This is the absolute best channel out there for portable radio! Thank you so much for taking the time to test and give honest reviews of different equipment.
Thanks to this video I spent the afternoon de-anodizing my EZ whip. Fixed my SWR issues and first contact was IR4M (Italy) 75 watts 4 feet off the ground on a tripod. K4RRK
Thanks for the time you put into making this video. It was very helpful and when this is confusing at the end as it was at the beginning. Keep the videos coming I wish you the best of luck and take care of yourself in the cold.
Well it was some trouble I had with the CHA magnetic loop. First both plugs on the feed line failed. Easily replaced but then a small screw came lose on the capacitor shaft so it did not tune anymore. With help from customer service I dismantled the unit and fixed it. Happily these mishaps happened on a test run and not on a deployment. I am a believer that if anything can go wrong it eventually will, so that is why I use multiple systems most of the time when size weight considerations allow. Many thanks for your kind comments. Larry Uk RAYNET
STN, Phenomenal review. I must say, your ending has got me grinning ear to ear. You must have worked for the government..."Can't confirm or deny...." I am almost done with my review and shall be up by the end of the week. Would love to have a Chameleon system in my hands to compare. One of these days....
+Rob Fern :) Funny you should say that! ;) Truth is, as a comms gear reviewer, my task is to give potential customers every bit of information we can, so that they make an informed decision, even if that's not necessarily "the correct decision" from someone else's perspective. That's why I'm so hard on companies about crap documentation, or vague descriptions. Anyway, looking forward to your video.
I really enjoy your videos. You have a very clear and precise way of presenting the material. Very informative and easy to understand. Alpha antenna has upgraded their military whip antenna since this video. I would like to see a comparison of the chameleon with the new Alpha Antenna military whip. Thanks for all you're doing, I think it's the best channel for emergency portable communications. Keep the great videos.
Good review, Julian. I don't really think it's "kissing the butts" of one manufacturer if they produce a better product. You're giving us an honest assessment. You weren't personally attacking either company merely pointing out deficiencies in a product. All in all it's still very good work! Thanks for the effort.
+Richard Slusher Richard, thank you for the kindness. I didn't really see it coming but at some point I became a comms gear reviewer! There are worse jobs I suppose.
I think that comes with being seen as a subject matter expert. There's nothing wrong with doing reviews as long as you don't just hand out moonbeams and rainbows for every piece of equipment. Stick to what you did here and you'll be fine.
+Scott Pastor thank you Scott I try to keep manufacturers honest. Most antenna systems have their place there's no reason to oversell them. Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated
+eper1875 Very happy i could help. We're only halfway through the series, so please make sure to go back and watch the first two videos. Thanks for watching and for commenting it's very much appreciated
I started uploading the Full HD images to support my review. These are just the start, I'll upload more as time is available. Feel free to request specific images as well! Alpha EZ Military vs Chameleon MPAS [Antenna Shootout]: th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA75xg_f37tc96pqYA_VRH8h.html
I have decided to purchase the Chameleon Hybrid Mini. I wonder if it makes sense to use No-Ox grease between the elements for better reception/transmission?
+Jon Frost how you won't be disappointed with that one John. You should download the user manual from their website either for the Hybrid Mini or MIL Whip. It specifically discusses using conductive paste! Let us know how it works out for you I'm sure this question is interesting to others as well. thanks for watching!
Yes!! In fact I'll greatly recommend you to use something that prevent oxidation but also increase conductivity like the following product: www.homedepot.com/p/Ideal-NOALOX-4-oz-Anti-Oxidant-Compound-30-026/202276208
I use copper paste between the elements of the antenna system. The same copper paste you use when you change the brakes on your car. Cheap and works like a charm. I threw a small tube in the bag with the antenna so when I need to set up the antenna for longer, I have it on hand.
Julian, I chose the Chameleon and and am very pleased with the milspec quality. The MPAS system is very versatile with a wire, a whip or even both. Try running the Milwhip with a 25 foot wire added to the whip side of the balun. You can also add the 25 foot wire to the ground side of the balun.
+SpectreOZ thank you! These reviews are difficult at best when comparing one product against another. The good thing is I believe the products will improve based on honest reviews. That's a win-win for customers and for the manufacturers. Thanks for watching
Looking forward to a tactical review of loop antennas. My own experience was a complete failure with an MFJ magnetic loop as I could never tune it on 20M. This was the manual running loop. Sent it back. Maybe had an issue internal.
