Best Mobile Ham Radio 2020 | New Ham Radio Operators - WATCH THIS!

Best Mobile Ham Radio 2020 - Recorded for the New Ham Radio Operator, this is part of a series that I am calling the New Ham Workshop.
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[@HamRadio2]

Update for 2022! - kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3WTeJRobrFqf6c

[@duneattack]

2 years later this is still my go to video as a new ham searching for my first mobile radio. Thanks Jason. You Rock!!!!

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks!

[@jay-rus4437]

Im very new....received my call sign 4 weeks ago...I love the IC-2730a. Several reasons. It does have aviation scan frequencies. It has dual band dual receive. I really like that for setting one frequency on one side while scanning others on the second side. It has multiple mount options because of the removable face plate, as well as the mic can be connected to either the face plate or the main radio unit. Finally, the cost at $245 right now with rebates seems like a lot of radio for that price. Ive ordered a total of 3 now, so clearly I like it. We have ordered a couple ft-4xr HTs for a part of our emergency plan, but working on a mobile radio 12v power go box now. That will provide a much more effective radio for emergency use.

[@TK-Radio-Adventures]

First started when I got my ticket with an icom 2720. Got interested in the digital side after talking to a couple of hams that was starting into it as well. They was getting involved with yeasu system fusion. Well after getting involved with them. I kinda went full force into it lol. I bought an yaesu ftm-400. After having that radio for a few months and loving it. I bought another one. Its amazing on analog and digital. Best advice I ever heard was when someone wants to get into the digital stuff. "Buy a radio for the digital mode that is popular in your area" that advise my not work for everyone and what they want to do but it holds truth.

[@aaronnn7bio162]

Your videos have been a great resource. This video did help me narrow down my choice for my first radio for my vehicle. I went with the Icom 2730a which arrived today. Will be paring it with a Comet CA-2X4SRNMO. So I will be ready to hit the ground running once I pass my Tech License.

[@HamRadio2]

Glad it helped. And a *great* choice of radio, too!

[@hdrider92]

Jason, as another older newbie I wanted to thank you for your efforts! I've been binge watching your videos, including the tech & general classes. I plan on taking both tests at the end of this month. I have an IC-7300, IC-2730A for the VHF & UHF (to use as a base as well), and a Yaesu VX6 HT. I might mention all need programmed yet, hoping you do some instructions on that. Don't have antennas up yet, working on that. Fortunately I can listed to the HT since the local repeaters are among the pre-programmed for receiving. Looks like I'll be needing a local "Elmer" to assist in sorting this out. I'm in NE Indiana, where it's currently winter.Ugh.

[@elliottdmann]

This was helpful for me as a new ham trying to understand some of the thought process between choosing among similar radios. Thank you for the info!

[@HamRadio2]

Glad it was helpful!

[@user-mt2qn4yp8w]

Thank you Jason. Great video. Really great for the new hams and the old ones just looking to get their first mobile radio. 73's Clark KG7LOI

[@HamRadio2]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jss672006]

Thanks for video, lots of great radios mentioned!

[@HamRadio2]

You bet!

[@Marty48034]

This is EXACTLY the vid i was looking for. Thank you. Right now, the ALinco DR-735T is looking like the one. We will see. I will run by my Elmers in the local club. Thanks!!!

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks!

[@silentarcher7355]

I bought the alinco DR-735t, so far it's great. Can someone please explain the pager bell option and how it works? Does that feature require the digital ad on board?

[@bthemedia]

Please include the radio make/model in the video while talking - or at least time stamps in description. It becomes very challenging trying to recall which one you are talking about currently. The info link to related videos is great though!

[@jeffskidmore64]

I just purchased the Yaesu 7250DR this week and really like it so far. Digital repeaters aren’t popular in my area but still a good feature for maybe later on.

[@ut4646]

Super excellent video !!!

[@HamRadio2]

Thank you very much!

[@jrreid24]

Still running the 9800 after many years. It's a solid radio and I've never had an issue. Have one running as my base station too, right next to my ts440. 👍✌️💪

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for sharing

[@billsbullets]

Quad band with cross band repeat and a remote head for around $200.00. I bought 2 of them as well and never looked backed. 👍👍

[@Stevenfclark]

I have the Yaesu FTM400 in the car and love it and the 991A and 8800 in the shack for 2/70, great video 73 de N1AD

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for sharing

[@jrlepage]

Thanks for the video. Can you explain a little more about why you don’t recommend a radio with DV capability or Fusion capability as a first radio? I’m not super interested in digital, but if the radio does analog too, what’s the harm in having the capability on board? Curious if I’m missing something here. Thanks!

