Tram 1477 Dual-Band Base Antenna Review Durable Performance for VHF and UHF Signals

Description

Ease of Installation and Setup

The Tram 1477 Pre-Tuned Dual-Band Base Antenna is a breeze to set up, even for someone like me who doesn’t claim to be a professional radio technician. It comes pre-tuned for 144 MHz–148 MHz VHF and 430 MHz–460 MHz UHF, which means there’s no fiddling around with adjustments. The fact that it’s ready to perform straight out of the box is a huge plus. Mounting was straightforward, thanks to the included bracket and hardware, and it fit snugly onto my existing mast without any compatibility issues. The process was so seamless that I had it up and running in no time.

A slight heads-up: the mounting bracket accepts mast diameters between 1-13/16 to 2-7/16 inches, so double-check your setup beforehand to avoid surprises. I did need to separately purchase a coax cable, which wasn’t included, but that’s fairly standard for antennas like this.

Design and Build Quality

I was genuinely impressed with the design of the white fiberglass construction, which not only looks sleek but also feels incredibly sturdy. This antenna stands at 43 inches tall and is a single-section build, making it less prone to structural issues compared to multi-section antennas. Its durability is evident, as it has withstood a couple of unexpected rain showers and windy days without any degradation in performance.

The three 7-inch stainless steel radials add to its robustness. While I initially wondered if they’d be too delicate, they’re solid and contribute to the omnidirectional reception capabilities. It’s clear that this product was built with both functionality and longevity in mind.

Performance and Signal Strength

This is where the Tram 1477 really shines. The 3.5 dBd gain on VHF and 6 dBd gain on UHF translates into excellent signal clarity and range. I’ve been using it primarily for amateur radio communication, and the omnidirectional design ensures I get a reliable signal from all directions. Whether I’m tuning into a local repeater or exploring distant frequencies, the performance has been consistent and impressive.

The antenna is rated at 150 watts with a 50-ohm impedance, which is more than adequate for most enthusiasts. I noticed a significant improvement in signal quality compared to my previous antenna, particularly in areas where reception was previously spotty. It’s worth noting that the UHF female (SO-239) connector is a standard choice, making it compatible with a wide range of setups.

Key Benefits

• Pre-tuned for optimal performance with no adjustments required.
• Durable fiberglass construction that stands up to harsh weather.
• Omnidirectional reception ensures excellent coverage.
• High gain on both VHF (3.5 dBd) and UHF (6 dBd) frequencies.
• Includes stainless steel radials and mounting hardware for easy setup.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many advantages, there are a few things that could be better.

• The coax cable is not included, which means an additional purchase is necessary.
• The 43-inch length might be cumbersome for those with limited mounting space.
• While the durability is excellent, the white fiberglass finish may show dirt or discoloration over time.

Competing Products

When comparing the Tram 1477 to other options on the market, a few stand out as worthy competitors. The Diamond X50A is a popular alternative, offering similar dual-band capabilities but at a slightly higher price point. While the Diamond X50A has a higher gain on UHF frequencies, the Tram model’s pre-tuned design makes it more user-friendly for beginners.

Another contender is the Comet GP-3, which boasts a lightweight design and high performance. However, the Comet GP-3 lacks the robust fiberglass build of the Tram, making it less suited for extreme weather. In terms of durability and ease of installation, the Tram 1477 holds a clear edge.

Price Performance

Considering the features and performance, this antenna offers excellent value for money. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the combination of durability, signal quality, and ease of use justifies the price point. When I compared it to other antennas in the same range, the pre-tuned setup and included mounting hardware stood out as significant advantages. If you’re looking for an antenna that delivers high performance without requiring a ton of technical know-how, this one is worth the investment.

For anyone serious about amateur radio or looking to upgrade their current setup, the Tram 1477 Dual-Band Antenna offers a compelling mix of quality and functionality.

Additional information