Recommendations For Masthead Vhf Antenna

[twodzusfittings]

Getting my list of improvements for 2015 ready. Would like recommendations for a masthead mounted antenna. I currently have a Shakespeare 5215, however the reception is not that great. Rated 3db.
I was thinking perhaps a Glomex GXRA109SLS with a 6db rating, but would like to hear any recommendations. Anyone?

 

[woodster]

one word METZ

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

Gain figures used here are usually misleading as neither indicates a reference so you cannot compare radiation patterns based on the claimed numbers. Also, they both have a base loading coil and a 3ft vertical radiator element so I suspect that the only difference between them is how they exaggerate efficacy.
As a practical matter, they should both have similar radiation pattern.

 

[Bill Roosa]

Typically the db rating is compared to a 1/2 wavelength dipole. Each 3 db is a doubling signal strength.
The difference between the "high" db and "low" db are the angle of radiation that the antenna puts out. High db antennas radiate 360 degrees horizontal but only +-3ish degrees vertical. Low db also radiate 360 horizontal but radiate +- 15ish degrees vertical.
So when you are heeled over at 10 degrees and have a high db antenna you can transmit/receive from the front and rear fine but athwart-ships the antenna is "pointed" at the water off the leeward side and into space on the windward side. A low db antenna will not have that problem till you get beyond 15ish degrees of heel.
Do high db antennas preform better? on power boats yes, on sailboats your mileage will very, and probably be worse when you need it most.

 

[Fred Villiard]

If you're going to ghange antenna Metz is the best one. But before you change antenna, your problem is probally bad connections, especialy if they are the shakespeare compression connectors. Next is the coax its self.

 

[Bill Roosa]

Try this
http://www.westmarine.com/WestAdvisor/Selecting-a-VHF-Antenna

 

[Rick Webb]

Somebody Said Metz

Listen to them.

I think West Marine quit stocking them but only because they would not get to sell you a replacement the following year.

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

Ditto on the advice from Bill and also checking connections and coax.