Communications

Dualband 2m / 70cm 5 Watt Portable HT. Great range with a magmount antenna on vehicle roof.

Price: $349.99

Where To Buy:
www.hamradio.com

Good Handheld   
By ZL3UXB on 10/24/2002 from Christchurch New Zealand
Good handheld and reasonably sensitive when run out of band on receive. Its only downfall is its a bit chunky.

FT%)R   
By jim morris jr.streator il 815 673 1752 on 12/28/2002 from streator il .usa
great radio audio is good .need to get lager batt pack or 12.v.ops.use a good mobil ant.

Lower Pricing and Wonderful Radio   
By KC5HSO on 4/23/2003 from Lawton Oklahoma
I bought 2 of these just recently for $195.00 each. My first FT-50R I bought the first year they came out. The new model is the FT-50RHD, which means it comes with almost all the bells. lights and whistles. For a handheld, it is still the best for us.

icom lawsuit   
By Anonymous on 12/16/2004 from usa
icom radio dnot work see the following link: http://www.co.medina.oh.us/judgecollier/jury_verdicts_2004.htm

great radio,been thru a ton of abuse and no problems so far but an absolute bear to program. someone was on drugs when this menu was written. buy the programming software and save the grief. Buy batteries also, the 5watts sucks the juice

Price: $400.00

Where To Buy:
hro

The Yaesu FT-8900 is a "Quad Band" FM transceiver covering: 28-29.7 MHz. (10 meters), 50-54 MHz (6 meters), 430-440 MHz (70 cm) and 144-146 MHz (2 meters). It does have wideband receive also, including 108-180 MHz, 320-480 MHz, 700-985 MHz (cell blocked) and of course, 28-30 MHz and 50-54 MHz. Now here is the deal. In radios such as the FT-8100, there are two sides to the radio. I will refer to them as left/right. Each side represents a separate set of memories. In other words, I can program the left side memories in VHF frequencies, and the right side in UHF frequencies. When the FT-8100 is in the scan mode, all of the left side VHF memories are being scanned, and on the right side in the scan mode, all of the UHF frequencies are being scanned. So, naturally, when I bought the FT-8900R, I "assumed" that the radio had two sides independent of each other with regards to the memories just as the FT-8100 had. WRONG! I programmed this thing twice. I programmed the left side using all VHF frequencies. I then went to the right side and started programming it. I soon discovered that the second programming on the right side overwrote everything I did on the left side........ I read, and re-read the user manual. There was no mention of the fact that the radio did not have separate and independent memories. So, the radio is now in my wife's car to be used as a backup only. Also, one would think that for $450, one would have a cross-band repeater as well. WRONG. While I pride myself as a Yaesu person (3 FT-2500Ms, an FT-100D, an FT-8100D, an old FT-411E handheld and a new VX-5R handheld), I am truly disappointed in the FT-8900R.

Price: $450.00

Where To Buy:
Amateur Electronic Supply

FT8900 / 8800   
By Iain Sloan ( KD5YOW ) on 3/25/2004 from Big Spring, TX, USA
Read the other review on this and I don't know if it was something funky with your radio, but I've got one too ( well the 8800, the dual band version.. ) I've also programmed the 8900 for others.. And I found it to work just the way I expected, having two separate sides. However, I can program any frequency into either side. And both sides are totally separate. Right now this is going for $369 from AES, and for the money it's a fantastic radio. Best Cash I've spent since I bought my plane ticket here.

FT8900   
By James on 4/27/2004 from VA, USA
Best radio for the buck in my eyes. Had it for a year now and can't complain about a thing except it spoils you when you have to use a lesser quality of radio. Does it all and then some. Crossband is the very thing I bougth and use it for. Some people just can't Figure things Out I guess?

Best Mobile Rig Ever   
By Grant on 5/21/2004 from Lebanon, OH USA
Never mind the previous review you read. You do not need independant bands (vhf=left side, uhf=right side). You just start putting in frequencies and you can have what ever frequency you want on either side. v/u, u/v, v/v, u/u, 50/v, 50/u, what ever? This radio is so easy to use it's sick. Hyper memories are great. You can store 6 different configurations in these memories. Best Rig Ever!

FT8900   
By Tom (n2nzd) on 8/21/2004 from Copake, NY USA
This radio is great. Dual receive and four bands so you never get board. I use the CrossBand feature and hyper memories all the time. About the only things I wish it had are built in APRS, and an alphabetized menu. I did go to an external speaker, but my vehicles are a bit noisy. There's a tech setup menu to allow the brave to tweak things like deviation, frequency adj, smeter adj, power settings (Used it to set low power to a few milliwatts for x-banding), etc, but also real easy to mess things up in that menu. If you want to get into it let me know and I'll send you the page if I can still find it. Use a 6 conductor tel line and f/f adapter in series with the existing jumper to remote the head for under $10. n2nzd@qsl.net

FT-8900 mobile   
By Tony G7NIZ on 12/2/2004 from UK
The FT-8900 is a good general radio, if you take the time to find out it's quirks. Join the yahoo group, read the handbook, get the memory management software.

i have a jrc nrd -535 hf receiver and se-3 synchronous detector i would like to sell can you tell me any place that buys these

Price:  -

Where To Buy:

Tri-band HT (6 Meter/2 Meter/70 CM) with weather alert scan etc.: Wide band receive from 495kHz to 999.999MHz (cellular blocked) in AM/FM/WFM modes, (hear preprogrammed TV channels, shortwave, AM & FM broadcasts, police, fire, military, aircraft, and various amateur bands). Small size, JIS-4 weather resistant construction, Li-ion batteries, 5W xmit power on all bands, and more.

