Yaesu ATAS VS. Little TarHeel II Mobile Ham Radio Antenna

Which Antenna is Best? Yaesu ATAS VS Little Tarheel II. Comparing Features, Pros, Cons, and Performance.
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#hamradio #YaesuATAS #TarheelAntenna #k8mrd

[@N0SSC]

I love your AB testing with wspr. I do wish it was easier to get a truly scientific measurement of antenna performance but you never know if the ionosphere gods just decided to crank the knobs up to 11 for the ATAS or not, lol. Still it’s the best we hams got and I think you’ve helped me make an expensive decision slightly less expensive ;)

[@hamradiotube]

Thanks Sterling. WSPR is about the only way to remove all human influence from these kinds of tests. On air just wouldn't do it because signal reports are so subjective. I like to use WSPR because there is undisputed data we can gather while eliminating as many variables as possible. Propagation is always going to be the wrench in that equation, but if we get a big enough data pool, we can start to see certain trends. I was out 3 consecutive days doing this and gathering information. I made a couple mistakes the first couple days and threw out those results, but I can say without a shadow of doubt, even if I put in that data, it would only further support the ATAS, and the gap would only grow farther between the two. Every single time the ATAS was on the air, it both heard and was heard by more stations.

[@JeffBishop_KB3QMT]

I started out with the ATAS-120 with my FT-857, both of which I bought new at the same time. I started having problems with the ATAS-120 after about a year, where I had to take it apart and repair it. About six months later, I couldn't repair it. That would be about 2010. I stopped in an HRO and bought the Little TarHeel antenna, and it's still working now. Just holding the two antennas at the same time you can feel the weight difference, looking at them you can see that the TarHeel is a much more robust antenna. I didn't run tests or anything like that, I just used the ATAS-120 until it failed, and it failed far too soon. To be perfectly honest, I would not own another ATAS-120 antenna, which is why I assume they are readily available. I think the TarHeel is superior by comparison. You may like the ATAS-120, and it may work for you, but when it fails, and I'm sure it will, go buy the TarHeel and you'll never look back. A year and a half versus 12 years while still going strong. I don't think there's any comparison. I wouldn't take another ATAS-120 if it was given to me, I'd suggest they offer it to someone who might appreciate it, and I don't fit that bill. Just my honest opinion. I have absolutely no respect for the ATAS-120 and consider it a costly mistake. Live and learn.

[@1OFGODSOWN]

AMEN & the TARHEEL doesn’t fill up with water either when it rains.👍🎙

[@phils2180]

At last, a credible and unbiased comparison of the ATAS vs XXX antenna.👍I've used one for several years and the only problem I've had was last year when the motor gave up which, in fact, turned out to be the small drive PCB in the base which I changed out. Still not really sure why that gave out. The BIG plus of the ATAS is undoubtedly it's auto tuning function with certain Yaesu radios which is a huge advantage when band swapping. It does require periodic maintenance, especially if used in wet weather and IMO is NOT fully waterproof straight out of the box and some careful use of silicon grease can save expensive problems later. Look after it and it will serve you well for years!👍

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Wow! I am happily surprised by the results! I've been an ATAS fan for a while for its ease of use and that it always seemed to work well. Glad to see the data to back that up!

[@AG4KN]

I use an original DK3 Screwdriver antenna that was designed by the father of screwdriver antennas, Don Johnson - W6AAQ (SK). The antenna has a very high "Q" and is motorized and tuned via a on-off-on toggle switch, while listening for the highest band noise. Once you have high band noise, a quick look to verify the swr at the radio is acceptable, and you are ready to go. I have been using this antenna since 2005. This antenna started the screwdriver antenna genre. It still works great! 73s - DE AG4KN - John

[@1OFGODSOWN]

I had a DK3 many years ago and it was a Beast on my pickup and on the air and I chatted with Don many times about the setup before he became a SK.It’s the Best mobile antenna I have ever owned or used but I wanted something smaller so I Sold the DK3.I made the Mistake of buying an ATAS 120A that was a total POS & I parted ways with it and the POS 857D and I replaced them with an ICOM 7000 and TARHEEL II & saw a Huge difference in my received and transmitted signals.I would never go back to the 857D or Atas even for FREE.👍🎙de W4KVW

[@alanb76]

Interesting result, thanks for the effort. One way to use WSPR data is to use only those reports from stations that heard both antennas, and compare the signal strength values. Would be interesting to see comparisons to Hamstick style antennas and to the HiQ and Scorpion as well as the larger TarHeels and perhaps the Hustler resonators as well as the popular Icom AH-4 or SGC tuners into a whip.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

As far as my station goes, the ATAS-120A is the best for me. 8717 mile contact from SW Florida to Northern Cape Province South Africa with 50 watts on my FT-891. Not too shabby. It is the perfect match for ATAS compatible radios on the go. I'm hitting Spain with a good signal strength on cw and 35 watts. Like you... I am finding this antenna a pretty good piece of kit. I am very pleased with it.

[@IDOutback]

Running the ATAS with the FT-891. I installed it on 10/29/22. I make a contact on 15-meters with the North Pole Contesting Group in Alaska...1995-miles, while running 60-watts. Thanks, Mike...you keep costing me money!

[@hamradiotube]

North Pole is always great to get in the log! That's awesome!

