I recently posted a thread asking for recommendations for an upgrade to my stock rubber ducky on RS Pro164. Many gave great recommendations (as many of you have been doing this/studying this for years). I realize that everyone's situation is different so I wanted to give my exact scenario to see what some of the pros and not-so-pros come up with. I am looking to upgrade to a handheld antenna specifically tuned for the following situation (and I'm going to be as exact as I can in an effort to strike an nerve for those who have done extensive research, looking for same). If I don't have to have it, I prefer a shorter antenna as I like to carry the handheld with me from room to room and outside. Some of the 15 inchers seem impractical for my everyday use. Please know all your recommendations are GREATLY appreciated, as the knowledge base on here is phenominal.
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Here's the scoop:
I am approximately 10 miles or less from every antenna transmitter base in my city (public safety band).
The public safety bands I want to master are 154's, 155's, 458's, 460's, 462's & 463's.
I have plaster walls in my house (older home, built in 50's); house has tons of windows.
I'm on level ground (house slightly elevated with basement) with practically zero high/low spots.
There is an airport approximately 2.5 miles away.
Currently, I get close to full bar reception with slight cutting in/out (slight amount of white noise).
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That being said, what antenna would you throw out there as being good for my use? Does anyone know of a 7-8 incher or shorter? I've read that the Maldol MH-255 (approx. 4" tall) is tuned almost exactly for what I want but it's short... and sooo many say the longer, the better. I've also considered the Diamond RH519, as well (7.75 " tall). If I'm being OCD and will not get better reception with any other antenna that the stock duck, please feel free to advise of same. I surely don't want to waste time and/or money.
Thanks in advance for your help.
________________________________________________________________________
Here's the scoop:
I am approximately 10 miles or less from every antenna transmitter base in my city (public safety band).
The public safety bands I want to master are 154's, 155's, 458's, 460's, 462's & 463's.
I have plaster walls in my house (older home, built in 50's); house has tons of windows.
I'm on level ground (house slightly elevated with basement) with practically zero high/low spots.
There is an airport approximately 2.5 miles away.
Currently, I get close to full bar reception with slight cutting in/out (slight amount of white noise).
_________________________________________________________________________
That being said, what antenna would you throw out there as being good for my use? Does anyone know of a 7-8 incher or shorter? I've read that the Maldol MH-255 (approx. 4" tall) is tuned almost exactly for what I want but it's short... and sooo many say the longer, the better. I've also considered the Diamond RH519, as well (7.75 " tall). If I'm being OCD and will not get better reception with any other antenna that the stock duck, please feel free to advise of same. I surely don't want to waste time and/or money.
Thanks in advance for your help.
