| Author |
Message |
    
mikefromms
| | Posted on Saturday, July 12, 2003 - 2:56 pm: | 
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In all honesty, knowing what you do now about the Imax 2000 from your experience using it and comparing it to your other antennas at the same heights, if you could trade it in for a brand new Imax 2000 or some other groundplane antenna (in its price range) what would you do? Would you try something else? Would you buy another one? Why? Let's get a good discussion going, everyone. Let's be as objective as possible.
mikefromms |
Buck
| | Posted on Saturday, July 12, 2003 - 6:51 pm: |
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I will definatly keep my Imax.....I am a happy camper with mine. I get some weird feelings when the wind blows hard but she just keeps on ticking. Im thinking of putting a flag on top of her and letting her blow all she wants but that might be a little much. I am definatly an I2K fan
Buck |
Xlaxx
| | Posted on Saturday, July 12, 2003 - 10:16 pm: |
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I am torn between an Imax 2000 and a Maco V 5/8.
Thanks mikefromms! This is a great discussion because I am getting ready to put an antenna back up on the house and I can't decide which one to choose. I already own the Maco but have heard so many good things about the I2K.
XLAXX |
Bullseye
| | Posted on Saturday, July 12, 2003 - 11:27 pm: |
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I am pretty partial to the Maco V-58. I have never had any tuning problems with it,although I can't see where the I2K would give you any either, but I have had 2 fiberglass antennas destroyed by atmospheric electrical emissions,otherwise known as lightning, and 1 V-58 hit and I still used the V-58 until the neighbors tree killed it several weeks ago. Anyway enough rambling. Although they,the I2K,are good antennas I prefer the Maco. |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Saturday, July 12, 2003 - 11:29 pm: |
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Xlaxx,
From what I've researched, the Maco is the best. The issue becomes broadbandedness. If you are using cb only or cb and a little of the 10 meter band you the Maco 5/8's is the way to go. It is the performance winner. Check the article on how to chose an antenna on the subcribers product review. For the broadest band 3 mhz the Imax 2000. But I believe there's another issue that keeps coming up: tvi. I guess that's why they sell the gpk.
I think you have the best performer but Imax is close and I think the AP and new Big Stick are right up there with them--close.
mikefromms |
Alsworld
| | Posted on Sunday, July 13, 2003 - 2:43 am: |
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mikefromms,
to answer your question, yes I would definitely buy another IMAX 2000 if mine were to be lost/stolen/broken etc. But of course I would consider all the others as well.
I'll be the first to state that I have not tried them all, nor will I pretend to be an antenna expert. I really like my IMAX 2000, but for different situations, different antennas may perform better. My point? Are you worried about lightning strikes? If you want your antenna to survive, a metal antenna is the way to go (considering it's properly grounded). Fiberglass will shatter and require replacement. Could that be a blessing being "DC coupled" vice DC grounded when relating to saving your equipment? Well....maybe if that DC coupled stuff really works. Might be proper grounding of a metal antenna could be safer. I'm fortunate as I've never been struck by lightning so I don't have that answer, but I still ground the IMAX extremely well for those "just in case" moments.
If you want the best, buy a Jay in the Mojave I-10K. Performance is about the same as the Maco (according to Tech833), cost is 4 times it, but the antenna will last you a lifetime, great customer service, instructions that make sense and Jay cares about his customers happiness. Maco's have poor instructions and some rough edges ( I have heard but NO personal experience). I still believe that some antennas will outperform others based on location and height at your particular location. What I mean is Tech833 did a very informative article, but all the major 5/8ths wave antennas might all perform differently at your location compared to the same setup somewhere else.
TVI: I've always read where metal antennas seem to have less if run with a clean system. There are things you can do to reduce problem areas (such as scuffing up the joing areas) whereas the fiberglass are plug and play so-to-speak with no way to tweak it.
If I was going to replace my IMAX with a metal antenna, I would go straight to the I 10K, and not consider a Maco. Yeah it cost a bit, with what maybe the same performance, but the quality of construction and customer service (and solid/accurate) instructions make it the best deal for me.
This is only my opinion, and my hard earned dollars, so I spend it like I want, as I know you will also once you make your decision.
Good hunting.
Alsworld |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Sunday, July 13, 2003 - 5:29 pm: |
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Alsworld, I believe I have a very good antenna in the Astroplane. Soon, I will put my new coax on it (when it mails) and raise that sucker up another few feet.