+Kevin J Kevin it's totally understandable. We bought one of those few years ago and it didn't work either and we had to open it up, tighten screws and do some re-soldering inside before getting it up ready...
I love how he has solid facts, doesn't sugar coat things, sais it as it is. and just calm voice and tone....totally rocks...have to say so far my fav channel, i must have watched over 15 videos..good thing im home today, not working.hehehehe
I have the Chameleon MPAS awesome antenna. Now I see Alpha has a new multiband tuner free vertical, the fact that it's able to do this without a tuner and goes up to 500w is big for me. Wonder if you can do a test between the new and old Alpha vs the MPAS.
Firstly, be very careful with that "tuner free" antenna! A simple google search will lead you to an article about why it "works". It is one way to do it, but their method introduces incredible losses into the system. Regarding the 500 watts. 500 watts through a portable antenna. Sounds good in marketing, but will anyone ever really use 1/2 kilowatt from a portable antenna? I may do the review later this year.
+Konrad Ritter hi Konrad. I did that but didn't show it on the video. It was overly brutal (and unnecessary), since I could present the same as a test. The results were for the Chameleon full continuity between the ferrule and antenna tip. For the Alpha, I couldn't get continuity from tip to tip since the top tube anodizing wasn't removed there. Dremel would solve that problem . always enjoy your comments thx for watching.
+SurvivalTech Nord Hi Julian, I kind of guessed it would be harsh... and only in my Opinion there is a really strong winner to me personally. The only thing I can't get myself to buy is that 1:5 Transformer for 270€ called the Chameleon Hybrid. I know it takes the beatings of hell (as seen in Chameleonwalkers Videos) and I think it is well priced if you live in the US, but here in Germany that's another story. To bad the customs take the fun out of importing that MPAS Kit they put together for your channel. That would be in my shopping cart faster than my wife can say "No more Antennas!"
+Chameleon Antenna I know. As I said, your price is perfectly fine!! It's the VAT and all the other stuff I have to pay to my beloved german government in order to be able to import it. I really am in Love with this MPAS Kit and One day I will call one of them my own I am sure about that!
Where you bought mounting brackets ?? They were as a part wit antenna or you bought the separately ?? If yes where ?? I can't find them here in Poland.
+VideosByDPF EXCELLENT QUESTION!!! It is possible to use another whip on the Alpha Match. The Alpha Match uses Male/Male 3/8x24 threads, unlike most of the industry, which uses 3/8 x 24 Female. To use the Chameleon MIL Whip or MIL Whip EXT (extension) with the Alpha Match, you would have to remove the top bolt of the Alpha Match and replace it with a Female/Female 3/8 x 24 Ferrule. This I will show in an upcoming supplemental video. I think this would be an OUTSTANDING modification for Alpha Match owners!
+SurvivalTech Nord Thank you for the quick response! I look forward to that video!! I have been an Alpha User for some time, and appreciate the integrity you have maintained in reviewing these two products! As I am sure you are aware there is another whip, the one I own, that Alpha Antenna makes that is a 6 section whip. I will be checking the continuity on both of minds and if need be break out the Dremel!
***** No problem and thanks for the feedback/kindness. I found out about the 6 section Whip after the fact. I would love to test that one in horizontal configuration. Of course if you want to test, I'd be happy to share your findings, and welcome parallel testing from others.
+M_Mills That depends on where you want them. The are based in the U.S. (both Alpha Antennas and Chameleon Antennas) but have dealers in other parts of the world. Check their websites for the exact numbers.
+M_Mills I would suggest reading the reviews at eHam.net, which has reviews of both antenna systems by hams who have bought them. Of course the ideal thing would be trying both yourself, but that isn't going to be possible in most cases.
Well how much are they in the country of manufacture or the manufacturers recommended retail price in that country, that way we can also perhaps judge if the extra cost will be worth it, the better quality unit may not be worth the extra cost, to me at least.
+Brett Shields hi Brett. This question is too abstract. However, with these versions of the antennas one is made with plumbing parts that come from some Home Improvements shop. The other is designed, built & manufactured in a machine shop. The in price is about the same, so the plumbers model price is artificially high, in comparison to the machine work and Engineering that went into the other.
