[FARC] Antenna suggestions for the Yaesu VX-6

[Brian McEntire]

Hello -
A few months back I got good advice here about software for my new
Yaesu VX-6 handheld. Figured I might try my luck again for antenna
suggestions   :)

I'm doing okay with the included rubber duck antenna when it comes to
hitting 147.060. I live close to the City of Frederick and although I
am down a hill which slopes down to the Monocacy River, I have a clear
view of the Blue Ridge mountains.

For the sake of being able to hit repeaters with lower power, or get
better results if I have the radio with me hiking or camping, I'm
considering one of the after-market antennas. I've read good things
about the Diamond SRH320A tri-band. Wondered if anyone here had a good
experience with it or would recommend another.

One drawback to the Diamond SRH320A I've read is that it doesn't
pickup anything below 2m. And one of the things I'm really enjoying
about this radio is picking up short wave radio from all around the
world. So perhaps I'm looking for two antenna solutions, or a better
all-in-one than the original rubber duck. I doubt I would need
shortwave away from home, so wonder if maybe I should try to build
something that I can put in my attic for short way. Any ideas here
would be a big help.

Last question -- the Yaesu vx-6 has a SMA connector for the antenna.
I've read there are SMA to BNC connectors which are good for
connecting after-market BNC antennas as well as limiting wear on the
SMA connector on the radio from too much screwing and unscrewing of
threaded antennas. Does it make sense to screw an SMA to BNC adapter
onto the HT, and then use another BNC to SMA adapter on the original
rubber duck or any after market antennas with SMA connectors? Thinking
this makes it quick and less wear to swap antennas. But didn't know if
this potentially increases noise or reduces the efficacy of antennas.

Thanks for any ideas!
Brian / KB3TCC