Price: $249.00

Where To Buy:
Texas Towers, Gigaparts, local ham shops etc.

do-everything stormchase handheld   
By Mike Baur KD5NPF on 6/23/2003 from College Station, TX USA
I bought a T90 for use in crowded chase cars. Though I haven't chased with it yet, when I do I'll be able to hear audio from TV and practically anything else, as well as talk to other chasers. As far as optional stuff, I went for the 'AA' adapter so I don't have to compete for a cigar plug for power. I also grabbed a $4 earphone, though the T90 uses a standard earphone jack. Here's a more technical review by another ham: http://members.fortunecity.com/swradios/ict90.html

IC-E90 spanish version   
By EB2EOF on 1/31/2007 from Europe
f you want the best HT, the Icom IC-E90 is the radio for you.One of the most durable and reliable on the market, this HT radio is built to last and keep on ticking.Too fast scanning

Best damn dual-band rig ever, meets and or exceeds dhs message requirements. very user friendly. currently in use for portable packet station, in-field repeater.cross-band this rig does it all ***** thanks ed michigan,spotter,ham,Cert Team member

Price: $990.00

Where To Buy:
www.aes.com

Great Ham Radio goes a long way and has some cool features attached to it a must for those who have there licences and are looking for communication needs.

Price: $179.00

Where To Buy:
TexasTowers.com

Icom 2100 Great Radio   
By W5DKE on 5/9/2001 from Dallas, Texas
I've used pretty much all the 2 meter FM equipment that's been out since about 1995. Of them all, the little 2100 is the best overall. Performance, including intermod rejection, transmit and receive audio, and reliability/durability, is excellent. It's well made and high quality. Additionally, it has just the right amount of features for voice communications including tone encode/decode/scan, plenty of memories, alphanumeric memories, and a great multifunction hand microphone. Considering the price (well under $200), this radio should be standard equipment for ham licensed chasers. W5DKE

IC-2100H The Best   
By David Hodges W3QEN on 7/28/2001 from Norman,OK USA
If you want the best, the Icom 2100H is the radio for you.One of the most durable and reliable on the market, this radio is built to last and keep on ticking.

Fully equipped, not stripped!   
By Keith, WD0FIA on 5/26/2002 from Iowa, USA
One of the best radios I have ever owned. Well built, easy to operate, plenty of bells and whistles. Computer program for frequency, tone and channel name is easy to use. Only $139 through HRO. Bought one for every vehicle I own. No more radio swapping from car to car.

Perfect   
By Blake Michaleski KD5MWK on 11/14/2002 from Baton Rouge, LA
Great radio...it performed flawlessly last year in the plains....The 2100 is rugged, reliable, and high powered. With the price falling like it is, buying a spare radio is even cost effective.

Dualband 2m/70cm mobile radio; 50 watts (2 meter) and 35 watts (70 cm) power output; Cross-band Repeat function; V/V, U/U, U/V, V/U; Separation kit for face plate; Remote Control Microphone Standard; New Dynamic Memory Scan system; Independent controls for each left and right bands; V/V, U/U simultaneous receive capability; Receive 118-549.995 MHz and 810-999.99 MHz.

Price: $345.00

Where To Buy:
Ham Radio.com ; Gigaparts,com ; Aesham.com ; Texastowers.com

Excellent Dual Bander   
By Adam Krech WX4CHR on 4/3/2004 from Norman, OK USA
I bought this radio right after Christmas 2003 and have nothing but praise for the radio. Having dual receive capabality from either bands really makes storm spotting easier in regards to communications when giving a report to the severe weather net on 440 MHz and talking to chasers and spotters on 140 MHz. Icom provides plenty of separation cable to mount the radio under a front seat while having the face plate in an easy location to reach. I enjoy this radio so much that I took my Icom 2100 out of the vehicle (Granted, it is only a two meter.) since I have dual receive on my 2720. Plus, with extended receive capability, I can monitor local law enforcement that isn't on the 800 MHz trunking, as well as emergency managers in the area that are out of the amateur bands. This way, I don't have to tie my scanner up with frequencies I rarely listen too and can keep that for weather monitoring, like the NWS weather alert warnings.