I am opened-minded to antenna ideas. That Jay i10 antenna must be good. Everything I read is 10 out of 10. But too high for me.
I wish I could just try a Imax 2000 and see what it does.
Do you think an antenna that radiates up and down its full length is more likely to cause interference with telephones, tvs and computer speakers? I know the A-99 does this. If I'm not mistaken, the Big Stick only radiates from the top whip.
Anyway, Copper has the best selection of groundplanes on the market. They don't sell any junk.
mikefromms |
Alsworld
| | Posted on Sunday, July 13, 2003 - 10:32 pm: |
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Mike,
You make a good point on TVI that I do not have the answer to concerning the Shakespeare radiating from the topside only. I know I have always been a big fan of their marine antennas, but have never tried their base CB antenna. The theory is intersesting and Shakespeare really is the only manufacture (that I know of) pushing this design as CB base antennas. I have no doubt they are built solid as a rock.
I have experienced some TVI from my IMAX 2000. Most I created for myself, and then worked and learned until I had eliminated it. Running an amp would bring it back, overmodulating also would create it. The better I fine tuned my setup, the more it went away. The offended equipment was all non shielded equipment.
Hey man, I'm really not trying to be an IMAX 2000 salesman. I do think it's a darn fine antenna, and I love the performance I get, but is it the greatest thing since slided bread? well.... I know I have talked to Karatebutcher numerous times on his 28 year old Shakespeare 1/2 wave antenna and he was always nationwide when the conditions were favorable. I do have a extremely favorable opinion of those, but I just have never operated one myself so I have no personal experience to compare it to.
Like I said, I am not any expert here. I almost bought the Maco then switched and bought the IMAX. I have no regrets but then again, maybe it's because I don't know what I'm missing. I think all the choices you (have) and are looking at are solid antennas. I am a 5/8ths wave fan no matter the manufacture.
Good luck
Alsworld |
Twa77
| | Posted on Sunday, July 13, 2003 - 11:12 pm: |
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i have no regrets of buying mine. never had problems getting out. this thing is broadbanded for sure. |
Tech808
| | Posted on Monday, July 14, 2003 - 9:00 am: |
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YES!
Well, here in Central Illinois, we have had many repeat customers buying the Imax 2000 with and without the GP kit.
We have a lot of Campers here and have sold many of them with a 30' push up pole and 54' of coax for them to use at the campgrounds during the summer.
Easy 10-15 minute set-up and they can talk all summer from the Campground.
We even have 3 who carry this setup with them on thier pop-up campers.
Everyone has been very pleased with the performance and recommended them to their friends as well.
Lon
Tech808
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mikefromms
| | Posted on Monday, July 14, 2003 - 8:10 pm: |
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Oh, oh, I feel an urge coming on...in the words of Will Smith in Independence Day: "I've got to get me one of these!"
mikefromms |
RCI 2990
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 15, 2003 - 1:21 am: |
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Well i sure would!!!! I loved mine but i already have a ton of old classic Avanti, Hy Gain, and A/S antennas up in the garage so i dont see the need to get another. Now if was antenna poor yes i sure would!!!! |
Highlander
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 15, 2003 - 7:37 am: |
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I would definitely buy another Imax-2000, but I think you are wasting your money to buy one to replace your Top-one. |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 15, 2003 - 8:22 pm: |
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Highlander, I agree. I think this top one is a solid performer. The only advantage I see is the Imax would be much taller on the same mast. I love discussing antennas. I was out of the hobby for a long while. Imax 2000 is really about the only new GP out there.
Mikefromms |
RCI 2990
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 16, 2003 - 2:47 am: |
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Mikefromms. How is your astroplane working for you so far???? |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 16, 2003 - 11:53 am: |
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RCI 2990, It's working great and getting good reports just as it is. The swr is not where I want it yet but as I've mentioned before it's a little close to a metal object and there's a two meter antenna less than 20 feet away from it plus cheap coax. For the money, simplicity, performance, good reviews and probably having the best wind load of any antenna, it's a bargain.
I'm doing very good for the height locally, and getting good reports out in dx land.
Any problems I have brought up here on the forum about it have been the fault of the operator. Well, the instruction sheet can be blamed somewhat, but I'm the one who bought the cheap Rat Shack coax and mounted it a little too close to metal. All I can say is if someone buys one be sure to ask someone who has put one together about it before erecting it in the air. There's some stuff you need to do that the instructions don't tell you. I'm pretty sure the Starduster clone is a great antenna too once you get it together right. Owned one of these years ago and it was a performer even 18 feet off the ground.
