Base scanner antenna ?

[gmham]

Guys using one off these Diamond x50 type 2/70cm colinears just now for general air band / low vhf and uhf general scanner listening. Much to be gained by moving on to a dedicated scanner antenna and if so what is the preferred choice for a base version covering the above freq ranges ? The Diamond x50 is currently propped up in the shack ..I know not ideal is it but want to get the right antenna before getting it outside and in the air. Stick with the x50 with decent low loss coax or what ?

[paulears]

These antennas function as a 'bit of metal in the sky' on airband - but that's usually enough. They have good performance on 2/70, but it drops off rapidly as you go down to airband.

[gmham]

Okay cheers not a big air band listner but good to have the option off a decent receive coverage . Out off all the various base scanner antennas available what would folk recommend the best for airband , vhf and uhf ?

[ch25]

DIY:
https://www.qsl.net/na4it/dbgp.html
I use it for transmit as well.
Or: https://www.eham.net/article/8808
Chris

[gmham]

Thanks appreciatte the link.

[gmham]

Anyone used the Diamond D777 outwith the civ / military air bands it was designed for ? Just wonder how it would compare to a discone ?

[Goffy]

I'm using the Diamond X30 as a general scanner antenna and find it very good, it works as well as my dipole cut for marine band and another I've got cut for UHF. You say your not fussed about airband so everything you are listening to will be pretty close to the 2m/70cm bands for which the diamond is designed. The marine band and pmr bands are close enough to make no odds. Height is the main factor.

edit ...just noticed you said you want VHF low. i wouldnt recommend a 2m/70cm antenna for anything below 130mhz . it will be fine for vhf mid ie 162-174, marine and UHF 440-470

[gmham]

Sorry missed your reply thats great appreciatte the advice.