IC-2100 mods   
By mauro bertelle junior on 6/18/2007 from Brazil
I have an IC-2100 and I want to mods to Receive 118-549.995 MHz and 810-999.99 MHz. anybody cam helpme

The Icom IC-T7H is a 2m and 70cm FM handie talkie. The radio is built to Mil-Spec 810C/D/E, and features a back-lit LCD, automatic repeater shift, automatic power off, automatic power save, CTCSS tone encode/decode/scan, streamlined function set for simple operation, 100 memory channels, and more. Supplied with a NiCad battery, wall charger, rubber duck antenna, belt clip, and wrist strap.

Price: $249.00

Where To Buy:

Excellent easy to use radio   
By Anonymous on 5/14/2003 from Natick, Ma USA
I've owned mune for 2 years. Excellent in all respects, and you don't have to grab the owners manual everytime you want to use it to try and figure out what program to use like some other brands

repeat buyer   
By Ed KC7MWP on 7/28/2004 from White Mountains of Arizona
I bought a T7H to replace my RS HTX202 that finally died after 7 yrs of use. I wanted something small, but that had full power, and wasn't going to cost me what me dual band Kenwood mobile did. None of this 500 milliwatts stuf. Not when you live in the mountains and the nearest repeater is 30 miles away. I talked to the people at AES gave them a price range and what I wanted. The T7H was what they suggested. I found it easy to use, powerful enough to hit the repeaters and still be understood. My wife just got her call a month ago and I'm going to buy another one for her. And as much as I prefer programming in the field knowledge, I am actually looking around for the software and cable to program them. But I still think one should know how to program your radio in the field, never can tell when you may need it.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 2.25 (W), 5.5 (H), 1.4 (D), 16 oz
• 5 Watts of power @ 13.5 V
• 200 memory channels
• 8 character alphanumeric memory channel identification, keypad entry
• Backlit display and keypad
• ICOM rugged! Meets MIL SPEC C/D/E for shock and vibration
• Handheld to handheld cloning capability (opt. OPC-474 cloning cable) or PC programming capability (opt. CS-W32 cloning software and OPC-478 cloning cable)
• Independent band controls for tuning and volume
• VHF/UHF exchange function allows assignment of VHF/UHF band controls to either knob
• Set your preferred band to the knob furthest from the antenna
• Optional alkaline battery case available -- BP-170

Price: $280.00

Where To Buy:

ic-w32a a very good handheld   
By bill carver =KC0NJD on 7/29/2002 from GREELEY COLORADO
I bought this rig at HRO.and performs like it should so fare so good thinks icom.

oh yeah!   
By Anonymous on 7/31/2002 from usa
greta radio

Best for Public Service   
By trooper - KD7PLU on 8/7/2002 from Glendale, AZ
My radio has been up towers, rained on, dropped several dozen times and left inside my vehicle in 120+ Degree Arizona Heat. The dry-cell packs (4-AA) are the way to go. If you do public service, this radio is for you. Programming is SO SIMPLE, you'll have it committed to memory long after the top four key prints wear off. (One bad thing, the print on the actual keys WILL wear off) But small price to pay for such a great HT. The Cross-Band Full-Duplex repeater function is great in a box, or with an amp when you're in a valley/need line of sight to a distant tower/have 440 or 2M only people in your group and access to anly a 440 or 2M repeater that everyone must use. Can't say enough about the radio, I purchased four of them ~ One as an HT, one for X-Band repeater in a box, one for Packet and one for APRSin a box. Don't listen to the motorola whiners about audio not as good as (whatever) - This radio is about 280.00 and does everything a HAM / Public Service guy needs.

w-32   
By Anonymous on 4/17/2003 from dimitris greece
icom w32 dont have a good receiver

The Kenwood TH-D7A is a 2m/70cm dual band handie talkie built to Mil-Spec 810C/D/E, featuring a backlit DTMF keypad and LCD display, built-in 1200/9600 baud AX.25 protocol TNC. Other features include dual RX, simultaneous voice and data receive on VHF, 200 memory channels, CTCSS tone encode, 10 16-digit DTMF memory channels, and more. Supplied with a rechargeable NiCad battery pack, plug-in wall charger, belt clip, wrist strap, and a rubber duck antenna.

Price: $499.00

Where To Buy:

Great APRS rig   
By dvanhorn@cedar.net on 3/26/2001 from Indiana USA
This rig shines with APRS or packet. It's only bad point, is the supplied antenna, which has slightly more gain than a bucket of mercury. The Comet whips will really make this radio shine. You'll want an SMA to BNC adaptor cable. DONT use a solid adaptor, unless you like replacing antenna connectors!

Great Multi Purpose handheld   
By ZL2BH on 2/1/2004 from New Zealand
Lots of bells and whistles to meet everyones needs. A joy to operate and a simple way to get into digital modes.

Features are great, but radio is poorly built.    
By Loren B. Cobb, N7CAV on 1/9/2007 from USA
I went through three of these radios - The finals blew on the first one in under a week. The second one had a total software meltdown and the third one failed to transmit one day. I guess it was angry. So I shot the damn radio - eight times - and my 1911 seemed to fill it with 230gr HP's just as fast as the TH-D7A could digest them. That's why I rate the radio at 2-stars... One star for being a piece of crap and the other star for digesting eight hollowpoints without losing the antenna.

