Before watching I thought how to bump the value of any product - call it tactical. When watching it immediately became clear that this product has real value written all over it both in design and engineering. Kudos to Chameleon.
I love Chameleon products and all of your product reviews! I started with the MPAS-Lite (with Mini matching transformer) which is a great kit because you can configure as Inverted V with the included 66 foot wire antenna, or as a Vertical with Counterpoise when space is limited. Chameleon then offered MPAS owners the Delta Loop components (V coupling, Whip antenna and 25 Foot loop wire) to expand the existing MPAS-lite kit to the 40 DL, so I purchased these as well. I use these antennas in all configurations, both portable with my ICOM IC-705, or at home with my IC-7300 using the Inverted V and have received great signal reports from around the globe!
Looks perfect for portable operations! Love their products, only worked with their mil/commercial stuff. Real high quality! A question Mat, the antenna you tested was that the micro (max 100 W) or the mini (500 W)?
Thanks for the video, clearly a solid built system. The reviews I've read/watched always compliment the quality of build and setup but rarely give glorious performance feedback. I think it's a good start to the Chameleon line of antenna systems if for no other reason to build off it and create choices when it comes to antenna configurations.
I've had one of their mag loops for 8 years now, the build quality is probably some of the best you'll ever see. Tactical as it comes packed in a really decent khaki tough bag I think.
I have the MPAS Lite with the 17ft wipe. Fast and easy to deploy in under 5 minutes but the issue I have is out of all the quality built parts is the telescopic wipe would slide down in a brezze raising the swr. I can lose at least 6" height if unattended. This type of antenna is really intended for carm weather and not brezzey. Oh and I had a intermittent connection to the so239 connector crimp inside the 5:1 unun which I had to repair. This antenna may look good but don't always judge a book by its cover.
We probably sold several THOUSANDS of SS17 - never heard of that issue before! If a section collapse by itself - normally when something like that is happening, the unit has been forced and/or damaged a way or another because we're inspecting ALL whips before shipping!
I love the Chameleon product, and I also gently touch my collarbone and gasp when I hear the term, "tactical," but check out a teardown of this antenna matching unit. For the price, it's incredibly simple--and some have opined, "cheap." There's a stack or two of powdered iron cores or a single binocular core with 3-5 windings of stranded drop cord inside this device. I would love to be mistaken, however. Perhaps Chameleon has somewhat upgraded their BOM and techniques. Externally, I have utterly no complaints. But I'm feeling like what's INSIDE is a bit heavy on the pocketbook for no apparent reason. Best 73!
I have their wire antenna wrapped around a 10M sectioned pole. Works well. May have to save up some bits of paper to get that for their price. Also did you ever do a video on the radioberry on how to connect it to TX at any point? I have one but don't know how to set it up as of yet or to TX from it.
$600 is rather spendy. But for DIYrs there are 18.4'/5.6 meter telescoping antennas on eBay for $17. One would need to work out the matching module, or do like me and just let the tuner work things out. There's a metric thread on the bottom but I don't see much problem with that. Nuts are readily available and one could even tap 10 mm threaded holes if necessary.
Howdy Joe. Same feeling here. I just put one of these together here from a stack of powdered iron cores I had on hand and some copper tubing, heat shrink, PVC fittings, and wire. With all due respect to the designer and craftspeople of Chameleon, what's inside doesn't add up to the hefty price tag over here. Not to mention I learned a bit in the process of assembling my own (inferior, no doubt) matching module. DE W0XO
@@JCHaywire Please tell me about your use of powdered iron cores. Slipped over the antenna to add inductance and thus it's apparent electrical length? N1KHB
A very nice antenna, yet I wonder how much a 20 meter old speaker cable works better or the same as this (especially expensive) Chameleon Tactical antenna
What do you reckon the transformer actually is? I already have the steel whips and earth spike and would like to try and make the rest. Chameleon doesn’t appear to sell the transformer separately
Yes - you can get the transformer individually if needed! In that video they used a CHA HYBRID-MINI but you could get the CHA HYBRID-MICRO which is about 50% lighter and smaller.
I was looking at this antenna. Since I'm an apartment dweller. It would be perfect for portable use. Until I hit the lotto and get a better antenna farm
@backpackingonline It was very windy while it was up and it did obviously bend, but that's natural considering each element is 17 feet. They are very sturdy though and went straight when the winds stopped.
I wonder how much applied power is lost (converted to heat) in the 5:1 transformer and stainless steel whips? Also, if it performs similar to a delta loop at about 14mHz thru 21mHz, then being close to the ground equates to max radiation above about 30 degrees from ground plane; i.e., a cloud burner. At 10mHz and lower it likely has a radiation pattern similar to a vertical antenna. Regardless, it obviously works; although, you're likely trading its "tactical" attributes for less than good radiation efficiency.
