Radio scanning and monitoring can be a lot of fun. Whether it’s to track stations or check air traffic, the possibilities are endless.
Provided you are of the right equipment, of course.
Fortunately, there’s no need to look any further. The best discone antenna is what you need. And here, you’ll learn everything about it.
Top 9 Best Discone Antenna Comparison Table (Updated 2024)
| Brand Name | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tram 1410 | |
| Diamond D-130J D130J | |
| Tram 1411 | |
| Sirio Antenna SD 2000 | |
| Taurus D1000 | |
| Diamond Original D3000N | |
| Sirio Antenna SD2000N | |
| Harvest 25-1300 | |
| Tram |
What is the best discone antenna?
The Tram 1410 Discone Antenna is the best discone antenna and to no surprise.
For starters, it has fantastic frequency coverage of 25-1300MHz. Signals received are crystal clear, adding more to the antenna’s value.
Plus, it operates continuously. No interference could compromise the antenna’s consistency.
This antenna also happens to be super convenient. It mounts in just minutes.
Once set, the durable stainless steel structure remains stable and steady for years.
Why is Tram the best brand for discone antenna?
There are many reasons as to why this brand is above the competition.
But, it all sums up to the fact that Tram discone antennas are reliable.
They can adapt to multiple purposes, be it for receive or transmit. Also, they offer enough versatility to work at indoor or outdoor locations safely.
That’s why everyone could use a discone antenna produced by Tram.
9 Best Discone Antennas Reviews 2024
After trying many of them, here are the top ten discone antennas available.
These delivered outstanding results under many applications. Furthermore, these antennas are durable and highly reliable. Want to know more? Let’s find out!
01. Tram 1410 Broad Band Discone/Scanner Antenna – Best Overall
Highlighted Features
- 25-1300MHz Wideband Reception
- Rust-Free Build
- UHF Female Connector
- 200W Max Power
Set this antenna up 30 feet, and it’ll show results like none other.
At that height, it can receive signals from hundreds of miles away.
Traffic, radio, and even airplanes won’t escape it. What’s more surprising is that the antenna is barely visible.
It can perform that well without becoming an obstruction for neighbors.
That makes it a perfect discone antenna for attics and outdoor uses.
At outdoor locations, the reception is far better. It can pick up between 2.5MHz and 900MHz bands with ease.
Furthermore, the antenna works with lower HF bands as well. This is a surprise considering it isn’t an antenna designed for that purpose.
Either way, the antenna delivers excellent results. Much of that also has to do with its build, which is sturdy and reliable.
With components all made of stainless steel, its durability is unquestionable.
Assembling the antenna is simple, but there are some tips to follow.
For instance, adding a lock washer to the radials makes them more secure. Plus, having a 3.0 metric Allen wrench may save you a lot of trouble.
“Which brings up the antenna’s only flaw: the lack of said Allen wrench. It’s a simple tool that could’ve come included. This could complicate the assembly.”
What We Liked
- High reception from miles away
- Works with lower HF bands
- Easy to assemble
- Perfect for attics
What We Didn’t Like
- Allen wrench not included
02. Diamond D-130J Vertical Discone Antenna – Most Compact
Highlighted Features
- 25-1300MHz Reception
- 2 Pounds of Weight
- 200W Max Power
- Durable Construction
Few discone antennas are as reliable as this one. Once set up, it doesn’t have constant mechanical problems like others would.
And after years fed with low loss 50ohm coaxials, it still puts up a consistent operation. Overall, this is the antenna to have for general local monitoring tasks.
The frequency coverage of this antenna is also remarkable. Used with a broadband scanner radio, it can pick up signals 200 miles away.
Of course, that’s no surprise considering it has a 325-1300 MHz receive. This capacity makes it equipment suitable for amateur radio and air traffic control.
For more versatility, the antenna has high bandwidth capabilities.
That’s why it can be an excellent addition to home scanner applications. But, it does need an adapter for most scanners.
Like other Diamond antennas, this one is compact and lightweight.
It assembles fast, needing only half an hour max. This is only better due to the manual, which covers everything regarding the antenna.
