CB Long Range and Mode Test. Part 2. AM vs FM vs SSB. FM on CB 27mhz. RCI-2950 vs Anytone AT-6666

[@640amthemix]

Tell us what you think of FM and is there is any activity in your area. What channel would you like to see the most FM activity? Like Channel 38 for LSB. Also check out the description for the final word!

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

FM is so mutch better then AM

[@640amthemix]

@@VicGreenBitcoin close quarters comms no doubt!

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

@@640amthemix I do not understand

[@640amthemix]

@@VicGreenBitcoin I agree with your comments. FM is an excellent choice for close communications.

[@stevetaylor8446]

I live in England, South of the River Thames, in Kent. We have been using FM since CB was legalised here in 1981. Depending on height and obviously terrain, a good homebase antenna (I was using a Sirio 827, 60ft to the tip at 180ft ASL) and had awesome results. Used extra power too, but at the solar minimum, USB 27.305, 50 miles was my furthest contact. 26 miles on FM, one contact from here to Edinburgh in Scotland when there was a lift.. Now the solar activity is picking up, Sideband is my aim.

[@NIGHTOWL-jf9zt]

Before getting my Amateur radio ticket back in 1999, there was a huge crowd of who used to get together and play cb tag. I owned many Export radios: RCI 2950, 2970, 2990 Base, Connex 3300, Superstar 3900, President HR 2510. My antenna of choice was always the Antron 99, 102 spring loaded steelie for the mobile. This video brings back many great memories. Considering on getting back into it. I kind of miss the Dark Side.

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the comments and glad to hear you wanna fire up the old CB. It's one of the reasons I put these videos out. Thanks for watching

[@terryshrives8322]

We use to call it rabbit

[@640amthemix]

@@terryshrives8322 I recall playing the same game ..

[@Milo30066]

Very informative, I already know by 1970s experience that SSB is much better for long distance communication. Thanks for the video.

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the kind words. Thank you for watching!

[@SORBCOINC]

I purchased my RCI-2950 the second year after it was released. I paid good money for this radio as a 20-year-old young fella way back when. Saved up 2 months to buy it lol. I still own this radio and put it in service when I am driving long distances. I will never sell this radio. Best radio I've owned for sure! Great to see that the hobby is making a comeback.

[@640amthemix]

I agree a great radio, so good you can still buy it new. Yes CB has been making a comeback. People get tired of technology and tracking with cookies etc. Thanks for the comments 640 out!!

[@truthfilterforyoutube8218]

What I glean from this is that the 2950 has the superior audio and receiver ...even in the distance. I actually knew the engineer who designed this radio for RCI.....and actually met Mr Ping ( the owner of RCI) while he was replacing all the "production shortcuts to save money", in my newly purchased 2950. ( amongst other mods he made to the radio). The fella's name was Bill Good , sadly he no longer with us....he was an excellent friend to me as I progressed up the Radio ladder ending up with a Yaesu FT990 and an Henry 1Kw mobile all band amplifier.

[@640amthemix]

Wow amazing! Thanks for the excellent comment. I've always knew the RCI was a quality radio. Sorry to hear your friend is no longer with us but take solace in knowing his legacy lives on every time some one picks up the 🎤 on an RCI.

[@truthfilterforyoutube8218]

@@640amthemix or uses the Henry solid-state one kilowatt all band hf amplifier that he designed while working for Henry radio

[@bulldogbrower6732]

Interesting test, it’s my belief that most of the noise on CB regardless of modulation type is too many people on a band saturated with electrical noise from modern appliances and cars. I’d love to see you guys test a base unit GMRS radio at the same distances with a true GMRS mobile with a mobile with a mobile antenna on the roof of the car. It would be great to test a 5 watt unit and a 20 watt unit. I’m convinced it’s modern day noise. Back in the 70’s I could talk 15 miles on am CB with very little noise. Thank you guys for the work you have done testing the CB band. You certainly used professional methods.

[@640amthemix]

Thank you for the feedback. Appreciate the kind words and I definitely agree it's modern noise interference from appliances and Bluetooth type equipment. We did one range test with frs/gmrs equipment, look it up and tell us what else you'd like to see. Thanks again.

