Moonraker has the best selection of scanner antennas

Listen up, radio enthusiasts. If you're looking to boost your radio reception and hear more of the airwaves, Moonraker has the answer.

Moonraker has the best scanner antennas selection for listening in on everything on the airwaves. With over 40 years of experience selling top-quality antennas, Moonraker has got you covered whether you're operating from home or roving the countryside in your mobile listening post.

Our antennas are built to last and engineered to pull in even weak and distant signals with clarity and sensitivity that has to be heard to be believed. Take your radio adventures to the next level and reach for the Moonraker.

Choosing the Best Scanner Antenna for Your Needs

Range and Frequency

The two most important factors to consider when choosing a scanner antenna are the range and frequency you need. If you want to pick up signals from farther away, you'll want an antenna with more gain, like a multi-element yagi antenna. For VHF and UHF frequencies, a discone antenna is a great versatile choice.

Mounting Options

How and where you can mount the antenna is also key. If you rent or have local restrictions, an indoor antenna may be your only option. For outdoor mounting, look for an antenna that comes with both mast and wall mounts so you have flexibility. Roof mounts provide the best height but may require professional installation.

Durability

For outdoor use, look for an antenna advertised as weather-resistant or marine grade. These are designed to withstand exposure to elements like rain, snow and salt air. Stainless steel hardware helps ensure a long lifespan.

Impedance and Connectors

Make sure any antenna you choose has an impedance of 50 ohms to match most scanners. It should also have standard connectors like PL259, BNC, SMA or N-Type that are compatible with your radio. Some antennas come with multiple connector options so you can choose what suits your needs.

With so many options available, doing your homework on scanner antennas will pay off with better reception and performance. Once you determine the range, frequency, mounting style, durability and impedance you need, you'll be well on your way to hearing all the action on the airwaves. Happy listening!

Top Scanner Antennas for Hobby Radio Available at Moonraker

Wideband Discone Antenna

For wide frequency coverage, you can't beat the wideband discone antenna. This bad boy picks up signals between 25 to 1300 MHz, so you'll hear everything from aircraft communications to emergency services chatter. At under £50, it's a steal for any hobbyist looking to cast a wide net.

https://moonrakeronline.com/scanking-discone-25-to-1300mhz-antenna

High-Gain Yagi Antenna

If you want to zero in on specific frequencies, a Yagi antenna is the way to go. Moonraker offers high-gain Yagis tuned to the most popular scanner bands like VHF, UHF, and 800/900 MHz. These highly directional antennas can amplify signals by up to 15 dB, allowing you to pick up even weak transmissions from miles away. Prices start around £60.

Magnetic Mount Antennas

For mobile scanning, magnetic mount antennas are extremely useful. Just stick one on the roof of your car, and you've got an antenna setup to pick up signals on the go. Moonraker's magnetic mounts, like the SKYSCAN MOBILE 25-2000MHZ, are very affordable at under £30 and make it easy to get into the hobby without a major investment.

https://moonrakeronline.com/skyscan-mobile-scanner-antenna-mk3-magnetic-base-bnc-plug

With a range of performance levels and price points, Moonraker has the best scanner antennas for any UK hobbyist. Whether you're just getting started or looking to upgrade to pick up more distant signals, they have you covered. Check out their full range of antennas and tuning accessories to build the perfect setup for your radio adventures!

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Scanner Antenna

To maximize the performance of your scanner antenna, keep these tips in mind.

Choose the Right Type of Antenna

Select an antenna that suits your needs and location. If you want to pick up signals over a wide area, an outdoor omnidirectional antenna is ideal. For listening to specific frequencies, a directional Yagi antenna works well. Indoor antennas can work for some, but outdoor models generally provide better reception.

Positioning is Key

The height and location of your antenna have a big impact on performance. Place an outdoor antenna as high up as possible, at least 30 feet high if you can. This gives you the best line of sight to transmitters. Keep the antenna away from metal objects that can interfere with signals.

For indoor antennas, experiment with different locations in your home. Higher spots like attics typically work better than basements. Near a window is good, as long as it's not too close to electronics like radios, TVs or mobile phones which emit signals that can disrupt reception.

Reduce Interference

Interference from electronics and household devices is a common problem and reducing it will significantly improve your antenna's performance. Place your antenna as far from potential sources of interference as possible. Using an RF amplifier can also help boost the signal from your antenna while filtering out some interference. Properly grounding your antenna may reduce interference from static electricity.

