Buy Two Way Radios

What kind of marine radio should I get? Let's face it, there are a lot of choices available. We hope you at least now know that just one radio may not cover every situation, but should you just have two hand held marine radios?

For many of you, hand held marine radios are the perfect solution. You do not go far from shore, or stay out very long. You may even want a set of GMRS radios as well for shore use. However, for many of you a more powerful radio is the way to go.

Not only can you mount one of our marine transceivers so it is easy to find, and well, not sliding all around, they also have some great features. With selectable output (1-25 watts) they give greater flexibility and range than most handheld sets. You also connect them to an external antenna which gives you a lot more range than any hand held radio can provide (dependent on the quality of the antenna of course).

Add to this the features now available in modern VHF marine radios such as NOAA alerts, channel scan, and dual channel watch, all combined in a rugged, compact design that meets JIS7 waterproof standards. So go and give a look at our Cobra Marine MR-F55, or Cobra Marine MR-F80B radios and contact us with any questions you may have.

In our last post we talked about some options for boaters who enjoy small rivers and lakes, well this time it is for those that are out in the open water. We have a nice selection of marine radios here on our site, but how many radios do you need on a boat?

Most of you think that all you need is perhaps a nice hand held VHF two way radio or fixed transceiver. Often this is all you need to basic communication, especially when you are not going far from shore.

However, have you thought about a radio for your ditch bag? You do have a ditch bag correct? If the answer is "no" or "what is that?" you really may want to learn more about one. Essentially a ditch bag, or overboard bag, is an emergency kit you take with you in a worse case situations such as abandoning ship. It should contain some basic survival equipment and should be a waterproof bag or container. (For more information on what you should have in your ditch bag, there are a lot of online resources that can help.)

One of the most important items you can have is a VHF hand held two way radio. Most marine radios are water resistant, but you should also have the radio in its own waterproof bag or container. Being able to send out a radio message to recue searchers in an overboard situation is lifesaving. In an emergency you may not have time to search for a radio (or you have one that is installed), much less gather all the survival gear you may need. A well prepared emergency ditch bag, that is easy to get to, should be one of the most important safety items on your boat.

While working on an upcoming post about Vertex Standard radios, we thought a look at our current line of Vertex products was also needed. The first radio I want to talk about is the Intrinsically Safe Vertex VX-427 model.

There are few radios that are rated as Intrinsically Safe for use in potentially hazardous environments. The VX-427 meets the requirement set forth in ANSI/UL 913 6th Edition for Class 1, Division 1, Groups A-D; Class II, Groups E-G; and Class III for hazardous locations. Ok, what does that mean?

Some two way radios can create electrical and thermal energy that can potentially ignite flammable gasses or pose a risk in a combustible environment. The VX-427 is meticulous built to ensure that the electrical and thermal energy of the radio is low enough that ignition in a hazardous atmosphere cannot occur. It even has a special Intrinsically Safe 7.2 V 1100mAh Nickel-Cadmium battery.

In addition to being rated Intrinsically Safe, the VX-427 is also loaded with great features. The radio has 5 watts of transmit power, support for 16 channels, 6 programmable function keys, and an 8 character LCD screen. Combine these features with Vertex's rugged and reliable designs, and you have one great commercial radio.

Now that spring is here, it is time to talk about radios for your boats. Our current line of VHF Marine Radios is great for the majority of boaters, and we are planning a few articles about them right now.

Today though, we are going to look at a slightly different segment of boaters. The ones that may not realize they could utilize two way radios, thought they had to use VHF radios only, or have special equipment.

There are a lot of avid boaters out there with houseboats, pontoon boats, fishing boats, and personal watercraft. Most of these are used in small lakes and rivers and seldom taken far from a base camp or boat landing. Well then, why not use an FRS and GMRS radio? That way you can use them on shore at the camp site, boat landing, etc... where you cannot legally use a marine radio. Also, anyone can use an FRS radio, and family members are included in the GMRS license.

For a houseboat, two way radios are a great addition. When family and friends want to use some of the personal watercraft you brought along, two way radios will enable them to stay in contact with the houseboat and each other. This would also be great for those on overnight campouts on shore to stay in contact with those on the boat.

