Recently, I got an abundance of questions from readers wondering whether they need to install passive loop antennas or wire antennas. Though most questions come from shortwave radio listeners, even some ham radio operators are wondering the same thing.
Well, it got me thinking and I wanted to give the utmost comprehensive explanation possible but later one, I came to a conclusion that I need to keep the answer as short as possible. It will give you a clear understanding of which one to go for. Of course, if you’re looking for a longer answer and more details, you can always join the dxnews forums and get your answers there as well. Anyway, I’ll be as brief as possible. So here goes:
In the event you are a resident of a location with plenty of radio interference, I’d say a stealthy loop is the right way to go. See, these are devised to mitigate the radio frequency interference that is a chore for so many houses. Placed vertically, these antenna test chamber may also be rotated and you will therefore null out any unwanted signals as well.
On the other hand, if you are residing in a place that has little to no radio interference, I’d say outdoor wire antennas would be your go-to choice for sure.
To that extent, I am the greatest example of how living in a remote rural are with little to no radio interference will enable you to opt for wire antennas. These will serve you well in locations like this, trust my word on it!
In every single instance, my cheap wire antennas really did the trick where loop antennas could not. Which really is pretty amazing.
However, don’t forget that for such antennas to perform properly, you will need to deploy it the right way as well. Thankfully, you can find tons of resources that will help you find the perfect configuration and the right height for just about any antenna design in existence.
Wire antennas are also fairly stealthy and you can easily install it horizontally in such a manner that no neighbor will spot it. It may not seem important at first but some people will tend to overreact and you will be better off with a hidden antenna in the bushes, trust me.
In the end, it’s best to experiment if you’re after the right experience that will satisfy your needs in full.