Hello, Our deepest appreciation for the time that went into making this video. Alpha Antenna will be applying improvements to our antenna systems that were published in this video. Some of the improvements that Alpha Antenna will be making includes an upgrade to a fully enclosed stainless steel housing for the Alpha Match, a wiring upgrade option that can be used in the harshest environments, a new customized bag built exclusively for Alpha Antenna, and an option for a Heavy Duty tripod that does not require guying. As you read this, please also feel free to submit any ideas you might have on improving the Alpha Antenna systems. 73, Steve/N0TES - Founder Alpha Antenna - AlphaAntenna.com - 1-888-482-3249 1-888-482-3249 FREE
+Alpha Antenna meanwhile I am stuck with Alpha substandard original design... buyer beware... I did my own continuity test on the multi-element whip and found continuity was extremely poor between sections...
We are here, ready to fix any continuity issue. Anyone should always feel free to contact us at support@alphaantenna.com to receive an RMA#, and in no time at all we will return your whip! bagrambill
Very nice review mate. On a personal note I have managed to break a Chameleon Antenna but not yet destroyed an Alpha one. Use both systems and pretty much like both. Don't envy your task one little bit, outstanding work. Larry Uk RAYNET
+larrybushman1 thanks Larry the feedback is always appreciated. Can you expand a little bit on how you broke the chameleon antenna? This is an awful task, because quite honestly if you compare these two systems to other systems on the market, they would both be complete winners hands down. So I'm really happy this particular side by side comparison video is done, cause I just don't like slamming products! Using the chameleon for about a year, so naturally the alpha comes in as the underdog. To be honest with you, the way both companies handle the criticism, is notable. From this I imagine we'll see better products in the future. I always enjoy your comments.
This is a good example why most people do not need a carrying bag with the MPAS. It's because they attach the HYBRID-MICRO directly on their backpack or manpack in a way that it's always ready to use: www.worldwidedx.com/threads/a-man-pack-chameleon-elecraft-hf-station.198568/
Your review was great as always. But one thing puzzled me. You mentioned that the Alpha Match component was a weakness due to it poor materials and construction. But being familiar with the Alpha antenna, having owned one, I found the Alpha Match unit to be very heavy duty and built like a tank. So I found that aspect of the review to be confusing,
The bad think about any of the stick antennas is what’s going on the inside and out.. a big thing is that the poles . If you drop or smash the poles .."there mite not be visible damage the inside eliminates wire gets brittle and brake come lose. Or even comes lose under adverse conditions.. it pretty much happens too al antenn I. Always check joints Crome fittings the little rivets they use to set the ends ...well I don’t know what I’m talking about sorry 😐. I’ll go away sorry ....Black Dog Out.73’s ...5X5 Copy...
Here is how to test continuity of the Alpha Antenna MilStick whip: alphaantenna.com/Alpha_Antenna_EzMilitary_Continuity_Test.jpg I know that can be confusing, and I'm more than happy to offer this clarification! Steve/N0TES - AlphaAntenna.com
Well now we just find out what Alpha Antenna is using in their Alpha Match: They're now using what we've been using since the last 4 or 5 years in our HYBRID, HYBRID-MINI, HYBRID-MICRO and EMCOMM II. It's 5:1 UNUN th-cam.com/video/IbLAeqqRdNc/w-d-xo.html
Great video man, I really like the comparison of them in NVIS config, that right there helped me out a LOT in my decision. Keep up the good work! KE0CNW
I have never been a big fan of Alpha antennas, always thought they were to expensive for the quality of the antennas and then recently they were the middleman in a scheme to produce antennas for the Navy and come to find out those antennas were counterfeit or fake - full story here - qz.com/1785156/how-the-navy-seals-wound-up-buying-450-counterfeit-radio-antennas/
so lets say over 10 years, which will last longer? Its good that both vendors are saying they will be upgrading the product. There is more comparison to be made between portable antenna systems that are out there and available. Looking at these companies products too www.hyendcompany.nl/home ****** www.sotabeams.co.uk/antennas-hf/ and wondering if you can get examples from them to test on build quality. Have you done any frequency sweeping with these antennas in your other video tests? will need to look there.
