Off Topic - Time for new radios & I need advice!

motor59 · Post by **motor59** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 5:40 pm

Just bought a new truck (Toyota Tacoma), and it doesn't look like there will be enough room for my Spectra's anymore.

I guess it's time to look down some new avenues.

My wish list is:
A radio that's able to combine the VHF and UHF controls into a single remote-mounted head.
Also, since it'll contain both PD & FD channels, it needs to be type accepted for operation in the public safety bands.
At least 48 modes for each radio.
Alpha-numeric is a must - the more characters the better.
(Relatively) compact control head. Something no larger than an A-7 spectra or thereabouts.

You get the idea.

Please keep the flames to a minimum

- but I can't see how to accomplish this with Motorola equipment!

I looked at the Kenwood website, and the TK-690 series looks like it's a good fit...but there are probably plenty of other products out there.

Any suggestions?

RKG · Post by **RKG** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 5:49 pm

Two rear-mounted Model II MCS2000s.

apco25 · Post by **apco25** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 6:11 pm

Kenwood 30 or 90 series mobiles will do what you want.

Also MACOM Orions make for a very slick dual radio setup.

MCS2000 can't be run with 2 radios and 1 control head.

JAYMZ · Post by **JAYMZ** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 6:42 pm

I would go with a dual band TK-790/TK-890 setup with the advanced head. If I remember correctly the alpha head is 14 characters for the advanced head and 8 for the basic on them. The dual setup with the advance head should run you between $1700 and $2000 depending on state bid or dealer prices.

They are very nice radios with some neat features... you could do a crassband repeater with it by hitting a button.. neat little toys like that. We have them in one of our ambulances and getting one in another.. If you ave the cash to spare go for it.

apco25 is right. MACOM's dual setup with teh orions are nice but the last I heard you had to select the radio to listen to. The Kenwood will let you listen to either radio at once. (example: Channel 1 can be VHF, Channel 2 VHF, Channel 3 UHF.. and so on. Just have to program the channels you want in the scan list.)

RESCUEMAN433 · Post by **RESCUEMAN433** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 7:38 pm

I agree go with the tk790/890 series- if you really need mdc-1200 the aftermarket board isn't to expensive and the radios aren't "snap together" like the mcs2000

RESCUEMAN433 · Post by **RESCUEMAN433** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 7:41 pm

I agree go with the tk790/890 series- if you really need mdc-1200 the aftermarket board isn't to expensive and the radios aren't "snap together" like the mcs2000

Radio_Cowboy · Post by **Radio_Cowboy** » Sun Sep 14, 2003 8:41 pm

I'll vote for the Kenwood 30 or 90 series also.

I recently got to play with a dualbanded TK730H and 830H and I was pretty impressed.... Software is SIMPLE, setting up the dual band is easy...11 charactar alpha display with the KCH-4 head, and 160 combined channels if you do the eeprom upgrade. Good audio, good scan capability, and a whole hell of a lot easier to set up (IMHO) then a X9000 or Spectra dual band setup.

-RC-

nmfire10 · Post by **nmfire10** » Mon Sep 15, 2003 3:03 am

Another vote for the Kenwood 90 series. There is even a built in repeater function. You can program certain channels to cross-band repeat from one radio to another. Programming is EASY and you don't need $600 worth of equipment to do it.

You may also be able to find used 30 series gear and save money.l