MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna Review - Best Radio Antenna for 160-10 Meters
Welcome to our comprehensive review of the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna. This antenna is specially designed for radio enthusiasts looking to enhance their communication capabilities. With its 102-foot length, it is shorter than the traditional 80-meter dipole, making it a versatile option for various setups. Whether you prefer an inverted vee or a sloper configuration, this antenna can adapt to your needs. Additionally, it covers all bands from 160 to 10 meters with the help of an antenna tuner. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the features and benefits of this impressive radio antenna.
Product Description
The MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna is a versatile and reliable option for radio enthusiasts looking to enhance their signal strength and range. With a length of 102 feet, this antenna is slightly shorter than an 80-meter dipole, making it a more compact option for those with space constraints.
One of the standout features of the MFJ-1778 is its ability to cover all bands from 160 to 10 meters with the use of an antenna tuner. This makes it a highly versatile option that can adapt to different frequency ranges, ensuring that you can easily communicate across a wide range of frequencies. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, this antenna will provide you with the flexibility to explore various bands and enjoy clearer communication.
Additionally, the MFJ-1778 is designed to handle full legal limit power, allowing you to transmit at higher power levels without worrying about damaging the antenna. This is especially important for those who require a higher power output for long-distance communication or participating in contests. The sturdy construction of the antenna ensures that it can withstand the rigors of regular use and provide optimal performance for an extended period.
The MFJ-1778 can be used in various configurations, including as an inverted vee or sloper, which further enhances its versatility. These configurations allow you to adapt the antenna to suit your specific installation requirements and optimize its performance for your specific location.
With a solid customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 346 ratings, it is clear that the MFJ-1778 has garnered positive feedback from users. Customers appreciate its ease of use, durability, and the noticeable improvement in signal strength and range. Whether you are a casual radio operator or a dedicated enthusiast, the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna is a reliable choice that offers excellent value for money.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile Frequency Range: The MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna offers a versatile frequency range of 160-10 meters, making it suitable for a wide range of radio communications. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced radio operator, this antenna allows you to easily tune into various frequencies and enjoy clear and reliable reception.
Sturdy Construction: Built by MFJ Enterprises, a renowned brand in the industry, this wire antenna is constructed with high-quality materials. The durable build ensures long-lasting performance, even in challenging weather conditions. With its black color, the antenna effortlessly blends into its surroundings, making it aesthetically pleasing as well.
Easy Installation: Setting up the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna is a breeze. With its compact dimensions of 8 x 8 x 3 inches, it can be conveniently installed in various locations, including your backyard or rooftop. The antenna comes with clear instructions, allowing you to quickly assemble and install it without any hassle.
Cons
Limited Range on 160 Meters: Some users have reported difficulty with the antenna's performance on the 160-meter frequency. To overcome this limitation, additional accessories such as a coiled balun may be required. It's important to note that the antenna's maximum range is stated as 80 meters, so if you primarily operate on the 160-meter band, you may need to consider alternative options.
Tuner Required: While the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna offers great performance, it may require a tuner at its base to achieve optimal results. Users have reported that their internal automatic tuners were not able to tune the antenna effectively, necessitating the use of an external tuner. This additional equipment may incur extra costs for those who don
Customer Reviews
The MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna has received a total of 346 ratings on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This indicates that the majority of customers are satisfied with their purchase and have had positive experiences with this antenna.
Let's take a closer look at some of the specific feedback provided by customers:
One customer rated the antenna 4 stars and mentioned that it works fair but had trouble with 160 meters. They recommended installing a coiled balun to improve performance.
Another customer rated the antenna 5 stars and simply stated, "Nothing at this time."
A customer who rated the antenna 4 stars highlighted the importance of basing the stars on construction quality and materials, rather than antenna performance. They advised doing research on antenna theory and managing expectations.
A satisfied customer gave the antenna 5 stars and shared their positive experience. They mentioned setting it up as a dipole with the center at 32 ft high and the ends at 45 ft. They were able to work the world with this setup.
Another customer rated the antenna 4 stars and mentioned that it requires some work to get it to function properly. They recommended using a tuner at the antenna's base.
A delighted customer awarded the antenna 5 stars and expressed their happiness with the improved performance and gain in many directions. They recommended installing it as high as possible.
One customer rated the antenna 3 stars and mentioned the challenges they faced, including the need for the antenna to be 35 ft high and free from any tree contact.
Lastly, a customer left a 5-star review in a different language, stating that it is an excellent antenna and highly recommended.
Overall, the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna has received positive feedback from customers. While some users encountered challenges or needed additional equipment for optimal performance, many others were pleased with its functionality and performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna is a versatile and reliable option for amateur radio enthusiasts. With its 102-foot length, it offers a compact solution for those with limited space. Whether used as an inverted vee or sloper, this antenna can easily be adjusted to fit your needs.
One of the standout features of this antenna is its ability to cover all bands from 160 to 10 meters with the help of an antenna tuner. This wide range allows for greater flexibility and the ability to communicate on various frequencies.
While the majority of buyers have had positive experiences with this antenna, there have been a few reports of difficulty with tuning on the 160-meter band. However, many of these issues can be resolved by adding a coiled balun or using a tuner at the antenna's base.
Overall, the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna is a solid investment for amateur radio operators. Its durable construction and ability to handle full legal limit power make it a reliable option. With its affordable price point, this antenna offers great value for money.
If you're looking for a versatile and efficient wire antenna that covers a wide range of frequencies, the MFJ-1778 MFJ Enterprises Original G5RV Wire Antenna is definitely worth considering. With its positive feedback from buyers and its ability to perform well in various setups, it is a solid choice for both beginners and experienced operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna work well on all bands?
A: The MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna is designed to work on multiple bands, ranging from 160 to 10 meters. However, some users have reported trouble with the 160-meter band. It is recommended to install a coiled balun to improve the performance on this particular band.
Q: How do I install the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna?
A: Installing the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna is relatively straightforward. It is typically set up as a dipole with the center about 32 feet high and the ends around 45 feet up. It is important to ensure that the wire is free of any trees or obstructions to optimize its performance. Additionally, some users have mentioned the need for a tuner at the base of the antenna to achieve the best results.
Q: Will the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna require additional equipment?
A: The MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna does not require any additional equipment to function. However, some users have suggested the use of an antenna tuner at the base of the antenna to fine-tune its performance. It is important to note that the need for an antenna tuner may vary depending on the individual setup and desired performance.
Q: What is the maximum range of the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna?
A: The MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna has a maximum range of 80 meters. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, including amateur radio operations.
Q: Can the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna be used in areas with trees?
A: While the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna can be used in areas with trees, it is recommended to ensure that the wire is free of any contact with trees or obstructions. This is because any contact with trees can affect the antenna's performance. It is also recommended to have the antenna installed at a height of at least 35 feet for optimal results.
Q: What are customers saying about the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna?
A: Customers have generally praised the MFJ-1778 G5RV Wire Antenna for its performance and value for money. Many have reported successful operations on various bands and have expressed satisfaction with its performance. However, some users have mentioned the need for additional tuning and installation adjustments to achieve the desired performance.