+Kevin J hello Kevin. I can say with good care and maintenance, both of these systems will last. The thing is, its a valid question, but isn't the question the series is trying to answer. The background information that's posted with the videos is helpful in this regard. I like the idea of comparisons against other antenna systems. In fact there's a new antenna system on the way to me as we speak. The company (who for now will remain nameless) says they have a system which will meet or exceed the specs of either of these systems tested here. I'm really excited to see how that goes :) I have two different inside antenna systems from sotabeams waiting for reviews. I'll contact hyend and see if there's something portable they would like showcased on this channel. Thanks for the idea! The frequency sweep is also in the plans. I'm almost embarrassed to say I dropped my MFJ antenna analyzer from my tower, and haven't replaced it yet. Nevertheless it's on the list. Thanks for the comments, ideas and of course, thanks for watching.
What you are doing is so needed for the common ham. Think many want to use something tactical to set up for use during the night, or while traveling. The car mount mobile, or permanent tower mounted is so limiting. I am in an apartment box, that is for all practical purposes a faraday cage at HF bands, If I could set something up while I go to the park, or in the evening after dark for a few hours; that would expand my radio use.
Kevin J Thanks Kevin, much appreciated. You're not alone Kevin. I rarely use the tower at my home, and operating portable is so much more challenging, but also more fun. One also become a better operator with the challenges of working portable. Anyway you're in the right place! Whatvwe think of as tactical is changing. Our traditional ideas about antenna systems is also evolving. I've got two different loop antenna systems coming up. For an apartment dweller and also one who wants to work portable, the loop antenna might be a good alternative.
+Luis Rivera thanks Luis. Have you considered building or buying a magnetic loop? There is also a wires antenna called "folded terminated dipole" . Thanks for the kindness, and for the question.
Thanks for the reply, years ago when I first started out. I was taken back at a HamFest when I was looking at an Antenna to purchase. Let me tell you, I went home and built that same AT at half the price and made two for a friend. Then five years ago I got back into the hobby and once again i made a fan dipole. Excellent I must say. However, I gave that to a local ham here who moved to N.C. I currently have a G5Rv in the attic along with a dipole but its not doing any justice. I would like to go outside but I live in one those community where its frown upon set up an antenna. Anyway looking forward to your next video 73 Louie kb2qlq
This is the absolute best channel out there for portable radio! Thank you so much for taking the time to test and give honest reviews of different equipment.
Thanks to this video I spent the afternoon de-anodizing my EZ whip. Fixed my SWR issues and first contact was IR4M (Italy) 75 watts 4 feet off the ground on a tripod. K4RRK
Thanks for the time you put into making this video. It was very helpful and when this is confusing at the end as it was at the beginning. Keep the videos coming I wish you the best of luck and take care of yourself in the cold.
Well it was some trouble I had with the CHA magnetic loop. First both plugs on the feed line failed. Easily replaced but then a small screw came lose on the capacitor shaft so it did not tune anymore. With help from customer service I dismantled the unit and fixed it. Happily these mishaps happened on a test run and not on a deployment. I am a believer that if anything can go wrong it eventually will, so that is why I use multiple systems most of the time when size weight considerations allow. Many thanks for your kind comments. Larry Uk RAYNET
STN,
Phenomenal review. I must say, your ending has got me grinning ear to ear. You must have worked for the government..."Can't confirm or deny...."
I am almost done with my review and shall be up by the end of the week. Would love to have a Chameleon system in my hands to compare. One of these days....
+Rob Fern :)
Funny you should say that! ;)
Truth is, as a comms gear reviewer, my task is to give potential customers every bit of information we can, so that they make an informed decision, even if that's not necessarily "the correct decision" from someone else's perspective. That's why I'm so hard on companies about crap documentation, or vague descriptions.
Anyway, looking forward to your video.
+Rob Fern I t hink you did a great job. It's not always fun reviewing comms gear, but it's my belief better gear comes from it.
I really enjoy your videos. You have a very clear and precise way of presenting the material. Very informative and easy to understand. Alpha antenna has upgraded their military whip antenna since this video. I would like to see a comparison of the chameleon with the new Alpha Antenna military whip. Thanks for all you're doing, I think it's the best channel for emergency portable communications. Keep the great videos.
