Chameleon Mpas 2.0 | Portable Ham Radio Antenna

[@OH8STN]

Jump to timestamp: Intro: 00:00 Overview 00:47 Components 01:00 MIL WHIP 01:18 MIL EXT 02:23 HYBRID MICRO 03:17 Side by dide comparison 04:27 CHA SPIKE 06:34 Performance 08:48 SWR & JS8Call 10:14 Review 11:40 Review it on eHam www.eham.net/reviews/detail/14321?fbclid=IwAR2D0AHRSn8Y2yutzhoX-Kb6i7GLIGCI0ErAZ_licJcm1bzUpaasQaRg8hM

[@MrStanwyck]

This is a great review for showing the differences of the MPAS 2.0 and the original MPAS. I agree that I would like to see shorter sections of the Mil EXT and it would be nice if they could make a longer vertical utilizing the mil whip and mil EXT and incorporate a tunable coil.

[@dwayneharris9591]

I am using the MPAS 1.0 with EXT with my Yaesu 857D here in Germany. I am very surprised at the capabilities of the vertical whip as I am able to reach as far as Illinois from Germany on JS8Call 40M. I will look into purchasing the new 2.0 soon. DA1XY

[@BuckTravis]

My favorite antenna. Super strong. Super reception. Whether 100 watts or QRP. LOVE IT!

[@firemedic7126]

I use the original Milwhip, Extension, Cap hat and counterpoise kit with FT-857D and MFJ tripod.. From Ga. have gotten all over Europe and South America no problem at 100 watts. Even got Indonesia on PSK 31 at 20 watts. Love that setup. Outperforms my Buddipole setup!!!

[@OH8STN]

Outstanding. I just worked a CO station in Cuba with the MIL Whip, Hybrid Micro, and counterpoint, @ 50 watts from Finland

[@WJ6FRadio]

Another superior video! Great review on the updated antenna! Can't thank you enough for getting me to switch to Chameleon!

[@davidsradioroom9678]

Looks as if my search for the best portable antenna has come to an end. I think the MPAS 2.0 is what I have been looking for.Thanks for the video!

[@AndyWragg]

The Mil whip (now its brass) very much reminds me of the old Clansman PRC320 whip that I used to use back in the good old days before the interwebs. Great informative video Julian. 73

[@OH8STN]

Thanks Andy. Yeah when I opened the package I seriously thought the whip was made by Harris or Codan. It's a good build 73 Julian oh8stn

[@jimpiper5297]

From your pic, Julian, and the pics on the Chameleon website, the CHA MIL 2.0 looks very much to be a clone of the MIL AT-271/PRC which has its origins back at least as far as our Korean War. During the Vietnam War years, the AT-271 was one the antennas that were part of the PRC-10 (known as "Prick 10"), PRC-25, and PRC-77 antenna kit. (I served my time before there was any such thing as a "CLANSMAN" other than some guy wearing a kilt. ;-))

[@kb9oak749]

I've been lusting after this for a while now. I finally pulled the trigger on a MPAS Lite which I will slowly add to as I go.

[@mdouble100]

Thank you very much for this important gear review. I own the first version of the MIL whip and extension and nave the long wire as well. I love these antennas and have been very successful using them. However, I entirely agree that a tuner free whip antenna using coils is an excellent idea. There are however a couple of points to make about the coil as opposed to a closed balun. Coils may not be as durable as an Emcomm antenna as they are open to the elements. If brass is a more effective radiator than alumimum that is a good change. Even adding 1 db gain A totally weatherproof balun, and weather proof tuner may be the best option under adverse conditions. Chameleon has done a great job making their wire elements durable by coating them with a very durable (Teflon?) Coating. If you could increase efficiency by 1 S unit that would be exceptional. For critical comms use higher power when you have solar input, then drop the power. However, while DX is important, I consider that the most important comms are those done with HF NVIS configurations and or 2 meters. This is certainly true when deployed as part of an ARES activation. Most of us will never set up a station above the Arctic Circle. We'll be operating a mobile or portable station aimed at local and regional coverage. Having a DX focus to gear and operations is valuable to a point, but practically speaking will need to be more concentrated on their immediate area or areas just near enough to be part of local emergency nets. We'll likely be hauling our gear to location via some kind of vehicle, even bikes with trailers and perhaps using heavier batteries, larger solar panels and or generators. We may have the so called luxury of having a tuner and perhaps a choice of antenna types depending on our immediate situation. Going entirely man portable is an extremely valuable exercise but one which would likely be impractical during a real emergency, notwithstanding some rather nightmarish exceptions. I think JS8 Call may be one of the most important tools during a full grid down scenario. This is brilliant piece of software with many potential uses if properly considered in emergency comms planning.

