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SHAKESPEARE
Mariner 8900 8' 6dB VHF Antennawith Silver-Plated Elements & Gold-Plated Connector
- Model # 6966071 | Manuf. # 8900
- In Stock: Available for immediate shipment.
- Application: Premium Marine VHF
- Gain: 6dB
- Length: 8'
- Material: Fiberglass w/polyurethane finish
- Elements: Silver-plated brass
- Base Type: Stainless steel
- Lead: 20' RG-8X Coax, PL-259
- Warranty: Five years
Product Specs
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REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 2 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
Reviewed by 2 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-2
Pros
- Easy To Set Up
- Excellent power output
- Low VSWR
- Strong Signal
Cons
- Packaging
Best Uses
- Offshore Communications
Comments about Mariner 8900 8' 6dB VHF Antennawith Silver Plated Elements & Gold Plated Connector:
Local west marine was out of stock for a replacement 5225 XP I was replacing, as well as comparable 8' VHF antennas. Took a chance on this top-of-the-line Mariner 8900, grumbling about the premium price.
Installed antenna on boat with two radios and an existing 5225 XP. Came with a "clamp-on" PL-259 connector, which I was dubious about since I normally solder my own on. Turned out this clamp-on PL-259 connector was awesome.
Tested this with an SWR meter and the VSWR was quite low, but the power output was showing a bit under 30 watts. (Radio maxes out at 25 watts, right?) Swapped with another radio and I got the same exact readings. Compared to my "good XP 5225", I had a bit higher VSWR and power of about 20 watts.
Out in open water between Florida and the Bahamas, I found the reception to be outstanding and communication with other boats is clear. I'm so impressed that I went back later to purchase a second one, especially since it was on sale. I definitely feel like I got great value for what I paid for these 8900's.
My only con, if any, is with the packaging. The tube itself is great, but the ends of the tube are secured with a flimsy, stapled-on plastic cap. Inside the cap is some foam to protect the antenna. Like others I've purchased, this end-cap is often chewed up from the shipping or something. By now you'd think they'd have a much better end cap that securely protects both ends of the antenna.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Set Up
- Strong and Solid
Cons
Best Uses
- Hardtops and Radar Arches
Comments about Mariner 8900 8' 6dB VHF Antennawith Silver Plated Elements & Gold Plated Connector:
Bought this antenna to mount on the top of my bridge to replace the one that had broken due to excessive motion. I am very well pleased with the 8900. It's a very soild antenna and should hold up well under the hard pounding/whipping action that the antenna receives from running in rough water on the Ohio River.
Displaying reviews 1-2
