Midland

Earlier this year we told you about the new lineup of Midland FRS/GMRS radios for 2012. Since the initial announcement we've been keeping you posted on the arrival of each new model as it has been released.

Now, two more Midland radios are out and are now available at Buy Two Way Radios!

The Midland LXT500VP3 is a great choice for family outings. It's compact, lightweight, easy to use for kids of all ages.

The Midland LXT535VP3 is the camo version of the LXT500. It gives you that added look of outdoor adventure when your camping out with the kids.

Both models support all 22 FRS and GMRS channels and feature Hi/Low power settings, all alert, channel scan, auto squelch, silent operation, and keypad lock. They are water resistant and certified lead free.

The LXT500VP3 and LXT535VP3 are available and ready to ship with your order at Buy Two Way Radios!

We discuss how two way radios are used in your local neighborhood. We also review the Motorola MJ270R two way radio.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:17

Topic Discussion 1:31
we talk about using two way radios in your neighborhood. We discuss how radios can be used for various neighborhood activities, important features to consider when purchasing radios for use around the neighborhood and recommend some specific makes and models of two way radios for neighborhood use. Radios discussed include the Midland GXT760VP4, Motorola MJ270R, MR350R, MH230R, MH230TPR and Cobra MicroTalk CXR925 two way radios. For more information about using two way radios in your neighborhood read Two Way Radios For Neighborhoods.

Commercial Break 18:00
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 18:58
Today we review the Motorola Talkabout MJ270R Two Way Radio.

Questions and Answers 22:59
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum.

Wrap up and Close 28:05
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

We discuss JIS and IP specification ratings on two way radios and what they mean. We also review the Midland WR-300 emergency weather radio.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:15

Topic Discussion 1:29
We talk about JIS and IP specification ratings on two way radios and what they mean. We'll discuss what they are, what tests are performed on the radios to meet these specifications and how to read the rating designations. Radios discussed include the Midland GXT1000, Motorola Talkabout MS350R, Icom IC-F60, and Vertex Standard VX-231 two way radios. For more information and a complete reference chart for JIS and IP Specifications read The IP and JIS Specification for Water/Dust Resistance.

Commercial Break 22:51
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 23:49
Today we review the Midland WR-300 Weather Radio.

Questions and Answers 32:33
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum.

Wrap up and Close 43:31
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

We preview some new products coming out this year in the world of two way radio technology. We also review the Uniden Bearcat 880 CB radio.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:16

Topic Discussion 1:30
We talk about new two way radios launching in 2012. We'll look at a new lineup of consumer FRS/GMRS radios, some of the latest business radios, and find out what's new in CB and marine radios. For a sneak peek at the new line of Midland consumer radios read Midland's 2012 FRS/GMRS Two Way Radio Lineup.

Commercial Break 28:26
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 29:24
Today we review the Uniden Bearcat 880 CB radio.

Questions and Answers 37:49
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum. Q&A Note:To find repeaters in your area visit mygmrs.com.

Wrap up and Close 42:06
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 42:43 — 39.2MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

With all of the unpredictable weather we have been experiencing lately, particularly the destructive tornados from last week, we have been receiving an uptick in interest in our weather radios. We thought it might be helpful to put together a quick guide to make it a little easier for those shopping for their first weather radio.

What Is A Weather Radio?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a federal agency that, among other things, is tasked with monitoring the weather (through the National Weather Service). NOAA has transmitting stations spread throughout the United States that constantly broadcast the current weather conditions for the surrounding area. Each station transmits a message on one of seven VHF frequencies (162.400, 162.425, 162.450, 162.475, 162.500, 162.525, and 162.550). A looped recording is constantly played over these frequencies describing the current weather.

A basic weather radio allows you to tune into these frequencies and instantly hear a weather report at any time. Very simple models are super easy to use, only requiring that you choose your local channel and press a button to start listening. Choosing a channel is often as simple as scrolling through stations 1-7 and listening for the one that is the clearest, but NOAA has a page on their web site that will allow you to find the station that is designated for your area.

While a basic weather radio can be useful, a more advanced radio is really recommended.

Proactive Alerts
More advanced weather radios take things a step further, proactively alerting you when an emergency or dangerous weather situation occurs. When an emergency arises, a special tone is transmitted by the NOAA stations. Many weather radios can constantly monitor for these tones and turn themselves on when the tone is heard. This is critical, as it allows your weather radio to now alert you proactively to an emergency.

