AM / FM Antenna Choices

[sparty]

I am installing a new stereo this spring and wondered what type of antenna system opitons really work. Will a regular antenna hidden somewhere in the hull work or do you need an external antenna mounted on the rail?

Has anyone tried the Shakespeare splitter that allows you to attach both the VHF radio and AM/FM to the same masthead antenna? How did it work?

[DeborahLee]

I have an FM antenna tucked behihd some junk on a shelf inside the boat. Seems to work just fine. Of course since I'm getting stations I don't know what I'm missing. You might want to google how to make an FM antenna. I did this for a digital TV antenna. I just made it and I know it really works good. It is ugly but cost less than $10 to make. Just google digital hanger tv antenna

[keepondancin]

I use the Shakespeare splitter and it works fine. My vhf seems to have the same strength, based on how I use it, and I do get good reception on FM. Prior to the splitter I used the old Sat-Nav antennae.

[rcdelude]

I installed the Shakespeare 4350 AM/FM 3' foot antennae. It comes w/ a carbonate lift and lay mount. Can't remember where online I bought, but was less than $40.00 less shipping. Pulls in everything I need.

[SoonerSailor]

My boat had a Shakespeare FM band splitter in line with the VHF radio antenna. I can't tell you how much it may or may not have affected the VHF radio receive or transmit strength. Properly designed I think it shouldn't make very much difference, but there will be some insertion loss - though it may be small. I removed it just to take one more variable out of the loop.

To replace it, I used a simple dipole mounted in the cabin behind the panel. These are easy to make, or very cheap to buy and can be found in many places. Reception may not be quite as good with the little dipole, and will be more directional, but in practical use I find little difference.

Chip