I apologize if this has been addressed in other threads, but I've looked around on here and do not think I have found my question specifically addressed.
I am using the RadioShack Pro-164 scanner (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index ... Id=2970547) with a BNC antenna. I use it mainly to monitor railroad communications in the Central Philadelphia area. As far as I can tell, the scanner itself is fine. However, I have damaged the stock/rubber ducky antenna and was already looking for a replacement.
I have already purchased RadioShack's "Center-Loaded Telescoping Whip Antenna" (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index ... Id=2103159). I think this performs slightly better, but I am actually not certain how much better.
However, I believe I have read that some specialty retailers sell antennas that have been "cut" or tuned to a certain range of frequency, and that it might be able to get one of these for the railroad frequencies (i.e. 159.8 - 161.5).
If anybody can fill me in on their experience and opinions on what kind of antenna would work best for me, it would be much appreciated. As I said, I am looking for a new flexible rubber antenna, and if there is one that works better for railroads, I would like to know about it. I don't drive, nor do I have the ability to construct a larger antenna at home, so I am looking for something small and convenient for walking/biking/public transportation.
In addition, any additional comments on the Radio Shack Pro-164, their telescoping antenna, or even listening in on CSX/Amtrak/SEPTA/NS/CR in and around Philadelphia would also be helpful.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
I am using the RadioShack Pro-164 scanner (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index ... Id=2970547) with a BNC antenna. I use it mainly to monitor railroad communications in the Central Philadelphia area. As far as I can tell, the scanner itself is fine. However, I have damaged the stock/rubber ducky antenna and was already looking for a replacement.
I have already purchased RadioShack's "Center-Loaded Telescoping Whip Antenna" (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index ... Id=2103159). I think this performs slightly better, but I am actually not certain how much better.
However, I believe I have read that some specialty retailers sell antennas that have been "cut" or tuned to a certain range of frequency, and that it might be able to get one of these for the railroad frequencies (i.e. 159.8 - 161.5).
If anybody can fill me in on their experience and opinions on what kind of antenna would work best for me, it would be much appreciated. As I said, I am looking for a new flexible rubber antenna, and if there is one that works better for railroads, I would like to know about it. I don't drive, nor do I have the ability to construct a larger antenna at home, so I am looking for something small and convenient for walking/biking/public transportation.
In addition, any additional comments on the Radio Shack Pro-164, their telescoping antenna, or even listening in on CSX/Amtrak/SEPTA/NS/CR in and around Philadelphia would also be helpful.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