I wonder if the AP is possibly the easist antenna ever made to mount? I mean, one person can hold this thing up with the pole it's on and tighten nut at the same time.
mikefromms |
Butcher318
| | Posted on Monday, July 21, 2003 - 10:26 pm: |
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There are four locals running this antenna and two of them would trade theirs in for a new A-99 right now. The one was mounted in a tree and snapped in two during a storm. The other also snapped in two during another storm, they must not like the motion a tree makes. Then after the one was fixed the guy melted it in two with 3kw. The other two in use seem to work great and the guys love them. |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Monday, July 21, 2003 - 11:05 pm: |
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Yeah, the thing works great but is kind of filmsy. I wouldn't put one in a tree for sure! It would be a big stick or imax 2000 for that. I wouldn't trade my AP for a A99 and I'm not sure whether I would trade for a Imax 2000 or new style Big Stick. I'd have to know which is really better. Since I put new coax on and raised it a few feet this AP is a serious performer. Now if either the big stick or Imax 2000 work just as well I might trade because of the shape or build of the straight sticks. That's just me though.
mikefromms |
Buck
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 22, 2003 - 8:06 am: |
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Sunday night we had a storms go through here....80-100mph winds and the Imax is still standing tall....
Buck |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 22, 2003 - 11:15 am: |
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Few things, including a lot of trees can withstand that kind of wind. Maybe there won't be anymore of the bad batch of them where they break off at the mounting point. How does the Imax 2000 handle ice build up, does it bent way over? Ice storms as much as high winds give the lowdown on the strength of an antenna.
mikefromms |
antennadude
| | Posted on Tuesday, July 22, 2003 - 11:20 pm: |
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Heck make your antenna I can help |
Kc0gxz
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 23, 2003 - 1:34 am: |
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Butcher318
He melted his astroplane in two using 3-KW???
Your thoughts anyone?
Jeff, kc0gxz? |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Wednesday, July 23, 2003 - 6:04 pm: |
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Taz, you stated the Astroplane was better than the I-max 2000 in one of your post. I think that might be possible. Since I put the higher grade coax on and raised this thing up a little it is hearing things I didn't hear before especially in the 1 to 2 s-unit end. It has opened up a new world.
Maybe we need to talk about the new Big Stick for awhile. It's time for that review. Hey, the new big stick faired well in the comparision in the article "How to Chose an Antenna."
Later,
The antenna nut--mikefrommms |
RCI 2990
| | Posted on Thursday, July 24, 2003 - 3:23 am: |
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*Yawn* Ive had them all..... Ho hum.....
The I Max is the best of all the ones mentioned but i like to side with the old aluminum ones.. I run a avanti sigma 4 up on the roof as a standby to my moonraker 4s. I love them and would never trade a set of rakers for anything! |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Saturday, July 26, 2003 - 11:59 am: |
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RCI 2990, are you really convinced there is an vertical that works as well as the Sigma 4? I would think for sheer size the Sigma 4 would take the cake. Or did you just say the I-max is the best of all because you got bored with the post?
mikefrom |
Kc0gxz
| | Posted on Friday, August 01, 2003 - 12:32 pm: |
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Taz
That doesn't sound like you!!
Versital? In what way???
Jeff, kc0gxz. |
mikefromms
| | Posted on Friday, August 01, 2003 - 5:39 pm: |
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Honestly, I'm having second thoughts about replacing the Top One because I'm afraid I might not get as good of an antenna. I'm holding off now. I am looking at beams and especially that Thunder 8 antenna. Man, what a dream.
