Hy-Gain AV-680 9 band HF vertical build and review

[tomcruiser]

The AV series and the Cushcraft R series were very efficient vertical antennas that were on the market. At the same time, however, most people never really understood how they worked. It is actually a Windom antenna and the supposed radials only serve to change the antenna's capacitance. The same applies to the side radiators.

[KXUL]

Great job Eric! The Hy-Gain AV-680 seems to be a winner! I very much appreciate the extra time and effort you took to video this along the way. It definitely slows down the process and makes it a little tougher to stay focused. So a great big thanks once again! I really enjoy your videos.

[krpb]

I made the AV-640 in 2004. Loved everything about it. I know exactly what you mean when you say you felt like an artist after completing the build. It was my very first antenna that I had to assemble besides putting a Hamstick in a mag mount (but is that really a build :). It took me about ten hours. I did not have an analyzer then, and still don't, but found that the swr was completely acceptable across all the bands using the built in meter of my 706 and an external meter between the antenna and radio. Thankful for that because if not then I would have had to take that beast down off of the top of my 20' mast! As always, great video. Keep up the good work!

[garysawyer]

W0GDS here: I would recommend adding the tilt base ATB-75 so the adjustments can be made w/o having to interrupt too much in the assembly.

[NLRB]

Thank you for sharing that experience with us. I wish I had a house, I'd buy the antenna. Good luck with the antenna. Well done!

[TheErodChannel]

This is a really nice radio for someone considering purchasing an AV-680 or even an AV-640 which by the way, is me. Thanks!!

I think you could also do the Ham Community a real service if you created a video concerning your tower collapsing into the power lines. It would be a real Safety Video and useful for inexperienced Hams attempting a first time tower.

[jmoore]

How much did you have to trim off the spokes to make it resonate on 20 m?

[alexdiamantopoulos]

I like the radians on the ant. Yes you did a great presentation on safety of it. I would do the same job on my home made vertical for 40 an 80.

[thormusique]

That's a beautiful antenna! Thanks for sharing. Now that I have my own house (and no neighbours nearby), I'm planning to put up several antennas. However, I think this will be my first and perhaps main one. I haven't heard of anybody who's unhappy with its performance. It'll take some work to create a good base for it, but I think it will be worth the effort.

[LivePDOfficerInterviews]

THANK GOODNESS for this video! If you’re looking to buy either the Hy Gain 640 OR 680 THIS VIDEO IS A MUST! The instructions that come with the antenna are not very clear and thought out. Note to MFJ, if I’m buying an antenna this expensive, how hard would it be to put maybe a label of some sort on every component? None of the tube sections are marked and it’d be much better if the hardware was laid out in its own individual bag and labeled. Make it easier not harder. Thank goodness for this video.

[rvnmedic]

Very timely as I'm trying to decide on the AV-680 vs the Cushcraft R-9. I also ordered an Omni Tilt Base for the installation so I can raise and lower as needed. Also looks like I need to get an antenna analyzer. I've settled on the Hy-Gain and will be ordering soon. Very nice vid, btw. Clear, good info on the installation.

[davidshermanlittle]

Very good voice/audio. Your experiences help others. TNX 73

[garysawyer]

Thx Eric KJ4KZI for the excellent video. I am about to purchase this antenna and this helps a lot with the knowledge I will need to "git 'er dun" right.

[andrewevanoff]

Looks like a decent antenna. I have a very similar Cushcraft R8 because I need a vertically polarized antenna for local nets. The R8 is no match for my Mosley Pro67 Yagi @ 75 ft., but it works fine for what it is.
Just a friendly advice. make sure to guard the antenna to keep anyone from touching the radials. These antennas tend to develop very high voltages on the radials. It's best to raise the feed-point to about 10 ft. to avoid accidental contact.
Raising it up may also improve antenna's performance by minimizing ground losses.

[antstoes]

Love watching your videos! Yes, I think you’re an artist! God bless

[garysawyer]

I just watched the video again and saw you were using the Yaesu FT-450. I will also be using my FT-450 for digital operation.

[ranchdog]

Good video. Fo my Cushcraft R8, a very similar design, I drove a steel rod into the ground 4 or 5 feet, no concrete etc, and slid a ten foot mast over the rod. I also guide mine.

[bigborecanada]

Thank you for the video, it is very informative! I am just working on my general class and need a good vertical due to small property.

[williampeacock]

Looking to buy a vertical Antenna system for home and portable POTA USE. I think this AV-680 would be a great choice for me . I guess the folks at MFJ HY-Gain gave you the AV-680 for doing this video review for them. Enjoyed the video good job my friend. GOD bless you and your family .73 AE4OY William Peacock (EM-81UF) South East Georgia

[McCamerCoach]

Good video. I am also building my first shack....would like to do vertical. Question about tuning: can one try and tune the antenna out when it is still horizontal on saw horses?