Albert, If what you want is an SWR meter - *and nothing else* - you can't beat a Bird 43. They can be found used all the time on a popular auction site (in various levels of condition). In fact, I picked up a Bird 4410 (the multi-range meter) at a great price, and haven't looked back. Yes, the slugs can be on the expensive side, but 43 slugs can be found at most hamfests, too. (Not like for the 4410, which are VERY expensive and not as plentiful. Oh well.)
Having said all that, you say you're interested in BUILDING antennas - you'll need an analyzer to do that. I have no experience personally with the MFJ line of meters, but have seen nothing but glowing reports on them. In fact, one ham local to me absolutely loves his meter. The only problem I see with the MJF meters are they are limited to lower UHF (nothing about 460 for the most part) so working at 900 MHz and above will definitely be a problem. My buddy is finding that out now, as he is trying to build/tune antennas for use on my 900 machine. Another option is the VNA's (Vector Network Analyzer) that are offered in such places as the back pages of QST, etc. These work via your computer (either USB or some other connection) and are coming down in price. Do your research (including asking the collective knowledge base here, as you have) and then make your informed decision as to what to buy. Good luck! 73 de Mark - N9WYS -----Original Message----- From: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Albert Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2008 11:59 PM To: Repeater-Builder@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Repeater-Builder] Need SWR meter recomendation Hey Everyone, I know there is a mix of Hams and commercial guys here so I want to ask all of you about SWR meters. I am a beginning ham and would like to build some VHF and UHF antennas. I am also on a budget. (Isn't everyone these days) I need a decent SWR meter for VHF and UHF use. I don't want a cheap piece of crap, and I can't afford top of the line either. What do you all think of the MFJ products? Other suggestions? Thanks ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - http://www.avg.com Version: 8.0.175 / Virus Database: 270.9.9/1807 - Release Date: 11/23/2008 10:59 AM