mikefromms |
Butcher318
| | Posted on Sunday, August 03, 2003 - 12:52 am: |
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I was commenting on the Imax 2000. Yes a guy melted one right in the middle, the others that snapped were mounted in trees. Non of the A-99's were bothered by the same storm. Since then another was hit by lightning and is destroyed, not much you can do about that. People either love em or hate em I guess. |
divinie
| | Posted on Thursday, January 29, 2004 - 9:04 pm: |
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the astro planeis by far the best antenna i ever had,antron99 sucked,imax2000,ok i guse but had to put it 15 feet higher in the air both were 25 feet at one time atroplane swr 1:2:1 imax 1:3:1 |
Nlmadog
| | Posted on Friday, January 30, 2004 - 11:57 pm: |
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You guys have convinced me to get an Imax 2000,I want to put it on my tower abve the TV antenna.Should I put the GP kit on it ? How about that newer coax,I forget the number is it worth the money ? |
cbblackbeard
| | Posted on Saturday, January 31, 2004 - 12:16 pm: |
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I just heard that the IMAX 2000 is on a national back order because they broke the mold at the factory. I tried to get one last week. |
Ca346
| | Posted on Saturday, January 31, 2004 - 10:38 pm: |
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NLMADOG:
I have one on my shop/garage radio 36 ft mast with no ground plane, but I used wire for the guys and they are tied to the mast at the base of the IMAX 2000. The wires act as the groud plane. The tip of the antenna is at 59 feet. Works great. |
Mikefromms
Intermediate Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 393
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 26, 2005 - 10:01 pm: |
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I finally bought an Imax 2000. I am happier than the guy in the Ensite commericial. Big smile on my face all the way from 25,000 to 29.700mhz.
mikefromms |
Bob_p
Advanced Member
Username: Bob_p
Post Number: 663
Registered: 7-2004
| | Posted on Thursday, January 27, 2005 - 4:20 am: |
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Absolutely without question I would buy an I-Max over any other 5/8ths wave gp out there. I replaced my A-99 when the SWR started to act weird, and wanted an antenna that would cover 10-12 meters, and the I-Max does what I wanted and more.
I do realize that some antennas might perform slightly better than the I-2K. But the fact that the I-2K covers so much band width more than makes up for any difference in performance in my opinion.
So far mine has survived high winds with gusts up to 80 mph heavy snow and ice, and it still works like a champ.
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Dalowe
Junior Member
Username: Dalowe
Post Number: 11
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 - 12:54 pm: |
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I've had my Imax up for about two years and I like it alot. It replaced an aging A99, right on the same mounts and produced a 1 to 1 1/2 S unit increase on recieve as well as transmit. It's also quieter than the A99, though not as quiet as my old Avanti Astroplane. It gets out a lot better than my old Astroplane though, particualarly with skip.
I've come to the conclusion with antennas that it's all about geography. If you are fortunate enough to live high, any of these antennas will work well. However, when it comes to between the A99 and Imax, the Imax wins hands down.
Stick antennas are easier to put up and have a lower profile from the eye sore perspective. The Astroplane is an eye catcher (what the hell is that?) and that's a bad thing. The best antenna is an invisible one, that way your neighbors don't ever figure out why their "touch lamps" keep switching on and off! |
Hyperno_1979
Advanced Member
Username: Hyperno_1979
Post Number: 548
Registered: 12-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 23, 2008 - 3:25 am: |
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Easy answer to that.....
NO
CEFFFCEF
Bob
CEF703/CVC26
269 Hunter Valley
NOT allowed to hold a passport....
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Starface
Senior Member
Username: Starface
Post Number: 1751
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 23, 2008 - 5:34 pm: |
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Well to answer this, Yes I would get another Imax 2000 and sure enough, I have one coming now as I type this to replace a "LOOK ALIKE" A99.
A big mistake on my part.
STARFACE
CEF#476
KI4NBE
HAM#181
CVC#Ø14
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Canal_digger
New member
Username: Canal_digger
Post Number: 1
Registered: 1-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, February 02, 2008 - 11:16 am: |
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Probably... Mine (w/ no Ground Plane Kit) replaced a good Workman Bandit 2 (18' A99 clone, no GPK) on 25' mast on side of the house. Local stations said IMAX S signal jumped about 1.5-2 on their side. My S meter receive went up 1-1.5 on my end. Also seems a tad more quite. White noise w/ no skip was anywhere from 1-2 and now only about .5 on the S (even lower on 10m). I know I gained about 5 or 6 foot additional height b/c of antenna length diff, but I now can clearly see/hear the diff. Recently got hammered with 2 wind storms within 2 weeks here that brought 60-70+ MPH winds and no problem! I did witness the much talked about "IMAX Dance" and it was scary, but she held on. Advantage- it covers nice 10/11 meter spread, can handle some power and doesn't "look like a Martian space station" per my 9 year old. But, if a new 5/8 or .64 omni comes out, I would say I would have to look...we LOVE comparing! 73s!! |
Harleyrdr
New member
Username: Harleyrdr
Post Number: 9
Registered: 12-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, March 20, 2008 - 8:55 pm: |
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I am going to be ordering an IMAX 2000 in the near futer.
