[TowerTalk] In Shack Tuner Vs. Remote Tuner for Multi-Band Antennas

[Tony]

All:

Need some advise on getting the best performance out of a multi-band (80 
through 20) wire antenna and tuner. My first option is the in-shack 
auto-tuner feeding a doublet with a short run of coax and remote balun. 
The alternative option was to go with a remote auto-tuner mounted near 
the antenna feeding an 80 meter dipole with ladder line. There would be 
an 80 foot run of coax from the rig to the remote tuner. I can add 
dipoles to the remote setup if need be.

I have a 500 watt amplifier so I was considering the 500 watt Elecraft 
in-shack auto-tuner. The MFJ remote tuner (600 watt version) is 
reasnably priced, but unfortunately, didn't get good reviews.

Regarding doublets: I plan on using one for portable operation cut for 
30 meters with an Elecraft KX3 QRP rig and internal tuner. Any tips on 
the best ladder line and dipole lengths would be appreciated.

Thanks...

Tony