One drawback of the weather radios that proactively alert is that a NOAA transmitting station covers a very large area, and you may find yourself being alerted to events that do not necessarily apply to your city or county. If this happens enough, you may find yourself paying less attention to the radio when it sounds an alert. The most advanced weather radios support "Specific Area Message Encoding," or SAME, which solves this problem. Weather radios using SAME technology allow you to enter a code that will focus the alerts on roughly a zip code sized area, ensuring that only warnings in your designated area will be alerted to you.

Who Needs A Weather Radio?
As a retailer, it is a little cliché to say that everyone needs our product. In the case of a weather radio, however, I offer no apologies. Year after year we see news stories about people who die in emergencies in which they just didn't have time to get to safety. Weather radios save lives year after year by waking people in the middle of the night or providing enough warning time for them to get to shelter. This is a product that sells for a range of $20-$60 that could make the all the difference in the world when an emergency occurs, so there is really no reason not to have one.

Fortunately, it seems like weather radios are catching on in a big way. Local news channels have gotten the word out about the importance of having one and we see many businesses purchasing them to help keep their employees safe. Weather radios are also in use by almost all of the schools in the nation now, with the Midland WR-120 being the most popular model.

What Is The Best Weather Radio?
As with most products, the best weather radio really depends upon how you plan to use it and even how much you want to spend. Here I'll outline a few of our best sellers and give the pros and cons of each.

Midland WR-120 Weather Radio - The Midland WR-120 is possibly the most popular weather radio in the world. It is a full featured desktop weather radio, supporting SAME technology and even allowing for the connection of (optional) external accessories such as a strobe light or antenna.

Midland WR-400 Weather Radio - More advanced than the WR-120, the WR-400 also includes features such as an AM/FM radio, alarm clock, selectable alert settings, and color coded alert lights.

Midland ER310 Emergency Hand Crank Weather Radio with Flashlight - This is a full featured portable combo weather radio and flashlight with multiple power options, AM/FM radio, SOS signaling in Morse Code, a built-in USB charging port and even a dog whistle to alert rescue animals. The ER210 is the base model.

Midland XT-511 Emergency Crank Radio - This is more of an all-around emergency device than simply a weather radio. It can be powered by AC, DC, battery, or by crank. It has a flashlight, AM/FM radio, weather radio, GMRS two way radio and USB port. It would be nice to have during a power outage or on a camping trip. Does not support SAME.

Midland HH50B Weather Radio - This is a very small and inexpensive hand held All Hazards Alert radio. Does not support SAME.

Weather Radio Accessories
Midland 18-STR Strobe Light - This accessory is made to go with your Midland Weather Radios. This strobe light will plug directly into many weather radio models, giving you a visual alert in case of an alert. This would be great if you had a family member with hearing problems or simply wanted to keep the volume on your weather radio at a minimum.

Midland 18-259W Weather Antenna - This antenna is will help if you are in an area or in a building where it is difficult to receive a strong signal. Great for cars, vans, homes, boats, RVs, and is specially designed to use for steel buildings and manufactured homes with metallic siding or construction.

Whether you live in a region with unpredictable weather or you just want to be prepared in an emergency situation, we here at www.BuyTwoWayRadios.com have the tools to keep you and your loved ones safe and prepared. If you have any questions about anything, please feel free to contact our sales staff at 1-800-584-1445!

We talk about taking two way radios on camping trips. We also review the Garmin Rino 655t two way radio with GPS.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:16

Topic Discussion 1:30
We talk about using two way radios while camping. We'll identify what features are important to have in a two way radio when out camping and make a few recommendations on the best radios for use on camping trips. Radios discussed include the Midland GXT1000VP4, Midland GXT5000, Cobra microTALK CXR925, Motorola TALKABOUT MR350R VP, Motorola TALKABOUT T9680R-SAME, Uniden GMR3689-2CK, Garmin Rino Two Way Radios with GPS, and the Midland XT511 Base Camp Two Way / Emergency Crank Radio. For more information about using two way radios on camping trips, read Two Way Radios For Camping and listen to The Two Way Radio Show Episode 3 - Radios In The Woods.

Commercial Break 22:59
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 23:57
Today we review the Garmin Rino 655t Two Way Radio With GPS.

Questions and Answers 33:25
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum.

Wrap up and Close 36:02
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 36:45 — 33.7MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

The National Geographic Channel has a new show called 'Doomsday Preppers' that airs on Tuesdays at 9:00pm EST. This show takes a closer look at people who are going to great lengths to prepare for hard times. Each episode features several 'preppers', and shows you how each is preparing for a specific crisis scenario. The show doesn't look at the more common disasters, but instead focuses on major to catastrophic events, as unlikely as they may be to occur. Examples of such events include an EMP detonation, a major oil crisis, hyperinflation, financial collapse, and more.

