which vhf aerial is best

[PabloPicasso]

I have a Metz to replace the combined Veronica windex type that broke. However, the Metz windex does not clear my tri color light, so now have separate brackets for both. If space is an issue Veronica maybe the only option. I didn't find vtronix very durable

 

[weustace]

I have no experience of the alternatives, but as a current user I couldn't recommend the V-Tronix VHF antennas. The 'solderless connector' they supply is in my opinion the major weak point: they supply it with the cheapest coax available (RG58), which is not ideal for long VHF cable runs, the connector does not allow you to substitute better quality (e.g. RG8X) cable, and I am not convinced by the waterproofing. Why they couldn't just have an N-type connector (which is commonly available in weatherproof versions) or even a UHF connector (PL259) I really don't know.

 

[KenMcCulloch]

I fitted a Metz antenna and Salty John’s recommended cable to a previous boat following poor performance from the previous Vtronix. Amazing improvement. Going through the Caledonian Canal I could hear lock keepers on their hand-helds over 30 miles away. Equally good transmitting.

 

[claymore]

Another vote for Metz - we also have one supplied by the Salty One and they were helpfulness itself!