I own an AlphaLoop 10-80M with extension loop, plus the UHF/VHF addition as well. Things must have vastly changed from then and now as the box has a reduction drive and is quite easy indeed to tune and it is also water resistant. (Has been out in heavy rain for over 3 hours). Unit dry as a bone inside. I'm talking Australian summer storm as well, not a bit of patchy rain. The overall performance is fantastic and I could not be happier with a Magnetic loop. I'm only talking from my experience now in December 2021. Thanks for the informative video but I had to 'correct the record' now that this video is 5 years old. ** - Edit - I have to also comment that it was not meant to be out in the rain, I just did not get home in time when a storm rolled through so it was not intentional. However the 'not meant for outside' weather antenna stood up to being left out in the storm.
Excellent review! Very detailed and informative! Thanks for this video. I purchased an Alpha EZ military whip antenna & was very displeased with the product. I started looking for a loop just because I don't have the room to install a full size antenna. I am now seriously looking at the Chameleon.
+Al Hard thanks! Perhaps we need a small correction. "best Channel for reviews of well made ham gear". Baofeng Stopped sending me gear because I'm too honest. Same with brand A. So pretty soon it's going to be the only gear you see on the channel is Gear with pure awesomeness. Thanks for watching it's always appreciated
I really enjoyed this review. From someone just getting into this hobby, your review was clear, honest, and informative. Thank You.... You have a new subscriber!!!
I love your videos about QRP. Plain language, simple instructions and lots of knowledge that the marketing info lacks... like the speed reducer... Who would have thought about that when looking at both of these antennas. I believe so far that Chameleon is way better than Alpha products for build quality, ease of use & tuning, etc. Keep the videos coming!
+Jon Frost thanks Jon. I promise we'll try to keep them honest. In the coming weeks are going to start focusing on qrp digital. I've been reluctant to publish those videos but I guess I'll take the hit :) Thanks for watching and for encouraging me it's very much appreciated
I am a QRP SSB and Digital ham - My radio should arrive tomorrow afternoon and then I'm off to get everything put together. I am charging the batteries from Windcamp for the battery cover on the FT-817ND. Some of the Chameleon parts are rather expensive... like the counterpoise set. I plan to build my own for about 1/3 the price of Chameleon. I plan to be pedestrian mobile and hiking the local hills/mountains. VHF Contest is right around the corner. Are you still living in Norway? What is life like there?
We're using proprietary 16 gauge PTFE Teflon Wire for all our wire needs including counterpoises system. If you want a ballpark price of a similar wire in the street look here: bulkwire.com/ptfe-high-temperature-stranded-wire
Great video. I have seen others comparing the two manufacturers and there is no questioning that the Chameleon is a better quality product. It is hard to find real truth in advertising in today's marketplace. Thanks for sharing !
+SurvivalComms I really appreciate the kindness. I wonder to myself sometimes if it easier to lie to customers or build a better product!? I do believe it's okay for companies to make budget gear, the price match the quality. As always brother it's nice to get your support and read your comments.
+TheSmokinApe Thanks Ape. It's certainly no Miracle maker, but you know that will last at the end of the day. Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated.
+tony cantrell thanks Tony sometimes it's hard to make these videos, but I think we need to rattle the cage now and then, to remind manufacturers that we don't need any blah blah blah, we only need good products, and for them to appreciate us as customers.
Great video! As you, and perhaps some of your subscribers, know my background on the antennas used to use. I can attest first hand that the tuning knob on an alpha loop is NOT insulated, as I have been burned, literally, by a part of the knob while tuning it, due to it not being insulated. I had also suffered the difficulty in tuning because of the issues with my hand getting near the tuning knob. Nevermind the silly light... I would have to hook the antenna up to an antenna analyzer to tune the antenna.
+VideosByDPF Yeah :/ what can I say!? I actually find it really troubling I have to make videos like this in order to get the company to Simply do the right thing. I sent over all of these modifications half a year ago. Now after the video is published they start changing the names of their products, and editing the websites, all in an effort to make it look like they've been doing the right thing all along. One thing I regret not mentioning in the video, is an invitation for people to open their cases take a picture and share them in the comments. Anyway it's always good to hear from you, and it's nice that we are moving forward.
I have really enjoyed using the Chameleon P-Loop, and Hybrid Mini, the past few months. I only wish the bands were better. They are solid antennas, in both form and function!
Julian, as usual an excellent review. I dont get the neon light on the Alpha and chose to go with the proven milspec design by Chameleon. Very happy with its performance and the 6:1 dial makes a huge difference.
What about the Alexloop? I have one, find it sturdy, no hand capacitance, has a reduction drive, sets up very easily, and Alex is working on a remote tuner for the iPhone. A neighbor of mine reverse engineered it and has made a couple more for local hams. They all seem to work very well. Dave K8WPE
+David J. Wilcox hi David until yesterday I hadn't heard any negative things about the AlexLoop. There's lots of happy users all over the world. If you were trying to decide between the two , I would say it's important to look at the specs side by side. But since you've already pulled the trigger Go With It Be Happy :)
Excellent video I agree with you on all the points please keep making videos like this as I was in the dark as far as which magnetic loop antenna to purchase the chameleon was my first choice and now it's my only choice thank you for making it easy!
