Are you looking for the best Car Mount Scanner Antenna to enhance your reception without drilling holes in your vehicle? Many scanner enthusiasts face this dilemma, wanting superior performance across multiple bands without compromising their car’s aesthetics or resale value. This article explores top recommendations for car mount scanner antennas, focusing on models that cover 150, 450, and 800 MHz bands, perfect for users who need to monitor various frequencies without low band or 6M coverage.
One highly recommended option is the Larsen Tri-Band antenna. This antenna is well-regarded for its performance across the 150, 450, and 800 MHz bands, making it a versatile choice for scanner users. Its compact design, typically under 17 inches, is another advantage, minimizing its profile while maintaining excellent signal capture. The Larsen Tri-Band utilizes the standard NMO mount, offering flexibility in choosing your preferred mounting solution.
When it comes to mounting, the thought of drilling into your vehicle can be daunting. While a permanent NMO mount offers the most robust and reliable connection, it does require drilling a hole. However, professional installation can minimize any potential damage and might even be seen as a value-added feature to some buyers if done cleanly. Think of it as a professional upgrade, similar to installing high-quality audio equipment. You could even repurpose the mount later for GPS or cellular antennas, highlighting its versatility.
If drilling is absolutely off the table, magnetic mounts (mag mounts) present a no-drill solution. NMO magnetic mounts are readily available and compatible with antennas like the Larsen Tri-Band. They offer easy installation and removal, which is convenient. However, mag mounts come with drawbacks. Security is a concern, as they can be easily stolen. They can also scratch your vehicle’s paint, especially if dirt gets trapped underneath the base. Furthermore, the coaxial cable can suffer damage from repeated pinching in door frames, leading to signal degradation over time, particularly in frequently used doors.
For a more secure and paint-friendly no-drill option, consider trunk lip mounts. These NMO mounts clamp onto the edge of your trunk lid, avoiding any permanent modifications. While trunk lip mounts eliminate drilling, they can still cause paint wear where the cable rubs against the vehicle’s body as the trunk is opened and closed. Careful cable management is crucial to minimize this risk.
Lastly, L-bracket mounts offer another alternative. These brackets utilize small screws to attach to the inside of your trunk or hood. While they do require some minor drilling, the holes are small and located in less conspicuous areas. This option provides a more permanent and secure mount than magnetic or trunk lip options while still being less invasive than a direct roof mount.
In conclusion, selecting the right car mount scanner antenna involves balancing performance with mounting preferences. The Larsen Tri-Band antenna is a strong contender for multi-band coverage. For mounting, weigh the pros and cons of each method – permanent NMO for best performance and potentially added value with professional install, magnetic mounts for convenience but with security and paint concerns, trunk lip mounts as a compromise, and L-brackets for a more secure semi-permanent solution. Carefully consider your needs and vehicle type to choose the optimal car mount scanner antenna setup for your scanning activities.