[@KK6USYHamRadioAdventures]

Fun comparison Mike! I have a 991a and a 857 both have 2m and 70cm. I have a HiQ and it will do legal limit and 80m, but it is huge. I have been kicking around an Atas for my 4runner as it might be good for off-road and not as big and heavy as the HiQ. Maybe I will test the two like you did later down the road if I purchase the Atas. Thanks for the comparison!

[@billholt5573]

I have the 891 and ATAS 120A combo. Works great for the most part. On 40 I have a problem with flutter, for lack of a better word, that is obviously associated with vehicle motion. Some connection is intermittent when the antenna is extended long enough for 40m. It doesn’t happen on the other bands. It is the antenna because I have two mounts on the truck and switching the antenna between them does not resolve the issue. It’s not a super big deal since I usually drive during the day when 40m is not all that great anyway. It affects both receive and transmit, as you might expect.

[@JohnHill-qo3hb]

Years ago, an Aussie ham rigged up a coil to put the ATAS-120 on to 80m.

[@brianumbrell4049]

I have used the Tarheel II with the 56" whip for over 15 years on different vehicles. Never have been told anything but that I have a great signal. All vehicles were grounded properly.

[@hamradiotube]

I was never saying either antenna was bad. I absolutely love my Tarheel.

[@reidbevans4864]

I run an old atas 100 and an 857d mobile and love it. It’s a simple easy slick set up and I get good signal reports mobile.

[@seanihde]

Great video. I just installed an FT-891 and ATAS-120 in my truck. I did a park activation (K-9387,. MN) this evening and had 50+ contacts in 30 min on 20m, with mostly 57 or better.. My SWR on 40 is suspect, but I mostly work 20 and up anyway. Seeing your video and my latest POTA validate my decision. Also, thanks for dropping the jump scare riff intro on your videos; I just turned 50 and my heat can't take it. WI0O, 73

[@miketungol5736]

Good comparison. Thank you for doing this! Two things though; the ATAS whip is not "flimsy", its made like that so it will bend/flex if it hits low lying obstacles for better survivability. Also Yeasu FT-991A is All Band HF V/UHF radio (with 144 & 440 mhz), used a lot with ATAS by RV mobile folks 73 ~N4GDX

[@WJ6FRadio]

Outstanding video! I have been using an ATAS 120A for the past 9 years, but sure thought the Tar Heel would have killed the ATAS.

[@thuff3207]

The results are interesting but not surprising. I use the Tarheel 2 with the longer whip that improves its performance. Now for POTA using a long wire and the tarheel as a tuner you can get very good results. I would say the versatility of the Tarheel 2 is a large benefit.

[@chrishorne2740]

I use the ATAS-120 on the XYL's car and on my truck, an FC-40 tuner with a tune-able CB Firestick with the 2" tip swapped out for an uncut Larson replacement SS-whip making it resonant out of band at 13+MHz.

[@CampervanCookout]

Surprising results, I was not expecting that. Im just installing an atas with a home made controller so I can use it with any rig I want. Can’t wait to have a play. For half the cost it seems a good buy.

[@rippleeffect3910]

Great content Mike. Been running the Atas on both my trucks for 3 years for chasing DX and some local rag chew. It is definitely easy button with the 891. Yes, some folks have grounding issues, some don't like yourself. Slapping it up works, and spending time nitpicking will also pay dividends. Tinkering with bonds. grounds, choking etc., can help with better tuning characteristics, signal reports and distance. Both of my vehicles were different installs, with different challenges, and perform noticeably different with the same setup, and that includes takeoff angle, which is cool. But both perform amazingly. Such a good little unit. Thanks for the hard work Mike. 73 AD6DB

[@expert244]

Love mine with the 891

[@w6wwd-hamradio813]

I run a ATAS 120 with a Yaesu 857D in my truck and it TX and RX very well. I appreciate the video and the content you are producing. 73

[@hamradiotube]

Right on man, thanks for watching. Are you using 2 and 70 with the 857/ATAS as well? If so, how is that working for you?

[@w6wwd-hamradio813]

@@hamradiotube no running a 5/8 wave 2 meter so I can run my 350 watt Amp. Thanks for the reply! 73

[@hamradiotube]

@@w6wwd-hamradio813 350 Watts?!?! Good lord. I'll bet you get a lot of "full quieting" signal reports hihi! That's awesome.

[@w6wwd-hamradio813]

@@hamradiotube it gets the job done on FM simplex and SSB for sure. Have a great evening.

[@hamradiotube]

@@w6wwd-hamradio813 I believe it! 73 and thanks for watching.

[@johnnybwrlr983]

I was on facebook reading commets about ATAS vs the Little Tarheel antennas. I haven't used the ATAS, but I have used the Little Tarheel II and Little Tarheel HP. And I have talked with many others using the other Tarheel antennas and the ATAS antenna. Here's my conclusion. If you own a pickup truck, like many people here in Texas do, The larger Tarheel antenas perform considerably better than the Little Tarheel II, and should be compared to the ATAS antenna as well. I am currently using the Little; Tarheel II, on a K400 mount on my Nissan Altima, with a TM1 controller, with my FT-891. Heres what I have seen in the past 2 years: Stations hearing me, usually give me reports of 5x7 to 5x9, with a comment, 'best signal on the band'. Often, stations report my signal of 5x9 +10 through 5x9 +30. The lowestfe received station at S2, was worked and I received a 5x4 report, while other people on the band couldn't hear the very distant station. I periodically talk to a few Japanese stations at 6am, on my way to work. One station, I normally get a 5x9 +10 report, on one occasion, gave me a confirmed 5x9 +60db report, while he heard most other strong stations at no more than a 5x9. My mobile station actully performs better than my home station with comparison to antenna performance. I'd have to say, it is the best mobile setup I've used in 54 years of ham radio, One additional comment: I have heard, several times, there are some problems that owners of the ATAS have reported. Many people that have compared antennas, will now only choose the Tarheel line of antennas, claiming they don't have the many flaws of the ATAS antennas. By the way, I'm John, W9DG, from Conroe Texas. I have seen you, I think twice, now, in the Huntsville State Park,