I wish I could afford the metal antennas but the wife wont let me.
The IMAX is 1 section longer than my A99 that finnaly gave up after 12 years on 2 roofs and the blazing arizona sun,
Not to mention the crazy wind we get in our monsoon seasons out here.
The ground plane kit fits both the A99 and the IMAXX, that comes in handy.
plus the price is rite considering the long life and great perfomance. |
Tech808
Moderator
Username: Tech808
Post Number: 15532
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Friday, March 21, 2008 - 7:54 am: |
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Harleyrdr,
The Ground Plane Kit (GPK) for the A-99 is DIFFERENT than the Ground Plane Kit for the IMAX2000.
If you get the IMAX GPK Kit COPPER PART#A65-00005 Solarcon IMAX GPK bend the ears up for the radials on the bracket to 30° as suggested / recomended by Tech833 and it has made a Major Improvement on transmit and receive for us when using it as covered in the Topic/Article below.
Copper Talk
» Ask The Tech
» Antennas
» GPK for Imax 2000
Hope this help's,
Lon~Tech808
CEF#0808/HAM#001/CVC#0002
Tech808@copperelectronics.com
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Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1017
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, May 03, 2008 - 10:54 pm: |
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My Imax will work on most of 2 meters! Use low power to check it out. It's not the best antenna for 2 meters but it does ok.
Mikefromms |
Hotwire
Senior Member
Username: Hotwire
Post Number: 2474
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Monday, May 05, 2008 - 1:46 pm: |
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2 Meter!!! Take it easy there Mike! I know you mean 10 meter.
KEEP IT REAL!
Kenny
cef491(27.115lsb)
2sf491(27.555usb)
Indiana
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Twa77
Intermediate Member
Username: Twa77
Post Number: 139
Registered: 1-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 7:54 pm: |
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Yes For the Following reasons
1. Ease of Installation, Can Be put up and down in short order
2. Good Performance, I feel it puts out a fairly good signal
3. Plug and play, Just put it up, spin coax on and go.
4 Value , Good Bang for the buck |
Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1019
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, May 15, 2008 - 10:43 am: |
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It may be the fact that I have about 200 foot of cable between the antenna and radio. Anyway, the antenna is up 125 ft. at the tip and it does in fact work 2 meters. I checked it with an antenna anaylzer and the ohms looked good. I look at swr and it varies from 2.5 to 1:3 or so, very usable and it freaks folks out when I tell them I'm on a cb antenna. I also have the groundplane kit. If I run it though my Kenwood 2 meter matcher I can get all the swr out and have a perfect match, but I don't have to do that to use it.
Mikefromms |
Bulldogunit777maine
New member
Username: Bulldogunit777maine
Post Number: 9
Registered: 4-2008
| | Posted on Friday, May 16, 2008 - 6:50 am: |
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Yes I would buy an IMAX 2000 again & DID! That is right about 8 years ago, puchased one from Copper Electronics. Was the only CBer in town with one. Everyone else had Antron 99's. Well I got divorced and moved 2 miles away. My ex-wife's boyfriend took the antenna down the hard way. All to pieces. We have a son. "Little Bulldog". Sometime had gone buy. I put my life back together. It was time to get back into radios. My mom past away in 2000 and my dad 2003. I now own dad's house. Just recently I purchased an IMAX 2000 & GPK. Along with 100' of Altelicon CA-400 coax cable & Amphenol PL-259 ends. Took it one step further than the previous set up. Copper - Suzanne did a great job with my order. I am getting out better than ever. 26.955 - 28.005 MHz my match is 1.1/2:1 to 1.2:1. Got to love that SWR. I'm pulling in my weaker friend's station. Also using the HyperLink HT-GK400 Ground Kit Copper sells on the coax. For the weather we have up here this antenna does well.