Military Specs... I think not!   
By G8EDR on 3/17/2007 from United Kingdom
This is a nice radio do not get me wrong, but it is so poorly made, I laughed when I bought mine and on the placard was a sign saying built to military specs. Either the military is now buying PLASTIC radios, or those people at kenwood send out specs using a template and forgot to remove the mil.specs. Great little starter for APRS.. even better attach it to your laptop and a gps! Just dont drop it! As things have a habit to just fall off this radio.

The Kenwood TM-D700A is a 2m/70cm dual band mobile transceiver with a built-in 1200/9600 bps TNC for Packet and APRS®. The radio has a separate control head with an amber LCD display, and features extended RX, AM RX, dual RX, dual in-band RX, CTCSS tone encode/decode/scan, DCS, 200 memory channels, band scope display, cross band and fixed band repeat, multiple scan modes, and more.

Price: $600.00

Where To Buy:

An excellent piece of gear   
By Wiley Rittenhouse on 4/6/2001 from Lawton, OK
I previously owned a Kenwood V7A, and it was a great radio, but this one is exceptional. The remote head setup is easier to install in small cars, and the connection of my GPS III+ was a snap - APRS up-and-running the first time. I almost always run APRS on one side and the local 2-meter repeaters on the other. By using the PM feature, I can switch to cross-band repeater operation in about five seconds so I can use my Yaesu VX-5R to transmit remotely. I also run a Yaesu FT-100 for HF communications from the car. I run the Kenwood through a high-gain Cushcraft vertical antenna on the trunk, mounted on a Diamond K400 mount.

PRICING   
By Anonymous on 3/30/2002 from Bethlehem PA.
I hope you dont deter anyone that looks at this site with your inacurate pricing of these radios. The TMD700 is under 600 dollars U.S. I would suggest the TMD 700 to anyone who does storm chasing. I would suggest an HT that is a true dual bander. This way it is a lot easier and quicker to monitor two frequencies with one radio. You never know.

Cheaper pricing!   
By Anonymous on 8/2/2004 from tx
His pricing was fine! Just a year before yours! heh. Here it is 2004 and the thing is down to about $480 with a coupon! Ain't life grand?!

The Kenwood TM-V7A is a 2m and 70cm dual band mobile FM transceiver. It has a reversable blue LCD and dot matrix alphanumeric display and features a dedicated 1200/9600 bps Packet port, AM RX, extended RX, CTCSS tone encode/decode, DTSS paging/squelch, dual RX, dual in-band RX, 280 memories, multiple scan modes, and more.

Price: $479.00

Where To Buy:

Very nice radio   
By Lance D. Sanders, KB5OQK on 3/8/2001 from Dallas, TX
Really like the detachable faceplate & remote mount. Sometimes the keys on the mike keypad stick, but that's minor. Also intermod is noticeable when I go downtown, but all in all it's not too bad. The blue display is a nice different approach. Alpha tags for each help me know which town that repeater is coming in from.

Great radio, lousy design   
By dvanhorn@cedar.net on 3/26/2001 from Indiana USA
As a radio, it's great. Unfortunately, the display is horrid. The worst glare I've ever seen, coupled with a low contrast display, make it unreadable, except at night. The mic controls the radio by sending DTMF down the mic line. This works well, until the mic (which is live, even when not transmitting) hears some DTMF from another radio. Then the radio pops off to another channel, flips modes, or something else. I own one, and I like it, but I sure wish there was another display for it.. The mic I fixed.

Great dual bander!   
By David Drummond KC5URH on 3/29/2001 from Lubbock, TX
I have had two of these radios and think they are great! (First one was stolen, guess someone else thought so too!) The contrast on the display IS adjustable, as well as reversable, as is the brightness. The faceplate does have a bit of reflection, but you can adjust its mounting to compensate for that. I like especially that you can monitor either two bands at the same time, or two frequencies on the same band. Also does cross band repeat, so you can use your HT through it. Ability to alpha name the frequencies is fantastic for repeaters!

GREAT RADIO WITHOUT REPLACEMENT PARTS   
By David C. Jean - KG4NLG on 8/15/2001 from Brentwood, TN
I bought the radio at a HAM FEST and I fell in love with it. However I installed into my car with a extension kit. A week after I installed the radio my car was broken in too. Because if the extension kit they only took the control head of the radio. I have got a brad new radio here but no face plate. I call kenwood and they tell me that I have to purchase a whole new radio because they do not sell CAONTROL HEAD UNITS for the TM-V7A. I have been buying kenwood car audio for about 10 years and now I will not buy anything else from them. They sell replacement face units for there car audio but not there HAM RADIO. Please e-mail me if you have any sugesstions on what to do with me useless radio that I have here.