[@hamradiotube]

Well you should stop by and say hi John. I think the ATAS is very misunderstood in the ham community, especially in the forums. I've addressed and debunked the "issue" most people have about the antenna in several videos. I haven't used a larger Tarheel so I can't comment on that, but at the end of the day, aside from how the antennas operate in conjunction with the radio, the Little TarHeel II and ATAS are very similar in performance. Except when you put a longer whip on the TarHeel. That's one feature the ATAS doesn't have.

[@StealthGTI]

You can't beat the ATAS-120A for user simplicity! I upgraded my whip with a black Larsen whip that's cut to the same length as Yaesu's. The Larsen whip is just two drill bit sizes larger in diameter than the Yaesu whip; so, boring the hole just a *little* larger is quite easy. Best of all, the "70 mph bend" is gone. I love it when my whip is straight and erect! 😜😇 I need to get my ATAS-120A and Scorpion SA-680 on the same switch so that I can do some back-to-back comparisons and share a video! 73! -Scott, KE4WMF

[@hamradiotube]

70MPH bend? Try a 100MPH bend lol! I'm afraid to bore mine out and put a more rigid hwip on it. I know I'd screw it up. I really don't mind the stock whip though. I rarely operate while driving so it's not a big deal.

[@StealthGTI]

@@hamradiotube - HAHA! It's called the "70 mph bend" because that's all it takes to bend it permanently, maybe even less. I'm sure my Larsen whip is up for 100 mph; not sure about the ATAS itself or the Scorpion. 🤑

[@hamradiotube]

@@StealthGTI my atas whip regularly sees 100mph no problem.

[@Hero1395]

The video I’ve been waiting for… thank you

[@hamradiotube]

Hey thanks so much. Hope it helps.

[@mikekoehler7098]

You can tune the tarheel while at Highway speeds and if you do that with the atas your risking stripping the threads. In town not a huge issue but on long Highway trips having to stop is no good. While the ATAs is auto tuning to tune the tarheel is really no big deal and you’ll get close by ear. Use a turbo tuner it’s a touch of the button like the ATAs to change bands.

[@johnk8091]

Thanks for your exhaustive tests Mike. While they do give a good indication, they are not 100 % conclusive. For them to be conclusive, the tests need to be run simultaneously, at the exact same time. Too many variables - changes in band conditions.....stations going QRT in the next session before changing antennas....stations moving their beam headings before you swop over etc. But it was a thorough test, well done. Since I have owned my Little Tarheel II for more than 15 years, and I have owned ATAS100 and then 2 x ATAS 120 for 20 years...I would, in my experience, give the edge to Tarheel in terms of performance, However, for the convenience factor the ATAS is far more convenient....when using a compatible Yaesu rig.

[@jdogd25]

I use a little Tarhill and a Kenwood 480 SAT. Great signal and audio reports. The programmable button on the 480 head tunes the antenna perfectly every time.

[@M0RMY]

Tarheel II here. Have used both - but build-quality is much better on the Tarheel - Don't have Yaesu radios anymore, so taking advantage of the "any radio" flexibility of the TH. Enjoyed the video Mike. Won't be changing! Both worked well. Static mobile with a 6 foot whip is brilliant too as you mentioned. Have a look at the West Mountain Radio Target Tuner - a nice controller.

[@hamradiotube]

I will give it to Tarheel, their quality is incredible. That target tuner looks nice. And it has power poles!!

[@milcommguy5927]

MFJ makes a manual up/down control for the ATAS.

[@kg4tri]

Your take off angle was lower to the left front of your car with the ATAS and the take off angle is lower on the right front with the Tarheel so that might account for the slight differences . I had both and I put the ATAS on the right side and ran it for a while then the Tarheel in the same position and got better results with the Tarheel . I wasn't using wspr but I was using it in a real world SSB operation. This was during the peak of solar cycle 24 . I did have it mounted on an 18 wheeler so my counter poise was bigger then yours . Another thing is the ATAS doesn't hold up well on a high profile vehicle or off road one. I hauled farm equipment so I was taking my truck off road some times . The barrings fell out of the ATAS because of the bouncing and whipping around. The Tarheel held up well. I still have the Tarheel.

[@paulplack490]

Watch the video again - He ran both antennas from the same spot on the vehicle. Having them both mounted at once was just to show both at the start.

[@phillipgrawert596]

Thanks again for the awesome review! Great testing, love your videos

[@spytromics]

I use the ATAS-120 at home as I live in an HOA. I have it hidden in my attic. It does an amazing job.

[@hamradiotube]

Oh that's awesome to hear. We talked about the ATAS at home on this weeks Mailbag Monday video. Great to know someone is actually doing it.

[@TheTdub]

That is good to know since this is the application I was considering using it for as well.

[@tonyd6884]

I recently seen yt video of the atas being used portable on a tripod with radials. I think that would make a good video if you know anyone that could do it😂

[@spytromics]

@@TheTdub You do need radials in the attic or the antenna won't tune. 6 or so runs of wire work for me.

