BobS wrote:
I live on the 2nd floor of a condo (no outside antennas allowed) with a
random wire (60') from my R8B, out the window, and thrown over a tree
branch. No separate feedline; just one length of thin wire from radio to
tree. As expected reception is compromised with excessive noise. Can
anyone advise if there is a way to reduce the noise? Can't have a
ground rod. Don't want to move. Would an active antenna be an
improvement or a waste of money? I do understand that I'm never going to
have a Good setup, but just looking for some improvement.

Thanks...Bob

Remove MYHAT for email response

An impedance matching transformer might help.

Here's a link to simple plans for making a 9:1 transformer:

http://www.kc7nod.20m.com/new_page_1.htm