Made an EZNEC model of the loop. Raised the base 18ft from the ground. Swapped the lossy 5:1 transformer for a low-loss 4:1 transformer. Result was a high gain, bidirectional 17M resonant delta loop.
That's the same impression I got. With all due respect to Chameleon customers and designers, the design is out there and doesn't require a lot of sweat to make for under 40USD. The same could be said for many of the products we buy and plug in. The hobby's a different thing to different folks, that's for sure.
Thank you for expressing your concerns regarding the cost of the CHA TDL (Tactical Delta Loop) antenna. We truly appreciate your feedback and understand that cost is an important consideration. We'd like to provide you with some insights into the exceptional value and quality that the CHA TDL antenna offers. First and foremost, the CHA TDL antenna is proudly 100% made in the USA. This commitment to domestic production not only supports local manufacturing but also ensures stringent quality control measures that meet or exceed industry standards. By producing the antenna in the United States, we can guarantee the use of top-quality materials and craftsmanship. The CHA TDL antenna is designed to deliver superior performance and durability. It's constructed using carefully selected materials that are chosen for their ability to withstand the rigors of various environmental conditions. The use of high-quality materials ensures longevity and consistent performance over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements. One of the key factors contributing to the antenna's cost is its manufacturing process. The CHA TDL antenna is manufactured using state-of-the-art CNC machines. These expansive computer-controlled machines provide unmatched precision and accuracy during the manufacturing process. The CNC machining process allows us to create intricate components that are crucial for optimal antenna performance. While this process might contribute to a higher initial cost, it directly translates into a reliable and high-performing antenna that you can trust. We understand that investing in a quality antenna is an important decision, and we want to assure you that the CHA TDL antenna's price reflects its exceptional value. By choosing the CHA TDL antenna, you're investing in a product that is engineered to deliver outstanding results in terms of signal strength, range, and durability. If you have any further questions or would like additional information about the CHA TDL antenna, our team is here to assist you. We genuinely appreciate your interest in our products and your feedback, and we're confident that the CHA TDL antenna will meet and exceed your expectations for performance and quality.
@@Chameleon_Antenna Ignore that last.. Some people have no clue what the investment cost to bring out a great product. They just cry and whine like a red headed step child. Plz continue to R&D more portable lightweight options for us hams.. I do appreciate your mil discount though. 😃
@@regularguy519 It's a fair concern, perhaps inelegantly expressed. The Chameleon product is bulletproof and certainly a showpiece, but can be constructed simply in a couple hours with not-so-exotic components. I'm not sure the characterization of OP was fair in expressing his means vs. needs. Possibly this stepchild would enjoy the satisfaction of saying he built his own station components, as many (including myself) do. Best regards, W0XO PS. Best regards to the folks at Chameleon for a rock-solid product as well.
I made one for $20 and it even had a proper non dummy load matching system, good machining on parts doesn't make a good antenna. These work but that cha250b clone they copied is very inefficient.
Not if portable operating is your thing. This is a quality product that will last you years of POTA activations. You could of course wait for the MFJ version. That would be 1/2 the price and half the quality and last you half as long.
Before watching I thought how to bump the value of any product - call it tactical. When watching it immediately became clear that this product has real value written all over it both in design and engineering. Kudos to Chameleon.
We're investing a lot of time in design, engineering and products testing! We're about to release few NEW products in the coming weeks!
I love Chameleon products and all of your product reviews! I started with the MPAS-Lite (with Mini matching transformer) which is a great kit because you can configure as Inverted V with the included 66 foot wire antenna, or as a Vertical with Counterpoise when space is limited. Chameleon then offered MPAS owners the Delta Loop components (V coupling, Whip antenna and 25 Foot loop wire) to expand the existing MPAS-lite kit to the 40 DL, so I purchased these as well. I use these antennas in all configurations, both portable with my ICOM IC-705, or at home with my IC-7300 using the Inverted V and have received great signal reports from around the globe!
What stands out to me for it is how much lower the noise floor is than the end fed. Nice little kit that.
I have had the same low noise floor results with the CHA-TDL system.
If you look at the s-mater, the signal peaks are about 10dB down on the EFHW, so it’s not just the noise floor that’s lower, itself everything.
@@gerrykavanagh I noticed that too. The overall signal AND noise is lower on the loop. The sn ratio of the two antennas is likely similar.
Looks perfect for portable operations! Love their products, only worked with their mil/commercial stuff. Real high quality! A question Mat, the antenna you tested was that the micro (max 100 W) or the mini (500 W)?