[@anonymous_friend]

@@tonyd6884 where i can see this video?

[@kg4sfb]

I have the 300 series Tarheel. I use a Yaesu ft857d and a Tenna tronix, Turbo Tuner-2. The tuner tunes the Tarheel with a push of the tune button on the radio. I am very happy with the combination.

[@bobr6555]

I use the Diamond SD330. It's about 6 years old now. I have worked from Cairns, Queensland Australia into USA, Finland, Italy and best of all to a bicycle mobile in the UK with 100 watts SSB from my FT891. Bit finicky to tune spot on so I also use a mAT30 tuner. VK4BOB

[@Sky1]

Very cool analysis I have done similar comparisons with several antennas I've been operating mobile since 1975. The ATAS 100 That I currently use is not better than any of my previous antennas a matter of fact they actually perform less however it is so convenient that I can wind it down pop it in the trunk when I'm not using it. A lot of people don't realize location is very important when mounting in antenna a bug catcher antenna which is extremely efficient when mounted on the rear trailer hitch is the worst place for it. We are as a smaller antenna up near the cab of a truck would work better. I used to run the high power hustler coils to change bands I would pull over fold over the mask change the resonatorAnd then continue I ran a full 1.5 kw killowatt in that mobile. That was my most outstanding set up. I remember running HF packet while my girlfriend would be driving. Today's cars are not very esthetically pleasing with a giant Bug catcher or even hustler coil on them. The atas Still is a bit obtrusive but better than most.

[@randygc3704]

Surprising numbers. Would probably be very significant for digital modes, but I wonder how well they translate in to hearability for SSB? Not sure there's any objective way to measure that. I know the audio on all of my radios is much superior to my diminished hearing after decades of .mil aircraft and shooting ranges. I've had my Little Tarheel II for over 10 years and other than having to replace the coax assembly and mount due to years winter road corrosion, no issues. It keeps on going. However, a couple of folks that got the ATAS at about the same time have long since discarded their antennas and gone to something else due to issues that cropped up over time as they apparently did not hold up. Anecdote is not data, and maybe they got their antennas from a bad batch. Who knows? Certainly not trading my Tarheel in anytime soon Good test and good video. 73 KAØAZS

[@MikeN2MAK]

Great review! Yaesu should make a mobile radio that does 40m-70cm, just like the ATAS. And it should have a detachable head that the mic, USB (for digital), programming cable and external speaker plugs into--that way the body could easily be mounted in the trunk/back of the vehicle. I'm sure I'm asking for too much.

[@richardszepski6674]

Great idea Mike. Try the FT-991A for now.

[@mariom.9472]

Hi, i am using a ATAS because i purchased it cheap with a blown Motor driverboard, fixed it, used it and was a littlebit disapointed with the performance on 40m, so i drilled out the head of the coil and mounted the whip from a smashed Wilson 1000. I worked VE7 from the Rhine-Main Area in Germany. 73 DH9MM

[@markviers998]

I recently changed from using ham sticks to the ATAS, so far I seem to be getting about the same results but I was able to remove the auto-tuner I kept in-line with the ham sticks and I love not having to swap antenna's any more.

[@timsvids5983]

Hi, thanks for the video. I've been using the little Tarheel 2 for the last 7 years with no problems BUT it finally died. It won't go up or down, probably my fault. I lowered it too far, all the way to the bottom and it got stuck on dried cow poop. I took the top end apart and cleaned what I could get to and it still doesn't work. Kinda bummed. But my wife told me I'm getting an ATAS for Christmas. I'm happy. Thanks again for the video, you convinced me.

[@hamradiotube]

Well hey there's a silver lining. Sucks your Tarheel died. You can send it to Tarheel and they can fix it. My buddy had to do that but his is working great again. But now you have an ATAS too! Congrats!

[@timsvids5983]

@@hamradiotube There's a pretty fair chance I might turn the Tarteel into a base. I haven't called Tarheel yet but that will probably be what I do. The wife ordered the ATAS today.

[@Dusty_Ham]

Ooh I have to go with the tarheel on this one! Let's see how it goes! Edit: Welp! Cool results, thank you for doing this Mike!

[@hamradiotube]

Thanks for playing along lol!

[@GPSJayDog22]

N6WIP - I sure wish ICOM had an antenna like the for the 705 or the 7300. I use both for POTA. I'm using the MFJ Big Ears and the MFJ Big Stick depending on the wind. And! The price difference!?!?!? Thanks 4 the show. A real eye opener.

[@David-sj6jw]

Tnx again! Great info.

[@phildurall7466]

Nice comparison Mike. I concur! I have owned both of those and use to run the ATAS - 100 (120) on my F-150 with an FT-100 or FT-857 and had great results (Finland from California). I ran the TarHeel with my IC -7100 on my Volt with less success. I still have the two antennas and the FT-100 and IC-7100, but they are not used mobile anymore, just on POTA or at the ham shack. Tnx Mike! 73 - KF6IF

[@halcollins4293]

I bought an 891 and ATAS-120 for my E350 van. It wouldn’t tune - it wouldn’t even move. I bought a bunch of ham sticks and tuned them with my analyzer. Hooked the radio up and had high swr on every stick. Finally figured out the new commercial jumper was the problem🤦‍♂️. Haven’t got the ATAS back on yet. Friend has the same antenna with 144/450 and says it never fails that his wife tries to reach him on 2 meters while he’s on Hf. I put a dual band ER next to the Hf rig to solve that.