+GUERRILLACOMM one of the comparisons I was making in the video was to Baofeng, but I edited it out. Let's see how this goes people have short memories and don't like to do the research.
Julian, I am avidly following your antenna reviews. Excellent work, as always. Ironically, I own a Chameleon. I also own both an Alpha whip setup AND their loop. Bought them at one of the smaller local hamfests a few years back. Their Pleasant Hill, MO address is 25min. from my house.
+Bruce Barr many thanks Bruce I recognized your name from a very pleasant email I received this morning :) sometimes it's hard to do these antenna reviews, but also necessary. Hopefully the end result is we get less marketing and better products and documentation from manufacturers. I've got another series coming up on two products from SOTABeams, then a heads up for Cross Country Wireless. Alexloop was suddenly delayed, but it's only a matter of time.
the Chameleon antenna seems to be the best on the market. I would love to try their antenna system but being on a tight budget for now thats going to have to wait. but keep up the good work
+SilentSniper Vt thx SSVT. We are all on a budget brother! That's why we have to learn to build things for ourselves. I'm glad I've had the opportunity to do both. Besides you'll appreciate it more and it takes more time to get where you want to be :)
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord yea I can blame the government for killing my industry(automotive mechanic) with cash for clunkers. But as for building I have a MFJ G5RV that I'm going to cut down to a junior. I made a 20 meter QRP antenna with speaker wire and now want to make a end fed antenna for multi band ops
+SilentSniper Vt don't get me started on the government :D I'm being raped here having to pay taxes to two different countries. You'll love the monoband dipole performance, but deploying them really sucks. Endfeds are magnificent! Just make sure to reduce or remove any losses and don't take shortcuts on parts, connections... when building.
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord I have a W1SPR end fed that's made here in Vermont and works great but don't want to permanently set it up because I love it for portable work.
Saludos Julian. No tengo archivado aún un contacto CW./QRP contigo, pero espero tenerlo alguna vez. Esta revisión sobre un par de Antenas " Loop " ha sido muy aleccionadora. Gracias a tí, agora se en qué es en lo que me tengo que fijar. Los acabados y el material de la " Alfa " me han decepcionado. Gracias por la ayuda.
Thank you for the honestly researched product review. We are talking about a wad of money for most of us. You have saved a lot of heartache. I admire you a great deal. N4KBM.
+StuartInTX hi Stuart I'm going to finish both battery videos the nickel nickel metal hydride and the lithium-ion versions this year. I'm sorry it's taking so long. Thanks for watching and stopping by it's always nice to get your reminders so keep pushing me forward :)
Outstanding review of product differences which gives me the knowledge to make an educated choice. Thanks!!!! Because of the review I have subscribed to your channel.
+Eric Kozlowski great question Eric. It's not possible to use automatic tuner with magnetic loop antennas. There is a capacitor inside the box which needs to be turned in order to the loop to resonate efficiently on the desired frequency.
I wouldn't be expecting a Christmas card from Alpha Antenna this year, Julian! :) VideosByMike will probably put out a video (if he hasn't already) telling everyone how great the Alpha Coaxial Loop is. I appreciate all your effort, amigo!
+Richard Slusher It's OK, there are good companies who will! Besides, Mike seems to care about his credibility. He has seemingly switched to gun videos. You're welcome buddy :)
OH8STN have you tried the p-loop tuner on the f-loop gear, I could see it more or less looks like the f-loop tuner was a production prototype looking at how you were putting your hand on the f-loops tuner it almost looks like you were acting as an rf ground plain Though I would also have to ask why bother with an antenna system that when you look at the history of its design was used by the RI's to find illegal stations, though I would of thought this was only a receive only antenna, I would of thought the smaller loop would be built to be turntable .. Though original statement I was alluding to. Though I doubt you would see much benefit playing around on a UHF or VHF radio systems I very much doubt either f-loop or p-loop would have any benefit what traditionally classed as a repeater class communications system given the limitation of both the UHF and VHF in distance....
Jason howe hey Jason, there's no F-Loop in this video. But like I said a I've tried the P-Loop gear on the F-Loop, which worked well. The alpha was no prototype. It was designed to be cheap. When the quality issues started popping up, Alpha has no choice but to update as people started to understand other loops were a much better deal. Rx only loops are an entirely different monster than these. Variable various in these need to withstand high voltages. Rx only loops don't. There are pros and cons to magloops. Hope your holidays are fun.
OH8STN sad to to say my holidays are going to be bad this year another injections between the l1-l5 to go through after the first 1 I'm not getting the sleep
Loved your comment regarding a Marine Corps field day. I've experienced 4 years of those and a before that a lifetime from my Dad being a former Marine. Are you a former jarhead?