Nice radio poor quality   
By Rich K4GPS on 11/27/2002 from Jupiter Florida
I love the radio and how it works, I can't ask for more but after 2 years of having been installed the LCD display acts up all the time. During the summer it fades in the heat so you can't read it. In the winter (Florida Winter!) the screen fades when I first get in the truck in the morning 1year old. Now the display has a bunch of vertical segments that do not light up 1.5 yr old. This radio has been mounted with the remote kit since day one and NEVER been moved or abused. Poor quality display is a disappointment

Great Radio / Just don't loose the Face Plate   
By David Jean - KG4NLG on 9/29/2003 from Brentwood, TN
I wanted to add to my previous comment about this radio. I am VERY VERY happy with this radio. I found a seller on EBAY.COM wanting to get rid of a Control Head Unit. I did not hesitate in getting this, I just couldn't wait to get my radio up and running.

Poor display   
By Daniel - KB8LKH on 1/25/2004 from Cleveland, Ohio
The display sucks. When is hot in the summer the display fades. When it's cold in the winter the dsiplay fades. You cant win for loosing when it comes to the display on this radio.

The Pro-2067 Mobile Multi-system Trunking Scanner follows Motorola, GE/Ericsson and LTR trunked radio systems used by most police, fire, emergency and other public services. Weather band with severe weather alert and SAME circuitry. Large backlit alpha/numeric display permits you to enter name for frequency or trunked ID.

Price: $269.99

Where To Buy:

Nice Scanner!   
By Tom Tefertiller on 8/3/2000
A really nice storm-chasing / travel scanner with very nice search capabilities. Covers almost every system out there with the exceptional of digitial. Very nice size as it is only 2 inches high and 5 inches wide.

This radio is a good one but i dont have it but my sidkick it is good storm chaser handheld if you dont have a car radio.

Price:  -

Where To Buy:
Ham Radio Outlet

Yaesu VX 7R is better   
By Anonymous on 3/15/2004 from New York USA
I have owned the Yaesu VX 7R and the Kenwood TH F6A, and the Yaesu all around is a better radio in almost every way.

Help me decide!!   
By Gerald Riddle on 11/28/2004 from los angeles
I owned a vx-7r and it had a bad pl board and I'm leary of getting another. I'm thinkin of gettin a f6a, people have said it has better receive and that the 5 watts on 220 makes up for all the bells and whistles on the vx-7r can the anonymous from new york who has both email me, or at least any one whos got both, THANKS kg6ugm@gmail.com GOD BLESS!!

The ergonomic design, illuminated keys and backlit display all combine to make operation a breeze. As does the menu mode, which allows you to customize the TH-G71A by adjusting all major settings to your choice. Besides being easy to use, it also boasts extraordinary power - up to 6 watts (VHF) or 5.5 (UHF) of RF output (selectable) with its high-performance antenna. The speaker provides powerful, refreshing clear audio. The TH-G71A is even built with a polycarbonate casing for rock solid performance outside as well as inside. 6W (VHF), 5.5W (UHF) at 13.8V DC PC programmable FTP download 200 memory ch.with alphanumeric display MIL-STD 810E (rain & shock) CTCSS tone scan Wide-range coverage(incl. Aircraft receive)* DTMF memory (10 ch. Up to 16 digits) Multiple scane modes Key illumination High-performance antenna TM-V7A remote control (DTMF remote) Free PC Programming software (requires PG-4P data cable) RX Modification Quick Ref Guide

Price: $279.95

Where To Buy:
Kenwwood.net

Great Dual Bander   
By Martin Ftacek on 3/20/2003 from Niles, MI USA
Has some quirks, but for the Most Part, this is a tremendous radio. Xmit and recieve audio are both great, and it seems pretty tough for the most part. I broke mine, however, when the battery caught a chair arm, and pulled itself off.

75 watts high power. 2 Meter radio with built-in weather scan. Well-rated by users. See www.eham.net reviews section.

Price: $189.00

Where To Buy:
www.texastowers.com

ICOM V8000 IS A DOG!   
By BOB WHITE on 1/17/2004 from Pensacola, Fl
MY Brand new ICOM V-8000 is a Dirty Commie Dog!!! The squelch does not work. Audio leaks through after the squelch closes. On top of that People complain I have white noise on my transmitted signal. How stupid can Icom be I new 20 years ago that a transistor could never stopped audio leakeage and spillover. It takes a serious relay to stop that! Then to make matters worse the Fricken Fan instead of running all of the time @ a med speed comes on with a vengence when the rig heats up, I say comes on like a Hoover Vacum Cleaner. It's a pretty Dog but a Dog Is A Dog!!! This is one noisy puppy and that's the fact jack and ICOM can kiss my Butt!!! And all of the Hams who work for Icom and say their is nothing wrong with the V-8000 are full of BOO BOO!!!!!!!! Bob w5bw@msn.com

tr8000    
By tim kittle on 4/3/2004 from West Virginia, USA
I just purchased a ic-v8000 And the only reason why i got it was I thought it was suppose to be the best and get out further than any other. But I guess I was wrong. I tried setting up everthing up to 75w but nothing works. My friend owns a cheap Alinco and it get out 20 times better than mine. Is there something I can do? My e-mail is teenybear_98@yahoo.com IF anyone can help

ICOM V8000 My Sweet Little Mobil   
By Harv KE7AKS on 8/11/2004 from Tualatin, OR USA
I have had my ICOM V8000 for about 3 months now and I think it is the GREATEST. It is small in size, Quiet, and has great AUDIO. Easy to punch up more power when I am in those blind spots or in otherwise hard places to get out of. I use a cheap little 5/8 wave Hustler antenna, works great. I will give up a lot of other things before i give up this.

