If you are a radio owner, you already know how important a radio tuner is. But finding a good radio antenna tuner is not an easy job. But don’t worry, to make the job easier for you, we have picked three of the best Icom antenna tuners–
The Icom AH-4 is widely regarded as the top choice with its extensive LC combinations and broad frequency range. For a portable option with excellent performance, the LDG IT-100 is recommended. If ease of use is a priority, the MFJ-939I is a user-friendly, plug-and-play tuner without sacrificing performance.
Although you have a gist of the products we are going to suggest, we still haven’t shown you the full picture. In the next parts, we will try to explain why these are the best radio antenna tuner for Icom radios.
Top Antenna for Icom
Allow us to show you what antenna tuners we have picked for you-
Features | Product |
Price |
Best Portable Icom Antenna Tuner | LDG IT-100 | |
Best Frequency Range | Icom AH-4 | |
Easy to use | MFJ-939 |
Antenna 1: LDG IT-100
The IT-100 Automatic Antenna Tuner is a versatile device designed to optimize your radio communication experience. With its wide tuning range and automatic tuning capabilities, the IT-100 is compatible with a variety of antenna types. Its compact size and user-friendly interface makes it convenient to use both in stationary setups and portable operations.
This is also considered one of the top FM radio antennas in states.
Pros:
- The IT-100 supports a power range of 0.1 to 125 watts for SSB and CW modes and an impressive 100 watts on 6 meters.
- The IT-100 autotuner is equipped with a generous 2,000 memory capacity.
- Even for unfamiliar setups, the tuning cycle finishes within a mere 3 seconds.
- The IT-100 is designed to seamlessly integrate with Icom radios that are AH-4 or AH-3 compatible.
- The IT-100 is capable of handling loads ranging from 4 to 800 ohms (16 to 150 on 6 meters) and can extend up to 3200 ohms with the optional 4:1 Balun.
- The IT-100 autotuner is compact and lightweight, making it highly portable. It comes with an Icom interface cable and coax jumper for easy setup out of the box.
Cons:
- IT-100 may not be suitable for high-power applications. Users requiring higher power levels may need to explore alternative options.
- To tune random length, long wire, or ladder line-fed antennas, an optional external Balun is necessary. This additional requirement may increase the overall cost and complexity of the setup.
Antenna 2: Icom AH-4
The Icom AH-4 Antenna Tuner is a reliable and efficient device designed for field operations. With its weather-tight construction and extensive frequency range, it offers versatility and ease of use in various outdoor scenarios. The AH-4 Antenna Tuner is also equipped with a memory function.
That’s why it’s on the list of the top CB radio antennas for truckers.
Pros:
- The Icom AH-4 utilizes relay-switched LC networks, which allow it to select from 1,040,000 possible LC combinations in just 2.5 seconds.
- Covering 3.5 to 54MHz, the AH-4 is suitable for a broad spectrum of amateur radio bands.
- With its plastic cover and chrome-plated mounting plates, the unit creates a fully sealed enclosure.
- As the transmitter is keyed, the AH-4 automatically recalls the saved settings, eliminating the need to retune manually.
- To ensure efficient grounding, a heavy ground strap is attached to the vehicle’s frame when the AH-4 is mounted close to the antenna whip.
Cons:
- The AH-4’s memories are volatile, meaning they are lost when the unit is powered down.
- The included control cable is only 16′ long, which restricts the distance between the tuner and the operator.
Antenna 3: MFJ-939I
The MFJ-939I Automatic Antenna Tuner is a compact and efficient device that aims to enhance your radio experience. With its automatic tuning capabilities, wide matching range, and intelligent features, this tuner offers a range of benefits for radio enthusiasts. The MFJ-939I Automatic Antenna Tuner utilizes advanced algorithms to quickly and accurately match the impedance of your antenna system.
Pros:
- Once connected, the MFJ-939I automatically tunes your antenna as you tune your radio, so you won’t even know it’s there.
- With the ability to match 6-1600 Ohms, the MFJ-939I has a 50% wider matching range than competing products.
- The MFJ-939I can learn from your operating habits and store up to 20,000 memories of your antenna and radio settings.
- The MFJ-939I features an exclusive “VirtualAntenna” memory system that gives you 8 antenna memory banks of 2500 memories each.
- The MFJ-939I has an audio SWR meter that beeps when your SWR is below a certain level, and alarms if it goes above 3.
- The MFJ-939I is small enough to fit on your desk next to your radio and weighs just 2.4 lbs.
Cons:
- To use the MFJ-939I with your radio, you’ll need to purchase a specific cable that is compatible with your radio brand. This can be inconvenient if you switch radios frequently or have multiple radios from different brands.
- The MFJ-939I requires a jumper to be moved inside the tuner to switch between high and low power. This is not difficult but can be a hassle if you frequently switch between power levels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Does the IC 7000 have built-in antenna tuner?
No, the IC-7000 does not have a built-in antenna tuner. However, it is compatible with external antenna tuners such as the MFJ-939I that can be used to tune your antennas automatically.
Which is better Yaesu or ICOM?
Yaesu radios are known for their excellent audio quality and wide range of features, while ICOM radios are known for their rugged construction and advanced features. Ultimately, the best way to decide which brand is right for you is to try out a few different radios and see which one you like best.
Does ICOM have DMR?
Yes, Icom does offer DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) radios in their product lineup. They have developed radios that are compliant with the DMR standard, allowing users to communicate using digital voice and data transmission over the DMR network.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best Icom antenna tuner, thorough research and consideration of various factors are essential.
It is crucial to prioritize a tuner that matches the specific needs of your Icom radio equipment and ensures optimal signal transmission.