[@danielnapier4501]

Thanks for the video KO4BMM. I use the icom 2730a in my truck. I have the yaesu 7250 with wires x in my house. I like both radio's. Qyt 980 plus wasn't a bad radio, but the signal strength would drop down 25 or 30 watts if you talked too long. Took the advice of some ham friends around here ( London, Corbin, Somerset Kentucky area. So far so good. Both radio's are a good bargain. And you can program them without having to use chirp. KO4BMM. 73's

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for sharing

[@truck57us]

R&L Electronics are fantastic. Great pricing and fast personal service. Did a speedy warranty exchange on my new mobile. Very impressed!!!

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for sharing

[@brentjohnson6654]

Another great video! I am building my ham shack as I saw you are doing. I am a newly licensed Tech/General and am interested in a dual band radio for my truck. I purchased a DMR HT from Anytone that you reviewed earlier this year. Thanks for that. If I am considering operating HF remote, it would seem to me I don’t want to dump a ton of money into a 2m/70cm mobile rig, but that is just me thinking out loud. I won’t know until I try it with some lower priced toys, I suppose. Thanks for all your good videos (even though it has delayed updating Jason’s man cave ha!). 73! From Greenville, TX

[@zachcollins444]

Thanks for your Video! I am currently looking for my first mobile and your video has given me some ideas. I don’t want to spend FTM-400 money, but features I would like are crossband repeat, and in the future possibly rigging up a digipeater for APRS from an HT while in the backwoods. One of the bare bones radios I was considering, just to get on the air, is the Anytone 778UV/Retivis 95/Midland DBR2500. After your video, I am leaning towards paying more for the Icom 2730A, but I can’t find anything about TNC connections for APRS. Should I just save my money and get the FTM-400 if I am interested in APRS?

[@chasingdawn8635]

This video could not have come at a better time. I'm literally looking for a mobile!!

[@HamRadio2]

Great!

[@tylerdean980]

What did you go with?

[@chasingdawn8635]

@@tylerdean980 im going to go with the kenwood tm-v71a

[@dougaltysoe]

Still using a Kenwood TM-V7 an old girl but still going strong...duel recieve ,detatchable front panel.Very interesting video as always.

[@HamRadio2]

Great radio

[@brentN4BDW]

@@HamRadio2 The crossband is a BENEFICIAL feature. I park my truck on the north side of the Ohio River, while we hams on the south side provide radio communications for our local Two Bridge Run. The event is in the valley, with a large hill system between our HT’s and our repeater system. Crossband gives that extra oomph. GREAT feature if you have to be outside of your vehicle. N4BDW

[@christophersmith1155]

i like the Wouxun 920 dual band and 980 quad band. they cross band repeat and full repeater when two radios are linked.

[@GG-vx7gi]

R and L has some excellent power supply and TYT bundle prices. I purchased the 8600 and 30 amp power supply for 119.00 in april. Using it both as a base and mobile.

[@bthemedia]

Do you need a power supply when using these high watt mobiles in a car? How do you shop for a power supply/watt booster?

[@bernarrcoletta7419]

Bob does have an ftm-400 in the Jeep

[@kweeks10045]

Great work on your show! Something that I see many hams doing, is buying a “shack in a box” and then being unhappy with the receiver or intermod or something else. Everything is a compromise, as we all know. You’ll pay for a newer Motorola or Commercial Kenwood, but the front end, audio, etc will be amazing compared to any amateur rig. However, the triband DMR mobile will give tremendous flexibility.

[@HamRadio2]

Yep, situations differ and many times, Hams do not have room in their cars for more than 1 rig, so the "shack in the box" is a good choice.

[@jtzofrea]

Anyone Know if the VR-N7500 is compatable with android auto? I have a Rav4 and if I can connect to the screen already built into the car that would be awesome!

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

Excellent video. Maybe the Kenwood radio will be what I get or icom with D-star. 73.

[@Shastasays]

I got the FTM-400xdr. I got it due to dual band and crossband capability. Right now, I using it as my shack set until I get my truck. I'll install it there.

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for commenting.

[@ky4vn]

The big selling point of the TYT-TH8600 is compact and waterproof, which is geared for motorcycle mobile I would think.

[@HamRadio2]

Yea I could probably do an entire video about rigs for motorcycles. That wasn't really the point of this video, though. But you are correct.

[@davidlinux]

I am looking for a mobile HF radio for my Wrangle - what do you recommend for the radio and antenna? Thanks

[@landslide03]

What do you think about the ICOM 5100? It looks like it has come down in price pretty well. Is that better than some of these?

