Base Discone versus base 800mhz antenna - what to expect?

[wmscanfan]

I have casually scanned for 25+ years, andin all that time I have only ever used discone antennas. Recently put up a new Diamond discone with all new LMR400 cable. N connector version with 75' run to my scanner.

I have to say I am pretty happy with what I can hear, but as the 800Mhz band is getting more and more popular, I can't help but wonder what I would hear if I put up a 800Mhz base antenna instead?

Like I said, I am happy with what and how far I can hear, but I don't have anything to compare it to.

For anyone that has used both, can you give me some idea of what kind of improvements I might get (how much clearer, how much further etc), if I swapped the discone for a high quality 800mhz antenna?

I am tempted to just give it a try, but with the antenna on the roof, its easier said than done - so I don't want to waste my time or money if the improvements are only marginal.

 

[LtDoc]

A few of the basic 'facts' about 800 Mhz, or any VHF/UHF band.

Greater height will typically produce more signal(s).
A 'gain' antenna will 'hear' better than one with no gain. A disk cone antenna has no gain.
Getting rid of 'losses' is advantageous, till it costs more than it's worth. How much is that? Beats me, how much would it be for you??

So, what can you 'improve', greater antenna height, the 'gain' of the antenna, or something I didn't think to include? How much will you benefit? Another, "Beats Me!", thingy, just like the 'cost' thingy.
Have fun.
- 'Doc

 

[prcguy]

The typical Discone sold for scanner use has a reasonable match at 800MHz but the pattern tilts upward at thehigh end of the Discones range making 800 reception worse than lower bands. A dedicated 800 antenna should work much better.
prcguy