ckwwestshore wrote:I have said radio and a SRH77CA antenna that I'm VERY happy with. I get on average 15 miles of reception trackside in either direction. First of all, whlle the railcom mag mount work with this radio? (SMA connector) and my next question. Would it improve my reception significantly? Anyone have this pair? If it helps, I railfan CSX in Rochester areas and the Southern Tier line, which is a bit more mountainous.
Charlie
Any antenna designed for the frequency range will work with the proper connector or connector/adapter combo at the radio end. The longer antenna will reduce flutter from relative movement of the train and receiver antennas, and it has more signal gain also. Marginal signals will be improved
slightly from the additional gain. Also, if cost is a concern, the railcom antenna is only a regular commercial antenna which Railcom has trimmed the whip to the proper length for 160-161MHz. Commercial antennas come with a cutting chart and with a hacksaw and vice or pliers, anyone can cut the whip in a couple of minutes. So any one of several good brands of antennas will work fine also when cut according to the directions. Depends on the cost differential and preferences which way you go.