VHF Radio - opinions please

B

BigPat

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exMember
Joined
May 2, 2007
RO Number
26126
Messages
121
Hey everyone - I'm thinking about upgrading my VHF radio and don't know much about it. The limited research I've done says that I should get one equipped with DSC and capability to hook into my GPS Chartplotter.
A quick search on West Marine shows pricing from $99 - $999. I don't want to break the bank - anywhere from $99-$199 sounds good. My VHF is works, but is old, doesn't have many features. Doesn't scan and doesn't have many channel options. Do I even NEED to upgrade? What should I be looking for in a VHF? Does anyone think I can pick up a good deal at the NY boat show this week?
I figured if anything, the HRCC group is full of opinions and not doing much in these winter months!! Any and all opinions would be helpful as I don't have as much experience as most of you.
 
standard horizon are very good at distance
 
I bought the SH GX1100 from BF. It interfaces directly with the SH GPS I bought from the RO formerly known as Maxwell Smart. At this point in time I like to keep the electronics of the same brand as I am currently leery of mixed product interface. This is my feeling only.

I am satisfied with both.
 
The Standard Eclipse is a nice inexpensive radio.

Check it out here.

I have had several Standard radios over the years and found all to be good performers.
 
I always liked the ICOM Christmas advertisements with the sexy girls partially dressed in santa hats.

RWS
 
I have and like the Icom. I would do your research check the pricing with BF then if you are going to the boat show try to make a deal. I bought my GPS at the last show and I got a good price. This year the search if for dock lines.
Icom is a high end unit the price may be a little higher but they are worth it.
 
Wow - Icom seems highly recommended AND they have sexy girls in their advertisements!! Best of both worlds!!
 
I like my SH, had replaced the old SH on the boat with a GX3000, which is DSC and displays lat / long and ocmmunicates that in an emergency. Allowed me to put a loud-hailer on for fog horn, etc. So far, it's been great!
 
I have been very happy with my SH radios and GPS. Plus, they are the only ones to offer a 3 year warranty
 
While you are at it check the SWR of your current antenna and cable system. Make sure they are sound or you may wind up buying something you don't need. I think you are on the right track looking for modern features but don't neglect the antenna and cable. If they are old cracked or otherwise beat up they may need replacing also.
I see Scanning, DSC and GPS interfacing as good basic requirements. The ability to bcast an emergency with a push button is great.
 
I use both. Standard Horizon Eclipse on the 21ft, and Icom 604 on the 44 ft. I Love my Icom for the features and flexibility.
 
quote:
Originally posted by HOGAN

I have been very happy with my SH radios and GPS. Plus, they are the only ones to offer a 3 year warranty

Click to expand...


Same here, bought from Boatfix and could not beat their deal.
 
I LOVE Icom, but if price is a consideration, the Standard is a very nice radio. Icom tends to be on the pricey side.
 
How many times have you had to either back off the throttle, or place your head closer to the VHF trying to hear what is being said ?

Yes I know there are radio's with larger speakers & external speaker jacks.

I solved the problem. Uniden fixed mount VHF. Speaker is built into the microphone.
 
I agree with the those who like the Icoms, having upgraded to one from a Raytheon 53. The best radio in the world, however, is not going to get you much improvement unless you also take a look at your antenna. Most boats come with a 3db antenna, but an upgrade to a 6db will really improve reception. I was thrilled with the difference when I added an Icom M304 and Shakespeare 5225 6db antenna to my boat. I got my antenna from Boatfix, incidentally. The radio came from now out-of-business Boater's World, but Icoms are readily available.

Safe and Happy Boating!
ColonyCove
 
Is there a difference between a swr meter for cb's vs marine vhf?

Thanks
Niles
 
CB transmits on the HF band while Marine radios transmit on the VHF Band. The CB is 27 Mega Hertz while the VHF radio is 162 Mega Hertz. The reading of the Standing Wave Ratio meter will be incorrect.

If you can borrow a Bird watt meter with a 200 Mega Hertz slug with a 50 watt rating you will get an accurate reading. They are expesive to purchase
 
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