Best 2 meter    
By Eric Jones KD5YBE on 10/28/2004 from Saltillo,MS USA
I have owned 2 Icom V8000's for a year now. One is for my mobile rig and the other is my base. I get great audio reports on both. Recieve is excellent. Setup up cant be easier(Unlike kenwood and others). This Rig is built like a tank. Its Made to handle anything you can throw at it. If I had a place to put it I would buy another one. Its the best 2 meter rig I've seen.

I purchased an FNB-78 Battery for my Yaesu FT-897 recently and fully charged it. The internal resistance of the battery was checked high with a very accurate ESR (equivalent series resistance meter) at 0.42 ohms.Also on transmit the battery light would flash yellow indicating/and because of a low battery condition - an initial voltage drop of over 2.4 volts shown on the FT-897 Display Screen. What happend to quality control at Yaesu.To make things worse the Dealer I purchased it from won't admit the battery is bad and is charging me a restock charge after I returned it with a full explaination because he says it OK. Know now where not to buy ham equipment.

Price: $99.00

Where To Buy:

Cool idea   
By John on 6/19/2004 from Sammamish, WA
I bought the two FNB-78 Batteries for my FT897, and they work great for me. I charged them up full before I used them, and haven't had one problem with them. $200 for battery backup is bit tough to swallow though. You need to also order the special charger with them to be of any use. Other than that, I've run nets for four hours on one battery, so they seem to last as well....and for the price they better!

The Yaesu FT-8100 is a compact 2m/70cm dual band FM mobile transceiver. The radio is manufactured to MIL-standard 810, and is supplied with a backlit DTMF mic with up and down controls, a mounting bracket with hardware, and a fused DC power cord.

Price: $699.00

Where To Buy:

Never Had a Problem   
By Anonymous on 10/28/2003 from IL USA
I've had the FT8100 since early 2000, never had any problems and repeater mode is great and have always had good luck. If you find them used, since can't get them new anymore, if its a bargain price, I wouldn't hesitate

Quality control issue...   
By Daniel - KB8LKH on 1/25/2004 from Cleveland, Ohio
Round, and round, and round we go. I never could get anything resolved with Yeasu reguarding this radio. After two time repaired at Yaesu and once with a private company, I DUMPED the radio the first chance i got.

I Love My Yaesu FT-8100   
By J. Landon Reynolds KF4CAU on 3/13/2004 from Dickson, Tennessee USA
My storm spotter vehicle is a GMC Suburban. It is outfitted with ALL Yaesu equipment, inclunding the FT-2800 VHF FM, FT-100D All Mode/All Band, and of course the FT-8100. In addition to using the FT-8100 for ham bands, I also use it to monitor the local "public service" bands. One feature that I really like is the cross-band repeat feature. This comes in really handy during search and rescue operations, or when I need to be out "on foot". I have heard several folks complain about the FT-8100, but I really am happy with mine. In fact, i am happy with most all of my Yaesu equipment (excluding the FT-8900, but that's another review) J. Landon Reynolds KF4CAU Assistant Emergency Coordinator Dickson County (TN) ARES

owner manual   
By carlos alberto aguirre on 7/23/2004 from colombia
I need the manual of the ft8100

The FT-8500 is no longer produced. Nearest similar model is the FT-8100.

Price: $450.00

Where To Buy:

   
By Bob Conzemius on 7/21/2000
This radio is great for rejecting lightning static. The FT-8500 is no longer produced. Nearest similar model is the FT-8100.

8500 not biggest, definately one of the baddest!!!   
By Zach on 4/4/2002 from Great Bend, KS
The 8500 is one of the best radios I have ever used, owned, operated. I bought one new in 97, still up and running today (apr. 4, 2002). I've put this radio through so much H&D, and it ain't sufferin' for the lot of it. It's even been stolen by a druggie and tried to sell as a CB or scanner b4 his wife called the cops and got it back to me - it was THROWN out into the street in traffic, no less!!! So, if anyone has the blessing to lay ahold of one, and it matches your price range, GO FOR IT!!! Zach, redfonzie21@yahoo.com

Great Reliability   
By ZL3UXB on 10/21/2002 from Christchurch New Zealand
My 8500 has served me well being pretty much swithed on 24/7 since 1997! Its mounted in my 4wd and used for many purposes. I work for the TV Media in New Zealand. Its been roasted until the screen is black due to excessive heat and been frozen in -14 celsius temperatures. It still goes faultlessly and has never been serviced. Some people did'nt like the "Mr Potatoe head" microphone but I think its great. One handed control....I don't even have to look at the mic anymore to change things...do it by feel!!

