My radio antenna broke off of my 96 4Runner. I obviously plan on replacing it, but with what? Is there a direct relation between the size of an antenna and good reception?

I don't care what it looks like, I just want great reception.

Any thoughts, or ideas or experiences would be great.

Thanks.

 

Yes all antennas are a specific length depending on their frequency.
Common FM antennas are 1/4 Wave or 1/2 Wave although your vehicles antenna is specific to your make and model.

In short, any old antenna may not work well at all but a factory replacement may pull in stations 100 miles away.

Radio reception is complicated. I fly RC planes sometimes miles away thru cameras and even though I do not do anything to my transmitter just moving the receiver antennas routing can double my range or clobber it.

 

So a OEM replacement would be the best?

 

Yes... Save the coat hangars for coats

 

Don't need an OEM. Antennas are cheap -- if yours is a retractable mast, these guys prices are super fair and the antennas are quality: http://www.antennamastsrus.com/