[@HamRadio2]

That is the radio that I run in my truck right now. In this video, I was talking about dual band analog radios. I will probably do another video about higher-end and DV radios. But the ID-5100 is a great rig.

[@landslide03]

Thanks soo much for the video and reply!

[@hardtruth2039]

Studying for my ham license and wanted to get a mobile to use as a base with a power supply that I can eventually move to my truck when funds allow for a real higher powered base station. I chose the ICOM IC-2730A with a vhf/uhf antenna in my attic. Not the perfect setup but I’m really happy with it. It does what I need for the right price.

[@smoki2515]

Kenwood TM-D710. Good basic radio. Analog but works good for a new ham and easy to program without plugging it into a computer. Hard to find too because ham's like it.

[@HamRadio2]

Pretty much all of these radios can be FPP'd without a computer, but yes...the D710G is a great radio.

[@luisdeleon4546]

Support your local ham store. You can look at and touch the radio. Plus if you buy from them they stay open and you’ll continue to have a local shop. What sucks is hams going to their local shop to compare radios and then buy online to save a few bucks then bitch when their local shop closes.

[@HamRadio2]

I completely agree with this statement.

[@bugatti314159]

Amazon is my store. There hasn't been a ham radio store in my local area for decades. The old sign and antennas are still on the ancient building, which is now a grocery store.

[@HamRadio2]

@@bugatti314159 many Hams can honestly say this, nothing wrong with it. But those who DO have local stores should support them.

[@bradskis81]

Exactly! Everyone bitches how Amazon is taking over everything with their Chinese junk, but then runs to order the junk at the drop of a hat. If you don’t have a local shop that can at least order the stuff for you, at least order from a dedicated radio online store so hopefully at least they’ll still be around for their expertise and customer service.

[@jmh9414]

Can you please tell me which of these radios have a speaker in the microphone? If I am going to have the radio under the seat and only the face and the mic on the dash, it would seem desirable to have a speaker in the mic.

[@williamjohnston3770]

BTW thanks for the vid

[@jacobspradlin]

Any thoughts on good value used radios? I have a Kenwood TM-281, but would love to get a good dual band for my other rig. It seems the price to value is better in some cases.

[@jacobspradlin]

I think you may have answered the question with the V71a.

[@HamRadio2]

Yes the V71A or the FT-8800, which is discontinued now, but you can easily find on the used market

[@foodconnoisseur8397]

In short what mobile all band radio you would recommend that's not too expensive that covers all bands frequencies and so on.. something you don't use for a few months and realise oh it's missing this band or that band now I need to buy this and that....the complete mobile package that is 100 or more watts and will cover everything.

[@truckerdaddy-akajohninqueb4793]

Do you know the IC2730a Icom? I want to turn something into a mobile repeater. I'm looking for something to use in my Jeep for when I go hiking with my baofeng and my Jeep buddies. I'm looking at an IC2730a but I'm looking for someone to guide me. I'm a newbie.

[@aramriley7062]

Yaesu FT-891 - Love It!!!!

[@HamRadio2]

The FT-891 is an HF-only rig and not on the topic for this video. But it is a good radio.

[@aramriley7062]

For some reason I commented prior to watching the entire video so my apologies for that. Thank you for all of your work on your channel, I’ve learned so much since discovering ham radio in March!

[@smartcarturbo]

Hi from Australia I am Rob VK2FAAA. We have a Any tone AT 778ua and we have bee advised that the audio on transmit is down. Is there any way to adjust the audio up please? Rob Australia

[@jay-rus4437]

Ive noticed also that Yaesu, when discussing mobile options, goes from single band $120-160 range and then immediately to dual band digital $450 plus range. Not sure if they are just pushing the higher cost units, or if they are working on something new for the $250-350 range

[@CMDR.Gonzo.von.Richthofen]

It's act analog/digital. Looking at one of those myself to dip my toes into digital. To the op, check ebay. I recently purchased a used ft7900 and ft8800 for right around $200 each. Both excellent dual band radios, in excellent condition. The ft8800 is the original Yaesu dual band version of the tyt radio mentioned in the video. EBay has some really great deals, just watch out for discontinued radios sold as 'new' that seem to be a good deal. There are Chinese companies selling 'new' discontinued Yaesus for cheap, and I suspect that they're cheap copies that I wouldn't trust. 73, KC1GZR

[@jay-rus4437]

CMDR Gonzo von Richthofen .....ended up getting an ic-2730a. Dual band with true dual receive. Loved it so much that I purchased a second one for my sons truck, and then a third as my primary 2m/70cm in the shack. Can also use it as a cross band repeater when using an HT around the property. Picked up a couple Yaesu ft-4x for just using when out in the shop etc. Havent really gotten into HF (even though I have my Extra), but I do RX a lot on 20 and 40 meter using an SDRPlay RSP1A. Next up will be some type of Yaesu for Fusion. Guess that will be the new rabbit hole I jump off in to 😁

[@jalfmeister]

what do you think about the Yaesu VX-6R/E Tri-band

[@JAQGAS]

For simple 2m/7cm I love my Icom 2730!

