antenna under $50.00.

I would just get a cheap 3dB moble antenna with a NMO mount, then get a the best NMO mag mount you can afford. There is very little magic to antennas.

 

[kb5udf]

Comtelco

I bought a dual band, very broadbanded quaterwave NMO mount from RFwiz, by comtelco.
Great antenna, extremely well made. I realize it's not specifically the model you're asking about, but this comtelco was extremely well made IMHO. Looks the same as the day I installed in my mobile, 3 months later (I got the anodized black version)

Jean B.

 

[MWillyG]

Comtelco Antennas

Dew:

I have used various models of Comtelco antennas in a mobile setting for several years, and I have found the quality to be very good.

I have a similar 800MHz Comtelco to the unit you are describing in the black finish with a NMO mount. I have used it on-and-off for several years and it still looks good. I use it for the CT State PD (P25) and a few other analog 800 P/S systems; it receives very well.

I also have the Larsen unit that Al42 refered to, and, though I think this is about the best "low-profile" antenna for all-around use, I have found that for 800 only, the Comtelco is a bit better. For an illustration, my 796D will usually get 1-2 more "signal strength units" with the Comtelco vs. the Larsen on the CSP.

That said, I would agree with N_Jay. 3 db gain is 3 db gain no matter what antenna you get. The antenna's ground plane set-up, though, is very important. If you do pay a little more for the antenna, you are probably paying for durability, not reception quality.

 

[DewAddict]

Thanks All!! That pretty much sums it up for me. I appreciate all the feedback. I am going to order tomorrow.

Time for a Dew.