Definitely if you can buy a new, higher gain antenna then do so. For reference, it really depends on who and how well the crimp is but a few feet you can use RG-59, a couple of feet to maybe 10 feet I'd use LMR-240. Over 10 feet up to 40 or 50 I'd use LMR-400. There is no exact answer to your question. For your needs, just get a ready made solution to improve your reception.