[@HamRadio2]

Great radio!

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

Going to take my technical license test Saturday.

[@richhansenclan]

Good luck.

[@TLH290]

Good Luck!

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

@@richhansenclan Thank you.

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

@Wayne Whitby thank you.

[@denisemcjunkins4391]

@@TLH290 thank you.

[@jamieb9556]

I didn't know ft8800 was discontinued. That was my first dual band radio 😊

[@HamRadio2]

Yep.

[@AECRADIO1]

I need a control head and mic for mine. Vandalized and salvaged, but head and mic were beyond help. Looking for these two items..now. [e-mail] would love to get this going again. Thanks!

[@onesimusiii]

Ok say you have two vehicles and you're trying to get both setup within a beginner to medium budget which 2 would you get?

[@onesimusiii]

Keep it under 800 to 1000 but also a 500 budget

[@danreese6193]

Thoughts on the kenwood tm-d710g vs ftm 400 vs icom 7100? Like the idea of the 7100 base station. Like the screen on the ftm 400 but leaning toward the kenwood for the tactility of the buttons and just functionality.

[@danreese6193]

Update: I ended up buying a tm-d710g from ham city. Good news is they had old stock, about 10 left, which has all components as I’ve seen some new production missing certain components due to supply constraints. Bad news is it was $700. Ham city did state that the radio has been discontinued so reluctantly, I bought it while I could. I just finished the truck install and have had a chance to play with the functions. Ive hit a few repeaters but it seems I may need to adjust the antenna. I like the ability to punch in the frequency from the mic. However, I’m still having to manually input the tone etc. - so next purchase will be the programming cable

[@aarongao1476]

I just received my amateur license and I am new to HAM. I am researching and just watched your review but what do you recommend for the first timer? I am thinking between these Yaesu ft-8900r VS Kenwood tm-v71a VS ICOM IC-2730A. I know that Yaesu ft-8900r is discontinued now but if I find it then should I take Yaesu or Kenwood tm-v71a or ICOM IC-2730A? Can you please advise me? My call sign is KN6KAR. Thank you!

[@wvsparkey1]

save for an IC-7300 .. buy a junk 2m 70cm and save your cash, explore the hobby. Even tec privileges get ya 10m, and thats is about to explode.. The sun cycle. 10m repeaters are cool but we are at solar mins. I don't recommend spending much money on vhf/uhf to start with. You can come back to it, I intend on doing so myself, in the future. And Fusion is the future(the audio sounds better). The HF world is really cool, full of nice guys and arseholes. The dude in the vid just sells stuff, its his thing. I like him anyway. the 7300 will get ya 160-6m and its a true sdr, direct sample. Don't let the talking heads stear you wrong good sir. (in your research into the hobbie). I implore you to experiment, to think as a child in a bright new world. Oh, and join me in the HF world 'de KE8MUW' when you can. HF doesn't need the internet, except for the logging, witch I do instantly trough eQsl, lotw, and clublog. I wish you well and hope your ventures into ham radio end in amazement. '73

[@mikereaves6911]

I love my Kenwood 710's, which replaced a Yaesu 8900. You seemed to have just glossed over it's features, including lighted buttons, and soft keys which are illuminated on the large screen. I find it's menus more intuitive than the Yaesu. Thanks for the reviews.

[@rdmclark]

I love my D710's, infact I have two the older D710A for my base and the D710GA for the car. Having the built-in GPS keeps things cleaner in the car. I do APRS and use the TNC for winlink. There straight forward to use, and I hardly have to pull out the manual to figure a feature out. A few nice features besides APRS/TNC is the cross band repeat, and the echolink node.

[@ronhuggins696]

Jason, appreciate the video. Just received my ham radio license. Finding the right radio can be confusing when new to the community. Can you personally recommend a good radio for the money that I can grow into. .....thanks

[@8thspirit]

TYT 7800 is my next dream. Amazing content. Thank you for knowledge and entertainment.

