Looking for radio

tsubaki · #1 03-24-2008, 06:30 PM

Looking for another radio to replace my VHF in case I need one or to listen to the weather and seen this one today. Thought it was interesting that it had GPS location also.
Also has a $20 rebate for purchase this year.
Haven't decided yet but the antenna connection looks different than the old type VHF and may require a different antenna also.
Oh and it's digital (if that means something nowadays).

VHF255sw

VHF Radios
The VHF255sw fixed-mount marine radio features a rugged, submersible design with 25/1 Watt power output, all USA/INTL channels and advanced Digital Selective Calling (DSC) technology. Color: white.
MSRP $149.99

Display

2.50" diagonal
Backlit LCD

Channels:

All U.S., International & Canada Channels

Weather Channels

10 Channels w/NOAA Weather Alert

Digital Selective Calling

Class D (EN301025)

Submersion Standard

JIS-7, 1 meter 30 minutes

Size

6.375" W x 2.75" H x 5.25" D

Highlights

Submersible design for the maximum durability
2.5-Inch Diagonal Backlit LCD screen
Monitors all U.S., International and Canadian channels
Full 25 watt or 1 watt transmit power
3-Year limited warranty
Display Size:2.50" diagonalDisplay Type:Backlit LCDChannels:All U.S., International & Canada ChannelsWeather Channels:10 Channels w/NOAA Weather AlertPower Output:1w or 25w (user selectable)Frequency Range (Transmit):156.025 - 157.425 mHzFrequency Range (Receive):156.050 - 163.275 mHzDigital Selectivity Calling (DSC):Class D (EN301025)Submersion Standard:JIS-7, 1 meter 30 minutesSize:6.375" W x 2.75" H x 5.25" D

cterrebonne · #2 03-24-2008, 07:08 PM

iCOM

spareparts · #3 03-25-2008, 07:02 AM

to furthur echo the previous, ICOM!!!!
and just about everything now is DSC capable, problem is the dsc system still isn't up and operating to its full operational capability

bradford · #4 03-25-2008, 11:05 AM

I plan on purchasing an ICOM as well. I researched a bunch of different brands and they seem to be ruggedly built and have easy to use-nofrills features.

spareparts · #5 03-25-2008, 01:39 PM

what about antenna's? anyone use gamm digital?

macojoe · #6 03-25-2008, 06:16 PM

I need a new att also!! I can't believe how much money they have become!

jjjtronics · #7 04-10-2008, 07:45 AM

ICOM, period.
Reliable, inexpensive, lasting, user friendly, and pretty.
And dont forget, if you get a small ( low end ) unit, get an external speaker for it, you will love the sound from it.
Juan

turbinedoctor · #8 04-13-2008, 11:25 PM

I would spend more time looking into a good antenna then the radio. All radios are limited to transmit 25 watts so you need to make sure you get an antenna that will put the most of the enery to use instead of wasting it.

jjjtronics · #9 04-15-2008, 07:47 AM

Get a Shakespeare antenna.

turbinedoctor · #10 04-17-2008, 04:34 AM

I have the Shakespere 5102 and have talked to people 70 miles away like they were right next to me.

I also have the Icom 422, which I am very plaese with.