Consider a Preamplifier

For listening to weaker or more distant signals, adding an RF preamplifier can help. A preamp attaches directly to your antenna and amplifies signals before sending them to your scanner. This can help pull in stations that would otherwise be too faint for your scanner to pick up clearly. Just be sure to choose a preamp that is properly matched to your antenna's impedance and frequency range.

A popular choice at Moonraker is the https://moonrakeronline.com/m-100-professional-24-2300mhz-pre-amplifier

With some experimentation using these tips, you'll have your antenna working optimally to pull in a wide range of radio signals for your listening enjoyment. Let the hunt for interesting new stations begin!

Installing and Positioning Your New Scanner Antenna

Choosing a Location

The location you choose for your new scanner antenna is critical for picking up the best signal. Place it as high up as possible, at least 30 feet above the ground. Attaching it to a mast on your roof is ideal. If that’s not possible, try mounting it on a pole in your yard. The higher the better, since it will have a wider range and less interference.

Assembly and Mounting

Follow the instructions to assemble your new antenna. Once assembled, mount it securely to your mast or pole. Make sure all parts are tightened and stable before raising it up. Have an extra set of hands to help raise and position the antenna while you stabilize the base.

Aiming for the Best Reception

With your antenna raised, it’s time to aim it for the strongest signal. Tune your scanner to a local frequency with active transmissions. Have an assistant slowly rotate and tilt the antenna while you monitor the signal strength on your scanner. Stop rotating when the signal peaks. Secure the antenna in that position.

Connecting the Cable

For the best reception, use high-quality coaxial cable and weather-resistant connectors. Connect the cable to the antenna and run it to the location of your scanner, securing it in place as needed. Connect the other end of the cable to the antenna input on your scanner.

With your scanner antenna properly installed, positioned, and connected, you’ll be picking up loud, clear signals in no time. Monitoring local emergency services, air traffic control, and other transmissions will become a breeze. Happy scanning!

Scanner Antenna FAQs: Common Questions About Choosing, Installing and Using Your New Antenna

How do I choose an antenna?

When selecting an antenna, consider what types of signals you want to pick up. Outdoor antennas typically provide the best range, while indoor antennas are more convenient but have limited range. Discone antennas receive a wide range of frequencies. Yagi antennas are highly directional, great for pulling in distant stations. Whatever you choose, make sure the antenna is compatible with your scanner radio.

Where should I install my antenna?

For the best reception, place your antenna as high as possible, away from obstructions like buildings. Outdoor antennas should be mounted on a mast or tower. Indoor antennas can be placed in an attic or near a window. Wherever you install it, point the antenna in the direction of the signals you want to receive.

How do I connect my antenna to my scanner?

Most scanners have an antenna jack that accepts a standard PL-259 connector. Simply screw the PL-259 connector on the end of your antenna coaxial cable into the antenna jack on your scanner. For outdoor antennas, run the coaxial cable into your home and connect it to your scanner. Keep the cable as short as possible for the clearest signal.

How can I improve my antenna's performance?

If you're not receiving the signals you want, there are a few things you can try. Reposition or rotate your antenna to improve directionality. Increase the height of your antenna. use low-loss coaxial cable to minimize signal degradation. An antenna amplifier or preamplifier can boost weak signals before they reach your scanner. Weatherproof outdoor antennas and connections to prevent corrosion.

What maintenance does my antenna require?

Most antennas are low-maintenance. Outdoor antennas should be inspected periodically to ensure all connections are tight and waterproof. Clean outdoor antennas once a year to remove built-up dirt and debris. Indoor antennas typically only need occasional dusting. Beyond that, your antenna should provide years of trouble-free performance as long as it remains properly installed and connected.

Conclusion

So, there you have it - Moonraker has a proven track record of being the best place for scanner antennas. Our huge selection, quality products, and excellent customer service make us the go-to shop for radio enthusiasts across the country. Whether you're just getting started in the hobby or you're a seasoned pro, Moonraker has the gear you need to pick up those signals loud and clear.

Give our website a browse and find the perfect antenna setup for your interests and budget. And be sure to come back here for more tips and reviews on the latest radio equipment and accessories! Happy listening!

For more information, visit out online store or alternatively, contact us - our team will be happy to assist you!