Without being too gungy, Rah. I was an Airwinger (6078/ electrician, mechanic on the gear around a/c) As a new Ham having a General ticket, and being condo bound on the first floor, I am considering the P-Loop and F-Loop/Plus, maybe the RR, if I can mount it outside on good weather days. The 6:1 reduction gear on the P-Loop has caught my attention, but as a main antenna, maybe the F-Loop provides more flexibility. Rig is the 100w IC 7300 and realize I can't throw that into a Mag Loop. Maybe the MPAS? I also have a Buddipole Deluxe but winter is approaching so not looking fwd to fiddling with it outside for the next few months. Also going to try my condo 4 floor tall, 190 foot long gutter thru an AH4 tuner at the base. Only SSB. Appreciate any comments,and keep making these highly educational videos! Semper Fi. Rob
+RobPetty622 Wow. That's a hell of a question. I never talk about my Corps time on YT, but let's say I know very well the roads between the SW Arizona, San Diego, & all points N into Orange County. I even received the letter from the East telling me I was probably exposed to contaminated ground water. Now you know 😉 The questions asked are huge. Each of the system's you mentioned are unique and capable in their own ways. What you really need to do before pullng the trigger on anything, is understand how you operate, and on what bands you most often operate. This will help you narrow down the right antenna system for your condo. Now if you have a balcony & can put up an antenna temporarily on that balcony, then I would say the MPAS or a magloop would be good choices. If you want to get that hundred Watts out of your radio, the MPAS would be best choice. I don't want to sound like a chameleon fanboy but I know they're coming out with some pretty cool and Innovative designs for the new year. You can find their RUclips channel in my featured channels list on RUclips. They put out lots of teaser videos on products and updates they are working on. They've been talking about this waterproof remotely tuned magnetic loop. So lots of us are looking forward to hearing more about that. If you're not in a hurry I really wouldn't pull the trigger on anything just yet. If you're in a hurry then the MPAS mounted to a balcony rail or or in its endfed wire configuration out of a window for example, might not be a bad choice. If your heart is set on the F-Loop with RT-RR, you won't be disappointed. I just have to tell you the RT-RR is not as rugged as the F-LOOP itself. It needs to be treated gently. Other than that it's a good system, solving a problem many of us have. By the way one of the videos on the chameleon RUclips channel was a power up kit they're working on for their loops. You've got to check out that video. Btw, happy belated birthday.
Julian , You did a video on Chameleon P-LOOP vs Alpha Loop what about Chameleon P-LOOP vs Alexloop I was wondering why you haven’t done a review of the Alex loop vs the Chameleon P-Loop. I don’t think I’ve missed any of your You Tube antenna reviews. You and I have corresponded before and you know my years of experience with Magnetic Loop design experimentation. May 2016 I purchased the CHA F-Loop, this was before the P-Loop came out, purchase reason: I contacted Carl, chameleon support, had an email correspondence with Carl, one of many, great guy. He sent me a picture of the inside of the control box of a Chameleon mag loop antenna and the Alex loop. Now for the Alex loop control box, the air variable capacitor is attached directly to the control box, the capacitor is actually too big for the control box, it was forced in, which deforms the cheap box, here's a link to the picture: www.flickr.com/photos/jmschneid/11997251703 One piece of information I’ve read about the Alexloop , if your even able to hold it up, after holding it up for 10 minutes your arm feels like it wants to fall off. He advertises you can walk around all day with it and that’s deceiving while hams believe it, where Carl has been straight forward. Chameleon P-Loop $299.00 at DX Engineering , Alex Loop $399.00 dollars (Chameleon now offers a power compensator for the P-Loop which Alexloop doesn’t offer or have the capabilities to adapt) It is sad to say the Alex loop is $100.00 more and in a cheap plastic box that contains junk, did you see his gear reduction? and his small loop is coax, the P-loop is metal. Hams are getting ripped off, the quality of the Alexloop is Garbage, and Expensive, Hams need to be informed. You’re the man to do it. I had to email you, watching you’re videos are more interesting than most TV shows. Hope I didn’t waste your time, I know your very busy, when fellow hams are blatantly getting ripped off, I had to vent. Keep up the good work you’re time and effort doesn’t go unnoticed, especially when you’re in an open field, the wind chill is 30 below, snow on the ground and wind blowing so hard you can barely stand up HaHa. (yep, been there) 73s Eddie kj4fgi
You're preaching to the choir my friend. The only reason no review has been done is because I haven't been able to finance the AlexLoop. The funds that come in from the ads is so small, that I have to be very careful how I use the money the channel generates (if it generates any). So honestly that's the only reason you haven't seen that review yet. The channel is growing so let's see.
I see your point, $400.00 plus, well , to the USA another $60.00 dollars, Not worth it but I'm glad Carl sent me a picture of the inside of the AlexLoop, I even posted a picture of the inside of the CHA-F loop and Alexloop on my QRZ page. Ha! Stay Warm!!
+Commsprepper Honestly Hank, I've got no idea! The thing is, I wouldn't beat them up so bad, if they were honest about what they're pushing. I know I always leave myself open to let down, but I hope they learn the lesson here.
