Hi all, I am in the market for another primary radio for my vehicle after selling my Yaesu FT-8800 a couple years ago. Upon scanning the horizon, it seems a lot has changed in that time.
My current collection includes a couple of Yeasu HTs and a Yaesu FT-1500M as a backup 2m and APRS rig (using a TinyTrak4). Now I am looking for a 2m/440 dual band, dual receive with remote mountable head. I like the look of the Yeasu models FTM-400DR or FTM-350AR (which I hear is better for off-road ham use). There is even the new FTM-100DR but is not dual receive nor crossband repeat capable so it is less attractive. All of these have limited APRS functionality built in so that's a plus (although APRS is more of a novelty for me).
Primary usage would be repeater operation, with the occasional communication with another vehicle on simplex. I don't go out with groups much anymore, but rather longer solo trips to fairly remote areas so high power, reliability and robust operation is very important.
Not at all familiar with the current Kenwood or Icom lineup, but it seems Yeasu leads the pack.
I am leaning towards the FTM-400DR right now unless someone talks me out of it. Yeasu is offering a $100 rebate as well until the end of the month bringing the price down to $500. I have even considered an all-band radio like the FT-857D (a bit dated) or the FT-991 :drool: ($$$), but not sure how much I would use HF.
Thoughts and/or recommendations? Thanks in advance!
My current collection includes a couple of Yeasu HTs and a Yaesu FT-1500M as a backup 2m and APRS rig (using a TinyTrak4). Now I am looking for a 2m/440 dual band, dual receive with remote mountable head. I like the look of the Yeasu models FTM-400DR or FTM-350AR (which I hear is better for off-road ham use). There is even the new FTM-100DR but is not dual receive nor crossband repeat capable so it is less attractive. All of these have limited APRS functionality built in so that's a plus (although APRS is more of a novelty for me).
Primary usage would be repeater operation, with the occasional communication with another vehicle on simplex. I don't go out with groups much anymore, but rather longer solo trips to fairly remote areas so high power, reliability and robust operation is very important.
Not at all familiar with the current Kenwood or Icom lineup, but it seems Yeasu leads the pack.
I am leaning towards the FTM-400DR right now unless someone talks me out of it. Yeasu is offering a $100 rebate as well until the end of the month bringing the price down to $500. I have even considered an all-band radio like the FT-857D (a bit dated) or the FT-991 :drool: ($$$), but not sure how much I would use HF.
Thoughts and/or recommendations? Thanks in advance!