[@JeffBorn]

Thank you so much for all the excellent content, so grateful… You do an outstanding job.

[@goodfriend6428]

Wonderful presentation! Thank you.

[@kq6up]

I have the mini and love it. I even did some shootouts with a high quality EFHW, and it was a tie for 40m. I strung the whole thing (counterpoise included) and was checking into 160m nets with 50W, and they were impressed by how loud I was running 50W with a compromise antenna. I love my mom's house because it is in the woods -- very quite RF wise.

[@phatforrest]

Figures, I watch your original videos, and purchase the old MPAS kit a few months ago, and they come out with a new version. I can't win lol.

[@OH8STN]

Hi Forest. I can assure you I didn't know this was coming. I just received the kit a couple of weeks ago, without any prior warning.

[@kwvm5717]

Really appreciate the time you take to make these videos. It helps in my decision making for a portable antenna.

[@ibuildsheds5654]

Chameleon is finally in the process of making an adjustable coil for vertical!

[@andrewmcdonald7077]

Thanks for what you are doing.

[@paulclark7664]

Another fascinating study... Enviably professional..

[@theguccipilot]

Julian, I stumbled across your channel when I was looking for a Chameleon loop antenna, because of your informational video, I decided the MPAS was the right fit for me. Thank you for your insight. I'm now a subscriber to your channel. Please keep sending us your knowledge. -Darin N1AUB

[@mtig49]

Of course I just pulled the trigger on mpas 1.0 it should be here today. Lol I think I still be happy with it

[@chris_hayes]

I've had a lot of fun with mine. If the wind is blowing the right way I can get round Europe with the short whip and 5w SSB. With the 60ft wire and WSPR you can do the rest of the planet.

[@jchabalk]

I just got one about a month ago. I'm kind of bummed about the timing but the antenna i have has been a great performer.

[@forthy62]

Really informative video! As always! I'd like to add :-) Personally I find the whip and the extension a little expensive. I use an MFJ-1979 5m telescopic antenna instead. But a telescopic antenna might not be a good choice in every weather conditions. The new whip 2.0 seems to be clone of the military AT-271 antenna used on the SEM-35 manpack radio back in the 70s and 80s. 73s Stephan, DF6PA

[@OH8STN]

Hey Stephan. I can totally see why someone would use the mfj. I had one for a while, but it broke when it fell down. :( I rather spend a little more, and buy it only one time. For that reason I definitely prefer the collapsible military style whips, I just don't like carrying the tuner. Thanks for the comment. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@adventureoutdoors5904]

After watching this series, I believe I have decided on a new antenna system for my portable ops. Just may take a while to get all the pieces lol.

[@ericn1rv419]

I'm curious if you used the original extension and the 2.0 extension together with the 2.0 whip to lengthen the vertical how it would perform . thanks for your hard work.

[@OH8STN]

Actually this is a really interesting question. I think it would be possible but we'd have to use some guy wires to relieve the strain on the mount. The fact is, anything longer is going to perform better. I think we'll have to try this.

[@Devin82m]

Thanks! Welcome back. :-)

[@OH8STN]

Thanks. I've missed you all 👍👍👍

[@RobPetty622]

The older 1.0 MPAS was also capable of using the long wire. I've used it that way often. If my aluminum 1.0 ever breaks, I'll upgrade.