[@andreasgauckler3152]

So, my question is: can I do APRS via aprsdroid through my phone/tablet with either the 2730 or the Alinco 735? I know that the Alinco has a TNC via a 6 pin din but can i si.ply buy a 6 pin din to 3.5 mm jack and it will work? 73 KJ7HMF

[@HamRadio2]

Technically you can do that with any radio, you just need an interface cable and a TNC. I've not seen anyone do it with either of those radios, but I don't think it would be that hard

[@andreasgauckler3152]

@@HamRadio2 From what I read on the internet it might be easier with the Alinco. I only would have to find the right cable. 73

[@keithfrost1268]

Currently have a 2730. Great little radio.

[@HamRadio2]

Yes those are great.

[@WiltWa]

I realize I might be a little off the “normal” HAM’s path, but who isn’t? Currently I own and use 3 Baofeng HT’s, a Btech UV25-X2 mobile, and a Yeasu FTM-7250D mobile. I was first licensed in March 2016, and used nothing but my Baofeng HT’s(yes external antennas were part of the rig) until I got the UV25-X2 in December of 2017. The Betech became my base station radio, using the same antenna that my “base station Baofeng” was on, and worked ok. Fast forward to March of 2019, I was visiting my family in Montana, met a HAM there, and got to use his FTM-400DX and Fusion to talk to Europe, I was so hooked! Came home and decided I wanted the FTM-400DX for my base station radio....then saw the price!!!! Realized the FTM-100 was a lot cheaper and had a lot of the same functionality, just not as fancy, but still costing more than I was ready to spend. I was basically saying this on a local repeater ragchew, and a comment was made that the FTM-7250D was basically a FTM-100D without the detachable face/remote mounting and APRS. I got my 7250 from my local HRO for $199.99, have been using it as my base for just over a year, and love it! Also, I don’t use it on Fusion nearly as much as I thought I would! I’m sure part of that is there is only one Fusion repeater available to me, while the owner will allow me to connect and control it, doing so is just not that interesting to me at the moment. That’s the great thing about HAM radio, there is something for everyone, and everyone’s interests tend to change. So, currently the 7250 is my base, the BTech UV25 is in my Tacoma, and a couple Baofeng HT’s if I need them.

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for comment

[@WiltWa]

I see I forgot this, WB7VPI.

[@fredmccaskill206]

I HAD JUST PURCHASED A ICOM 7300 HF :TRANSEIVER FROM H R O AND ITS THE BEST IVE EVER TALKED ON!!!

[@HamRadio2]

7300 is an HF rig, so when I do that video, I will surely be mentioning that model.

[@nickrichey4186]

Question: I’m an outdoorsman. I want to mount a radio to my teryx LE SxS. Any suggestions?

[@HamRadio2]

I don't know what a teryx LE SxS is

[@Howie76]

It’s a side by side buggy. I own one and my radio got filled with dust after a few months and the mic would stic. Best thing I found was a handheld in your pocket with a headset in your helmet with a push to talk button...

[@videoadult1]

@@HamRadio2 i am curious about this as well.... sxs is a side by side, like a large quad riding around mountains.

[@JCZ0729]

Is it possible to use any of these as a telemeter if you have a yagi and a micro transmitter for animals?

[@HamRadio2]

I'm not sure what that is

[@uMalice]

Im looking for a radio for backwoods hunting so must be waterproof resistant and durable. Thinking gps is needed for emergencies and possibly digital. Can anyone make an economical recommendation. Yaesu's new radio is not acceptable due to price and screen. digital screens break too easily. I think maybe the yeasu 70dr is the ticket but IDK battery is weak. Need chirp or linux compatible.

[@HamRadio2]

The FT70dr isn't waterproof. You will want to find an IP67 or higher rated radio. Likely something from the commercial world, which won't include a "reasonable" price tag. Honestly it would probably be easier to get whatever radio you want, and then get a waterproof case to carry it in.

[@stevenaustin2860]

good show bro lol from liverpool england 73

[@HamRadio2]

Cheers!

[@503Nick]

Repeater services in your local are should be a factor for digital modes.

[@HamRadio2]

Agreed.

[@Oldhogleg]

Damn, I feel out dated now with my FT8800R in my truck for the better part of a decade now! Lol. But I did also install an IC7100 in my truck too about a half decade ago as well.

[@HamRadio2]

Yeah that is kinda my point, though. A solid rig like the FT-8800 can be used for years.