Do you like to take your fishing boat with you when you go camping? Two GMRS radios will provide extra convenience and a lot more security when you are able to communicate with others back at the camp.

With the NOAA weather alert ability of some radios, you can also be warned of any sudden changes in the weather.

Are you in a small marina, or a houseboat community? A repeater and a few GMRS radios may be a perfect addition. This would give you extended communication range, and provide a simple safety feature for everyone that cell phones may not provide.

In no way should you substitute a couple of FRS or GMRS radios for a true marine radio for most uses. They do not have the range or features needed. However, for a weekend boater on a small lake, they may be a good option. A two way radio that can also be legally used on shore is an attractive addition.

Kenwood Rebate

Kenwood has just launched a great new promotion! Through April 30th, 2009, you qualify for a $30 rebate per radio when you purchase six or more Kenwood ProTalk TK-3200L-U2P or Kenwood ProTalk TK-2200L-V2P radios! Click here for full details and redemption form.

MR355R

Here at Buy Two Ways Radios we are excited to have some news on the new 2009 Motorola Talkabouts. There are some interesting new models and features this year, starting with the MR350 and MR355R.

Top of the Line
The Motorola MR350 and MR355R have some interesting features that have been added. The most obvious changes made to previous top of the line models include larger buttons to make operation easier while wearing gloves and a built in LED flashlight. There is also a new emergency alert feature. Pressing the alert button sends out an alert signal and a spoken message to other radios. The "claimed" range for both radios is 35 miles. The MR350 is black with sliver highlights and an MSRP of $79.99 (per pair) The MR355R has a Realtree® AP HD® Camo pattern faceplate, 8 repeater channels (When used with a repeater, this will greatly extend the range of the MR355R. Great for hunters, or anyone needing a large transmission area.), and an MSRP of $89.99 (per pair). Now in stock for $79.99!

Some Great Features
The Motorola MJ270R, while not having all of the options of the top of the line models, still has some great features. With a "claimed" range of 27 miles, 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, NOAA weather channels, LED flashlight, and the emergency alert, the MJ270 is a great radio for the outdoor enthusiast. The rugged case is back with a silver faceplate and an MSRP of $69.99 (per pair). Now in stock for $59.99!

Still Yellow!
Slightly less costly, but still loaded with features and looks, the MH230R is a good option. With a "claimed" range of 23 miles, 22 channels and 121 privacy codes, and NOAA weather channels. The MJ230R is a very good multi-use radio for everything from a camping trip to a trip to the mall. And yes, it has a disctintive yellow faceplate. The MJ230R has an MSRP of $59.99 (per pair). Now in stock for $49.99!

Easy to Charge
One of the things we like about these radios is the ability to charge off of a mini-USB cable and not just a desktop charger. Being able to charge from a desktop charger, in a car using a mini-USB cable, or even off of a notebook computer with a mini-USB computer cable is a great convenience.

Here is a complete list of all of Motorola's 2009 models:

MR350R - NOW IN STOCK! ($69.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels (7 NOAA) with Alert Feature , LED Flashlight, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter/Save Feature, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, PTT Power Boost, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter.
T9680R - (MSRP $79.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels (7 NOAA) with Alert Feature and SAME, LED Flashlight, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, PTT Power Boost, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter.
MJ270R - NOW IN STOCK! ($59.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels (7 NOAA), Emergency Alert Button, LED Flashlight, iVOX, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter.
EM100R - (MSRP $69.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels (7 NOAA), Emergency Alert Button, LED Flashlight, iVOX, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter.
MH230R -NOW IN STOCK! ($49.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, iVOX, QT (Quiet Talk) Interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter. YELLOW!
SX600R - (MSRP $39.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, iVOX, QT (Quiet Talk) Interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, Mini USB Charging Port, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter.
FV300R - (MSRP $29.99) 22 Channels, Priority Scan, Keypad Lock, Battery Meter, 10 Call Tones, Plug In Charger
FV300 - (MSRP $19.99) 22 Channels, Priority Scan, Keypad Lock, Battery Meter, 10 Call Tones.