Worth every cent... I've owned and used mine for a year now... Zero issues
I can see your using an external audio interface to get audio in and out, I also find this method very good, keep the vids coming, always nice to see.
Thanks for the video, clearly a solid built system. The reviews I've read/watched always compliment the quality of build and setup but rarely give glorious performance feedback. I think it's a good start to the Chameleon line of antenna systems if for no other reason to build off it and create choices when it comes to antenna configurations.
Just randomly browsing your videos and jumped directly to your qso with me during a sota activation! that was awesome. Got a sub!
73 EA2ESE!
I've had one of their mag loops for 8 years now, the build quality is probably some of the best you'll ever see. Tactical as it comes packed in a really decent khaki tough bag I think.
I have the MPAS Lite with the 17ft wipe. Fast and easy to deploy in under 5 minutes but the issue I have is out of all the quality built parts is the telescopic wipe would slide down in a brezze raising the swr. I can lose at least 6" height if unattended. This type of antenna is really intended for carm weather and not brezzey. Oh and I had a intermittent connection to the so239 connector crimp inside the 5:1 unun which I had to repair. This antenna may look good but don't always judge a book by its cover.
We probably sold several THOUSANDS of SS17 - never heard of that issue before! If a section collapse by itself - normally when something like that is happening, the unit has been forced and/or damaged a way or another because we're inspecting ALL whips before shipping!
I love my Chameleon F Loop, it's my favorite antenna.
I love the Chameleon product, and I also gently touch my collarbone and gasp when I hear the term, "tactical," but check out a teardown of this antenna matching unit. For the price, it's incredibly simple--and some have opined, "cheap." There's a stack or two of powdered iron cores or a single binocular core with 3-5 windings of stranded drop cord inside this device. I would love to be mistaken, however. Perhaps Chameleon has somewhat upgraded their BOM and techniques. Externally, I have utterly no complaints. But I'm feeling like what's INSIDE is a bit heavy on the pocketbook for no apparent reason. Best 73!
I have their wire antenna wrapped around a 10M sectioned pole. Works well. May have to save up some bits of paper to get that for their price. Also did you ever do a video on the radioberry on how to connect it to TX at any point? I have one but don't know how to set it up as of yet or to TX from it.
$600 is rather spendy. But for DIYrs there are 18.4'/5.6 meter telescoping antennas on eBay for $17. One would need to work out the matching module, or do like me and just let the tuner work things out. There's a metric thread on the bottom but I don't see much problem with that. Nuts are readily available and one could even tap 10 mm threaded holes if necessary.
Howdy Joe. Same feeling here. I just put one of these together here from a stack of powdered iron cores I had on hand and some copper tubing, heat shrink, PVC fittings, and wire. With all due respect to the designer and craftspeople of Chameleon, what's inside doesn't add up to the hefty price tag over here. Not to mention I learned a bit in the process of assembling my own (inferior, no doubt) matching module. DE W0XO
@@JCHaywire Please tell me about your use of powdered iron cores. Slipped over the antenna to add inductance and thus it's apparent electrical length?
N1KHB
A very nice antenna, yet I wonder how much a 20 meter old speaker cable works better or the same as this (especially expensive) Chameleon Tactical antenna
Looks a great antenna
Great video as always ! Did you need any inline filters before the hermes lite? I am thinking to do something similar with my hackRF
What do you reckon the transformer actually is? I already have the steel whips and earth spike and would like to try and make the rest. Chameleon doesn’t appear to sell the transformer separately
Yes - you can get the transformer individually if needed! In that video they used a CHA HYBRID-MINI but you could get the CHA HYBRID-MICRO which is about 50% lighter and smaller.
Looks like an interesting product
I was looking at this antenna. Since I'm an apartment dweller. It would be perfect for portable use. Until I hit the lotto and get a better antenna farm
What light winds did you have, or was the swaying of it's own weight?
He never reads or replies to comments waisting your time trying to get one.
@backpackingonline It was very windy while it was up and it did obviously bend, but that's natural considering each element is 17 feet. They are very sturdy though and went straight when the winds stopped.
@davesmith5335 Who you talking about? Doofus. :-)
Matt you dont happen to have the info on the transformer how its wound 9:1 etc. Going to have a stab of building one cheers
The micro unit is a 5:1 transformer
7:09 which software are you using?
SDR Console V3. It's a free download from www.sdr-radio.com/console
Hi Matt..nice video as usual, I see that you are using Hermes Lite what PA is comnected to it ?
125B.. I have a video coming very soon on how I built the interface to auto change bands. :)
@@TechMindsOfficial nice, looking forward to see your upcoming videos. Keep up the good work 👍
It's beyond my wallet capacity but not overpriced. If I would have spare 400 buck I would definitely go for it. Amazing antena.