[@ytTaz480]

Mines still in my truck, too. About the only thing I dont like is the lack of backlighting otherwise, its my favorite mobile. Basically 2 radios in one and with the "hyper memories" its great for traveling around different parts of the state since it allows you to have an entirely different whole radio setup for whatever area or situation I might be in, sort of like "banks" but instead allows entire radio reconfiguration(scan, modes, banks, setup and more) all at the push of a button. Most people had a really hard time figuring out or understanding how the hyper memories worked and what they offer but once you figure it out, its great! I love it! I too wish Yeasu still produced that one. Would have been really smart of them if they had.

[@Oldhogleg]

@@ytTaz480 Same here! 👍

[@ytTaz480]

@@Oldhogleg On mine, I used a white paint pen to paint(highlight) the main middle menu button and the little plastic raised divider bumps between the rest of the bottom function buttons. The display gives off just enough glow to sort of make them out at night. I also pulled off each volume and squelch knob, properly micro-masked them(LoL) and put a whit line on them to designate pointer position and can also sort of see them in the dark(if any of that makes sense). Oh, I also modified the internal speaker output wires and speaker with male and female 1/8" mono connector and plug so the internal speaker output is now a SECOND external speaker output since Yeasu didnt feel the need to have more than one. The male 1/8" plug is attached to the internal speaker and is routed out the back in case I want to use it as original again. But this way I have 2 separate external speaker outputs(like most dual radios). Only thing is the second ext(int) output is a tad quieter due to less power output. But Ive never gone back to the internal speaker. Always just ran 2 externals. I like to have one to my left and one to my right. Makes it easier to listen to both sides when both have traffic.

[@Oldhogleg]

@@ytTaz480 Interesting modifications.

[@jimerickson1809]

Many of us here in Mansfield have gotten the Anytone 5888iii, we waited years for it to be engineered and it doesn't disappoint! All three bands for $250!

[@HamRadio2]

Those are great radios if you can find them anymore. They're out of stock everywhere and rumor has it they were discontinued, though I can't confirm this.

[@jimerickson1809]

@@HamRadio2 We've been getting them from R&L

[@HamRadio2]

@@jimerickson1809 R&L would be my preferred vendor but they show out of stock also. I'll email them and inquire about production status.

[@jimerickson1809]

@@HamRadio2 they show up every couple months I think they're buying them in lots of 100.

[@michaelparker6270]

What would be the advantage of going digital over a analog radio

[@tylerdean980]

Late reply, but you can talk around the world over the internet. Also, if you’re a prepper, people using analog radios won’t be able to understand what you’re saying unless they have a digital radio that does the same digital mode.

[@davidenglund]

That TYT 9800, for 10 meter, what good is that to Technician class? I thought we could only do SSB on 10 meter. Am I mistaken?? Thx

[@notsure7874]

tyt 9800 was my first radio. I got it because "more possibilities" but I was mistaken. 6 meter FM is pretty dead, and you need general to use the 10m band on that radio. It's still a good radio. I don't like dual watch, so I set the second display to show battery voltage which is really handy especially when engine off or on a battery tender.

[@wesleyferguson6932]

Side band is awesome and can be done on any band . Enjoy the ham bands very much always .

[@socalsax]

Great info! Thanks for sharing.

[@HamRadio2]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Kruelty175]

I need a TLDR version of the video.

[@brentjohnson6654]

Another comment … I like your views on this. I want a mobile vhf/uhf radio that can almost do a RFinder thing. What I mean is I saw a review by either Josh or Eric that showed how to program a repeater on the fly. From the menu it was possible to show a list of repeaters and connect to them. If this was Icom, are there any other radios that can do this? It would be good to have this feature as I drive around this country and to program my Anytone 878 I need a code plug (well, I don’t want to program these by hand). I hope my ramblings late at night make sense. Haha. Thanks for your channel and ll you do for Ham Radio! All the best, 73 de KI5HXM

[@HamRadio2]

Icom has that feature, but you have to load the repeater data into the radio via computer. And then it doesn't update on its own, you have to manually do it each time you want an updated list. Yaesu does something similar with WIRESx repeaters, but not analog, as far as I know. RFinder is definitely the best option for real-time repeater info.

[@brentjohnson6654]

@@HamRadio2 thanks for the reply. I have thought the rfinder might be unique. It would be cool to have a software module that could work that out and download a code plug on command. Maybe it is time to get my software tools out. All I need is a sdk for the radio and access to the rfinder database. Haha. I am just dreaming now …. Wake me up!! Hey it was fun to see your live today. I would love to meet up at one of these gatherings. Also love to see your mobile install on your truck one day. All the best!

[@stevenreidsteven458reid7]

Hay Jason I have a President Lincolon-2+ Amateur Radio and I have a problem and that is the Antenna I am useing is not good enough for th area that I amm in I live in Hot Springs, Ark. This is Steven Reid ?

