Hi Beadle!!

Yes, I'm beginning to think you're right and, as you'll note from my earlier post, there are several different ways to get a result in this field. I wouldn't think anyone (except C slarty) would disagree.

I take your point re the tape, but even if the improving affect is small (I didn't think it was 'small' actually, but real experts will know) I think it's worth having, bearing in mind the relatively tiny additional cost over a cable in a full installation.

I just wish people would post, as you have done, in a sensible, pleasant way. Why there is the need to be abusive and INSIST that a (their) method is right, to the exclusion of all others, baffles me.

Like many on here, I have learned a huge amount over the years, some things I completely disagree with, and others have been a revelation.

No doubt you have an HF transceiver installation and you are happy with its performance. I installed mine after seeking much written and direct advice (my ham radio club) and installation experts. It's been installed since 1996 and has done three Med cruises and several transats, and still has a SWR of almost 1:1 which is good enough for us.

I mentioned Herb's net in an earlier post, and it was he who, on several occasions, asked us to act as a relay for three other yachts as our transmissions were so cystal clear and loud. In fact on the last trip when we reached the Azores, two boats asked us to check and modify their installations to 'try and get it as good as yours was coming across!'

Certainly not blowing my own trumpet, but merely pointing out that my system works, so does yours and, no doubt, does C slarty's. Why then the need for abuse from the latter?