[@Aussat]

Great video Mike, I use the Atas although conditions have never been that great when out and about but it appears to work OK, maybe when I have time on my hands I should give it a good try out!

[@gabrielguzmann1ufo905]

Thanks for your input Mike,👍🏼!

[@hamradiotube]

You bet!

[@W8MJL]

I can't knock my Lil tarheel 2, I bought it 2nd hand from a fellow ham for $175 and just had to replace the control cable. I don't use the control box, I went through the bands and once I found the lowest SWR I marked the spot with a white paint marker so it's easy to switch freq's. As far as performance I have been able to get Alaska from EN80 with my tarheel, plus it was in my budget. Maybe some day i'll get the ATAS but like my Elmer once told me, the best antenna is the one you can afford. Thanks for the great videos Mike and thanks for keeping us in the loop of all things POTA and Ham, wife and I hope to see you in Dayton next year. 73 de W8MJL & K8MKL

[@hamradiotube]

Holy crap, $175?!?! That's a steal. That TarHeel is an absolutely incredible antenna. I have made literally thousands of contacts with it. Including AK multiple times, as well as DX stations. I would still 100% recommend it. I was shocked the ATAS beat it in these tests though. Hope to see you at Dayton!

[@BeavistheLizard]

Ft-857d does all the bands the ATAS 120 A offers and so does the FT-991a :) But you would need a duplexer or an antenna switch to get to both connections on the radio.

[@aaronlindemann2669]

Thanks for collecting data to analyze. I appreciate that effort. "Blowing the doors off" is a little strong of an evaluation. It could also be said the ATAS was generally "keeping up" with the Tarheel. Disclaimer, I own neither of these systems. I'd ask the manufacturers for MTBF and warranty numbers. That would be REALLY interesting to see.

[@hamradiotube]

This was only 1 days worth of data. If I included the other 2 days, I assure you, the gap would only grow farther. But, the ATAS being heard by and hearing ~100 stations more than the Tarheel speaks volumes. And I really love my Tarheel.

[@johnk8091]

I own 1x ATAS-100, and 2 x ATAS-120A...and also the Little Tarheel II. The Little Tarheel is extremely well built and I very seldom hear of a failure. The ATAS is a lot more fragile and needs to be gently treated (one of my ATAS-120 stopped working several years ago, which is why I bought a second one a few weeks ago). Put a longer whip on the Little Tarheel and you visibly see better signals. Now my wish - I don't like Yaesu mobile rigs....in fact the only reason I bought an FT891 was to use with my ATAS - the pair operate flawlessly together. How I wish Icom made an HF mobile antenna similar to the ATAS, but that would work automatically with my 7100, 7000 and 706MKIIG

[@James_Bowie]

ATAS is repairable if you are technically inclined and careful. There's a pretty good YT video on that.

[@PRODIGY5369]

I know that a reputable UK dealer recommends that if it rains, you should dry one of these and bring it indoors near a radiator as it's a common cause of failure having water inside, unsurprisingly. I don't know what the situation is with the other one. My situation dictates that I want an antenna on with these capabilities, but in all weather and 24/7. It's useless to me if it's drying out indoors. I'm UK, it rains a lot, sometimes every day. I drive all day, every week day. That's my radio time. I can't believe they can sell an antenna at this price point, and it can't handle rain. It's a mobile antenna, it should be waterproof or at least resilient.

[@hamradiotube]

Hmm, that seems like an interesting bit of advice given that these are literally designed to spend their whole life outside. I'll tell you I have had zero problems with either antenna in the weather. I had the Tarheel on the car when I lived in Michigan and it got covered in ice quite regularly. It didn't even flinch. The ATAS is also very well sealed from the environment too. I would strongly disagree with his statement.

[@PRODIGY5369]

@@hamradiotube I agree I thought it was strange advice from a major dealer who at the end of the day is trying to sell them. It wasn't the Tarheel. I'd pretty much made up my mind today that it was probably the best solution for my needs, last quick look around for more info and stumbled upon that. I'm going to contact the dealer for clarification. Thank you for your reply and sharing your experience of it. Every bit of info helps, obviously wet climate here.

[@radiok2ua]

Tarheels are absolutely bulletproof all year 'round in the Northeast US based on 5 years of experience with the 40A-HP, 200A-HP, and Little Tarheel HP. They don't leak or deteriorate with time. Not affected by water, ice, snow, or anything else I've thrown at them, though in very heavy rain, when the matching coil gets wet it does affect tuning until the excess water runs off. For the front-mounted antenna on the brush bar, I keep a plastic cover over it to prevent water and ice buildup; you could also mount it in a plastic bottle if desired.

[@andrewb9276]

Installed longer whip on my ATAS today. Purchased a 2mm SS rod from McMaster-Carr. Original rod was 6 feet long and would not stay vertical. Cut down to 56 inches and stays vertical. Anxious to see if extra 1.5 ft. length improves operations.

[@andrewb9276]

Don’t know if extra 1.5 feet helped, but did get 59 report from EA SSB from SoCal.

[@DavidHead-W4WLC]

Tarheels need to have a really good RF ground. I have used both the Tarheel model 100 and the little tarheel which is mounted on my old 2003 Toyota Tundra. I have everything bonded together. The hood is bonded to the body, the body is grounded to the frame. The tarheel mound is grounded to the body and the frame. The body of the radio is grounder to the body. I have 1 inch wide ground straps tying everything to vehicle ground. Once you do that then you will have a good working Tarheel. This is the recommendations for the founder of Tarheel himself. Those 4 little ground points on the mount you are using isn't enough.