[@CKD21]

What antenna you recommend for the FTM-400XDR?

[@HamRadio2]

Comet SBB5

[@CKD21]

It’s tha antenna the smallest I can put? I want a low profile if possible. Thanks 🙏🏽 in advance KF0ALX

[@quenp4749]

Ham Radio 2.0, your channel is absolutely fantastic. However one major annoyance I have with most of your videos is the lack of time marks for each of your discussed items in videos. It's extremely helpful when someone is narrowing down an item they'd be interested in purchasing. I'm nitpicking, but I do rely on your videos for reviews on radio's/equipment before I purchase.

[@HamRadio2]

Time marks? Like entering a time for each segment of the video? I do that on longer videos, but on the shorter ones I tend not to. Thanks for commenting though.

[@quenp4749]

@@HamRadio2 Yeah exactly! Or even just down in the description. I know it takes time to do but it is nice when I'm referencing what you're saying about a product.

[@Obesimusillegitimus]

Odd question - do you have any family near Hohenwald, Tennessee?

[@HamRadio2]

Not that I'm aware of

[@panther7603]

Great instructional video. Thanks Jason. 73! KO4DJT

[@HamRadio2]

Thanks for watching!

[@ronaustin7090]

Do mobile units come preprogrammed or do I do that?

[@HamRadio2]

You have to do that. There are way too many repeaters, simplex frequencies, etc to have something pre-programmed for all areas where the radios are sold.

[@mauricerojas1812]

What is COMM ONLY on an advertized radio? Is that NOT a 2M/70cm dual band radio???? Thanks much

[@FuzzyWCTX]

Fannin County Radio Club, Fannin Cty., TX, is getting a 6m repeater up and running.

[@HamRadio2]

That'll be fun

[@michaelschaap1645]

If I want to use a HotSpot to talk to a lot more people, do I need a Digital Radio?

[@HamRadio2]

Yes

[@felixint]

the 2730a tx 70c. gmrs. or need remove 2 diodes?

[@HamRadio2]

You'll have to modify it

[@miketel01]

I just ordered the VeroTelecom VGC VERO VR-N7500 50W Dual Band Headless Amateur Ham Mobile Radio for the car. I wish it was a ID-5100 or the Yeasu FTM-400 but oh well its a good start. Being said I bought a Icom - 4100. Don't bother. Just spend the extra money and get the ID-5100.

[@HamRadio2]

I've never tried the ID-4100. But I think you will be happy with the VR-N7500

[@miketel01]

@@HamRadio2 id-4100 is fine too. Internal top mount speaker is small and tinny (I got an external now). Screen is pretty small, though it does detach from the radio. Some may prefer smaller screen in their vehicle. Thank you very much for the videos. Please remain safe and healthy safe and keep up the great work. 73s

[@jafarsidik180]

Ya ,...Icom Kenwood YaesuAlinco...memang best radio...

[@HamRadio2]

Yep.

[@Jay-hr9ci]

Any discount codes for RandL?

[@JimmyShot]

Isn’t the TH7800 discontinued due to some FCC issue?

[@HamRadio2]

Not that I have heard of. It is still listed on a few websites.

[@louiewhite1922]

Which ones if any can crossband repeat?

[@HamRadio2]

Several of them.

[@EliasPerez-cf5gp]

No mention of the Wouxun mobile units. Are they no good?

[@HamRadio2]

They are, yes. I've done some reviews of them in other episodes. I just didn't include them in this video

[@satamototo]

Great video! I have no patience to see Best Digital Mobile Ham Radios :)

[@HamRadio2]

LOL it is coming up!

[@johnsmiley2922]

One thing you didn't mention is that the Alinco separation cable is not included....other than that, it's a GREAT radio....I have two of them.

[@HamRadio2]

It's been long enough since I got mine that I don't recall that.

[@cybersean3000]

I have a TYT radio in my truck. The screen is impossible to see in bright sunlight.

[@HamRadio2]

Interesting, I've not heard of that issue before.

[@samuraichad343]

I have what I think is a very important question but does not actually pertain to your video. I got 2 handheld radios early March and was scheduled to take my test 3/21/20 my birthday but of course it was cancelled because of the virus lies and BS. I’ve been listening everyday on a repeater about 10 miles away since I got them and then when the protests and riots started they turned the repeater off. Now I hear silence on the radio. I was told they turned the repeater off during the fires in California last year or so also. WHY? Why would anyone want to turn the repeaters off in a crisis??