Still runs great   
By ac6tk on 12/1/2009 from US
Got one in 95 and is still running 2009 although the potatohead mic is out of service. Using the newer replacement mic but would like to find a decent potatohead again. This radio does all it says in the brocures.

Outstanding talk and standby time. Nokia's 6100 series phones boast a long list of features including alert settings that you customize and extended calling areas through digital and analog capabilities.

Price: $199.00

Where To Buy:

Tons of features, easy to use   
By Anonymous on 5/28/2000 from Minneapolis, MN
I've only had this phone for a few days, but am very impressed with the number of features: games, voice mail, pager messages, 30 ring sounds, call forwarding, and security. But it was very easy to figure out. The OS is different, but makes sense once you get used to it. Another great phone from Nokia!

The new Nokia 8860 is a seamless blend of art, design and technology. Truly beautiful both inside and out, it’s a digital phone on the cutting edge of technology. It’s sleek, luxurious and exciting. It’s wireless gone chic. Sophistication with an understated elegance all its own. It’s the phone that makes a quiet statement.

Price: $499.00

Where To Buy:

Sleek Design   
By Anonymous on 8/23/2000
Chrom case showed fingerprints, and the reception with the hidden attennae was awful.

Wanton X-cess   
By Sam Morse on 5/7/2001 from Chicago, IL
I got the afore mentioned Nokia for 99 centavos and it works darned swell. I can talk to mother clear across to Moline just as clear as a bell!

i need help    
By zino on 4/12/2003 from MI,USA
i have nokia 8860 i broke the casing where can i buy one if you have any info please e mail me at zinozino1225 @aol.com thank you

Compact flip style phone, that is a dual mode phone. It has a long battery life and great reseption, also has voice dial and mobile web axess.

Price: $100.00

Where To Buy:
Radio shack Phone stores

Vision-enabled dualband tri-mode mobile phone features a full color screen, speakerphone, voice dialing and supports PCS wireless web. A digital camera, sold separately, connects to the USB port.

Price: $179.99

Where To Buy:

Pah-leeze!!! can you here me?... hell...   
By Randee M. on 11/5/2003 from Southern USA
First of all the speaker phone would come on when i try to answer a call and everyone in the room can hear most of my phone calls, 2nd: i have dropped the thing numerous times and it never damaged until while i was walking to my car from work and the lcd screen cracked for some unknown reason. all i did was walk with it in my hand .I'm puzzled. my boyfriends screen did the same thing. 3rd:it will echo your voice while talking on it making it sound like a 3rd party is on the line mumbling on the other end of the line. and it freezes up alot and you'll have to remove battery for 30 minutes so it can clear itself of unneeded data, but it took me a week to finally call the sell phone operator to find this simlpe step that would finally allow me to check my email! HATE IT... my b-frind HATES IT... we don't recomend buying this phone to anyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Sanyo 4500 is a well made, dual band cell phone. It's sleek enough to be out of the way, yet big enough to keep from losing. The phone has features like caller ID, voice activated dialing, speaker phone, and quick dial.

Price: $149.99

Where To Buy:
Radio Shack

Nice Features   
By Anonymous on 5/28/2002 from WI, USA
I have had this phone for the last year or so. I like the speakerphone option, as it makes it much easier to use while driving, although not as private. The service in my local area is not the greatest though, but that is the service, not the phone. (Signal Faded Call Lost). But otherwise, it is a solid phone.

Great phone   
By Daniel - KB8LKH on 1/25/2004 from Cleveland, Ohio
Great Telephone. Wish I could get put on Verison!

Dual-Band/Tri-Mode with a built-in CIF camera (352 x 288) and two full color LCD screens, a 1" external and a 1.8" internal. The Sanyo 8100 also has value-added features such as voice activated dialing, power save mode, a 300 entry internal phonebook and a calendar.

Price: $229.99

Where To Buy:
Sprint PCS

Keypad heats up almost immediately   
By Anonymous on 4/17/2004 from los angeles, ca
Had this back to Sprint = waited 45 minutes for them to "test" was told it met manufacturer's requirements - took home heated up next time used so.......... saw one entry where advised to use head piece instead but seems to be poor design = friend who has same does not heat up.

T-Mobile's current offering of Windows Mobile-based phones includes the SDA and MDA. The MDA includes flip-out keyboard, and touch-sensitive screen. Integrated WiFi. Runs Windows Mobile 5.0 OS.

Price: $249.00

Where To Buy:
T-Mobile outlet store

Good step up in technology   
By Rory Groves on 12/1/2006 from Minneapolis, MN
I like the MDA for several reasons: 1) Touch screen and flip-out keyboard make the device pretty usable 2) Integrated WiFi means i can access the internet over any available WiFi network on my phone without even needing to have a data plan 3) Extensibility of Windows Mobile means lots and lots of applications The main downside of having WIndows Mobile is that it is still pretty sluggish. Expect a half-second delay minimum for any button-press. This can be really annoying, but considering the overall power of the OS, its a thorn worth living with.