[@OH8STN]

That's a good strategy.👍

[@techguy9023]

Looks like the mast is well made. For the price I would hope so. So you get a short inefficient whip and some wire. Try qrp ssb and cw with it. Yes it’s pretty and looks like mil surplus. It needs some coils for 40/20 without a tuner. I think I will get my screwdriver antenna out and attach some random wire to it and save the $500.

[@TheAmericanStranger1]

Great video as usual! Have you noticed any difference in performance when using one counter poise wire vs using the four counter poise kit chameleon offers?

[@FlyntStormhammer]

Wonderful video, I've been binge watching you station for a couple of days now and am jealous of your locations and gear, thank you! Just purchased a Chameleon Mpas 2.0 and can't wait! Now the question have you or anyone you know used the cha-cap-hat in any of your set up?

[@davidsradioroom9678]

Great video. How well does it work on 80 meters, compared to the 1.0?

[@MikeWood]

Nice comparison between your old and new MPAS. I am a few episodes behind on 100 watts and a wire. Will have to listen out for you next time. :) 73s VE3MXU

[@OH8STN]

Thanks Mike 👍👍👍

[@brianfrommaumee]

So Chameleon has shortened the overall length of the Mil-Whip at the 2.0 version, but lengthened the Mil-Extension 2.0? I've already got the original Mil-Whip and Extension, but my CTX-10 has trouble finding a match with that combo unless I use the Cap-Hat. I'm going to buy the lengthened Mil-Whip Extension 2.0 to see if it, along with my original Mil-Whip 1.0, gets me a better 80 meter match without the Cap-Hat. Thanks for another great video!

[@OH8STN]

Try using a quarter wavelength of counterpoise (3 pieces) under the micro when tuning on 80m, and see if that helps. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@ae1tpa92gwtom2]

Thx Julian for another great informative video,.. I was able to get a much unused, still in the box, and original sales receipt, no scratch, like new 897D out of Austria, came with original tuner in the box, and optional AC Pwr Supply, was not cheap, but like new old stock, super pleased, now looking to add a gd portable antenna system,.. this is very compelling., hoping to operate from the Balkans this summer. Once again you have out done yourself, 73s my friend. Take care Julian, AE1TP A92GW

[@OH8STN]

Thomas you're killing me. Out of all those things you said, what popped out at me was "like new 897d out of Austria". 👍 congratulations on that radio. I regret ever selling mine. Thanks for the comment, and for reaching out. It's very much appreciated.

[@ae1tpa92gwtom2]

@@OH8STN I thought you would find that interesting, based upon our previous exchange, and yes miracles happen, i was actually on a flight over europe on the wifi, when i found this on ebay, n purchased in flight, b4 reaching Istanbul, .. i used the radio on hf, in Bulgaria for 2 days, all the time i had, looking foward to out door trekking ops this summer, i hope to make a contact with you some time, cheers julian,... tom 73s mate

[@sk8crk]

I actually prefer the f-loop over the mpas2-vertical whip... the hybrid micro and wire is a serious winner too though depends on the bands and portability desired. love chameleon products and was one of Carls first customers

[@rossbassette7518]

Julian, I have been reading through the documentation on the MPAS from the Chameleon website and could not find any reference to this question. Does the wire supplied for use as a sloper or inverted v/L antenna need to be adjusted in length to achieve a tune, or do you use the entire wire length, as supplied?

[@OH8STN]

It's cut so you can use it as a random wire end fed. You can roll it (and I fo) to get an even better match.

[@doncoker]

Making my decision easier on a new field antenna. Expensive but it seems that you get what you pay for. When out in the desert Southwest here, the rugged construction is a must for long term stays.

[@OH8STN]

I have the same problem up here in the North. I don't have a lot of cash and I can't afford to buy things twice. As far as maintenance goes all you have to do is put some anti seize Compound on joints. That's all outlined in the user manual.

[@doncoker]

@@OH8STN Where you are at certainly qualifies. The required maintenance certainly is minimal compared to some other solutions. Thanks Julian.

[@doncoker]

@@stromgewehr Well, 7 months in the Mojave (where I spend allot of time too) certainly covers my expectations. Appreciate the real world feedback !

[@JeffBorn]

Thanks!