Good review, Julian. I don't really think it's "kissing the butts" of one manufacturer if they produce a better product. You're giving us an honest assessment. You weren't personally attacking either company merely pointing out deficiencies in a product. All in all it's still very good work! Thanks for the effort.
+Richard Slusher Richard, thank you for the kindness. I didn't really see it coming but at some point I became a comms gear reviewer! There are worse jobs I suppose.
I think that comes with being seen as a subject matter expert. There's nothing wrong with doing reviews as long as you don't just hand out moonbeams and rainbows for every piece of equipment. Stick to what you did here and you'll be fine.
I always enjoy your videos from Gear reviews to lifepo4 battery pac builds.
This is an excellent video. Every antenna is a compromise, specifying how that's implemented is useful information.
+Scott Pastor
+Scott Pastor thank you Scott I try to keep manufacturers honest. Most antenna systems have their place there's no reason to oversell them.
Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated
I have been waiting for a review of these 2 systems . Thanks for the review.
+eper1875 Very happy i could help. We're only halfway through the series, so please make sure to go back and watch the first two videos.
Thanks for watching and for commenting it's very much appreciated
I started uploading the Full HD images to support my review. These are just the start, I'll upload more as time is available. Feel free to request specific images as well!
Alpha EZ Military vs Chameleon MPAS [Antenna Shootout]: th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA75xg_f37tc96pqYA_VRH8h.html
Great review ! Thanks. You changed my mind on what to buy.
I have decided to purchase the Chameleon Hybrid Mini. I wonder if it makes sense to use No-Ox grease between the elements for better reception/transmission?
+Jon Frost how you won't be disappointed with that one John. You should download the user manual from their website either for the Hybrid Mini or MIL Whip. It specifically discusses using conductive paste!
Let us know how it works out for you I'm sure this question is interesting to others as well.
thanks for watching!
So I am looking at the Hybrid Mini Base unit +Mil Whip & Extension and the Jaw Clamp/ground radial kit (might make this on my own._
Yes!! In fact I'll greatly recommend you to use something that prevent oxidation but also increase conductivity like the following product: www.homedepot.com/p/Ideal-NOALOX-4-oz-Anti-Oxidant-Compound-30-026/202276208
I use copper paste between the elements of the antenna system. The same copper paste you use when you change the brakes on your car. Cheap and works like a charm. I threw a small tube in the bag with the antenna so when I need to set up the antenna for longer, I have it on hand.
+Hagen Volke Excellent advice and girls expertise!
Julian, I chose the Chameleon and and am very pleased with the milspec quality. The MPAS system is very versatile with a wire, a whip or even both. Try running the Milwhip with a 25 foot wire added to the whip side of the balun. You can also add the 25 foot wire to the ground side of the balun.
+John Leonardelli I've had lits of good work on the MPAS.
Nice fair and accurate review thanks Julian!
+SpectreOZ thank you! These reviews are difficult at best when comparing one product against another. The good thing is I believe the products will improve based on honest reviews. That's a win-win for customers and for the manufacturers.
Thanks for watching
+SurvivalTech Nord The effort is always appreciated and always informative...
Looking forward to a tactical review of loop antennas. My own experience was a complete failure with an MFJ magnetic loop as I could never tune it on 20M. This was the manual running loop. Sent it back. Maybe had an issue internal.
+Kevin J Kevin it's totally understandable. We bought one of those few years ago and it didn't work either and we had to open it up, tighten screws and do some re-soldering inside before getting it up ready...
Wow, amazing channel, i just subbed....love your way of describing things...keep it up.
+Theo T Thanks Theo. I needed a comment like this :)
+Theo T Yes this channel rocks!! No BS about the bad product... If the product is bad then lets just say it the way it is!
I love how he has solid facts, doesn't sugar coat things, sais it as it is. and just calm voice and tone....totally rocks...have to say so far my fav channel, i must have watched over 15 videos..good thing im home today, not working.hehehehe
Very good video job well done from Gary. Thanks from the UK 🇬🇧
Can you please do a review of the updated Alpha antenna system?
This comparison I fund very helpful .... thanks much. I've subscribed to your channel and plan to watch more.
+Walt Schoenly Many thanks.
+Walt Schoenly Me too just subscribed! This channel is very interesting and great for newcomers and beginners! Good job.
