Choosing the right antenna for my

[bnr34rb26dett]

Noob here, i did my research and i have come to a conclusion that uniden 510xl is an ideal CB radio unit for my driving. small, light, and fits in my sedan.

Now, Im planning on getting Lil WIl antenna. however, what would be the difference with getting higher end antenna? 1000, 5000? do i really need these for occasional CB radio use? what would be the range difference?

And here comes the noob questions.
How is the speaker system on CB radios? is it like a walkie talkie where speaker is the microphone? is it necessary to hook up the 3.5mm up to car AUX input?

I also would like to get more information on SWRs. do you adjust the antenna while its mounted or before its been mounted on the car?

again, sorry about my noobness. im jus trying to learn moer about CB's....
thanks.

[crazyVOLVOrob]

The larger antenna the better performance is pretty much the deal. You will notice a substanial difference between the Wilson Lil Wil and Wilson 500, 1000, or 5000. As the 500, 1000, and 5000 are much taller. For occasional use a lil wil is fine

99% of CBs have an internal speaker which you can use or there is a 3.5mm speaker jack if you want to give its own speaker. I normally used the CB radio's internal speaker to listen. I have occassionally connected my old portable nonbattery speakers a few times to the 3.5 jack

[srtga]

You are going to get your antenna mounted before you set your SWR. It can change if you relocate your antenna.

I couldn't hear squat on my old Cobra 19 internal speaker although it may have been my mounting location. I'm a lot happier with an aux. speaker on the b pillar.

[bnr34rb26dett]

ok, thanks for the quick reply.
also, i hear that magnetic mount will scratch my paint pretty badly. is this true?
what are my best choices when it comes to those long fiberglass antennas? (brands, models)

[Stealth Stalker]

also, i hear that magnetic mount will scratch my paint pretty badly. is this true?

It is a possibility with repeated application and removal. However it is not particularly likely if you don't move it around a lot, and if you are careful to clean both the car surface and the magnet surface before every application. People who end up with scratches are the idiots who try to slide the thing across their car instead of properly applying and removing it. Don't get in a hurry, and you won't have a problem.

what are my best choices when it comes to those long fiberglass antennas? (brands, models)

Fibreglass whips are a poor choice for most sedans. They are not something you want to put on a magnetic mount. And it doesn't sound like you're someone who wants to drill any holes. Stick with the Lil' Wil.

The difference between the Lil' Wil and the 1000 - 5000 is noticeable, but not huge. The difference is mostly in power handling capabilities, which will probably not be a factor for you. Every little bit helps, so if you want to try and milk a little extra distance out of your set-up, then by all means get the best antenna you can afford. But don't expect miraculous gains between the various Wilsons.