[@TheDixieDXer214inSC]

Generally the atmospheric noise is very quiet and all houses in my neighborhood are 5 acre lots so we dont have any or much man made noise around here in Rural SC I don't run my NB or ANL on any of my radios. Swear I can hear a koala fart in Austrailia it seems sometimes when the bands is right!

[@Bootyhunter1971]

Cb will travel farther than gmrs in most terrain. Thats the advantage of low band vs uhf.

[@Anon-fv9ee]

Great video! There is one really simple yet rarely explained reason why LSB wins over AM. Single-sideband (upper or lower) has its carrier suppressed in the transmitter - it then must be re-generated in the receiver to resolve the signal. The carrier component of an AM signal can be degraded by noise (both natural and man-made) at the source or as it propagates. Whereas the carrier generated in a receiver listening to SSB is clean. The re-generated carrier can almost boost a weak signal without an RF pre-amp (and any such amp would amplify just as much noise as signal, so no improvement).

[@640amthemix]

Excellent observation. I always was under the assumption that SSB is a superior mode over AM because of the bandwidth of the signal and the by product was the reduction in fidelity. Thanks for commenting. 640 OUT!

[@anthonyglaser929]

I was under the impression that ssb on channels 36-40 could reach hundreds of miles? Or is that just under the perfect conditions or with just the right entenna?

[@640amthemix]

Great question. I cover that topic a bit in my latest range test video and I recommend that you check it out if you like to see the skip in action. But basically skip is a phenomenal dictated by the solar cycle of every ten years. There is a peak and a low, during peak the sun "charges " the upper atmosphere making it like a "mirror" to radio signals to make it easy to understand. So when the signal hits the "mirror" really the atmosphere it bounces back to earth many hundreds of miles away. During solar lows the signal does not bounce and stays local. And finally yes the antenna and power come into play so in essence you are correct. Hope it clears up the skip. Let me know what you think of the latest range test we recently put out.

[@MargateFL33063]

The FM signal requires more power in terms of wattage in order to work beyond 3 miles. FM lowband on mobiles can go for many miles, however, you need atleast 50 to 100 watts and a tuned long antenna on those mobiles at least 10 feet in the air or on top of your vehicle.

[@640amthemix]

Great feedback. Yes we realized after time that FM requires more power to get farther. Thank you for the comment.

[@DFDuck55]

I have an Anytone AT-5555. When I got it it was still an "import" radio because FM wasn't yet legal in the U.S. I've had import radios with FM since the 1990s but never talked with anyone on FM still to today. I've been mostly a Sideband user since the early 1970s. My favorite mode was DSB (Duel Sideband; Lower & Upper Sideband at the same time. You can listen to it on AM, LSB, and USB, they all will receive it. But I haven't seen a radio in decades that will transmit DSB. The only thing I've seen with DSB receive in recent history was a SDR (Software Defined Radio) receiver (no transmit).

[@640amthemix]

I've only heard FM a couple of times, besides myself.and as for DSB thats an amazing mode! I've never heard of it. Hopfullly one of the manufacturer's are listening!

[@DFDuck55]

The only advantage I know of for FM is the lack of heterodyne noise. So if there are two or more AM stations coming in at the same time you will hear them all along with some high pitch heterodyne noise. Where if there are two or more FM stations you will only hear the strongest one, the others are completely muted. How this voodoo magic actually works I haven't a clue, something to do with two high frequencies being mixed with a lower internal frequency, blah blah something. If you have some super nurdy friends they may be able to explain it.

[@640amthemix]

@@DFDuck55 The hetrodyne noises on AM are quite annoying so I'll take the FM signals not mixing as well. Sometimes that also might be an asset as your buddies can't step on you! 😏📻

[@waltsmith6515]

That radio is still export, illogiial because of pwr output,I see u haven't learned anything in all these years Dicksorry, duck

[@cmerton]

"duel" bwahahahahahahahahaha!

[@terschellingfilmsvanvroege6467]

The fact that AM signals do not suffer from capture effect is an big advantage in my opinion and the AM much lower noise floor is nicer to listen to weak stations with the squelch open. Weak AM signals last much longer than weak FM signals. Weak FM signals will stutter in the noise while AM ​​can still be heard. I don't like to listen in FM with the squelch open. Personally i prefer AM. (and SSB ofcourse) But, in areas with a lot of QRM, sometimes FM is a better choice. I always love the AM sound with the crackle of lightning in the distance, just like on the shortwave bands.