Awesome review Julian..
i have the Chameleon antennas two years now and love lt! de n3reb
+Dale Schleicher thanks for commenting Dale.
73 DE OH8STN
Chameleon antenna
How about now doing a three way with the Buddipole???
+John Leonardelli you're not the first one to ask me to do that! I'll see if I can make that happen.
Thanks for watching.
I have the Chameleon MPAS awesome antenna. Now I see Alpha has a new multiband tuner free vertical, the fact that it's able to do this without a tuner and goes up to 500w is big for me. Wonder if you can do a test between the new and old Alpha vs the MPAS.
Firstly, be very careful with that "tuner free" antenna! A simple google search will lead you to an article about why it "works". It is one way to do it, but their method introduces incredible losses into the system. Regarding the 500 watts. 500 watts through a portable antenna. Sounds good in marketing, but will anyone ever really use 1/2 kilowatt from a portable antenna? I may do the review later this year.
You can switch the HYBRID-MICRO from the MPAS with the HYBRID-MINI and you'll cover 500W SSB is not need. But nobody need 500W for a portable antenna!
Julian, have you done a comparison between the MPAS and the Super Antenna MP1DXMAX?
I'm just working on it.
5 out of 5 stars for your review !
How much do the different antennas cost ?
Hi There & thank you for your video , Can you have a look at the full chameleon cha hybrid next please .
Awesome video, have been waiting for this :)
How about meassuring the continuity and or resistance when the antennas are "deployed"?
+Konrad Ritter hi Konrad.
I did that but didn't show it on the video. It was overly brutal (and unnecessary), since I could present the same as a test. The results were for the Chameleon full continuity between the ferrule and antenna tip. For the Alpha, I couldn't get continuity from tip to tip since the top tube anodizing wasn't removed there. Dremel would solve that problem . always enjoy your comments thx for watching.
+SurvivalTech Nord Hi Julian,
I kind of guessed it would be harsh... and only in my Opinion there is a really strong winner to me personally.
The only thing I can't get myself to buy is that 1:5 Transformer for 270€ called the Chameleon Hybrid. I know it takes the beatings of hell (as seen in Chameleonwalkers Videos) and I think it is well priced if you live in the US, but here in Germany that's another story. To bad the customs take the fun out of importing that MPAS Kit they put together for your channel. That would be in my shopping cart faster than my wife can say "No more Antennas!"
+Konrad Ritter The MPAS is $299 USD shipping included worldwide!
+Chameleon Antenna I know. As I said, your price is perfectly fine!! It's the VAT and all the other stuff I have to pay to my beloved german government in order to be able to import it. I really am in Love with this MPAS Kit and One day I will call one of them my own I am sure about that!
Where you bought mounting brackets ?? They were as a part wit antenna or you bought the separately ?? If yes where ?? I can't find them here in Poland.
Great review! Class act all the way!
+VideosByDPF EXCELLENT QUESTION!!!
It is possible to use another whip on the Alpha Match. The Alpha Match uses Male/Male 3/8x24 threads, unlike most of the industry, which uses 3/8 x 24 Female. To use the Chameleon MIL Whip or MIL Whip EXT (extension) with the Alpha Match, you would have to remove the top bolt of the Alpha Match and replace it with a Female/Female 3/8 x 24 Ferrule. This I will show in an upcoming supplemental video. I think this would be an OUTSTANDING modification for Alpha Match owners!
+SurvivalTech Nord Thank you for the quick response! I look forward to that video!! I have been an Alpha User for some time, and appreciate the integrity you have maintained in reviewing these two products! As I am sure you are aware there is another whip, the one I own, that Alpha Antenna makes that is a 6 section whip. I will be checking the continuity on both of minds and if need be break out the Dremel!
***** No problem and thanks for the feedback/kindness. I found out about the 6 section Whip after the fact. I would love to test that one in horizontal configuration. Of course if you want to test, I'd be happy to share your findings, and welcome parallel testing from others.
Good review, thank you.
What is the cost of each setup?
+M_Mills
That depends on where you want them. The are based in the U.S. (both Alpha Antennas and Chameleon Antennas) but have dealers in other parts of the world. Check their websites for the exact numbers.
