Wilson 1000
and 5000 base loaded CB antennas offer very similar features and benefits, like low loss coils and industry-leading power. They differ, however, in their power, reception, strength, reliability and cost effectiveness.
Power and Reception
The power handling of the 1000 is 500 watts AM and 3,000 watts SSB, while the 5000 gets 5,000 watts AM and 20,000 watts SSB. The Wilson 1000 incorporates a 14-gauge wire and a 10-gauge coil, while the Wilson 5000 uses a larger and more capacitative 6-gauge wire and proper coil. The Wilson 1000 uses a highly conductive copper wire and coil; the 5000 uses a copper wire encased in even more conductive silver.
Durability and Reliability
The Wilson 5000 is not only built 65 percent larger than the Wilson 1000, but it's stronger as well. The 5000 boasts a floating coil design that won't freeze, crack or ice up. The 5000 is designed not to stop working in extreme weather.
Cost
If running less than 1,000 watts, the Wilson 1000 is the more cost-effective model. Users report little if any audible difference between the two in TX or RX at low power.
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