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord Julian, I doubt the people who run Alpha would understand you and all of us here any better than we understand them. What's happening is that Alpha are trying to force their way into that top-right part of the page reserved for very full featured and expensive products. To borrow from John le Carre in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, "Tell them George, they're buying their way in with counterfeit money." The profitability of just one loop antenna must be for Alpha many times that of Chameleon. It's not too different than bankers in 2005-'08, packaging up bad debt and selling it with a nice new label as AAA-rated options, like turning lead into gold. And like addicts the world-over, it's so 'hot' nobody can stop. The troubling thing is that real people are hurt. In '05-'08 people on or getting ready for retirement and the managed funds they counted on for support lost on average a quarter of total worth - school teachers, factory workers, service personnel (I was enjoying the rural charms of Afghan at the time, so in no condition to manage our money). In just the same way someone, maybe many someones, will buy an Alpha product like the loop antenna, give it some light duty, and expect that they can count on it to perform. It's not only preppers or hobbyists. Imagine being with a medical NGO (close to my heart as my wife and I plan to retire from teaching medicine to join an NGO in a few years), say something like 'Doctors Without Borders,' sent off to Sierra Leone or the bloody Congo as early 'shock troops' to get the jump for once on the next Ebola outbreak. You have three hours to coordinate over HF with a French transport already en route for medical supplies. Be on time and you can have the supply, else it goes on to South Africa and the next chance is, perhaps, in a few weeks. That is not a moment to discover that your comms, crucial to all of your logistics, 'just don't work.' All so some parts re-manufacturer or marketer can realise an additional 1 per-cant on what's already an 80per-cent profit margin. Julian, I appreciate many things about your work, but none more than those moments of raw truthfulness as you showed on this loop antenna fiction.Very best, Hugh d'Aubry FRCS, :London (mostly!)
Hugh d'Aubry Wow Hugh. I never thought about it that way. Aid workers deployed around the world do comment from time to time, but the reality of the posible scenario never hit me. You just drove it home for me. You also helped reduce the guilt of calling out yet another manufacturer on the channel. Hugh, this is by far the best comment I've ever had! Thank you!
+Hugh d'Aubry Throughout the years, Chameleon Antenna has been working really hard at establishing a brand of quality and comments like yours are really encouraging for us. Branding is one of the most important aspects of any business, large or small, retail or B2B. An effective brand strategy gives you a major edge in increasingly competitive markets. But what exactly does "branding" mean? How does it affect a small business like yours? Simply put, your brand is your promise to your customer. It tells them what they can expect from your products and services, and it differentiates your offering from your competitors. Your brand is derived from who you are, who you want to be and who people perceive you to be.
+Myles Siglin thanks for the encouragement Myles. I'm really getting beat up on this one and some of the Facebook groups and forums. I'll Stand it though. It's honest and fair and hopefully by producing it we get better products to the community. Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated.
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord Don't go changin' to try and please me Don't change the tone of your voice I just want someone that I can talk to (via ham radio) I like your vid the way they are. (my apologies to Billy Joel)
Would you like to purchase one of our capacitor with the 6:1 reducer installed to create your own antenna loop? Please answer to the poll at the following link: goo.gl/HsjL94
Field Testing the new Chameleon P-LOOP 2.0 Magnetic Loop Antenna ruclips.net/video/Rfbnt4-xg1g/видео.html
I own an AlphaLoop 10-80M with extension loop, plus the UHF/VHF addition as well. Things must have vastly changed from then and now as the box has a reduction drive and is quite easy indeed to tune and it is also water resistant. (Has been out in heavy rain for over 3 hours). Unit dry as a bone inside. I'm talking Australian summer storm as well, not a bit of patchy rain. The overall performance is fantastic and I could not be happier with a Magnetic loop. I'm only talking from my experience now in December 2021. Thanks for the informative video but I had to 'correct the record' now that this video is 5 years old. ** - Edit - I have to also comment that it was not meant to be out in the rain, I just did not get home in time when a storm rolled through so it was not intentional. However the 'not meant for outside' weather antenna stood up to being left out in the storm.
Many of us appreciate you uploading important info on this antenna. Keep up the great work sir.
thank you. it's not always easy being the one going against the grain. Messages like this make it worth it! :)
Respect in professionalism, your videos get right to the point, not wasting viewers time, providing direct and investigative information. Thank You.
Excellent review! Very detailed and informative! Thanks for this video. I purchased an Alpha EZ military whip antenna & was very displeased with the product. I started looking for a loop just because I don't have the room to install a full size antenna. I am now seriously looking at the Chameleon.
I've been seriously considering a magnetic loop antenna, and really appreciate your expertise and honestly, Julian.
great comparison. now decided to to get the Cha Loop.
Wow!!! That was superb!!! Best channel for amateur radio products reviews!
+Al Hard thanks! Perhaps we need a small correction. "best Channel for reviews of well made ham gear". Baofeng Stopped sending me gear because I'm too honest. Same with brand A. So pretty soon it's going to be the only gear you see on the channel is Gear with pure awesomeness.
Thanks for watching it's always appreciated
I always enjoy your objective product reviews . Thanks
Very much appreciated!
This is one of the best, most honest reviews I have seen of ANY PRODUCT on YT. Thank you very much. AD5TD
I really enjoyed this review. From someone just getting into this hobby, your review was clear, honest, and informative. Thank You.... You have a new subscriber!!!