[@hamradiotube]

Meh, they say the same thing about the ATAS. This was an even playing field.

[@gregiep]

I’m planning to install My FT-891 in the car, and it looks like I’ll be using ATAS!!

[@tonyd6884]

I just lost my little tarheel in a parking garage accident. I was going to start looking for comparison videos between it and the atas. You must be psychic

[@hamradiotube]

Oh no, I'm so sorry to hear that! Glad to be of service.

[@aceventuraaceventura2003]

I had ATAS-120A many years ago. One day it stopped working. Sent it to Yaesu Service Center in California. Sadly, had a real bad experience with them. So I told them to keep the unusable ATAS. Since then, never went back to HF mobile. I cannot overstate this. Grounding grounding grounding. Because the tuning is so sensitive, you need to have grounding sorted out well in advance before you try to tune it. But when it worked, I worked some of the most magical contacts. It is a good antenna, but grounding mistakes will make it very unreliable. I think the Tarheel with its rugged design is more forgiving. By the way, I currently run Diamond SD330 for HF mobile.

[@alvinnorris6523]

Yaesu still sells the ft991a shack in a box

[@hamradiotube]

Yes they do. Not exactly a mobile radio though.

[@stevet7522]

@@hamradiotube anything is mobile if you modify your vehicle enough.

[@Emcipio]

One of my local Elmer’s just put a 991a into his 87 bronco haha

[@hamradiotube]

@@stevet7522 There are some maniacs out there that do those things aren't there lol!

[@Johnyrocket70]

@@hamradiotube sits perfectly in the passenger seat.

[@Adolphsson]

A Yaesu radio in a Ford *Fusion*. Perfection :)

[@arkyump]

I’ve got two ATAS’s and now I think I’ll put it to work.

[@alanbrockmeier6871]

WOW, MIKE SUPER TEST! THINKING I WILL G0 WIITH ATAS120 AND MOUNT A SECOND ANTENNA JUST FOR THE 75 METER NETS I DO ON A REGULAR BASIS. SEEMS LIKE THE BEST SOLUTION AND SAFE A TON OF MONEY AND STILL HAVE THE MOST BANG FOR THE BUCK. AGAIN THANKS FOR YOUR GREAT INFORMATIVE VIDEOS! 73 Blessings NM5SP

[@DagonNaxos]

So that means you need to run the Tarheel on RX and the ATAS on TX and use a dow key to common out the Tarheel on transmit. That dual screwdriver life lol 😁😁😁

[@kj7iaz]

I have a 891 with atas120 mobile. I also take a tuner and a 75m hamstick and adapter to quickly switch to 75 if need be. Works great.

[@anonymous_friend]

what tuner?

[@Marty48034]

"more fars"---LOVE THAT!! (notarubicon reference.)

[@hamradiotube]

I mean, the guys been a non licensed ham radio operator for over 40 years, you gotta give credit where credit is due.

[@ac7fd]

I have both, the Tarheel on my truck and the Atas on my company van and I doubt your results. It’s very hard to compare antennas but I have better results with the Tarheel. Ok I’m using a longer whip on the Tarheel 😀 The Atas is great for simple installs with just one cable. The Targetuner works awesome for the Tarheel.

[@hamradiotube]

Doubt all you want, I don't care. Numbers don't lie. The longer whip on the tar heel is a nice touch though. I usually use a 6' whip from MFJ or the 17' 1979. That's a huge advantage the Tarheel has over the ATAS, but, the ease of use goes to the ATAS hands down. Oh, and performance 🤣. In real world use though, they are very much the same antenna.

[@W5NEH]

I recently acquired an FT891 and ATAS antenna in a trade deal. It has been working out great and I have knocked out quite a few mobile POTA contacts as a hunter. One thing I will note, it that I can’t seem to get the SWR to go below 1.5, even with everything grounded and bonded- but either way it seems fine.

[@hamradiotube]

You may just need to #hamharder lol. My ATAS usually tunes a little better than that and I can also get the Tarheel at a 1.1:1 or so. Not every band, but I've not had any issues. 1.5:1 is still plenty fine. Dumb question but have you tried fine tuning the ATAS by holding down the PTT and using the up/down buttons on the hand mic?

[@dovetomarc]

Mike is right. Try hand tune to get shaper and also try bonding on the vehicle.@@hamradiotube

[@timevans239]

Receiving my Atas 120 tomorrow from HRO.

[@hamradiotube]

Awesome!! Congratulations!

[@LJH08Ralith]

I've used the ATAS from N AL to talk to Spain and TX both. I don't use it alot so I don't know the furthest distance it might make compared to my home station but for a mobile install it surprised me.

[@z3r0c00l2]

Atas for the win . I got one and it rocks.

[@keithslater4868]

Boy am I glad I went with the ATAS and saved myself a bundle! It works very well on my F150. Very easy to use and reasonably priced :) Cheers, Keith - V31ZA

[@hamradiotube]

Glad to hear! You have chosen wisely.

[@anonymous_friend]

What kind of truck mount do you use? Trying to figure out my options for my f250.

[@spacemedic545]

I have both antennas. The ATAS is twice the antenna the Tarheel antenna is.

[@yurishbox]

I guess the difference in performance might be explained by antennas whip size difference 36 1/2 vs 32 inch. Longer whip, better performance.

