Hello,
The differences between the MACO 104 and Sirio SY-4 can be found here.
The Maco has a longer boom length, hence it will have more gain.
With that said, the overal antenna pattern of the Sirio is better.
(The maco could have an up-grade).
Mechanical the elements are rather similair, perhaps a bit thin...but if your not in a "hurricane" hot spot..
.it is sufficient to last for years.
I do believe the boom of the MACO was a lot better compared to the Sirio, but ill need to look that up.
And i can impagine additional back-up materials will be easier to find for the maco since the Sirio uses "metric" diameters ...not sure what is availible in your area.
What BC coyote pointed out is true...
For DX horizontal is the clear winner.
This is due to the additonal ground gain and lower take-off angle compared to vertical. Higher (for horizontal beams) is always better.
More information can be found here.
As SP5IT is, im a fan of aluminium too.
It could be an option to just place a 5/8 wave directly on top of your beam without radials ...the beam will act as them.
(This option is described several time on the forum here, so theres probarbly some info around).
ALways use an RF-Choke. Location and how to instal them is important.
Some hints are here.
Often those common mode currents are responsible for degration of the performance.
Im not a to happy about putting a single beam vertical. Two beams next to each other or a Cubical Quad is the best way to go for vertical beams..as otherwise the metal mast WILL have negative influence. Not saying it wont work...but you can count on it it wont have maximum performance.
Hope it is of use...
Kind regards
Henry