I love your videos about QRP. Plain language, simple instructions and lots of knowledge that the marketing info lacks... like the speed reducer... Who would have thought about that when looking at both of these antennas. I believe so far that Chameleon is way better than Alpha products for build quality, ease of use & tuning, etc. Keep the videos coming!
+Jon Frost thanks Jon. I promise we'll try to keep them honest. In the coming weeks are going to start focusing on qrp digital. I've been reluctant to publish those videos but I guess I'll take the hit :)
Thanks for watching and for encouraging me it's very much appreciated
I am a QRP SSB and Digital ham - My radio should arrive tomorrow afternoon and then I'm off to get everything put together. I am charging the batteries from Windcamp for the battery cover on the FT-817ND. Some of the Chameleon parts are rather expensive... like the counterpoise set. I plan to build my own for about 1/3 the price of Chameleon.
I plan to be pedestrian mobile and hiking the local hills/mountains. VHF Contest is right around the corner. Are you still living in Norway? What is life like there?
We're using proprietary 16 gauge PTFE Teflon Wire for all our wire needs including counterpoises system. If you want a ballpark price of a similar wire in the street look here: bulkwire.com/ptfe-high-temperature-stranded-wire
OUTSTANDING review... now I really know which portable loop to buy.. Thanks!!
Great video. I have seen others comparing the two manufacturers and there is no questioning that the Chameleon is a better quality product. It is hard to find real truth in advertising in today's marketplace. Thanks for sharing !
+SurvivalComms I really appreciate the kindness. I wonder to myself sometimes if it easier to lie to customers or build a better product!? I do believe it's okay for companies to make budget gear, the price match the quality. As always brother it's nice to get your support and read your comments.
Anytime !
Really well done, I have been debating getting a Chameleon loop...
+TheSmokinApe Thanks Ape. It's certainly no Miracle maker, but you know that will last at the end of the day.
Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated.
+SurvivalTech Nord They look like a great way to get HF with a small footprint. Where I live antennas are a no-no...
sir, that was as always a concise and clearly honest review. thank you
+tony cantrell thanks Tony sometimes it's hard to make these videos, but I think we need to rattle the cage now and then, to remind manufacturers that we don't need any blah blah blah, we only need good products, and for them to appreciate us as customers.
Great video! As you, and perhaps some of your subscribers, know my background on the antennas used to use. I can attest first hand that the tuning knob on an alpha loop is NOT insulated, as I have been burned, literally, by a part of the knob while tuning it, due to it not being insulated. I had also suffered the difficulty in tuning because of the issues with my hand getting near the tuning knob. Nevermind the silly light... I would have to hook the antenna up to an antenna analyzer to tune the antenna.
+VideosByDPF Yeah :/ what can I say!? I actually find it really troubling I have to make videos like this in order to get the company to Simply do the right thing. I sent over all of these modifications half a year ago. Now after the video is published they start changing the names of their products, and editing the websites, all in an effort to make it look like they've been doing the right thing all along. One thing I regret not mentioning in the video, is an invitation for people to open their cases take a picture and share them in the comments.
Anyway it's always good to hear from you, and it's nice that we are moving forward.
I have really enjoyed using the Chameleon P-Loop, and Hybrid Mini, the past few months. I only wish the bands were better. They are solid antennas, in both form and function!
Thanks for a very informative video; I went ahead and purchased the F Loop Deluxe package and can't wait to test drive it out in the field. 73
You're at 4999 subscribers! Only one is missing to reach 5000!
+Chameleon Antenna thanks Carl it was nice to wake up to 5k subs :)
Julian, as usual an excellent review. I dont get the neon light on the Alpha and chose to go with the proven milspec design by Chameleon. Very happy with its performance and the 6:1 dial makes a huge difference.
+John Leonardelli outstanding John, I didn't see that coming 👍 don't forget my post on the booster kit. You commented on it a couple of weeks ago.
You get what you paid for. I like the quality of Chameleon products.
I agree so please keep up the good work.
What about the Alexloop? I have one, find it sturdy, no hand capacitance, has a reduction drive, sets up very easily, and Alex is working on a remote tuner for the iPhone. A neighbor of mine reverse engineered it and has made a couple more for local hams. They all seem to work very well.
Dave K8WPE
+David J. Wilcox hi David until yesterday I hadn't heard any negative things about the AlexLoop. There's lots of happy users all over the world. If you were trying to decide between the two , I would say it's important to look at the specs side by side. But since you've already pulled the trigger Go With It Be Happy :)
Excellent video I agree with you on all the points please keep making videos like this as I was in the dark as far as which magnetic loop antenna to purchase the chameleon was my first choice and now it's my only choice thank you for making it easy!
I just ordered a Chameleon P-Loop 2. They're currently being clearance sold at 40% off plus a 10% first buyer coupon. I felt I couldn't pass it up.
weak signal work with an easy to setup antenna. Youll love it!
73
Julian oh8stn
Hello, after so many years do you still have the same concept of alpha loop? I ask because I am a newbie ham operator.
As the song goes, "Another one bites the dust".... Great vid. The Alpha made tuner looks china made as far as quality.
