Comet Mobile VHF/UHF Vertical Antennas SS-680SB - Dual-Band Mobile

Our review of the Comet SS-680SB finds it is a straightforward, durable dual-band mobile antenna well suited to amateur radio operators and mobile communications users who need reliable 2m/70cm performance without fuss. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a compact 27in length and a spring base that resists damage from brushes and garage doors while delivering measurable gain on both bands; customers consistently report a quality build and very low SWR in real-world installations. This review focuses on practical use, fit, and the antenna's value for mobile rigs up to 80 watts.

Key Features

• Dual-band coverage: The SS-680SB supports 146/446 MHz so users can operate on both 2m and 70cm bands without changing antennas.
• Compact 27in length: At 27in the antenna balances performance and a low profile for city driving and storage in garages.
• Spring base protection: The spring in the base helps the antenna survive impacts from branches or garage doors by flexing instead of breaking.
• PL-259 connector: A standard PL-259 (UHF) connector ensures straightforward compatibility with most mobile coax feeds and mounts.
• Rated power and gain: With up to 80 watts handling and gains listed at 2.15 dBi and 5.0 dBi, it offers usable transmit and receive performance for mobile use.

Who It's For

The SS-680SB is ideal for amateur radio operators and mobile communicators who need a durable, no-frills dual-band antenna for a vehicle or portable mount. Its spring base and modest 27in length make it a good fit for users who park in garages or drive under low branches and still want solid 2m/70cm performance.

It is less suited to hobbyists seeking maximum gain for fixed-base stations or those requiring an extremely low-profile or permanently concealed antenna; in those cases a dedicated high-gain or specialized low-profile model would be a better match.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable spring base reduces the risk of breakage from brushes and garage doors.
• Dual-band 146/446 MHz performance covers both 2m and 70cm bands in one unit.
• Standard PL-259 connector and 80 watt rating suit most mobile transceivers.
• Customers report good build quality and very low SWR when properly installed.

Cons

• Moderate 27in length still requires care in very low-clearance situations compared with ultra-low-profile antennas.
• Not intended as a high-gain base station antenna for fixed mounts.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Comet SS-680SB is a practical, well-built dual-band mobile antenna that delivers reliable 2m/70cm performance and protection from accidental impacts thanks to its spring base. For mobile amateur operators who need a compact, durable antenna with a standard PL-259 connector and moderate gain, it represents good value and dependable day-to-day performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this antenna work with my mobile VHF/UHF radio?
Yes, the SS-680SB uses a standard PL-259 connector and is rated to handle up to 80 watts, matching most mobile rigs that use UHF connectors.

Is the spring base effective at preventing damage?
Yes, the spring in the base is designed to flex and absorb impacts from branches or garage doors, reducing the chance of breakage.

Does it require special tuning to get low SWR?
Most users report very low SWR after a standard installation; some installation adjustments or a short coax feed may be needed for optimal results.