Bulldog
Unit 777
Central Maine
"Make Everyday Your Best Day"
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Kf4gyp
New member
Username: Kf4gyp
Post Number: 6
Registered: 11-2009
| | Posted on Thursday, December 31, 2009 - 12:52 pm: |
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All you fine folks know what you like. Me how ever after having 2 antennas destroyed by ziggy electric bolt of blue i think i will go back with a metal antenna just so i later can repair it after a strike how ever prformance wise any of the .625 wave length antennas put out a fine signal. (whimmper sniff sniff)poor 142 gtl went bang then rattle rattle afterwards. my first ant. was an a99 turned into snow second was a i2k blew out the matching network in the bottom to no recognition of original parts (melted glob) so that is why i want a metal ant minus starduster series. this is only due to a friend had his in a pine tree and a flash of godly power anoited his radio into flames. none of these antennas are or were bad preformers either. Give me metal with dc grounding any day and im happy. looks like copper will have to ship me a v5/8 soon.
73
Thanks Ray |
505
Junior Member
Username: 505
Post Number: 40
Registered: 9-2006
| | Posted on Friday, January 01, 2010 - 2:34 pm: |
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WELL I,M NOT SAYING IS A BAD ANTENNA BUT WHEN YOU TRY A SIX ELEMENT QUAD YOU DON,T WANT TO GO BACK USING A OMNIDIRECTIONAL ANTENNA MOST PEOPLE USED BECAUSE IT DON,T COST A ARM AND A LEG OR THEY DON,T HAVE THE SPACE FOR A YAGI OR A QUAD ANTANNA OR FOR THE WINTER STORM YEARS A GO I HAD A99 IMAX 2000 BECAUSE I WAS PAYING RENT AND I WAS NOT ALLOWED TO PUT A QUAD ANTENNA BUT THE IMAX IS STILL A GOOD ANTENNA |
Tech833
Moderator
Username: Tech833
Post Number: 1804
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Friday, January 01, 2010 - 10:43 pm: |
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The Imax 2000 is a great antenna!
I used to have one here, but Tech 808 needed an omni at the time and was short on extra spending money, I wasn't using it, so I boxed it up and sent it to him. It served him well for a long time until lightning turned it into toothpicks.
Your radio 'Mythbuster' since 1998
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Stacy_adams
New member
Username: Stacy_adams
Post Number: 1
Registered: 12-2009
| | Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 12:26 pm: |
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I have read that the GPK does not affect the performance where others say it does. I currently have an Antron 99 with a GPK and I'm considering an IMAX 2000. I am on the fence about the GPK as I couldn't tell the difference with or without the one on the 99. If I get one, I guess I need to perform the mod as well.
Can someone advise? The 99's base is as well as the 2000 will be 36' from the ground. It is my understanding a GPK is not needed in this configuration.
Many thanks for any input you folks have. |
Dale
Senior Member
Username: Dale
Post Number: 1533
Registered: 12-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, January 02, 2010 - 2:02 pm: |
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the gpk is suppoised to lower the floor noise
and help to elinate or lower tvi.i bought a 1m2k
when they first xcame out and i didntr get the gpkand was a very noisy antenna so id say get the gpk.i now switched to a SIRIO2016 antenna
much quieter very close on tx/rx as imax.IF i was ever to go back to a imax i would get the gpk.and wouldnt think twice bout it
dale/a.k.a.hotrod
cef426
cvc#64
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Tech833
Moderator
Username: Tech833
Post Number: 1805
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Sunday, January 03, 2010 - 12:06 pm: |
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The Imax 2000 GPK review is here-
http://www.copperelectronics.com/cgi-bin/discus4/board-auth.cgi?lm=1023340740&file=/7750/20506.html
In the article is polar plots of the Imax 2000 with and without the GPK installed. That should answer all of your questions.
Your radio 'Mythbuster' since 1998
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Stacy_adams
New member
Username: Stacy_adams
Post Number: 2
Registered: 12-2009
| | Posted on Sunday, January 03, 2010 - 12:56 pm: |
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Many thanks to you both. |
Stacy_adams
New member
Username: Stacy_adams
Post Number: 3
Registered: 12-2009
| | Posted on Sunday, January 03, 2010 - 1:10 pm: |
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I just read the article and the test data and conclusions are clear. Interestingly enough, I did experience a reduction in noise with the GPK on the Antron but didn't 'register' it because I was looking for something other than that. Thanks again. |
26_op_141
Member
Username: 26_op_141
Post Number: 86
Registered: 2-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, February 11, 2010 - 12:04 pm: |
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I nearly bought a Imax 2000 but I bought the stronger antenna.... The Shakespeare NBS 2010.
I’ve had it since new (10 years?) and it has been up in 100+ MPH winds. Performance as good as the Imax and it doesn’t whip about as much.
