Very few people give radio antennas a second thought. until they get broken or develop a fault. Then panic decends.

Because a vehicle’s sound system is such an important feature these days, repairers come under considerable pressure not only to make an effective repair, but also make sure it is done to OEM standards.

So when you get landed with an aerial repair or replacement mast, reach straight for the latest Antech Sound Performance Technology Catalogue. The 2007 edition has just been released in New Zealand through Antech distributor Griffiths Equipment and it is packed with products, information and advice to help make the job easier.

The OEM replacement antenna section has been increased and now includes a good range of products from manufacturers including Ford, Holden, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Daihatsu, Jaguar, Hyundai, Isuzu, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Daewoo, Subaru and Suzuki, for models dating from the mid-1980s onwards. That includes some automatic aerials, as well as simple extension models.

For makes and models not covered in the OEM section, technicians should find what they are looking for among the many universal antennas produced by Antech to fit. The catalogue covers a wide range of aerials which include, fully automatic, cowl mount, manual retractables, pillar mounts and roof mounts, plus replacement whips & masts.

The handy section in the middle of the catalogue guides technicians as to which of the universal aerials will match vehicles not covered under the OEM section and identifies most vehicles available on New Zealand roads, including used Japanese imports, American cars/SUVS and European models.

To make fitting easier, Antech has developed a range of accessories, such as extension leads, suppressors/filters, plug/socket adaptors, band expanders, mounting ball sockets, mast retaining sleeves, stereo hook-up harnesses, speaker leads etc. These accessories are identified by the vehicle manufacturer they suit and together with specification for hooking up harnesses and speakers.

For those who don’t regularly work with antennas and their accessories, Antech has thoughtfully proved an-easy-to-follow guide to installation at the rear of the catalogue.