[@wild-radio7373]

Good question

[@DRiceArizona]

R and L is coming up with a security warning on my browser. I like to give business to the sites supporting the KZbinrs I follow. Do you know if they were hacked or something?

[@HamRadio2]

I just pulled up the site and it looks fine.

[@MossesAfr]

I’ve been looking for this info. Thank you. I’m trying to run an alternative radio station in a country ruled by a dictatorship. Social media is blocked, data prices are so high and heavily taxed.

[@grigorirasputin2276]

The FTM400, AFAIK, seems to have one glaring flaw. It appears to possibly use a battery to retain memory. This is 1990's technology which frustrates hams to this day who either owned or acquire a radio which used a battery to retain memory features. Anyone who ever had one of those radios from the 90's can attest what a pain it was to locate, purchase, and install a new memory battery once the old one died. Why Yaesu would re-introduce such dated technology in this day is beyond me. If my assesment is incorrect, someone please correct me.

[@QRPadventures]

I have had my 400 (original) for 6 years and never had an issue yet. I dont have the newer model. Memory comes from my SD card so its really not a big deal if the battery does die.

[@HamRadio2]

I'm not sure on the battery part, I will check on that. I have 3-4 friends in my local club who bought an FTM-400 when they were first new (one guy bought 2 rigs, one for mobile and one for a base). All of these rigs have now failed and needed to be sent back to Yaesu for repair, after the warranty was expired, forcing the owner to pay for shipping both ways and pay for the repair. I thought this was a glaring flaw on this specific model, and it was the reason I never bought one myself. Now for the newer ones, bought within the last 2 years or so, I don't think this issue exists any longer. But the fact that it happened is why the FTM-400 never interested me.

[@grigorirasputin2276]

Good info, Jason! Thank you!

[@ag1382]

I am starting to understand that Yaesu has forgotten how to engineer a mobile radio. No memory banks where VHF/UHF frequencies can be stored for repeaters in different cities. A mobile radio without functional/ scanning memory banks is worthless.

[@prephampaul]

Maybe I misunderstand you Art but the Yaesu Ftm400 has 1000 memory slots, vfo and memory scan function as well. I have over one hundred repeaters in mine (Texas, Idaho and Japan) and have used the scan function a handful if times. Aprs, GPS, c4fm, crossband repeat, touchscreen, solidly built it it's an excellent radio, I have three now.

[@ag1382]

Just a Ham - K5VOP - Glad the scan of a single memory list works for you. For me, I like a memory bank with only the frequencies in that geographic area I am interested in. Example, there are three large cities and all are visited regularly. City A has 35 to 40 repeater frequencies, city B also has 35 or more repeater frequencies and some pairs are coordinated with different tones, city C also has a large grouping of repeaters and some there are duplicate coordinated pairs that overlap with those in A and B with additional tones. Now I have up to 120 frequencies being scanned when I am only interested in 35 or 40. There are an unwanted 80 pairs that can stop the scan when interference or noise appears on them. Not for me. So Yaesu now on the FTM-300D gives you a huge list of VHF, a huge list of UHF, a memory list of both of the first two combined, and the engineering excellence of a memory list you can create from the combined list. That is a total of four memory banks and two you can control. Kind of lame with 1,000 available memories. All you have to do is run through all your frequencies and select the ones for the MCS list. However if you are going to a new city, you have to run your lists again to add selected frequencies and unselect those you are now not interested in. Very tedious and cannot be completed safely while driving. Not very well thought out memory management considering the mobile use of the radio.

[@tonybell3915]

Other than Amazon where do you buy?

[@HamRadio2]

Randl.com, Gigaparts, buytwowayradios.com

[@RustyZipper]

5:20

[@BarefootBeekeeper]

Phone controlled radios are likely to be illegal to use in Europe while driving.

[@HamRadio2]

Some States too, but if you have an Android car stereo or tablet mounted in your car, that could control the radio also.

[@mikemiles3068]

Jason did you mean $440 instead of $340 on the Kenwood TMV71A, $440 IS THE CHEAPEST I CAN FIND IT AT MAIN TRADING SUPPLY❓ GOOD VIDEO✅

[@HamRadio2]

No, $340. At the time of this recording, that was the price. Prices have gone up since then due to shortages currently.

[@stevenaustin2860]

my 756 is not bad for knulling the noise

[@wvsparkey1]

well, the cats meow is the Anytone AT-D578UV PRO. I don't care so much for dmr, fusion is the future. IMHO ...

[@Johnyrocket70]

Chinese radios come with the mics gain set way to high. You can turn the gain down tho.