In fact I have 2 of them, one at the home QTH and one at the O.P club station HQ situated on the highest hills of the Medips in Somerset England.
Both of them have performed faultlessly without maintenance. An antenna for life! Too bad they are not made any more.
73
Tim
26 OP 141 |
Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1035
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 - 10:21 pm: |
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Wish I could put up an Imax 2000 where I live now, but I now live in a CCR community. Looking back, the Imax is my choice for base station omni when I can get it high in the air. Trouble free and broad banded. loved it. For low heights, Astroplane gets my vote. I may end up buying a Sirio brand astroplane and camoflaging it into the background behind a tree in the backyard. I'll see how my newly built double extended zep antenna works out for me. You can't see my antennas unless I point them out to you. Pretty sneaky in this communist clan community. |
Hotwire
Senior Member
Username: Hotwire
Post Number: 2770
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Sunday, August 29, 2010 - 1:38 am: |
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I have had 2 Imax's up for more than 5 years now and the only negative thing that has happened is discoloration. The SWR on both antennas is exactly the same as the day I installed them.
The next antenna I buy will be aluminum. Perhaps a Maco 5/8 but if I ever run into a sweet deal on an Imax I would snatch it up.
Kenny
CEF491
Reading the mail around Indianapolis Indiana!
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Sitm
Intermediate Member
Username: Sitm
Post Number: 336
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Monday, August 30, 2010 - 12:13 pm: |
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I just did, after owning one of these since they were first offered, many years in the air working well, finally we had a very bad storm that cracked the middle section. The standing wave went to a 1.6 so I replaced the Imax with a new one. I have to say that there must have been improvments made in the antenna construction because it doesn't lay over and whip around like it use to, the performance is pretty much the same but I don't worry about it as much. Would buy a third if need be. |
Casey
New member
Username: Casey
Post Number: 6
Registered: 11-2010
| | Posted on Monday, April 04, 2011 - 6:18 am: |
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I have an Imax & two Maco V-5/8 and the Imax is a full S-unit stronger on both tx & rx.
I' have helped several friends replace their broken Maco V-5/8 with Imax 2000s and they always see improved performance. |
Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1119
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, February 26, 2012 - 9:05 pm: |
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I started this post about 9 years ago. I've moved to another location where I can put up another ground plane. Guess what I'm putting up? I'm putting up another Imax 2000 but this time with no groundplane kit nor even a pole. It will be roped up into a tree about 50 to 60 feet. Hope all works as planned. |
Hackindave
New member
Username: Hackindave
Post Number: 6
Registered: 8-2003
| | Posted on Sunday, March 04, 2012 - 9:59 am: |
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Imax with top replaced with 102" whip cut down works great. |
Press_man
Intermediate Member
Username: Press_man
Post Number: 423
Registered: 5-2008
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 06, 2012 - 11:32 am: |
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Hackindave,
Welcome to Copper !
Pressman/KC4ZWM
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Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1127
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 06, 2012 - 5:32 pm: |
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Got my Imax up in the tree and it's has great swr from 15 thru 10 meters. Painted it army colors to hide it in the tree. Great antenna. My second one. |
Press_man
Intermediate Member
Username: Press_man
Post Number: 425
Registered: 5-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, March 08, 2012 - 9:07 am: |
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Mike;
You got 15 through 10 meters? What kind of tuner?
