Description
Shakespeare 5225-XT 8' VHF Antenna | Boat Supply Store
This 8-foot VHF antenna maximizes your vessel's communication range, essential for maintaining reliable contact in open water or challenging weather. It delivers a substantial 6dB gain, significantly improving signal transmission and reception for critical communications. Ideal for offshore sportfishing operations and coastal cruising vessels requiring dependable VHF performance.
Key Features
- Superior Range with 6dB gain for extended VHF communication.
- Reduced Length at 8 feet, offering a balance of performance and stowage.
- Durable Construction engineered to withstand harsh marine environments.
- High Performance for clear voice transmission and reception.
- Reliable Signal ensures critical communication stays connected.
- Easy Integration with standard VHF radio systems.
- Optimized Design for effective marine radio operation.
- Shakespeare Quality known for marine-grade electronics.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Shakespeare |
| Model | 5225-XT |
| Length | 8' |
| Gain | 6 dB |
| Frequency Range | 156-162 MHz |
| Max Power | 100 Watts |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| VSWR | 1.5:1 max at 156.8 MHz |
| Mounting Style | Standard 1"-14 thread |
| Termination | PL-259 connector (attached) |
Who This Is For
This antenna is engineered for boaters requiring dependable and extended VHF radio range, particularly those engaged in offshore activities or operating in areas where signal clarity is paramount. Vessels operating in the Gulf of Mexico or along the Texas coast will benefit from its robust performance characteristics.
How It Compares
| Feature | Shakespeare 5225-XT 8' VHF Antenna | Metz Antenna |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 8' | 7' |
| Gain | 6 dB | 5 dB |
| Max Power | 100 Watts | 75 Watts |
| Frequency Range | 156-162 MHz | 156-162 MHz |
| Termination | PL-259 connector (attached) | SO-239 connector |
Common Concerns Answered
Will this antenna improve my radio's range significantly?
Yes, the 6dB gain of the Shakespeare 5225-XT is specifically designed to provide superior signal strength for both transmitting and receiving over longer distances compared to lower-gain antennas.
Is the antenna difficult to install on my boat?
With a standard 1"-14 thread mounting and an attached PL-259 connector, installation is designed to be straightforward, requiring minimal technical expertise for most boaters. A rating of 1 for installation difficulty confirms this.
How does the reduced length affect performance?
While shorter than some traditional antennas, the 8-foot length of the 5225-XT, combined with its 6dB gain, offers an excellent balance between maximizing VHF performance and providing a more manageable physical profile on the vessel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary benefit of a 6dB gain antenna?
A 6dB gain antenna significantly boosts your VHF radio's transmission and reception capabilities, allowing for clearer communication and extended range over water.
What type of connector does the 5225-XT use?
This antenna comes with a standard PL-259 connector that is pre-attached for ease of installation.
What is the maximum power rating for this Shakespeare antenna?
The Shakespeare 5225-XT VHF antenna is rated for a maximum power input of 100 Watts.
What is the recommended VSWR for this antenna?
The VSWR (Voltage Standing Wave Ratio) for the 5225-XT is a maximum of 1.5:1 at the primary operating frequency of 156.8 MHz.
Can this antenna be mounted on any standard marine VHF mount?
Yes, the antenna features a standard 1"-14 thread mount, which is compatible with most common marine VHF antenna mounts.