+GUERRILLACOMM one of the comparisons I was making in the video was to Baofeng, but I edited it out. Let's see how this goes people have short memories and don't like to do the research.
Julian,
I am avidly following your antenna reviews. Excellent work, as always.
Ironically, I own a Chameleon.
I also own both an Alpha whip setup AND their loop.
Bought them at one of the smaller local hamfests a few years back.
Their Pleasant Hill, MO address is 25min. from my house.
+Bruce Barr many thanks Bruce I recognized your name from a very pleasant email I received this morning :) sometimes it's hard to do these antenna reviews, but also necessary. Hopefully the end result is we get less marketing and better products and documentation from manufacturers.
I've got another series coming up on two products from SOTABeams, then a heads up for Cross Country Wireless. Alexloop was suddenly delayed, but it's only a matter of time.
the Chameleon antenna seems to be the best on the market. I would love to try their antenna system but being on a tight budget for now thats going to have to wait. but keep up the good work
+SilentSniper Vt thx SSVT. We are all on a budget brother! That's why we have to learn to build things for ourselves. I'm glad I've had the opportunity to do both. Besides you'll appreciate it more and it takes more time to get where you want to be :)
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord yea I can blame the government for killing my industry(automotive mechanic) with cash for clunkers. But as for building I have a MFJ G5RV that I'm going to cut down to a junior. I made a 20 meter QRP antenna with speaker wire and now want to make a end fed antenna for multi band ops
+SilentSniper Vt don't get me started on the government :D I'm being raped here having to pay taxes to two different countries. You'll love the monoband dipole performance, but deploying them really sucks. Endfeds are magnificent! Just make sure to reduce or remove any losses and don't take shortcuts on parts, connections... when building.
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord I have a W1SPR end fed that's made here in Vermont and works great but don't want to permanently set it up because I love it for portable work.
Saludos Julian. No tengo archivado aún un contacto CW./QRP contigo, pero espero tenerlo alguna vez.
Esta revisión sobre un par de Antenas " Loop " ha sido muy aleccionadora. Gracias a tí, agora se en qué es en lo que me tengo que fijar. Los acabados y el material de la " Alfa " me han decepcionado. Gracias por la ayuda.
Gracias por la comentarios. con suerte esto fue útil.
73
Julian oh8stn
Thank you for the honestly researched product review. We are talking about a wad of money for most of us. You have saved a lot of heartache. I admire you a great deal. N4KBM.
Great video. I really appreciate the technical reviews. Would also love to see you finish the DIY power pack project started several months back.
73.
+StuartInTX hi Stuart I'm going to finish both battery videos the nickel nickel metal hydride and the lithium-ion versions this year. I'm sorry it's taking so long. Thanks for watching and stopping by it's always nice to get your reminders so keep pushing me forward :)
Outstanding review of product differences which gives me the knowledge to make an educated choice. Thanks!!!! Because of the review I have subscribed to your channel.
Marine Corps barracks inspection???.. Dear X Pat… Where did you go to BOOT CAMP?..
Although it has the manual tuner , I was wondering if and or how well the antenna would work with an auto tuner such as the z817 tuner with the 817nd?
+Eric Kozlowski great question Eric. It's not possible to use automatic tuner with magnetic loop antennas. There is a capacitor inside the box which needs to be turned in order to the loop to resonate efficiently on the desired frequency.
I wouldn't be expecting a Christmas card from Alpha Antenna this year, Julian! :) VideosByMike will probably put out a video (if he hasn't already) telling everyone how great the Alpha Coaxial Loop is. I appreciate all your effort, amigo!
+Richard Slusher It's OK, there are good companies who will!
Besides, Mike seems to care about his credibility. He has seemingly switched to gun videos.
You're welcome buddy :)
Thank you exactly my sentiments or thought. Glad I found your channel. Up until now it was Mike who does not interact with viewers?
Thumbs up my friend and thank you so much for the education. Excellent video as always...
You are very welcome.
thx for stopping by.
survival Tek hey man I get notification thanks for sharing it video appreciate your brother
id you ever try the f-loop on the p-loop
+Jason howe hi Jason. You'll have to be a bit more specific. I've tried the P-Loop inner loop, on the F-Loop which worked very well. Why do you ask?
OH8STN have you tried the p-loop tuner on the f-loop gear, I could see it more or less looks like the f-loop tuner was a production prototype looking at how you were putting your hand on the f-loops tuner it almost looks like you were acting as an rf ground plain
Though I would also have to ask why bother with an antenna system that when you look at the history of its design was used by the RI's to find illegal stations, though I would of thought this was only a receive only antenna, I would of thought the smaller loop would be built to be turntable ..
Though original statement I was alluding to. Though I doubt you would see much benefit playing around on a UHF or VHF radio systems I very much doubt either f-loop or p-loop would have any benefit what traditionally classed as a repeater class communications system given the limitation of both the UHF and VHF in distance....
Jason howe hey Jason, there's no F-Loop in this video. But like I said a I've tried the P-Loop gear on the F-Loop, which worked well. The alpha was no prototype. It was designed to be cheap. When the quality issues started popping up, Alpha has no choice but to update as people started to understand other loops were a much better deal.