[@OH8STN]

Thank you Jeff 🙏 73 Julian oh8stn

[@frankwc0o]

Does the counterpoise need to be elevated like the Buddipole Stick pro?

[@OH8STN]

It doesn't hurt, but I usually don't bother. It is said it's more efficient if it's elevated.

[@frankwc0o]

@@OH8STN Super. would you need a tuner for 20 and 40 meters? Some do, but can you cut the wire to be more resonate at 20 and 40? thx.

[@fredriksamuelsen1259]

Nice Job, thank's! 👍

[@Devin82m]

So in your opinion how does this compare to the Super Antenna MP1DXMAX? I want a good multi band field antenna, something durable and as good a quality as possible. I like your video on the Super Antenna because it covers so many bands with those adjustable coils.

[@johnpeterson7264]

Sounds like you are having a positive experience with the 2.0 gear. I purchased the whip and have noticed the difference in construction. Do you think it’s necessary to purchase the new balun ? Is it electrically different or merely constructed differently ?

[@OH8STN]

Hello John. I am having a positive experience but I think it's too soon to say whether or not the new balun is better than the old one. I hope that doesn't sound like a compound. I just need months using the system before I couldn't definitively answer that question. I'll ask chameleon to answer your second question and update the episode notes with the answer. Awesome questions and thanks for asking them 👍 73 Julian oh8stn

[@marcinmichigan2772]

Seems like a buddie stik you are describing - balun/coil combo.

[@bentleys5059]

When would you favor the MPAS over the Super Antenna MP1 and vice versa? Thinking of buying either. Thanks always for your fine reviews.

[@OH8STN]

Great question, and very interesting. I've been quietly testing this very question in the background. The short answer. The MPAS is my muti-iband/broadband choice. Used in conjunction with a tuner, you can turn around the Bands without going outside your shelter or your Shack to adjust the antenna for a new band. I use the MP1 in a modified configuration I use a 2.7m whip up top, and three extension rods underneath the coil. This gives me an almost lossless, quarter wave, coil loaded vertical antenna. Small-size, excellent mono band performance. Unfortunately, if you like to change bands a lot, it will become tedious. So I'm sitting on a single band I'll take the mp1. If I don't know where the activity is, or I'm bouncing around the Bands, I'll take the MPAS. Does that make sense?

[@bentleys5059]

Yes, thanks Julian, excellent response. Just what I was looking for. I'm looking into getting a SOTA /POTA antenna for places where there is not enough room/ time to put up a full dipole. Also, could use at home as stealth antenna at night /back yard. Thank you for your comments. Bentley WM1K, 73!

[@bentleys5059]

@@OH8STN sorry if posted elsewhere, but would you have any info on the rods you are using below the coil. Sounds like a great set up. Many Thanks.

[@OH8STN]

They are part of the MP1 kit (ER1 extensions)

[@bentleys5059]

@@OH8STN thank you!

[@adamcollins4397]

Great Video as always, Julian. I have the original Micro. You mentioned the updated unun in the Micro 2.0. Can you reiterate what this means for additional capability? I would like to use my original Micro with this setup. Thanks!

[@eliezercohen2205]

Would this mil whip (or others that are similar) be considered a a random wire antenna? I'm assuming this based on the whips size and the unun type (5:1 I believe)

[@OH8STN]

Indeed. It's a short random wire ehip.

[@eliezercohen2205]

@@OH8STN Awesome! this gives me some DIY ideas.....

[@davidwilkinson1480]

Thank you for the video. I recently purchased a Yaesu 891 and a MPAS 2.0. Could you please recommend a manual tuner for the field?

[@OH8STN]

I'm using the LDG Z100. I think it or something similar is a good bet. Yaesu also makes their own FC-50 antenna tuner specifically for the 891. The FC-50 has the best integration with the 891.

[@jrreid24]

Worth adding a tapped coil set above the balun? Great vid as always. Would love to see a follow-up vid when you have tested it more. 73 de KM4VHB

[@OH8STN]

Thanks Jason, will do 👍

[@k2cjbradio]

Excellent and informative! Thanks Julian! 73 de K2CJB

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome :-)

[@johannbrummer6764]

nowhere do you mention the frequency range of this antenna?

