Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna Review

Let’s Talk About Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is a staple for boaters who need reliable communication without breaking the bank. Shakespeare is a well-known name in marine antennas, and this particular model promises a good balance of range and affordability. It’s designed for general VHF marine band use, making it suitable for a wide variety of vessels, from small fishing boats to larger recreational cruisers.

I needed a new VHF antenna for my small fishing boat, which I primarily use inshore. My old antenna had been damaged in a storm, leaving me with intermittent signal and a serious safety concern. I was looking for something durable, easy to install, and with decent range for communicating with other boats and the Coast Guard.

The antenna comes in a simple package that includes the antenna itself, a PL-259 connector (not pre-installed), and 15 feet of RG-58 coax cable. My initial thoughts were that it seemed well-made for the price. The antenna felt sturdy, and the included coax cable seemed adequate.

I considered a couple of other options, including a higher-gain antenna and a shorter, more compact model. I ultimately chose the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna because it seemed like the best compromise between performance, size, and cost. A higher-gain antenna might have offered slightly better range, but I was concerned about its larger size and potential for windage.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to get it installed and see how it performed on the water, but also realistic about its limitations given the price point. Would it live up to the Shakespeare name and provide the reliability I needed?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna during a weekend fishing trip about 10 miles offshore. The weather conditions were relatively calm, with light winds and clear skies. This provided a good baseline for evaluating its performance.

The antenna performed admirably in these conditions. I was able to clearly communicate with other boats in the area and easily receive weather reports. Ease of use was excellent; installation was straightforward, requiring only the attachment of the PL-259 connector (which I soldered myself) and mounting the antenna on my boat’s T-top.

The only minor issue I encountered was a slight increase in static when another boat was transmitting very close by. However, this was expected, and the signal remained clear enough to understand.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to saltwater and sun on a regular basis. The white finish has remained bright, with no noticeable fading or discoloration.

Maintaining the antenna is simple. I occasionally wipe it down with fresh water to remove salt residue. This seems to be sufficient to keep it in good condition.

Compared to my previous antenna, the Shakespeare model offers a noticeable improvement in both range and clarity. I am now able to receive signals from further away and transmit with greater confidence. It definitely outperforms my expectations for an antenna in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna

Specifications

• The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is a 5-foot VHF Marine Band 3dB Gain Antenna. This length provides a good balance of performance and ease of installation on most boats.
• Shakespeare designates this model as MFG# 396-1. This is useful for ordering replacement parts or finding specific information about the antenna.
• It includes an uninstalled PL-259 connector. This allows for customized cable routing and ensures a secure connection.
• A 15ft RG-58 coax cable is included. This is a standard cable length for many installations and provides adequate reach for most boats.

These specifications matter because they directly influence the antenna’s performance and ease of use. The 3dB gain provides a good balance of range and signal clarity. The included cable and connector make installation easier and more convenient.

Performance & Functionality

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna performs its job exceptionally well for its intended purpose. It provides reliable communication within a reasonable range, making it ideal for coastal cruising and inshore fishing. Accuracy is excellent, with clear and consistent signal reception and transmission.

Its strengths include its ease of installation, durable construction, and reliable performance. One area for potential improvement would be to include a pre-installed PL-259 connector, although this would limit customization options.

Overall, the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna meets and even exceeds my expectations. It’s a great value for the price and provides the essential functionality I need for safe and reliable boating.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is impressive, considering its affordable price. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the harsh marine environment. The antenna is lightweight and easy to handle, making installation straightforward.

The design is simple and functional, with a clean white finish that blends in well with most boats. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s a simple “plug and play” device that requires minimal setup.

Durability & Maintenance

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is built to last. The materials used are resistant to saltwater corrosion and UV damage, ensuring a long lifespan. Maintaining the antenna is incredibly easy; simply rinsing it with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient.

Repairs, if needed, would likely involve replacing the coax cable or connector, which are relatively inexpensive and easy to source. The durable construction and simple design contribute to its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna comes with the essential accessories needed for installation: the antenna itself, a PL-259 connector, and 15ft of RG-58 coax cable. While there are no specific customization options for the antenna itself, the included PL-259 connector allows for flexibility in cable routing.

The antenna is compatible with standard VHF radio systems and mounting brackets, providing ample customization options for different boat configurations. It can be easily paired with existing marine electronics without any compatibility issues.

Pros and Cons of Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna

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Who Should Buy Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna?

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is perfect for:

• Casual boaters
• Inshore fishermen
• Recreational cruisers
• Anyone needing a reliable and affordable VHF antenna.

This product may not be suitable for boaters who:

• Require extremely long-range communication.
• Prefer antennas with pre-installed connectors.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality mounting bracket suitable for your specific boat configuration.

Conclusion on Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna

The Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna is a solid and reliable choice for boaters who need dependable VHF communication without breaking the bank. The value proposition is excellent, offering a good balance of performance, durability, and affordability.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a general-purpose VHF antenna for coastal cruising or inshore fishing. For $147.99, it’s hard to find a better option that provides this level of performance and reliability.

Don’t set sail without it! Ensure your safety and communication capabilities on the water with the Shakespeare 5ft 3dB VHF Antenna.