That makes it a top discone antenna to set up in a wide range of environments.
“What didn’t leave a good impression was the rods. The materials used to make them don’t feel thick enough.
They could use some improvements. Otherwise, the rods bend easily.”
What We Liked
- It fits in a wide range of locations
- Assembles easily
- Super compact design
- Removable top-loading coil
What We Didn’t Like
- Thin rods
03. Tram 1411 Broad Band Discone/Scanner Base Antenna – Best for Amateur
Highlighted Features
- 25-1300MHz Coverage,
- UHF Female Connector (SO-239)
- Stainless Steel Build
- Informative Manual
This antenna can receive and transmit in HF, VHF, and UHF frequencies.
For the price, very few options can achieve this feat.
Also, the Tram 1411 antenna is resonant within 2M and 70-CM ham bands, in which it performs best.
Furthermore, it shows fantastic results in the 50-220MHz range.
This antenna is ideal for amateurs and CB users. It has outstanding band coverage of 25-1300MHz for optimal performance.
Plus, the antenna’s small size allows it to fit in most conditions easily. Once set in the perfect spot, the antenna puts up continuous reception.
To set up this antenna, no extra tools are necessary.
It comes in a kit with all the parts needed for a seamless assembly. Even better, everything from the hex-nuts is of great quality.
Many will also appreciate the instructions and the graphics included.
For beginners, the assembly should be a hassle-free process from start to finish.
“Still, there’s a noticeable issue after putting up the antenna.
The base doesn’t get tightened up entirely, and it often wiggles. This is a mild inconvenience that could affect the antenna’s reception.”
What We Liked
- Super easy to set up
- Works with HF, VHF & UHF
- Rust-resistant construction
- Lightweight
What We Didn’t Like
- Getting the base tightened is tricky
04. Sirio Antenna SD2000U Discone Wide-Band Antenna – Most Durable
Highlighted Features
- Omnidirectional Design
- 100-2000MHz Coverage
- Anodized Aluminum Bracket
- Stainless Steel Hardware
With a fantastic build, this antenna quickly becomes a must-have.
The construction features chromed brass, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum.
These components create a discone antenna that puts up with anything.
Additionally, the down tube is thick and resistant. Even during high winds, chances of dent or break are non-existent.
The antenna’s components have a perfect machined and drilled design.
Putting them together is a no-brainer. Plus, the perfectly detailed English instructions clear any doubt fast.
During the mounting, you can decide whether to set up the center whip. Since it works for 145 MHz, it may not be necessary for some purposes.
Performance is just as good. Even for quick tests, the antenna does well.
It picks up stations even on a tripod at about 8 feet from the ground.
With this capacity, it can outperform many other antennas at more elevated heights.
This antenna can also receive VHF and UHF, offering some flexibility as well.
“While mounting the antenna is easy, changing the cables is a hassle.
To do that, you have to remove three screws on the base.
The issue is that one of those screws gets blocked by a radial. Getting all of these parts removed to change a few cables isn’t ideal.”
What We Liked
- Great VHF/UHF reception
- Superb construction
- Picks up frequencies at low height
- Detailed instructions included
What We Didn’t Like
- Not easy to replace cables
05. Taurus D1000 Discone Antenna – Best for the Money
Highlighted Features
- 55-Inch Vertical Element
- 1-3/8-Inch Mast Diameter
- Stainless Steel Parts
- Fits PL-259
This wide-band antenna has a specific transmit frequency of 144-1290MHz.
For the reception, it sticks to the standard 25-1300MHz. After installing it, it receives aircraft signals from up to 175 miles away.
Another cool feature is the 55-inch vertical element. It helps expand frequency reach, making it perfect for low bands as well.
Configuring this antenna is pretty straightforward. It’s easy to mount, and adapting it to the surroundings is a no-brainer.
Location won’t matter much either. For outdoor applications, the stainless steel structure keeps the antenna safe. Each component is durable and sturdy enough.
Another feature most will like about this antenna is the machined top section.
Even in rural areas, the antenna can pick up signals that didn’t seem to be there before.
This is all due to the high-quality elements that guarantee continuous receive.