Rx only loops are an entirely different monster than these. Variable various in these need to withstand high voltages. Rx only loops don't. There are pros and cons to magloops.
Hope your holidays are fun.
OH8STN sad to to say my holidays are going to be bad this year another injections between the l1-l5 to go through after the first 1 I'm not getting the sleep
Jason howe sorry to hear that. We all have our mountains to climb. Some mountains higher than others.
Loved your comment regarding a Marine Corps field day. I've experienced 4 years of those and a before that a lifetime from my Dad being a former Marine. Are you a former jarhead?
Well, once a Marine, ...
Semper Fi.
Without being too gungy, Rah. I was an Airwinger (6078/ electrician, mechanic on the gear around a/c) As a new Ham having a General ticket, and being condo bound on the first floor, I am considering the P-Loop and F-Loop/Plus, maybe the RR, if I can mount it outside on good weather days. The 6:1 reduction gear on the P-Loop has caught my attention, but as a main antenna, maybe the F-Loop provides more flexibility. Rig is the 100w IC 7300 and realize I can't throw that into a Mag Loop. Maybe the MPAS? I also have a Buddipole Deluxe but winter is approaching so not looking fwd to fiddling with it outside for the next few months. Also going to try my condo 4 floor tall, 190 foot long gutter thru an AH4 tuner at the base. Only SSB. Appreciate any comments,and keep making these highly educational videos! Semper Fi. Rob
+RobPetty622 Wow. That's a hell of a question. I never talk about my Corps time on YT, but let's say I know very well the roads between the SW Arizona, San Diego, & all points N into Orange County. I even received the letter from the East telling me I was probably exposed to contaminated ground water. Now you know 😉
The questions asked are huge. Each of the system's you mentioned are unique and capable in their own ways. What you really need to do before pullng the trigger on anything, is understand how you operate, and on what bands you most often operate. This will help you narrow down the right antenna system for your condo. Now if you have a balcony & can put up an antenna temporarily on that balcony, then I would say the MPAS or a magloop would be good choices. If you want to get that hundred Watts out of your radio, the MPAS would be best choice.
I don't want to sound like a chameleon fanboy but I know they're coming out with some pretty cool and Innovative designs for the new year. You can find their RUclips channel in my featured channels list on RUclips. They put out lots of teaser videos on products and updates they are working on. They've been talking about this waterproof remotely tuned magnetic loop. So lots of us are looking forward to hearing more about that. If you're not in a hurry I really wouldn't pull the trigger on anything just yet. If you're in a hurry then the MPAS mounted to a balcony rail or or in its endfed wire configuration out of a window for example, might not be a bad choice.
If your heart is set on the F-Loop with RT-RR, you won't be disappointed. I just have to tell you the RT-RR is not as rugged as the F-LOOP itself. It needs to be treated gently. Other than that it's a good system, solving a problem many of us have. By the way one of the videos on the chameleon RUclips channel was a power up kit they're working on for their loops. You've got to check out that video.
Btw, happy belated birthday.
Excellent comparison!
+Super Great Observer very much appreciated!
Julian ,
You did a video on Chameleon P-LOOP vs Alpha Loop what about
Chameleon P-LOOP vs Alexloop
I was wondering why you haven’t done a review of the Alex loop vs the Chameleon P-Loop. I don’t think I’ve missed any of your You Tube antenna reviews.
You and I have corresponded before and you know my years of experience with Magnetic Loop design experimentation.
May 2016 I purchased the CHA F-Loop, this was before the P-Loop came out, purchase reason:
I contacted Carl, chameleon support, had an email correspondence with Carl, one of many, great guy. He sent me a picture of the inside of the control box of a Chameleon mag loop antenna and the Alex loop.
Now for the Alex loop control box, the air variable capacitor is attached directly to the control box, the capacitor is actually too big for the control box, it was forced in, which deforms the cheap box, here's a link to the picture: www.flickr.com/photos/jmschneid/11997251703
One piece of information I’ve read about the Alexloop , if your even able to hold it up, after holding it up for 10 minutes your arm feels like it wants to fall off. He advertises you can walk around all day with it and that’s deceiving while hams believe it,
where Carl has been straight forward.
Chameleon P-Loop $299.00 at DX Engineering , Alex Loop $399.00 dollars
(Chameleon now offers a power compensator for the P-Loop which Alexloop doesn’t offer or have the capabilities to adapt)
It is sad to say the Alex loop is $100.00 more and in a cheap plastic box that contains junk, did you see his gear reduction? and his small loop is coax, the P-loop is metal.
Hams are getting ripped off, the quality of the Alexloop is Garbage, and Expensive, Hams need to be informed.
You’re the man to do it.
I had to email you, watching you’re videos are more interesting than most TV shows.
Hope I didn’t waste your time, I know your very busy, when fellow hams are blatantly getting ripped off, I had to vent.
Keep up the good work you’re time and effort doesn’t go unnoticed, especially when you’re in an open field, the wind chill is 30 below, snow on the ground and wind blowing so hard you can barely stand up HaHa. (yep, been there)
73s
Eddie kj4fgi
You're preaching to the choir my friend. The only reason no review has been done is because I haven't been able to finance the AlexLoop. The funds that come in from the ads is so small, that I have to be very careful how I use the money the channel generates (if it generates any). So honestly that's the only reason you haven't seen that review yet.