Chameleon stuff is a bit pricey but is extremely good quality. You get what you pay for I guess.
Mat, did you measure the value of standing waves in all bands in this antenna mount?
Thanks / 73
Hi, yes, I said in the video that it was close to the SWR plot that I showed from the manual. Thanks
Ah! ok ... I really didn't get it
Many thanks / 73
@@TechMindsOfficial
What kind of distance did the antenna get out from your QTH???
I wonder how much applied power is lost (converted to heat) in the 5:1 transformer and stainless steel whips? Also, if it performs similar to a delta loop at about 14mHz thru 21mHz, then being close to the ground equates to max radiation above about 30 degrees from ground plane; i.e., a cloud burner. At 10mHz and lower it likely has a radiation pattern similar to a vertical antenna. Regardless, it obviously works; although, you're likely trading its "tactical" attributes for less than good radiation efficiency.
Made an EZNEC model of the loop. Raised the base 18ft from the ground. Swapped the lossy 5:1 transformer for a low-loss 4:1 transformer. Result was a high gain, bidirectional 17M resonant delta loop.
Bingo
That's the same impression I got. With all due respect to Chameleon customers and designers, the design is out there and doesn't require a lot of sweat to make for under 40USD. The same could be said for many of the products we buy and plug in. The hobby's a different thing to different folks, that's for sure.
Looks like gigantic rabbit ears for a TV. If you plug that into your TV what kind of channel can you get?
Where can I purchase this set up. ????
Link in description :-)
The only thing that goes against this antenna is the ridiculous price!
Thank you for expressing your concerns regarding the cost of the CHA TDL (Tactical Delta Loop) antenna. We truly appreciate your feedback and understand that cost is an important consideration. We'd like to provide you with some insights into the exceptional value and quality that the CHA TDL antenna offers.
First and foremost, the CHA TDL antenna is proudly 100% made in the USA. This commitment to domestic production not only supports local manufacturing but also ensures stringent quality control measures that meet or exceed industry standards. By producing the antenna in the United States, we can guarantee the use of top-quality materials and craftsmanship.
The CHA TDL antenna is designed to deliver superior performance and durability. It's constructed using carefully selected materials that are chosen for their ability to withstand the rigors of various environmental conditions. The use of high-quality materials ensures longevity and consistent performance over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
One of the key factors contributing to the antenna's cost is its manufacturing process. The CHA TDL antenna is manufactured using state-of-the-art CNC machines. These expansive computer-controlled machines provide unmatched precision and accuracy during the manufacturing process. The CNC machining process allows us to create intricate components that are crucial for optimal antenna performance. While this process might contribute to a higher initial cost, it directly translates into a reliable and high-performing antenna that you can trust.
We understand that investing in a quality antenna is an important decision, and we want to assure you that the CHA TDL antenna's price reflects its exceptional value. By choosing the CHA TDL antenna, you're investing in a product that is engineered to deliver outstanding results in terms of signal strength, range, and durability.
If you have any further questions or would like additional information about the CHA TDL antenna, our team is here to assist you. We genuinely appreciate your interest in our products and your feedback, and we're confident that the CHA TDL antenna will meet and exceed your expectations for performance and quality.
@@Chameleon_Antenna Ignore that last.. Some people have no clue what the investment cost to bring out a great product. They just cry and whine like a red headed step child. Plz continue to R&D more portable lightweight options for us hams.. I do appreciate your mil discount though. 😃
@@regularguy519 It's a fair concern, perhaps inelegantly expressed. The Chameleon product is bulletproof and certainly a showpiece, but can be constructed simply in a couple hours with not-so-exotic components. I'm not sure the characterization of OP was fair in expressing his means vs. needs. Possibly this stepchild would enjoy the satisfaction of saying he built his own station components, as many (including myself) do. Best regards, W0XO PS. Best regards to the folks at Chameleon for a rock-solid product as well.
Sounds to be a very noisy antenna.
I want to believe, but even a little knowledge of loop antennas says this is a dummy load.
I always thought the radiation pattern was going through the loop? i know a magloop fires of the edges. M3ULT
what ratio is the matching transo/balun,49-1?.
5:1 by most reports. It behaves like a slightly higher SWR dummy load. Many a QSO have been made with such a load.
Too expensive for portable antenna. 😟🥱
I made one for $20 and it even had a proper non dummy load matching system, good machining on parts doesn't make a good antenna. These work but that cha250b clone they copied is very inefficient.
Not if portable operating is your thing. This is a quality product that will last you years of POTA activations. You could of course wait for the MFJ version. That would be 1/2 the price and half the quality and last you half as long.
You might be in for a long wait for the ‘MFJ version’.