Austin Spectra

Any input on these:

Austin Antenna Spectra Multiband Mobile/Base Scanner Antenna

Supposed to be the best all-band scanner antenna.

Overpriced. Overrated. Ugly. Fragile.

The only band where it shows any real advantage is lo band, which few people have any use for anymore. Otherwise, the Maxrad or Antennex do a comparable job at a much better price and appearance. My Spectra -- which I just HAD to have, even though multiple people tried to warn me -- is gathering dust in the attic.

Thanks! I guess I'll pass...

I haven't tried any other antennas, but I've been able to pick up signal 60 miles away with these.

I went with a BMAXSCAN1000. The reviews said it is a decent multi band antenna and it was cheaper than the Austin :D

When traveling I'm not really that interested in bringing in the far-off stuff. I'm really just interested in what's going on around me.

So far the 107 ROCKS! Even with the rubber duck. It should be pretty cool once I get my antenna set up.

Unless you have a real need for lo-band reception, the BMAXSCAN1000 is about the best thing going for wideband performance. There are better options if you don't need VHF or don't need 800, but that's pretty rare.