Cool Phone but no support . . .   
By Loren B. Cobb, N7CAV on 1/9/2007 from Bellevue, WA
The first phone failed after two months, but Fry's electronics replaced the unit with a new one at no charge. I have T-Mobile service, but registered the phone, by serial number, with the manufacturer. After performing the registration process, I was informed that the manufacturer will not support the phone unless it was purchased direct - And T-Mobile will not provide any applications, firmware upgrades or other enhancements that their VAR offers. As far as the unit it self - I am happy with the features. A big problem is the audio- The speaker is not nearly loud enough. If you are a blue-tooth (ear-piece) user, you'll be fine. If you use the phone as-is, or rely on speaker phone however - this is not the phone for you.

Nice dual-band with excellent gain at a fair price. Great for 2m/70cm FM.

Price:  -

Where To Buy:

This system is a self pointing, high speed internet satellite link. Internet speeds of up to 1.5 mb or more.

Price: $6,800.00

Where To Buy:
Satellite-Technologies.com

The M2 EB-144 offers a new standard of performance for Hams on a budget. The unique antenna produces omnidirectional horizontal polarity at the horizon. Above the horizon, the pattern transforms making it a natural for Oscar satellite use. Elevating the antenna to 40 inches or more above a metal surface improves horizontal radiation by 6 dB.

Price: $136.00

Where To Buy:

Good Distance   
By Bob Conzemius on 7/21/2000 from Norman, OK
This antenna really stands out on your car, but it is good for 2-meter sideband communications and is wonderful for receiving distant television stations while you are chasing.

ke4wbo   
By graham ke4wbo@arrl.net on 10/8/2002 from florida
for getting on the birds without a rotator not a bad antenna ...however spend your money on the satellite handbook and build one yourself for $20 or less even though omni it still exhibits fades on overhead passes ...same for the 432 antenna

This is the highest gain 2m/70cm mobile dualbander available. It is 62.5" long and pricy, but that is what you sacrifice for the extra gain (6 dbi 2m, 7.6 dbi 70cm).

Price: $129.95

Where To Buy:
Any Major Hamfest, AES, HRO, HamStation.com, TexasTowers.com

SG7900 Super Gainer   
By JD on 6/23/2003 from Wash DC
The SG7900 has high gain factors but they are poorly built. The 1st one I had broke in two place while going down the highway. The second one broke at the lower loading coil. The 3rd one worked fine for 45 days on 440 then couldn't hear diddily. That problem was trace to the folder over knuckle. Swap the base with the base from the second antenna. Same problem appear after 35 days. Swam them again with the base from the 1st, same thing. Now I've got $350 worth of trash. When I ask Diamon if they had other with this problem I got the "No, I products are built to last, don't bother asking us again" routine. From perspective the SG-7900 SuperGainer is a POS, it ought to be taken off the market. Too bad there isn't a rating less than 1 star..

Diamond SG7900 mobile antenna   
By Roger Halstead (K8RI) on 5/2/2004 from Midland Michigan
I've been using a SG7900 and it's smaller brothers on our cars since the antennas were first introduced. The antennas, at least the bigger ones have worked well and have been reliable. Contrary to others I have found them to be well built and rugged although they don't do well if you forget to fold them over before driving in the garage. I broke one in two pieces doing that. My SG7900 which started out on an 87 T-bird is currently on an SUV. At that height I have to be careful about low bridges and have actually hit overhangs at 30 MPH hard enough to knock the mag mount off the roof, yet the antenna still works fine. It had developed a knocking sound which I cured by removing the two set screws, removing the element, reaming the female portion and wire brushing the male portion. The button on the tip is now gone (from whacking too many bridges) but the only maintenance has been the one cleaning. It has been an excellent antenna that has taken great abuse. Excellent antenna.

Diamond Super Gainer SG7900   
By JG on 8/30/2004 from CO, USA
Although it can perform well, after three seasons I'm ready to toss it. Sections come apart due to sloppy fit; the set screws are too small & strip out; the antenna rattles because the set screws won't remain tight (even with thread locker); normal highway wind pressure bends it out of shape every time out. If a tree branch catches it there is no spring-back forgiveness, it just bends. A waste of money!

Please help!!   
By Gerald Riddle on 11/28/2004 from LOS ANGELES
when I first got this ant. I twisted the silver base from the black plactic peice and it came apart easyly, I knowtised a glob of solder at the top of the peice that I had unscrewed ever sence I put the ant. up to a lower gain ant. and they are the same, did i brake it??, shouldn't the gain be a lot beter than the small ant, and should I use a large mag mount to help in the ground plane effect. please email me with help kg6ugm@gmail.com THANKS!!

SG7900   
By Anonymous on 3/5/2007 from Tulsa, ok
My SG7900 broke also I only have $95 of junk!

Great antenna   
By Matt Robertson - N4MGR on 4/18/2007 from Monroe, NC USA
I've been using this antenna now for about 6 months. It has been mounted on a tractor trailer where it withstood the abuse of an almost normal winter. It is now mounted on my car where is handles 70 - 90mph stretches with ease. I have made contacts over 100 miles with this antenna.