mfj-2990/mfj-986

[WA4EQW]

Does anyone have any results using either the new mfj-2990 with an mfj-986 tuner or a similar arrangement for multiband operation 160 through 6 using a 43 foot vertical?

[K3MOV]

I just saw the MFJ 2990 43' Vertical Antenna for the first time in my recently received catalog. I have no experience with it, but I think the ad in the catalog is pretty tacky in that it makes no mention of the fact that you need a ground radial system for the antenna to have any chance of working properly. Takes me back to the old Gotham antenna days. Additionally, in the very same catalog the very same antenna is again entered and described in the "Hy Gain" section rather than the "MFJ" section and it costs $40.00 more. Tsk, tsk Martin. I have a 43' Zerofive Vertical with 40 radials. It works pretty well with my MFJ 998 Auo Tuner. 73, Tom K3MOV

[AF6D]

I don't think that not mentioning the need for ground radials is tacky in any way. I believe that any HFer knows that ground radials are required. I am on a budget and cannot put my SteppIR back up -- this looks like a choice better than my 6BTV.

With this said, has anyone tried the antenna and what are your thoughts?

[W1ZE]

This antenna is almost identical to the vertical offered by DX-Engineering. The DXE antenna seems to have better hardware and they do stress that a good ground (counterpoise) system is needed to make it perform as their ad states. I built a flag pole antenna antenna years ago about the same as the 2990 or DXE vertical and fed it with a 4:1 balum and it worked pretty well with the aid of a transmatch and 16+ 40 foot long radials on the ground. It was a good DX antenna on 80, 40 & 30 meters and OK on 160. 73, W1ZE

[K9STH]

6D:

You are just not aware of all the questions that are asked here on QRZ.com that show no understanding at all of how any antenna works let alone a vertical. Unfortunately, there are way too many operators these days that have no understanding at all of how anything works or what is necessary to make them work.

Glen, K9STH

[W5LDA]

Dang Glen,,,a little harsh there aren't you? You have to remember,not everyone is as smart as you!

[W0BKR]

6D:

You are just not aware of all the questions that are asked here on QRZ.com that show no understanding at all of how any antenna works let alone a vertical. Unfortunately, there are way too many operators these days that have no understanding at all of how anything works or what is necessary to make them work.

Glen, K9STH

A good many ops these days have less then desireable understanding of many of the technical aspects of the hobby, antenna installation is one of them. I blame that on the Feds changing the testing criteria and not really pushing for individuals to learn rather than memorize.

There was a time when a license study manual/guide was just that. It presented theory, etc but didn't give one questions off the exam. You had to read, study and understand the material to make an informed answer. Now, you can memorize or key off key phrases to pass. That isn't learning.

I don't blame the ops or the material out there. Just what has changed that is obvious to those that have been in the hobby for a while.

Many think if you buy a vertical, just stick it up and it will work. Work it will, but not efficiently. You have to understand the concept behind the workings of vertical antennas. Yes, they require radials, the more and longer the better.

[N3DUG]

Well I see everyone likes to spout their opinions but not answer the question.
I two am looking at the antenna 15 years as a Tech and just upgraded to General. How is the antenna quality ect. Would appreciate an honest answer
Doug
N2PLR

[W9TWR]

Howdy, I've used many veritical antennas, and I am ordering one of these as soon as I finish typing this message. With the proper ground radials, I don't see how this antenna can't work. If you are lucky enough to have an open area to place it(away from trees, house, sheds..ect). I'll let you know in a couple days after I get it put up and tested on the air.. 73's

[N5XO]

Well I see everyone likes to spout their opinions but not answer the question.
I two am looking at the antenna 15 years as a Tech and just upgraded to General. How is the antenna quality ect. Would appreciate an honest answer
Doug
N2PLR

I was pleased with the build quality and easy assembly, so from that aspect it is a nice antenna.