The channel is growing so let's see.
I see your point, $400.00 plus, well , to the USA another $60.00 dollars, Not worth it but I'm glad Carl sent me a picture of the inside of the AlexLoop, I even posted a picture of the inside of the CHA-F loop and Alexloop on my QRZ page. Ha! Stay Warm!!
Awesome video! Thank you
Great video Julian.
Many thx Chris
Damn... Why does Alpha even try to measure itself against Chameleon products?
+Commsprepper Honestly Hank, I've got no idea! The thing is, I wouldn't beat them up so bad, if they were honest about what they're pushing. I know I always leave myself open to let down, but I hope they learn the lesson here.
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord Julian, I doubt the people who run Alpha would understand you and all of us here any better than we understand them. What's happening is that Alpha are trying to force their way into that top-right part of the page reserved for very full featured and expensive products. To borrow from John le Carre in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, "Tell them George, they're buying their way in with counterfeit money." The profitability of just one loop antenna must be for Alpha many times that of Chameleon.
It's not too different than bankers in 2005-'08, packaging up bad debt and selling it with a nice new label as AAA-rated options, like turning lead into gold. And like addicts the world-over, it's so 'hot' nobody can stop. The troubling thing is that real people are hurt. In '05-'08 people on or getting ready for retirement and the managed funds they counted on for support lost on average a quarter of total worth - school teachers, factory workers, service personnel (I was enjoying the rural charms of Afghan at the time, so in no condition to manage our money).
In just the same way someone, maybe many someones, will buy an Alpha product like the loop antenna, give it some light duty, and expect that they can count on it to perform. It's not only preppers or hobbyists. Imagine being with a medical NGO (close to my heart as my wife and I plan to retire from teaching medicine to join an NGO in a few years), say something like 'Doctors Without Borders,' sent off to Sierra Leone or the bloody Congo as early 'shock troops' to get the jump for once on the next Ebola outbreak. You have three hours to coordinate over HF with a French transport already en route for medical supplies. Be on time and you can have the supply, else it goes on to South Africa and the next chance is, perhaps, in a few weeks. That is not a moment to discover that your comms, crucial to all of your logistics, 'just don't work.' All so some parts re-manufacturer or marketer can realise an additional 1 per-cant on what's already an 80per-cent profit margin.
Julian, I appreciate many things about your work, but none more than those moments of raw truthfulness as you showed on this loop antenna fiction.Very best, Hugh d'Aubry FRCS, :London (mostly!)
+Hugh d'Aubry Wow that a great perspective and you nailed it right on the head!
Hugh d'Aubry Wow Hugh. I never thought about it that way. Aid workers deployed around the world do comment from time to time, but the reality of the posible scenario never hit me. You just drove it home for me. You also helped reduce the guilt of calling out yet another manufacturer on the channel.
Hugh, this is by far the best comment I've ever had!
Thank you!
+Hugh d'Aubry Throughout the years, Chameleon Antenna has been working really hard at establishing a brand of quality and comments like yours are really encouraging for us. Branding is one of the most important aspects of any business, large or small, retail or B2B. An effective brand strategy gives you a major edge in increasingly competitive markets. But what exactly does "branding" mean? How does it affect a small business like yours?
Simply put, your brand is your promise to your customer. It tells them what they can expect from your products and services, and it differentiates your offering from your competitors. Your brand is derived from who you are, who you want to be and who people perceive you to be.
Well done. Alpha antenna is total garbage.
So to summarize the Alpha loop doesn't have a gear reducer and you don't like it.
Thanks man!
Bravo Zulu!!!!! Cheers, Mate.
+Jack Walsh Many thanks!
good job man! thank you
We've a CLEARANCE for the CHA P-LOOP 2.0 chameleonantenna.com/shop-here/ols/products/cha-p-loop-20
Just to show you Mil-spec is better every time buy once dont cry twice
Another great review, Julian! Thanks! KM4UQU
+Mike Masztal Thanks Mike. Much appreciated!
+OH8STN thank you as always, another great video! KJ6IHZ 73
+Myles Siglin thanks for the encouragement Myles. I'm really getting beat up on this one and some of the Facebook groups and forums. I'll Stand it though. It's honest and fair and hopefully by producing it we get better products to the community.
Thanks for watching and commenting it's very much appreciated.
OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord not a problem people can be tough at times. Hang in there time will tell. Thanks for sharing. KJ6IHZ 73
You speak siftly but your words are tough.
I can yell and show my tattoos while wearing tight tactical t-shirt :D
Thanks for watching :)
+OH8STN SurvivalTech Nord Don't go changin' to try and please me
Don't change the tone of your voice
I just want someone that I can talk to (via ham radio)
I like your vid the way they are. (my apologies to Billy Joel)
Would you like to purchase one of our capacitor with the 6:1 reducer installed to create your own antenna loop?
Please answer to the poll at the following link:
goo.gl/HsjL94