Portable – Simple Setup – Exceptional Performance.
Author: Marius Lubbe ZS1ML
www.learnminds.co.za
THE BEGINNING: HOW I STUMBLED UPON THE MFJ-2289 BIG EARS
Hello, my fellow ham radio aficionados! Gather around, because I’ve got a tale to tell—a tale of an antenna that has completely transformed my ham radio experience. I’m talking about the MFJ-2289 Big Ears, and let me tell you, this antenna is nothing short of magical. I’ve been a ham radio operator for quite some time, and I’ve experimented with a variety of antennas. But when I came across the MFJ-2289, I knew I had found “a special one.”
First Impressions: Unboxing and Initial Setup
When the package arrived, I was like a kid on Christmas morning. The unboxing was straightforward, and everything I needed was right there. Included in the box were two MFJ-1979 stainless steel telescopic whips of 17 feet (about 5.18 meters) length each, plus a very neat and sturdy coil that can be adjusted to make the antenna resonant on the band you need.
The very high-quality, solidly built, antenna bus itself and the mounting clamp were also neatly packed.
Setting it up was a walk in the park. I chose a spot in my backyard that was free from obstructions, used the included mounting clamp to secure it to a mast, and connected it to my radio setup using the SO-239, UHF female connector. A few adjustments here and there, and I was ready to dive into the airwaves.
The Perfect Pair: MFJ-2289 Big Ears and MFJ-1919EX Antenna Tripod
What made this setup even more fantastic was pairing the MFJ-2289 Big Ears with my MFJ-1919EX Antenna Tripod. I. absolutely love this high-quality tripod and mast. This mast can extend up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). The compatibility and ease of use between these two products were like a match made in ham radio heaven. The tripod provided the necessary stability and height needed to maximize the antenna’s performance, making it an unbeatable combination for any serious ham radio enthusiast. I highly recommend you get this tripod and mast as a base for your “Big Ears”.
THE SPECS: WHY THIS ANTENNA ROCKS
Frequency Range and Power
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. The frequency range on this beauty is 7.0-55MHz. That’s right, it covers a broad spectrum, making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of ham radio activities. Whether you’re into DXing, contesting, or just casual chit-chat, this antenna has got your back.
And let’s talk power—1kW, or 1000 Watts, to be precise. That’s a whole lot of juice for an antenna this portable, allowing you to reach far and wide without breaking a sweat.
Build Quality and Design
The build quality is top-notch. It’s a portable dipole, making it both compact and high performing. The SO-239, UHF female connector ensures a rock-solid connection, and the antenna is compatible with a variety of mast sizes, ranging from 19.05 mm to 44.45 mm (or 0.750 in to 1.750 in for those who prefer imperial measurements).
Efficiency and Performance
This antenna is a beast when it comes to efficiency. I’ve been able to send and receive signals with crystal-clear clarity, something I’ve struggled with when using other portable antennas. It’s like having the power of a much larger, stationary antenna, but in a compact, portable form.
The Price: An Investment Worth Making
As of September 2023, the MFJ-2289 Big Ears is priced at $249.99. Now, I know that might sound like quite an investment, but let me assure you, it’s worth every cent. The performance, the versatility, the build quality—everything about this antenna screams value.
MY ADVENTURES WITH THE MFJ-2289 BIG EARS
Field Operations
I’ve taken this antenna on several Field Day events, and it’s been an absolute star. The portability means I can set up and tear down in record time, leaving me more time to enjoy the event and make some fantastic contacts.
Emergency Communications
I also keep this antenna as part of my emergency communications kit. Its broad frequency range and high efficiency make it a reliable choice for those critical moments when you need to establish a communication link ASAP.
DXing: Reaching Across Continents
For my DXing adventures, this antenna has been a dream come true. I’ve made contacts from Asia to Europe and even down to Australia. The high-power rating ensures that my signals reach far and wide, and the efficiency means I can also receive distant signals with incredible clarity.
What the Community is Saying
Don’t just take my word for it; this antenna has been making waves in the ham radio community. It has received glowing reviews on platforms like eHam.net, and there’s even a YouTube review by Ham Radio Crash Course that provides a detailed look at its performance.
FINAL THOUGHTS: WHY THE MFJ-2289 BIG EARS IS A KEEPER
So, to wrap things up, the MFJ-2289 Big Ears has been a revelation for me. It’s versatile, powerful, efficient, and incredibly easy to set up. Whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or someone just getting started, this antenna offers a perfect blend of features that will elevate your ham radio experience to new heights.
I couldn’t be happier with my purchase, and I wholeheartedly recommend the MFJ-2289 Big Ears to anyone looking to up their ham radio game. It’s not just an antenna; it’s a game-changer.
Happy operating, everyone! 