+M_Mills Here: www.survivaltechnology.net/survival-tech-nord-mpas-modular-portable-antenna-system/
+M_Mills I would suggest reading the reviews at eHam.net, which has reviews of both antenna systems by hams who have bought them. Of course the ideal thing would be trying both yourself, but that isn't going to be possible in most cases.
Well how much are they in the country of manufacture or the manufacturers recommended retail price in that country, that way we can also perhaps judge if the extra cost will be worth it, the better quality unit may not be worth the extra cost, to me at least.
+Brett Shields hi Brett. This question is too abstract. However, with these versions of the antennas one is made with plumbing parts that come from some Home Improvements shop. The other is designed, built & manufactured in a machine shop. The in price is about the same, so the plumbers model price is artificially high, in comparison to the machine work and Engineering that went into the other.
excellent video, no fluff. Thank-you
thanks Julian good job
The sad thing about living in the millennial world nowadays is that people get soooo offended over reviews...lol. The Chameleon Antenna is a winner.
Hello,
Our deepest appreciation for the time that went into making this video. Alpha Antenna will be applying improvements to our antenna systems that were published in this video.
Some of the improvements that Alpha Antenna will be making includes an upgrade to a fully enclosed stainless steel housing for the Alpha Match, a wiring upgrade option that can be used in the harshest environments, a new customized bag built exclusively for Alpha Antenna, and an option for a Heavy Duty tripod that does not require guying. As you read this, please also feel free to submit any ideas you might have on improving the Alpha Antenna systems.
73,
Steve/N0TES - Founder
Alpha Antenna - AlphaAntenna.com - 1-888-482-3249 1-888-482-3249 FREE
+Alpha Antenna meanwhile I am stuck with Alpha substandard original design... buyer beware... I did my own continuity test on the multi-element whip and found continuity was extremely poor between sections...
We are here, ready to fix any continuity issue. Anyone should always feel free to contact us at support@alphaantenna.com to receive an RMA#, and in no time at all we will return your whip! bagrambill
Very nice review mate. On a personal note I have managed to break a Chameleon Antenna but not yet destroyed an Alpha one. Use both systems and pretty much like both. Don't envy your task one little bit, outstanding work. Larry Uk RAYNET
+larrybushman1 thanks Larry the feedback is always appreciated. Can you expand a little bit on how you broke the chameleon antenna? This is an awful task, because quite honestly if you compare these two systems to other systems on the market, they would both be complete winners hands down. So I'm really happy this particular side by side comparison video is done, cause I just don't like slamming products! Using the chameleon for about a year, so naturally the alpha comes in as the underdog.
To be honest with you, the way both companies handle the criticism, is notable. From this I imagine we'll see better products in the future.
I always enjoy your comments.
Excelent Video. !!. Very informative.
Thanks
This is a good example why most people do not need a carrying bag with the MPAS. It's because they attach the HYBRID-MICRO directly on their backpack or manpack in a way that it's always ready to use:
www.worldwidedx.com/threads/a-man-pack-chameleon-elecraft-hf-station.198568/
Pretty good video...........
Your review was great as always. But one thing puzzled me. You mentioned that the Alpha Match component was a weakness due to it poor materials and construction. But being familiar with the Alpha antenna, having owned one, I found the Alpha Match unit to be very heavy duty and built like a tank. So I found that aspect of the review to be confusing,
The bad think about any of the stick antennas is what’s going on the inside and out.. a big thing is that the poles . If you drop or smash the poles .."there mite not be visible damage the inside eliminates wire gets brittle and brake come lose. Or even comes lose under adverse conditions.. it pretty much happens too al antenn I.
Always check joints Crome fittings the little rivets they use to set the ends ...well I don’t know what I’m talking about sorry 😐. I’ll go away sorry ....Black Dog Out.73’s ...5X5 Copy...
Here is how to test continuity of the Alpha Antenna MilStick whip:
alphaantenna.com/Alpha_Antenna_EzMilitary_Continuity_Test.jpg
I know that can be confusing, and I'm more than happy to offer this clarification!