[@James_Bowie]

I bought an ATAS-120A for my FT857D but for portable not for mobile (I don't travel enough to need an all band TX in my car) so I'm going to experiment with a radial field and see how it tunes up and performs. I like the idea of not having to tune it manually as is the case with say the Wolf River Coils antennas.

[@hamradiotube]

It should work well in that configuration. One of the guys in my club in MI did exactly that. I've been experimenting with my TarHeel like that. I'm using it on the WRC Mega Tripod. I've found I needed more radials than just the 3 radials supplied so I added 25 2.5 meter radials that I had for another experiment and it tuned up no problem.

[@anonymous_friend]

@@hamradiotube Do you have a video on this?

[@Mr_Meowingtons]

if your rolling with a Yaesu the ATAS is a no banner its cheaper and simpler. a huge knock on it is the wip if they just drip 2/70 and make the wip longer it would be a bit more efficient

[@jeffharris6127]

The Yeasu 991a tranacever covers 70cm to 160m.

[@hamradiotube]

Yes, but like I say in the video, Yaesu does not currently make a MOBILE RADIO that covers 2 and 70.

[@jamesschmaus8597]

Got a buddie that run 991a mobile in a jeep set it beside the seats + runs atas with it

[@garyh8315]

@@hamradiotube Yeasu do sell a bracket for the 991a for placing the radio in a mobile environment!!! Wow, a signal reached you fro mthe UK.... awesome, 73

[@hamradiotube]

@@jamesschmaus8597 I mean, I can put my 7610 in my car and call it mobile too :) At some point you have to draw a line.

[@hamradiotube]

@@garyh8315 Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.

[@radiok2ua]

Couple of questions. Did you use ferrite chokes on the feed line or the control cables? Did you do all your testing with both antennas in place, as shown?

[@Kellymale]

My tarheel II is on the way. Pairing it with my 7100

[@zxeng6064]

I use an ATAS its amazing

[@ac1o]

Looks like I might be getting the ATAS 120. I think it will make a perfect match for my FT-991A. Once again thanks for the video. Also correct me if I’m wrong but I heard through the grape vine that they are not making the tar hill anymore. Let me know.

[@hamradiotube]

I think the ATAS would be a great companion to the 991. Tarheel is still making antennas but like a lot of things in the world these days, sourcing parts is causing quite the holdup.

[@ac1o]

@@hamradiotube thank you.

[@calvinlong1265]

I really enjoyed your video! About the 120's 2m/70cm capability, I've heard of people using 2 radios connected to the antenna with a duplexer. Quick question - could you use an MFJ Goliath tri-mag mount with one of these? Keep up the good work, and 73's!!

[@1crazynordlander]

Hmmm, ATAS is cheaper, easier to connect and use than the TarHeel. One wire also is a winner in my book. I thought you were going to pick the TarHeel.

[@TheTdub]

Thanks. Nice video and good info. I was wondering what the big diff was other than the 80m. I have an 891 and looking to get the 991 very soon. You just convinced me which one to buy.

[@hamradiotube]

Well very good. I'm glad it helped. They are both great antennas. I don't want to downplay how good the Tarheel is. I've made thousands of contacts on it, but this test would prove the ATAS is the better of the two.

[@don_n5skt]

I have been running Ham Sticks but I am really thinking of moving to the ATAS

[@garyburdette1214]

Thanks for the info, looking to by my 1st mobile antenna....I have all Yaesu radios also. Looking at what mount to use, I have a Mazda CX5. Tossed between doing a rack mount verses door mount???? We will see or if you have a recommendations?

[@mrmultimediaman]

I'm in the process of installing the Tarheel II in my 2015 Sonata Unlimited, with a Icom 7100 and a ICOM Autotuner.. Should be a good rig. Just worried about power drain on my battery being just a 4 cylinder engine. Maybe install a separate battery? Also, I don't live in a very secure neighborhood and will have to remove the 7100 faceplate and antenna at night parking on the street. I had a Diamond 9500 Max Gainer stolen off my other vehicle. Loved that antenna. I guess someone needed it more than I did.

[@hamradiotube]

I don't operate with the cars battery. I use a 30ah Bioenno.

[@martykm6pra114]

Boy you put the price of the tarheel in there and the atas wins hands down. Been running my atas120 for 3 years no problems! Great video👍

[@hamradiotube]

Yeah it's not cheap. It is a hell of an antenna and I do really like it. I'm gonna run the ATAS for a while and see how it performs in the real world vs WSPR.

[@45auto]

For those of us with non-Yaesu rigs the difference is not as clear cut since we would have to buy a controller from another manufacturer. Enough to change someone's mind about which to get? That's up to them.

[@TheOldVeganDude]

Hey Mike! Nice shootout. Recently drove from Dayton, OH to Grayling, MI and worked my FT-891 and ATAS-120A 40m through 6m SSB all the way all bands. INCLUDING 10m FM and was able to hear 10m AM for a brief period as well. Man, that whip is really whippie. Have you found a more ridged whip section in your research or have you heard/read of anyone who has? Great videos! Keep up the good work Oscar Mike! 73 and good POTA'ing de N8NMG.

[@hamradiotube]

That's great to hear. I've not done any looking for different whips. I just got this antenna. I had a loaner for most of the year but didn't pay it much attention until I did a review of it a month or so ago. Now I'm in love with the antenna so bought one for myself. It was used and didn't have the whip so I ordered one from Gigaparts. I know my MFJ ham stick whips don't fit though. I tried. Thanks for watching! 73

[@demolitionman1016]

FT991a works with ATAS 40M -70cm. All modes All Bands

[@jackdaniel4325]

I know you said the Tarheel comes with a 32” whip but I have seen some of your other videos where you used a longer whip with the Tarheel. I was not clear on what length of whip you were using with the Tarheel during your testing.