In this past Tuesday's episode one segment focuses on Jason Charles, a New York City fireman, and details his preparations for a supervolcano eruption. As he was demonstrating how he would prepare himself to go from his apartment to a storage facility for more supplies, he was shown carrying a Midland GXT1050VP4 two way radio. Is this radio a good choice for a crisis scenario?

Advantages of the Midland GXT1050VP4
There is no doubt that the Midland GXT1050 is a fantastic consumer grade GMRS radio. It has a lot of power and great range (typically 1-2 miles), is somewhat waterproof, (meets JIS4 specifications), will operate on standard AA batteries if you aren't able to recharge the included NiMH battery pack, and it will allow you to listen to NOAA weather channels. This is essentially the same radio as the very popular and very well reviewed Midland GXT1000VP4, only in camo.

As you can see the GXT1050VP4 offers a lot of what a 'prepper' may be looking for, and it would be tough to make a case that it is a bad choice. As always seems to be the case, however, there is not a product that is completely perfect for this scenario so I'll point out a few other things that could be considered.

Other Things To Consider
First, while the GXT1050VP4 is packed with features, durability isn't really one of them. At $80/pair you really can't expect it to be, and this is going to be the case for any consumer grade radios. A business grade radio is going to be considerably more expensive, but far more durable. In a true disaster scenario, it would be difficult to find replacement radios so this has to be a consideration. Another option would be to purchase a backup set of the same or even lower cost consumer radios. This would provide a backup option and would still cost less than a typical single business radio.

The Midland GXT-1050 operates on FRS and GMRS frequencies, which are very popular and are used by most consumer grade radios. A high powered GMRS radio can usually be counted on for a mile or so of communication range. GMRS, however, also allows for the use of repeaters. Repeaters are high powered devices that essentially re-broadcast a transmission at a much higher power and over a great distance. In a crisis situation it may be helpful to be able to communicate with others that are more than a mile from you, but to do this you would need a repeater in your area as well as a radio that supports the GMRS repeater frequencies.

Unfortunately the GXT1050 does not support repeater frequencies. If you decide that you need this ability, Motorola has a couple of good options. The Motorola MR355R and MR356R are priced similarly to the Midland, but are repeater capable. The Motorola MS350R is repeater capable as well as fully waterproof. The Garmin Rino series is also repeater capable, but these devices are far more than just two way radios and that is reflective in the cost.

Basic Emergency Kits
Remember that we also offer some basic emergency kits. While these kits will get you nowhere close to the level of preparedness of those featured on the show, they are a small start and could make a big difference if you find yourself without power or clean water during a bad storm or other emergency.

We talk about the Mil-Spec and Mil-STD ratings on two way radios and what they mean. We also review the Icom IC-F3001 and IC-F4001 two way radios.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:18

Topic Discussion 1:32
We talk about Mil-Spec and Mil-STD. We discuss what they are, what tests are performed on the radios to meet these ratings and identify some radios that carry these designations. Radios discussed include Icom, Kenwood, Motorola and Vertex Standard business radios. For more information about Mil-Spec and Mil-STD, read the Military Standards Publications at The US Army Developmental Test Command.

Commercial Break 16:05
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 17:03
Today we review the Icom IC-F3001 and IC-F4001 business two way radios.

Questions and Answers 24:12
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum.

Wrap up and Close 31:30
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More

Last month we told you about some exciting changes to Midland's 2012 lineup of FRS/GMRS two way radios. We now have more details and we're even more excited to pass them along to you. Early this year, Midland promised technical and cosmetic upgrades to its line of consumer radios, including new models. Midland has made many enhancements and performance improvements to its entire line of two way radios during the last few years, and they are taking it all to the next level in 2012.

Feature Upgrades
Among new products to be introduced this year is the new GXT2000 Series. According to Midland, the new GXT2000 and GXT2050 radios will each offer a large, easy to read LCD display. A fast charging, higher capacity lithium polymer battery will also be included to provide longer battery life. This battery can charge from 0-90% in about an hour and trickle charge the final 10% in less than another. The battery upgrade will be a welcome one for hikers, campers and others who love the outdoors and need a battery that charges faster and lasts longer out in the field.

In addition to the new models, Midland's 2012 lineup includes two popular, tried and true standards, the GXT1000VP4 and the GXT1050VP4.

All Midland two way radios include a 3 year warranty, proving their commitment to stand behind their products.

