Tram 1604 39" Marine Antenna
Quick take
The Tram 1604 is a 39 inch AIS and all-VHF marine antenna designed to deliver solid reception without requiring a ground plane. It pairs a premium base loading coil with a stainless steel whip, and it includes 15 feet of RG-58A/U coax for easier setup. The main buying caveat is coax length, since some installs may need a longer cable run.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Covers AIS and all VHF marine band frequencies (single-antenna approach).
- Durable construction focused on a triple chrome-plated brass base loading coil and stainless steel whip.
- No ground plane required, which simplifies mounting on many vessels.
- 2.5 dBd gain with a 1/2 wave design for stronger signal reception.
- Ships with 15 feet of RG-58A/U coaxial cable included.
Cons
- Included coax length (15 feet) may be insufficient for longer cable routing needs.
- Performance depends on proper installation and routing, as with any marine antenna system.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is limited in the supplied snippets, but the recurring themes are straightforward: people report the antenna works well for their setup, and several highlight good range for the size and value. There is also at least one note questioning the coax length expectation, which lines up with the practical install consideration that the supplied cable may not cover longer runs.
Who this antenna is for
The Tram 1604 is a strong fit if you want a compact, durable marine antenna that can handle both AIS and VHF marine communications. It is especially relevant for owners who prefer not to deal with ground plane requirements and want a relatively simple installation using the included coax.
It is also well suited to budget-conscious shoppers who want broad coverage without needing to compare multiple band-specific antennas or specialized mounting configurations.
Key specs that matter in real use
Coverage: AIS plus all VHF marine bands
This model is designed to cover the AIS band and all VHF marine band frequencies, which helps keep your setup cleaner when your boat uses both for communication and tracking.
Gain and design: 2.5 dBd, 1/2 wave
With a rated 2.5 dBd gain based on a 1/2 wave design, it targets improved signal reception compared to truly basic antennas. In practice, your actual range and clarity will still be influenced by antenna placement, cable quality, and how the system is installed.
Installation simplicity: no ground plane required
The antenna is designed to operate without requiring a ground plane, which can make it easier to mount on a variety of vessels and configurations.
Build quality: base loading coil plus stainless whip
The antenna features a base loading coil with triple chrome-plated brass at both the base and top, paired with a stainless steel whip. This construction focus is geared toward durability in marine conditions.
Cable included: 15 feet of RG-58A/U
The kit includes 15 feet of RG-58A/U coaxial cable. If your radio location or routing path requires more distance, plan on adding a longer run of appropriate coax and connectors.
Pros and cons in plain language
Pros
- Single antenna for AIS and VHF: simplifies your hardware and reduces the need to coordinate multiple antennas.
- Marine-oriented durability: chrome-plated brass base loading coil plus stainless whip helps it hold up to the environment.
- Works without a ground plane: fewer installation variables.
- Includes a coax feed: saves time compared to antenna-only purchases.
Cons
- Coax length may be limiting: 15 feet is convenient, but not always enough depending on how your boat is laid out.
- Like any antenna, install quality affects results: mounting location, cable routing, and secure connections matter.
Price and availability
This antenna is positioned as an accessible option for AIS and marine VHF coverage, with a listed price of $49.99 USD and availability noted as in stock. For the latest price and current stock status, use the link below.
Verdict
The Tram 1604 39" Marine Antenna is a practical AIS and all-VHF marine antenna choice for buyers who want no-ground-plane installation and a durable stainless-and-brass design. It looks especially worth considering if your install can work with the included 15 feet of RG-58A/U coax. If your routing needs more cable length, budget time and planning for a longer coax run before ordering.
FAQ
Does the Tram 1604 work for AIS and standard VHF marine radio channels?
Yes. It is designed to cover the AIS band and all VHF marine band frequencies, so one antenna can support both uses.
Do I need a ground plane to install the Tram 1604?
No. This antenna is designed to operate without a ground plane, which can simplify mounting on many vessels.
How much coax cable is included with the Tram 1604?
It includes 15 feet of RG-58A/U coaxial cable.
What antenna gain does the Tram 1604 provide?
It is rated at 2.5 dBd gain (with a 1/2 wave design).
Is the Tram 1604 durable for marine use?
The build is focused on marine durability, including a triple chrome-plated brass base loading coil and a stainless steel whip.
Will it be worth it if my cable run is longer than 15 feet?
It can still be a good buy, but you may need to plan for additional coax length (and compatible connectors) if your radio location requires more than the included 15 feet.
Specifications
| Product Title | Tram 1604 39" Marine Antenna - Covers AIS & All VHF Marine Bands, Premium Base Loading Coil, 2.5-dBd Gain, 15-Ft. RG-58A/U Coaxial Cable, Stainless Steel Whip & Mounting Bracket |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Marine Electronics > Marine Antennas |
| Brand | Tram |
| Manufacturer | Tram-Browning |
| Model Number | 1604 |
| Color | white |
| Item Weight | 1.6 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 39.75"L x 1.5"W x 39.75"H |
| AntennaDescription | Radio |
| UPC | 727932014683 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Mfr Part Number | 1604 |
| Built-In Media | Tram WSP1604-1604 AIS VHF 39 Marine Antenna |
| Warranty Description | Warranty |
| Item Type Name | Tram WSP1604-1604 AIS VHF 39 Marine Antenna |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Maximum Range | 132000 Feet |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 39.75"L x 1.5"W x 39.75"H |
| Antenna | Radio |
| Number of Packs | 1 |
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