“But, most will also dislike the lack of a center pole. It really inspires you to get creative while figuring how to work your way around it.
In most cases, people opted for using a piece of PVC in its place. A solution that is far from ideal.”
In general, this antenna is excellent. It’s easy to install and has a sturdy base to avoid unexpected problems.
What We Liked
- Straightforward setup
- Machined top section
- Sturdy & stable base
- Decent discone antenna for scanner
What We Didn’t Like
- Doesn’t have a center pole
06. Diamond Original D3000N Super Discone Antenna – Most Versatile
Highlighted Features
- 25-3000MHz Band Coverage
- Stainless Steel Components
- Ultra-Wideband Design
- 6M Tunable
This antenna is an ultra-wideband unit suitable for different applications.
It covers amateur radio, air traffic control, and utility-frequency bands.
Its compact size and lightweight build also make it convenient. That means it’s easy to set up at either balcony railings or tight spaces on towers.
Regardless of the location, the antenna can put up with most conditions.
It has stainless steel materials that are durable and resistant. Even if there’s rain, the risks of getting rust issues are pretty low.
Once set up, the antenna is perfect for transmission/reception.
Due to its ultra-wideband design, it can receive from 25 to 3000 MHz.
For transmission, it can reach between 50-1200 MHz. Also, the tunable 6-meter band is a fantastic feature that improves transmit SRW.
Another exciting thing about this antenna is the top-loading coil.
If 25-50MHz reception isn’t necessary, you can remove said component. Doing this will make the antenna even more compact and lighter.
“For the most part, setting up this antenna is easy.
But, the directions offered aren’t in English. This may make it harder for people that have no experience working with these antennas.
In that case, going online for proper directions may be necessary.”
What We Liked
- Intuitive & straightforward installation
- Super versatile, ideal for many uses
- Compact & lightweight design
- Incredible reception/transmission
What We Didn’t Like
- Instructions not in English
07. Sirio Antenna SD2000N Discone Wide Band Antenna – Best for Transmit
Highlighted Features
- Omnidirectional Unity-Grain
- 100-2000MHz RX Band
- Removable Vertical Whip
- High Transmit Power
One worth-mentioning feature about this antenna is its construction.
Featuring high-quality materials, it can resist the roughest terrain conditions.
Plus, the machining and endurance of each component guarantee they’ll last longer.
The quality of the materials is visible while mounting the antenna.
Every part fits perfectly and remains steady. There’s no wiggle or other base issues that could interfere with its performance.
In general, this discone antenna is sturdy, stable, and functional.
The antenna also does a superb job for transmitting purposes. It has fantastic SWR and 200W of power overall.
For this application, it performs well in ranges from 340-535MHz to 1980-3000MHz. This capacity makes it the best discone antenna for transmitting.
But what truly stands out is the antenna’s efficiency. When paired with a scanner, it can improve its reception significantly.
Furthermore, the signal reception remains clear and stable. This well-engineered discone antenna is as reliable as it gets.
“Like the SD200U model reviewed early, this one has the same issue.
Removing and replacing the cables is not a smooth task to do. It takes a lot of time due to how awkward is the base of the antenna. “
What We Liked
- Outstanding transmit capabilities
- Well-made, thick & sturdy
- Super stable base
- Assembly is a no-brainer
What We Didn’t Like
- Changing the cables isn’t easy
08. Harvest 25-1300MHz Discone Antenna – Best for Scanner
Highlighted Features
- 25-1300MHz Reception
- Stainless Steel Structure
- N-Connector
- 144-1290MHz Transmit
In just under half an hour, this antenna is ready to go. It’s small, lightweight, and intuitive.
These features make it easy to mount on a mast, trees, or balconies.
In some cases, an adapter may be necessary to connect the coaxial cable to the N Connector.
Fortunately, anything like the PL259 connector does the trick. This one is affordable and easy to set up as well.
The antenna does an excellent job at about 20 feet above the ground.
At this height, it can receive stations from miles away. Due to its wide-band design, it has a fantastic performance with 30-512MHz scanners.
That’s what makes this product an efficient discone antenna for scanner purposes.
For safe use, the antenna has an all stainless steel structure. This material makes it durable and resistant.