The following feature the Realtree® AP HD® Camo pattern:

MR355R -- NOW IN STOCK! ($79.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 8 Repeater Channels, 11 Weather Channels with Alert, Emergency Alert Button, LED Flashlight, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Replaceable Faceplate, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, PTT Power Boost, Mini USB Charging Prot, Drop-in Charger, Digital Signal Processing , Charging Adapter, 2 PPT Earbuds.
T9650XLR - (MSRP $119.9) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels with Alert, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Replaceable Faceplate, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones (5 Animal), Priority Scan, PTT Power Boost, Drop-in Charger, Digital Signal Processing , Charging Adapter, 2 Earpiece with Boom Microphone, 1 Car Charger.
T9550XLR - (MSRP $79.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels with Alert, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Replaceable Faceplate, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, PTT Power Boost, Drop-in Charger, Digital Signal Processing , Charging Adapter, 2 PPT Earbuds.
8550XLR - (MSRP $69.99) 22 Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 11 Weather Channels with Alert, iVOX, VibraCall Alert, QT (Quiet Talk) interruption Filter, Backlight Display, Battery Meter, Keypad Lock, 10 Call Tones, Priority Scan, Digital Signal Processing, Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter, 2 PPT Earbuds.

GXT1000

Buy Two Way Radios is excited to announce the 2009 lineup of Midland two way radios. Midland has added a number of new features and a few notable improvements to their 2009 radios. With so many changes in 2008, we were very interested in what other changes Midland would introduce in 2009 to the rest of their FRS and GMRS products.

Even More Channels and Privacy Codes
In 2008 Midland added extra channels. While we were skeptical originally about what these channels were, the added privacy, or more accurately filtering, feature was an interesting addition. In 2009 some models now have up to 8 more privacy channels (for a total of 28 privacy channels). There is a much more useful change though. They have upped the number of privacy codes on some models (all of the way up to 387 privacy codes on the GXT1000). This is more than twice the number previously available on consumer grade radios!

A Surprise
Regular readers of this site know that for years now there has been a steady increase in the claimed effective communication range of radios being made by many of the manufacturers. While the stated maximum range is technically accurate, we are very impressed by Midland's decision of keeping the advertised range unchanged. While the claimed ranges are still only possible under very specific conditions, the fact that the claimed distances have not again increased is a great move by Midland.

More Safety Features
The NOAA weather alert feature was already a great addition last year. A new feature is the new ability to automatically lock onto the local weather channel. Combined with this, some models will also now have an SOS Siren. If you are in an emergency situation, you will now be able to easily send out a distress signal.

More than just Camouflage
The backlit LCD screen for the radios has also been changed to a new hunter orange color. This should especially look good on radios with the new Mossy Oak Breakup camouflage faceplates. All of the models have a new updated look with more rugged looking cases, and less silver colored plastic on some of the faceplates.

New Model Specifics
Here is a look at the highlights of each new GMRS model. The new models will be available in May/June (subject to change). Pricing information is not yet finalized.

GXT1050 - Camouflage, "50" Channels, 387 Privacy codes, SOS Siren, Weather Scan, NOAA Channels/Alerts, Group Mode, Direct Call, Vibrate alert, VOX, IP4 Waterproof, DC Adapter, Headsets, 5 Animal Calls.
GXT1000 - "50" Channels, 387 Privacy codes, SOS Siren, Weather Scan, NOAA Channels/Alerts, Group Mode, Direct Call, Vibrate alert, VOX, IP4 Waterproof, DC Adapter, Headsets.
GXT 785 - Camouflage, "42" Channels, 142 Privacy Codes, 10 Call Alerts, Weather Scan, NOAA Channels/Alerts, Vibrate Alert, VOX, 5 Animal Calls.
GXT740 - "42" Channels, 142 Privacy Codes, 10 Call Alerts, Weather Scan, NOAA Channels/Alerts, Vibrate Alert, VOX
LXT480 - "42" Channels, 121 Privacy Codes, 5 Call Alerts, NOAA Channels/Alerts, Vibrate Alert, VOX
LXT365 - Small Camouflage Faceplate Section, "22" Channels Hi/Lo Power Settings
LXT360 - "22" Channels, Hi/Lo Power Settings
LXT112 - "22" Channels

Do you need a high powered two way radio, but don't want to deal with the hassle of licensing? MURS may be the answer, particularly if you plan to use the radio outdoors where VHF frequencies are most effective.

The Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) is a two-way radio service consisting of five frequencies in the VHF spectrum. Established by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the fall of 2000, MURS is a radio service allowing for "licensed by use" operation, meaning that a FFC issued license is not necessary to operate a MURS transmitter. The FCC formally defines MURS as "a private, two-way, short distance voice or data communications service for personal or business activities of the general public".

There are some limitations to MURS: radio power is limited to 2 watts, MURS stations may not be connected to the public telephone network, radio repeaters are not permitted, and the highest point of any MURS antenna must not be more than 60 feet above the ground or 20 feet above the highest point of the structure on which it is mounted.

Since MURS exists within the VHF spectrum, it has the potential to become very popular among the traveling community and outdoor enthusiasts. VHF characteristics are ideal for short-distance ground communication, with a range generally somewhat farther than line-of-sight. Although there are limitations on transmitter power output and antenna height, there are no restrictions on the use of external antennas. The range for vehicle-to-vehicle communications with MURS can be much greater than that for the Family Radio Service (FRS). Outdoor activities are benefited by the increased range over the FRS, allowing for base camps to utilize antennas to stay in contact with campers and emergency personnel.

MURS operation is authorized anywhere a CB station is authorized.

• Within or over any area of the world where radio service are regulated by the FCC
• Any other area of the world, except within the territorial limits of areas where radio services are regulated by either an agency of the United States other than the FCC or any foreign government (Subject to either parties rules)
• Aboard any vessel of the United States, with the permission of the captain, while the vessel is traveling either domestically or in international waters

MURS operation is not authorized aboard aircraft in flight.

MURS stations may transmit voice or data signal as permitted in FCC regulation Section 95.631.

Determined quickly whether a radio is legal to use on MURS:

• If the radio is Part 95 certified and operates on MURS frequencies
• If the radio was Part 95 certified prior to November 12, 2002 and transmits no more than 2 watts, and has no external control to increase power above 2 watts and only operates wideband on the 154 MHz frequencies (all parts must be true)
• If the Radio was Part 90 certified prior to November 12, 2002 and transmits no more than 2 watts and has no external control to increate power above 2 watts and does not narrowband on the 151 MHz and 154 MHz frequencies or narrowband on 151 MHz and wideband on 154 MHz frequencies (all parts must be true)

The following are the frequencies authorized for use by the MURS:

Click here for a list of radios that we currently offer supporting the MURS frequencies.

Related Resources
The first mobile MURS radio from Wouxun is here!
Best MURS Two Way Radios of 2020
Looking for a MURS Compatible Radio?
MURS Capable Two Way Radios
Motorola Releases Two New MURS Radios
Introducing the Wouxun KG-805 Professional GMRS and MURS Radios
The Two Way Radio Show TWRS-11 - All About MURS
The Two Way Radio Show TWRS-145 - New GMRS and MURS Radios

Customers who are new to business radios are confronted with several confusing options, one of which is the type of frequency band to choose. This particular option consists of two choices, either UHF or VHF. These abbreviations make no sense to most people and without some research it is easy to choose a radio that is not right for your situation. So how do you determine which is the best choice for your application?

The quick answer is: choose VHF if you plan to only use the radios outdoors and in an area that is relatively free of obstructions, such as buildings. If you plan on using the radio indoors, both indoors and out, or outdoors but around buildings, choose UHF. UHF is the better all around signal and is by far the most popular, so if you are in doubt, choose UHF.

UHF signals don't travel quite as far outdoors as VHF signals, but they do a better job of penetrating wood, steel, and concrete, giving you better range and performance in urban environments and around buildings. VHF signals travel farther, absent obstructions, and tend to "hug" the earth better, providing better performance outdoors or in hilly terrain.

Related Resources
Buyer's Guide - VHF Business Radios
Buyer's Guide - UHF Business Radios
Two Way Radio Basics
MURS: Unlicensed VHF
Radio Compatibility: Which Models Will Work Together
The Two Way Radio Show TWRS-02 - An Introduction to Business Radios
Radio 101 - The difference between UHF and VHF radios