Pressman/KC4ZWM
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Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1128
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Friday, March 09, 2012 - 7:39 pm: |
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No tuner. It will handle 15 through 10 meters fine. It is less than 1.5 (some places nothing) from 15 meter on through most of 10 meters where it rises to about 1.7 or 1.8 on 29.620. It will work 17 meters fine with any tuner. I think that's lowest band I'd try to use, but 15 through 10 no need for a tuner. I have no pole and the antenna is roped up in the tree with the top around 70 feet. Great reports. The Solocon or Antron 99 will do the same thing. |
Charliebrown
Intermediate Member
Username: Charliebrown
Post Number: 260
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, March 10, 2012 - 7:25 pm: |
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I have two and would buy another. So far no trouble with the max. But I have had two a-99 that went bad. One the coil went out. ( no big power. ) The other the antenna got old and the top is now gone. |
Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1129
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 13, 2012 - 6:17 pm: |
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Used the radio tuner and tuned the Imax up on 14.332 and received 5 by 9 report. S-9 for those who don't understand. 5 perfectly readable and 9 is a 9 on the meter. It was receiving as good or better than my dipole. So, looks like 20 meters is good too. |
Mikefromms
Senior Member
Username: Mikefromms
Post Number: 1131
Registered: 6-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 - 10:27 pm: |
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Love my Imax. You can cover 14 thru 10 mhz with this antenna in fine style with a tuner. Get it up high. It works 15 thru 10 meters without a tuner. Amazing performer. Better than the old Shakespeare big stick. |
Luckyd
New member
Username: Luckyd
Post Number: 1
Registered: 9-2015
| | Posted on Saturday, November 14, 2015 - 5:17 pm: |
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Nope, new antenna cracked at the base not even 45 days up. No heavy wind just light breezes and it has a 6in split at the base above the tuning rings. Did I get a bad one? Dunno just not willing to risk it again with a questionable product
2 |
Dale
Senior Member
Username: Dale
Post Number: 2248
Registered: 12-2002
| | Posted on Sunday, November 15, 2015 - 9:09 am: |
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never again. my sirio 2016 i got from copper is solidly outperforming it. only thing the imax is slightly more broadbanded.. but so is a dummyload
my imax created tvi badly even with just a stock cobra 19. picked up way too much manmade noise.
dale/a.k.a.hotrod
cef426
cvc#64
454 [dx numbers]
38lsb
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Wire_saber
Junior Member
Username: Wire_saber
Post Number: 34
Registered: 4-2015
| | Posted on Monday, November 16, 2015 - 9:37 pm: |
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This thread was started at a time when the Sirio GainMaster (GM) was not yet marketed. While I cannot answer the post's leading question (because I've never owned the I-2K), I'd like to ask the opinion/ view from those of you that have owned both antennas. Popular posts appear to favor the GM in all aspects (i.e. reach, sensitivity, quietness), except for power handling. I've had great service from a GM, with very low VSWR on 10 & 11 meters, at 54' height. If you have owned both: which one will you buy again? Why? |
Dale
Senior Member
Username: Dale
Post Number: 2249
Registered: 12-2002
| | Posted on Friday, November 20, 2015 - 11:48 am: |
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ive personally never owned both. but with reviews ive found i buy the GM over the imax ANY DAY. far as power handling i cant imagine running more power than the GM can handle.
dale/a.k.a.hotrod
cef426
cvc#64
454 [dx numbers]
38lsb
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Nlmadog
Member
Username: Nlmadog
Post Number: 72
Registered: 1-2004
| | Posted on Thursday, January 03, 2019 - 9:32 pm: |
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Would not buy another one,fiberglass split and cracked |
Thespacemann
Junior Member
Username: Thespacemann
Post Number: 12
Registered: 6-2016
| | Posted on Saturday, March 09, 2019 - 12:21 am: |
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The IMAX-2000 is the way to go. If you live in a stormy area, just use plastic guy wires to guy it in the middle! |
Charliebrown
Advanced Member
Username: Charliebrown
Post Number: 682
Registered: 10-2002
| | Posted on Saturday, September 07, 2019 - 9:39 am: |
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I have had the A 99 and I have two IMAX 2000 ONE IS ON THE TOP OF A MOUNTAIN AT THE END OF MY PROPERTY THE OTHER IS IN THE VALLEY. It has taken 70 mph winds and still standing with no damage. I will buy another IMAX 2000 again if I ever had to. I also put the ground plane kit on and it and does help me talk skip better. I will never buy another A 99 |
Doctor
Junior Member
Username: Doctor
Post Number: 34
Registered: 8-2018
| | Posted on Tuesday, September 10, 2019 - 8:26 pm: |
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I have had one up for a number of years,still works good at 20 feet.
CEF795 |
Cdn_superpower
Member
Username: Cdn_superpower
Post Number: 77
Registered: 6-2005
| | Posted on Sunday, November 03, 2019 - 12:53 pm: |
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the new Imax 2000 of today are tuned for 28.400.
Tuning rings wont help.
I've had 6 of them come that way and I wont be doing it again. |
Tech833
Moderator
Username: Tech833
Post Number: 2440
Registered: 8-2002
| | Posted on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 - 11:17 pm: |
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Cdn: Are you sure there isn't something else detuning the antenna? I have never seen an Imax 2000 come tuned for anything except CB.
Is it an off brand or something? Any metal near the antenna(s)? How high above ground? Above roof?
Your radio 'Mythbuster' since 1998
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