[Antennas] Compact beams

[Ron W7MRR]

Hi Gary:

   Here are my thoughts on each:

   (1) TGM Hybrid Quad - I have had one for 5 years now (and its the Miniquad that preceeded it for 10 years).  It is the smallest and the strongest (physically) by far of the three you have listed. The design concept uses both loading coils and capacity tops to enhance performance for such a small antenna.  To the untrained eye, it is just a large TV antenna if stealth is a consideration.  I have it mounted on a tripod on the roof of my home in the mountains at 7,850 feet (MSL) where it can and often snows 2+ feet of wet, heavy snow overnight.  It has not been damaged by this extreme weather.  

   It is directional, has some gain althought more pronounced on the higher frequencies where its physcial size requires less loading.  When comparing it to an R-7 mounted at the same height some 20 feet away, it will typically be at least 2 "S" units stronger (receiving and transmitting) than the R-7.  In addition to the 20/15/10/6 meter version, they offer one that covers 20-6 meters including the WARP bands.  It can be assembled by one person in an afternoon.  SWR is pretty close to what the instructions say when assembled.  I have been very pleased with this antenna and of the three you list, would rank this one #1.

   (2) Butternut HF5B - This antenna is much larger (it is not stealth at all) and uses alot of wire which will not withstand ice and snow conditions.  It is a bear to assemble, tune-up and does not exhibit the forward gain seen in the TGM Hybrid Quad -  at least this was my experience.  I bought one and sold it shortly after getting it together.  

   (3) Cushcraft MA5B - This antenna is much bigger than the TGM Hybrid Quad (no stealth here), but probably has more gain and FTB.  I have no direct experience with this antenna except to have seen it at Dayton, to work stations on the air that have it and to hear good things about it on the air.

   I would strongly suggest you take a look at http://www.eham.com/ under reviews at each of these antennas.  I am sure you will find it helpful.

   Good luck!

Ron W7MRR



--- On Wed 02/20, Gary Smith  wrote:
> I am looking to put up a small beam this spring,
> something that I can mount to a mast on the chimney
> and turn with an inexpensive rotor.  I primarily want
> to operate on 10, 15, and 20 meters and would like to
> dabble a little on 6 meters this summer.  I would like
> your vote, and the pros and cons, on the following
> choices.  Also, please feel free to give me other
> recommendations.
> 
> T.G.M. Communications MQ-3 Hybrid Quad
> Butternut HF5B
> Cushcraft MA5B
> 
> Thanks for your help and best of 73
> Gary WA1TJB
> 
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