What is a good radio scanner?

What make / model of Antenna would be best for BCT15 Uniden Bearcat Radio Scanner ?

• I recently bought a BCT15 Uniden Bearcat Radio Scanner and I need to purchase the following items: 1. Base / Roof top Antenna 2. The Coaxial Cable and connectors / mounting hardware ( what type of coaxial cable specifically is best to use for up to 100' ? 3. What kind of PreAmp should I buy to use as well ? I am totally NEW to this Scanner Radio and I would like some expert advice to get me started. *** I am trying to get reception for the three county area ( within 30-50 miles + ) here in Central PA Many thanks ! David

• Answer:

  You need to consider which band is most important to you first and then go from there when it comes to deciding on an antenna. The lower the freq the bigger the antenna. Multiband antennas are always somewhat of a compromise. Here is a good place to shop: http://www.scannerworld.com/ If you call them, they can help you with all the specifics of what you need. Standard RG-8 coax should work fine for a 100 ft run. You can buy a piece that has the PL259 connectors on it already or solder your own. The antenna will have a specific connector and the radio will too. There are adapters to adapt from the radio's connector to the PL259 on the coax. Don't bother with a preamp unless you find you really need it. Try the radio without it first.