Once installed, it can withstand adverse weather, rust, and corrosion. Such a solid build allows the antenna to operate continuously without problems.
“Surely, the only downside of this antenna is that it may need an adapter.
That’s an extra expense that users would have to make to get the most out of it. The good news is that finding one isn’t difficult at all.”
What We Liked
- Assembles in less than an hour
- Effective performance over scanner spectrum
- Suitable for amateur bands
- Small & lightweight
What We Didn’t Like
- May need a coaxial/N Connector adapter
9. Tram Scanner WideBand Discone Base Antenna – Best for Indoors
Highlighted Features:
- Pre-Tuned Design
- Supports PL-259 Connector
- Self-Support Base
- Durable Elements
Here’s an antenna that does everything it promises it’ll do.
It puts up a fantastic performance 40 feet up in the tree and within a 10-meter band at 25MHz.
The antenna mounts easily, and that’s why it’ll fit in most locations. Whether it’s over trees or in the attic, the setting up takes only a few minutes.
This antenna is also compatible with the PL-259 connector. That’s good for many reasons.
For starters, it makes the transition from an old antenna much smoother.
Additionally, it offers the perfect base for indoor applications.
If that’s the case, another cool fact is that the antenna actually self supports. No mast is necessary to set it up in the attic.
However, the antenna excels in rural areas. It receives stations up to 60 plus miles away.
So much so that, in some cases, it triples the frequencies picked when compared to old antennas.
With a radius increased to 70 air miles, no signal goes unnoticed. What’s more satisfying is that digital and analog stations are clear.
“Though setting up the antenna is easy, there are no instructions included. This could be a problem for people that don’t know how to work their way around it.”
What We Liked
- Ideal for indoor use
- Excellent for rural areas
- Clear analog/digital stations
- Perfect for scanners
What We Didn’t Like
- No instructions included
Best Discone Antenna Buying Guide – Factors to Consider
Before picking an antenna, it’s essential to know what makes them suitable.
This section covers the critical features to consider. Keeping this information in mind will help you find the right discone antenna.
Photo Credit: wikimedia by C.C
Durability
Considering most of these antennas are for outdoor uses, they must be durable.
This will allow them to withstand the potential rust that rain would cause.
Also, durable antennas receive less interference and thus perform better.
So, what are durable antennas made of? Most prominently, they feature a stainless steel structure.
This material is one of the most reliable. It’s resistant, durable, and doesn’t break easily. Discone antennas made out of stainless steel will last for a very long time.
Bandwidth
Discone antennas are excellent due to their bandwidth. These can achieve a frequency span of 10:1 for optimal performance.
Before purchasing, it’s important to know if the bandwidth will meet the user’s demands.
Furthermore, discone antennas often go hand in hand with scanners. So, make sure it’ll cover the frequency of your interest.
Bandwidth is also essential if you want an HF discone antenna.
Size
The size of these antennas doesn’t matter much for outdoor applications. But, it does play a pivotal role for indoor purposes.
In any case, a compact and lightweight discone makes everything easier. They’re easy to transport and more convenient to mount/dismount.
Vertical Element
Some antennas have an additional vertical element. The purpose of this component is to expand the low-frequency coverage of the antenna.
While it isn’t always necessary, it’s a useful component to have.
Power Rating
Discone antennas aren’t the go-to choice for transmitting. But, they still have that possibility either way.
For transmit, the power rating of the antenna is something to consider. Commonly, discone antennas handle around 200 Watts. This capacity is more than enough to cover most stations.
Manufacturer
Finally, knowing who’s behind the antenna is also a consideration to have in mind.
With the countless discone antennas out there, finding one that works isn’t as easy as it may seem.
Sticking to well-renown brands is always a guarantee that you won’t waste your money.
Conclusion
The best discone antenna surely opens a lot of new possibilities.
In many cases, it can pick up frequencies and signals from thousands of miles away.
It’s incredible for professional and radio enthusiasts that need an improved receive/transmit quality.
Find yours yet? Consider all of the options, and choose wisely. If you do, the discone of your preference will turn into a valuable ally in no time.
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