Base Antenna Opinions

It looks nice but it's too expensive for my budget max I would pay $120.

 

What do you guys think about sirio GPE 27 for $65 +$13 for shipping? Good for the price compared to others? I went with the GPE instead of the GPS due to reviews, what do you guys think about that?

 

I think you made a great choice and will be very happy with that antenna. Looking at YouTube videos, the IMAX 2000 seems to bend over a lot even with mild winds.

 

Okay, you got a great deal compared to the one on eBay. Once you get it up in the air, let us know what you think about it.

 

It should arrive in a week or so.

 

I have the Zero Five 27 ft vertical antenna. It’s a very well built antenna. I’m very happy with it.

 

My sirio antenna is up and running at 1.3 swr. I haven't tried it on SSB. But on cb it sounds good.

 

Good for you!

Let us know how it performs as you get more experience with it.

 

Been playing with a Sirio GPE 27 the past couple of days just for grins. Other than the power limitations, it’s a great antenna.

I would recommend this one for anyone setting up a first base for the price point and capabilities.

Pros:
Easy setup and install
Tunes extremely easily
Noise floor is low and excellent ears
Price is WAY cheaper than an I2K

Cons:
Cheap plastic “sleeves”
Ground radials are just shy of 4.5 feet
Power handling limited to 250W

So far on my tower mounted at 40’, I’ve contacted pretty much all of the east coast with skip, and my local talk is an average of 75-80 miles consistently.

Skip is rolling in and out here around Texarkana, but I still haven’t had any issues with just 80W on regular AM.

RFI? I have a ham that lives next door, he hasn’t complained. No balun at the base.

Keep in mind, I would just recommend for a beginner or someone not looking to go all in with big power. Lots of fun can be had with little money, this antenna is proof.

 

Great report Tensleep. At 80W and 40 feet, you're probably at a sweet spot for a "Best Bang for the Base Buck" award!

Regular communications ranging 75 miles on AM is impressive to me!