2012 Model Specifications
Here is a sneak peek at the lineup of new models with the manufacturer's suggested retail prices. We expect to have them in stock by mid-summer of 2012. Note that actual prices may vary on release.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT118 (MSRP $24.99) - 22 channels, channel scan, keypad lock, eVOX, call alert, auto squelch, dual power options, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, charges through the headset jack, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT118VP (MSRP $34.99) - This is the LXT118 in a value pack with two radios, beltclips, rechargeable AAA batteries, AC adapter and owner's manual.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT500VP3 (MSRP $39.99) - 22 channels, silent operation, HI/LO power settings, channel scan, keypad lock, call alert, auto squelch, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT535VP3 (MSRP $49.99) - 22 channels, silent operation, HI/LO power settings, channel scan, keypad lock, call alert, auto squelch, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT560VP3 (MSRP $59.99) - 22 channels plus 14 extra channels, 121 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, silent operation, HI/LO power settings, channel scan, keypad lock, call alert, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! LXT600VP3 - (MSRP $69.99) - 22 channels plus 14 extra channels, 121 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, silent operation, HI/LO power settings, eVOX, channel scan, keypad lock, 5 call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! GXT860VP4 - (MSRP $79.99) - 22 channels plus 20 extra channels, 142 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX, channel scan, keypad lock, 10 call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

NOW AVAILABLE! GXT895VP4 - (MSRP $89.99) - Camo shell, 22 channels plus 20 extra channels, 142 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX, channel scan, keypad lock, 15 call alerts, 5 animal call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant.

GXT1000VP4 - (MSRP $89.99) - 22 channels plus 28 extra channels, 285 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, whisper mode, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX (9 levels), channel scan, keypad lock, group call, 10 call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant, JIS4 waterproof.

GXT1050VP4 - (MSRP $99.99) - Camo shell, 22 channels plus 28 extra channels, 285 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, whisper mode, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX (9 levels), channel scan, keypad lock, group call, 10 call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual power options, roger beep, keystroke tones, mic and headphone jacks, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant, JIS4 waterproof.

GXT2000VP4 - (MSRP $119.99) - 22 channels plus 28 extra channels, 142 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, whisper mode, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX (9 levels), channel scan, keypad lock, group call, 15 call alerts, 5 animal call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual watch, dual power options, SOS siren, roger beep, keystroke tones, HD dynamic audio, mic and headphone jacks, EXTREME Lithium-Polymer battery pack, ultra fast charge, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant, JIS4 waterproof.

GXT2050VP4 - (MSRP $129.99) - Camo shell, 22 channels plus 28 extra channels, 142 privacy codes, NOAA weather alert radio with weather scan, LCD backlit display, vibrate alert, silent operation, whisper mode, HI/MED/LO power settings, eVOX (9 levels), channel scan, keypad lock, group call, 10 call alerts, 5 animal call alerts, auto squelch, monitor, dual watch, dual power options, SOS siren, roger beep, keystroke tones, HD dynamic audio, mic and headphone jacks, EXTREME Lithium-Polymer battery pack, ultra fast charge, drop-in charger capable, battery life extender, water resistant, JIS4 waterproof.

We will keep you updated with more information as it becomes available.

We talk about using two way radios while skiing. We also review the Cobra MicroTALK CXR825 two way radio.

Intro :00
Billboard 1:19

Topic Discussion 1:35
In this episode We'll discuss the advantages of taking radios with you on ski trips, things to consider when using them on the slopes and offer some recommendations as to which radios are best to take along. Radios discussed include the Midland GXT1000VP4, Cobra microTALK CXR925, Motorola TALKABOUT Two Way Radios and the Midland SZ1B Sub Zero Black Ear Warmer Stereo Headset. For more information about using two way radios on ski trips, read Taking a Ski Trip? Take a Radio and Two Way Radios For Skiing.

Commercial Break 18:46
buytwowayradios.com 1:00

Product Review 19:44
Today we review the Cobra microTALK CXR825 Two Way Radio.

Questions and Answers 25:52
Questions from readers of our Two Way Radio Blog and members of the Two Way Radio Forum.

FCC Narrowbanding Announcement 30:54
For more information read FCC DA 12-12.

Wrap up and Close 32:34
Send in your comments and questions for Danny, Anthony and Rick to show(at)buytwowayradios.com. Feedback on this and other topics will be read by the hosts and included in future episodes of the show. Visit us at www.twowayradioshow.com!

© 2012 Cricket Ventures, LLC. All rights reserved.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download () | Embed

Subscribe: Google Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | Email | TuneIn | RSS | More