Steve/N0TES - AlphaAntenna.com
Well now we just find out what Alpha Antenna is using in their Alpha Match: They're now using what we've been using since the last 4 or 5 years in our HYBRID, HYBRID-MINI, HYBRID-MICRO and EMCOMM II. It's 5:1 UNUN
th-cam.com/video/IbLAeqqRdNc/w-d-xo.html
I've got both versions of the Alpha Antenna. The older one I use mobile, and the FMJ Moto antenna... de N6AMF
Great video man, I really like the comparison of them in NVIS config, that right there helped me out a LOT in my decision. Keep up the good work! KE0CNW
wow good
+Sinongsium wow thanks
I have never been a big fan of Alpha antennas, always thought they were to expensive for the quality of the antennas and then recently they were the middleman in a scheme to produce antennas for the Navy and come to find out those antennas were counterfeit or fake - full story here - qz.com/1785156/how-the-navy-seals-wound-up-buying-450-counterfeit-radio-antennas/
I have never had a problem with the 2 antennas that I have bought from Chameleon.
Or course and NOT surprised at ALL!!! ALPHA ANTENNA has been making Chameleon Antenna knock off since almost a decades now!!!!
I just wish you would have taken a little more time u were moving the camera way to fast to see exactly what u were showing us bit of a shame
so lets say over 10 years, which will last longer? Its good that both vendors are saying they will be upgrading the product. There is more comparison to be made between portable antenna systems that are out there and available. Looking at these companies products too www.hyendcompany.nl/home ****** www.sotabeams.co.uk/antennas-hf/ and wondering if you can get examples from them to test on build quality. Have you done any frequency sweeping with these antennas in your other video tests? will need to look there.
+Kevin J hello Kevin. I can say with good care and maintenance, both of these systems will last. The thing is, its a valid question, but isn't the question the series is trying to answer. The background information that's posted with the videos is helpful in this regard.
I like the idea of comparisons against other antenna systems. In fact there's a new antenna system on the way to me as we speak. The company (who for now will remain nameless) says they have a system which will meet or exceed the specs of either of these systems tested here. I'm really excited to see how that goes :)
I have two different inside antenna systems from sotabeams waiting for reviews. I'll contact hyend and see if there's something portable they would like showcased on this channel. Thanks for the idea!
The frequency sweep is also in the plans. I'm almost embarrassed to say I dropped my MFJ antenna analyzer from my tower, and haven't replaced it yet. Nevertheless it's on the list.
Thanks for the comments, ideas and of course, thanks for watching.
What you are doing is so needed for the common ham. Think many want to use something tactical to set up for use during the night, or while traveling. The car mount mobile, or permanent tower mounted is so limiting. I am in an apartment box, that is for all practical purposes a faraday cage at HF bands, If I could set something up while I go to the park, or in the evening after dark for a few hours; that would expand my radio use.
Kevin J Thanks Kevin, much appreciated.
You're not alone Kevin. I rarely use the tower at my home, and operating portable is so much more challenging, but also more fun. One also become a better operator with the challenges of working portable.
Anyway you're in the right place! Whatvwe think of as tactical is changing. Our traditional ideas about antenna systems is also evolving. I've got two different loop antenna systems coming up. For an apartment dweller and also one who wants to work portable, the loop antenna might be a good alternative.
+Kevin J Totally agree with that!! Too much garbage online for a beginner to understand what is good or not.
So Alpha got the participation award.... If you dont want to say they is a loser. lol
Did you watch all four videos in the series? th-cam.com/video/HlmirEALEdQ/w-d-xo.html
Excellent video thank you! KJ6IHZ 73
GOOD & EDUCATIVE VIDEO. 73's Tony-KP4IA
Awesome, video thanks for making it! What would you recommend for indoor attic antenna? covering 80- 10?
+Luis Rivera thanks Luis.
Have you considered building or buying a magnetic loop? There is also a wires antenna called "folded terminated dipole" .
Thanks for the kindness, and for the question.
Thanks for the reply, years ago when I first started out. I was taken back at a HamFest when I was looking at an Antenna to purchase. Let me tell you, I went home and built that same AT at half the price and made two for a friend.
Then five years ago I got back into the hobby and once again i made a fan dipole. Excellent I must say. However, I gave that to a local ham here who moved to N.C.
I currently have a G5Rv in the attic along with a dipole but its not doing any justice.
I would like to go outside but I live in one those community where its frown upon set up an antenna.
Anyway looking forward to your next video
73
Louie kb2qlq