[@dennisschultz1175]

If you had to choose between the Chameleon MPAS and the Superantenna MP1DXMax, which would you prefer? What performs better?

[@OH8STN]

It's a tough question. You know they serve two different purposes not really competing with one another. I understand that sounds like a cop-out but perhaps I should make a video outlining the pros and cons of each. What do you think?

[@dennisschultz1175]

@@OH8STN I think it would be a great idea. I also am interested in how you mix and match between the MPAS parts and the Superantenna parts to make your ultimate portable HF antenna.

[@OH8STN]

@@dennisschultz1175 all right I'll schedule a video for September. The mixing and matching is easy. Both systems have 3/8x24 threads. Usually though I just put the mpas whip on top of the m p 1 coil

[@dennisschultz1175]

@@OH8STN I guess I am not aware of the differences. Can you please explain?

[@markusm.5061]

Hello om, do you know where i can buy this new version in europe? Do you think if i plan to buy one it makes sense to wait and buy a 2.0 or can i buy the old one? I will not use it for sota - but for fielddays...

[@OH8STN]

Hi Marcus. I think wimo has the previous one. Perhaps they're going to get the newer one as well. By the way chameleon ships to Europe

[@markusm.5061]

@@OH8STN To order it in europe will avoud trouble/cost with the customs. I think wimo will have the old one... Now i am looking forword to the ham radio exhibition. It is only 45mins from my qth away..

[@OH8STN]

Very nice I hope to get there next year. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@Jay-hr9ci]

Hi, what is the best long wire?

[@OH8STN]

I'm using the chameleon emcomm III portable in the field, and emcomm III base at home. The hybrid micro is also a nice long wire when using the wire option.

[@DavePhelps]

You never try the cap hat 🤔

[@OH8STN]

Yeah I'm guilty. It's one of those things which probably works and adds efficiency, but I'm just not willing to carry it in the field. Does that make sense?

[@ProbablyTooLoud]

I have the CAPHAT for the 1.0 EXT and MIL WHIP mounted on the HYBRID and can't confirm any solid testing. It's going with me in a few weeks on a camp and field op so maybe it will help to widen the frequency range. More aluminum in the air rarely hurts performance. A big thank you goes out to this channel for originally pointing the way to Chameleon Antennas. The brass 2.0 vertical is now on the list to improve the kit.

[@susanalopezlopez4873]

Conectin yaesu 857 ?

[@OH8STN]

I use with FT-891. Many others use with 857

[@susanalopezlopez4873]

@@OH8STN yes 991

[@OH8STN]

@@susanalopezlopez4873 not tested. 991a has internal tuner. Should be a good combination.

[@criscross6591]

👍👍

[@OH8STN]

thx Chris

[@Ron-xn4wf]

What does 10 clicks away mean?

[@OH8STN]

10 kilometres out 👍

[@brianpeck3120]

Great update! 73 - KD2KAK

[@patrickgray4444]

I have the MPAS 1.0 with Mil. Ext. It sure looks like a AT-271 clone from the AN/PRC-25 and-77. Is it still manufactured in the USA or have they gone to China? As long as Chameleon is building Mil. antennas they should consider the AT-984A/G Fishing Reel antenna. Pat, KF4MTV

[@shadeshiest22]

Fishing reel antenna??? That sound interesting!

[@OH8STN]

According to the website it's made in the United States. The website says its design is borrowed from those popular military whip antennas from back in the day. Chameleon production facility is in Nevada. They've invested heavily in that facilities so I can't imagine they're going to Outsource something to China, that just makes no sense. Like you when I look at it I thought wow have they really made this on tin or is it something from Harris or Codan :) anyway I think people are going to use the mil whip 2.0 on a lot of their own antenna projects or to replace whips from other manufacturers. The whip was an awesome an unexpected surprise. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@patrickgray4444]

@@OH8STN Julian, Thanks for the response, and I purchased the original MPAS on your recommendation from almost two years ago. Really enjoy your videos. 73, Pat KF4MTV