[@HannesEnslin]

Hi Mike Thanks for this- Did you take into consideration that there are many stations monitoring WSPR on a schedule due to the WSPR project run by the guys in Europe. HB9VQQ I am running our Club Call ZS6MRK on a 20 min schedule tx 0.2W and it only does 20m on 10min, 30min and 50min after the hour… 80,60,40,30,20,17,15,12,10 - I don’t know what the ‘listeners’ do but we regularly hit Hawaii, USA west coast and several others with the beacon.. 73’s ZS6JDE

[@Johnyrocket70]

Solution. ATAS for transmit tarheel for receive.

[@anonymous_friend]

Trying to understand why you would do this.

[@DaveW6OOD]

Maybe you could use the Skyhook, which I got by-the-way, to put an ATAS well guyed and clamped up on a military segmented mast, up at 20+ feet, with elevated guy-style radials to put this beast up higher. (I think you and be Callum are inspiring a new idea in my head to combine recent themes in your videos. I’d call it the SkyHook Skylab ATAS). It might be a killer performer.

[@hamradiotube]

Literally just talked about that on mailbag Monday this week!

[@DaveW6OOD]

I might be trying it elevated at my club’s next “Radio in the park”. Another guy in the club tried the ATAS with a tripod and ground radial field and a FT-857 last month. The ATAS-120 has been a good piece of kit, I just need to find the right extended whip. Thanks for the Tarheel comparison. At least I know my money was well spent. (I have an 891 and a 991a. Double duty helps too ). I’ll check out the last Mailbag Monday.

[@mmlanger55]

Thanks Mike. Excellent video! The FT-991A willl give you 2 meters and 70 cm on the ATAS. Does the ATAS include the Yaesu 3 year warranty? Maybe worth considering....

[@hamradiotube]

Indeed it does, but I, unlike some, would not consider the 991 a mobile radio. No clue about the warranty. I bought my ATAS used.

[@dougdaniels]

Is it worth running the ATAS with a non-Yaesu rig? I'm looking for an antenna for POTA where the only setup option is sitting in my truck, but I use a 706MKIIG.

[@hamradiotube]

I'm told MFJ makes a controller for it so I would say maybe? I imagine it would be just like how I have to run the Tarheel.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

You can use the ATAS-120A with any radio with a MFJ-1825 ATAS Controller. It is a Bias Tee that simulates the control voltages of an ATAS compatible radio on the inner conductor of the coax. With this said, keep in mind that the center conductor of the coax must NOT ever be at DC ground potential while operating the MFJ-1825. IF you are using a balun for common mode current suppression make sure there is no continuity to ground in the balun. Ferrite beads on the outside of the coax may be the better choice for CMC suppression in this case.

[@lunatech9516]

You can use a MFJ-1925I2 to control it also. I've got the ATAS 120A and have used that controller with my G90 before I got my FT-891 and it worked well. Granted you'll have to figure out how to get the best SWR match after or while you're moving the antenna. I could use the built in swr sweep in the G90 while moving the antenna and set it. I've also just moved the antenna till the receive was clear and then fine tuned it using the SWR meter on the radio. I checked with my RigExpert afterwards and was pretty close to best SWR. Ground it very well and use a GOOD mount (I went cheap to begin with and had get the Comet mount to tame the SWR). So far the furthest contact I've made is Malta (5053 miles) using my FT-891 and the ATAS 120A mobile.

[@K6WRF]

perhaps the mfj-1925 controller or 1924 with the fancy buttons? Can’t seem to find an 1825.

[@danielzdanowicz6899]

@@K6WRF sorry I may have transposed the model number. I believe you are correct.

[@mikeriley8546]

i have a atas 120 antenna. it is AWESOME !!!!!!! when it works .........started having trouble with it running but not moving ......the it would adjust up but would not stop and would jam at the top or would run down and not stop and would jam up at the bottom !!!! i would love to have another one but i never found anyone that could explain what was wrong. any help would be great. thanks

[@paulplack490]

Lacking 80 meters is not a big deal. The efficiency on a whip this short may be as low as single-digit percentages.

[@larrytaylor7753]

I use LT with my IC7000 and an original ATAS 100 with my FT-100D which does all bands.

[@greggbates7562]

I’ve been running an ATAS120 with my FT100D for several years now and been thinking of getting a Tarheel for better performance as well as lower band coverage. Now I don’t know. KD4JVG

[@hamradiotube]

They're both excellent antennas. The ease of use of the ATAS with Yaesu radios makes it a no brainer for me. Tarheel needs a separate controller. In my opinion there isn't really a big difference between the two to make it worth buying the Tarheel. The only reason I have the ATAS is because I got it used from a friend and the price was too good to pass up.

[@NatesRandomVideo]

Randomly saying “Whip” like Stewie in the Cool Whip scene, made me laugh.

[@hamradiotube]

And that was the goal!

[@RobertTKlaus]

Very cool, I love Yaesu my last was FT-950. I have in between radio right, an IC-706MKiiG. In the meantime it would be nice to know ways to make a ATas work with it...

[@1OFGODSOWN]

MFJ makes a device but I would not waste a penny on an ATAS.Been there and done that and I learned my lesson well.👎🏻💩