On Sep 13, 5:21*am, Chuck Forsberg WA7KGX N2469R
wrote:
The B version has a piece of mast below the main part of the
antenna. *Is there much difference in performance between
the arx2b and the original arx2?

--
Chuck Forsberg * *www.omen.com* 503-614-0430
Developer of Industrial ZMODEM(Tm) for Embedded Applications
* Omen Technology Inc * * *"The High Reliability Software"
10255 NW Old Cornelius Pass Portland OR 97231 * FAX 629-0665

There is no extra mast. You are using the support mast
below the feed point. The extra parts are a 50 inch length
of coax, and a union to support a set of 20 inch long radials.
The radials are connected to the shield of the coax.
Years ago I converted an original Ringo Ranger to a
Ringo Ranger two using home brew parts.
I then did comparison tests with and without the radial
set. Made a huge difference in performance in my case.
Cushcraft seemed to consider it a third 5/8 WL element,
but I tend to consider it a decoupling section much
like the lower cone you see on an Isopole, or using
a 2nd set of radials or cones below a ground plane.
Yes, it is worth converting. The ARX2B is a pretty good
antenna. Not quite as good as the Isopole, but close.