[@640amthemix]

Excellent observations. AM while mobile is susceptible to high noise even with squelch up which is why I love the asc squelch on the Presidents, so I agree. Local is where FM shines. They all have a spot on the shelf in ny opinion. Thanks for the comments.

[@selfdefensept]

I agree. FM is definitely a nice option for very close distances because of the clarity. However, in mountain terrain, the range is reduced sharply and AM is better. Side band definitely gives more range, but anyone you wish to speak to also must have sideband. A better work around is to get a President Ham Radio like the Richard, solder a bridge wire where indicated on the board, and then go into the digital menu and ad the code 1234. This adds CB band to the radio and all 40 channels will operate at 12 watts on AM or FM and 50 watts PEP. So you have the same power as Side band but you can speak to anyone on any CB not just those with side band. I have mine setup this way and I love it.

[@640amthemix]

@@selfdefensept Thanks for the insight and I agree with you. Interoperability between modes like AM/FM/SSB and even between the radio services can only increase preparedness in cass of emergencies. Thanks again.

[@5beesgarage]

I am surprised FM did as well as it did but SSB for the win! How many watts was each radio running? Maybe I missed it. Was the wattage the same on all modes?

[@640amthemix]

Yes 4 watts on both ends. One unit at base and one mobile. Thanks for watching. 👍📻

[@Macrosill]

Always love seeing real world testing. Where both of the radios in vehicles? What antennas and at what height were used? What was the terrain? Great video.

[@640amthemix]

One was base and one mobile. A99 at one end and mag mount on other. City terrain with some typical obstructions. Thanks for watching!

[@mitchh6702]

What kind of mag mount antenna are you running?

[@640amthemix]

@@mitchh6702 just a cheap cobra mag mount

[@taekwondobro]

There are so many influencing factors in range. Seems cool to figure them out

[@640amthemix]

Very true.

[@brucel399]

Several of my friends and I had RCI 2950 and 2970 in the mid 90s. I used to used a 102 inch steel whip with military grade coax. My SWRs were less then 1.1. We could reach any place in our area with no problems on AM, LSB, or FM. I talked to every country in the western hemisphere except Cuba (due to restrictions), most of Europe and Australia many times. Was best radio I ever owned. CHEERS from Colorado

[@640amthemix]

Great comments. It tells me a 2 things. How potent CB is as comms for emergency ans everyday use and FM can be used for long haul skip! Thanks for watching 📻

[@TheDixieDXer214inSC]

I've spoken to at least three folks in Cuba, one was Arnie, he used to be the fella who read the news on SW radio out of Cuba,(Radio Havana). All my contacts were made using USB on the 6 meter band, where ol Fidel allowed certain types to make radio contacts. WE always spoke about radio topics and never broached political speak. I enjoyed speaking with the Cuban people and wanted to be able to listen for them again. I know that in communist countries with crazy dictators, people just come up missing in the middle of the night never to be heard from again.

[@ol2tmx6916]

I prefer SSB for long range QSOs and FM for local area. Poland and Ukrain using AM because of historical usage.

[@640amthemix]

I agree with your assessment. SSB for long range and FM for local but FM has not gained in popularity here in USA as I hoped for so far AM is still popular. Thanks for the comment and watching from Europe.

[@davidjason1116]

Brilliant video brother 73’s from RDI-185 western Newfoundland Canada 🇨🇦

[@640amthemix]

Waving back! 640 from the big city. You can find me on 27.365 LSB for skip

[@bluenetmarketing]

Why stop at 4 miles? What happens at 8 miles, or 10 miles with LSB.

[@640amthemix]

Great question. When the band conditions are right aka “The Skip” rolls in you can go hundreds of miles. Check out my Skip Clip videos and see for yourself! 640 out!

[@doctoru555]

The FM transmission from the Ranger is overmodulated, or somewhere there is frequncy mismatch, the FM received signal on Anytone side sound very bad.

[@640amthemix]

Good ear. We had another radio on in the backround so it diatorted the sound.

[@djnewlander4742]

you also have to take in to concideration, what kind of Antenna set up are they using?, a good antenna set up can make all the difference.

[@640amthemix]

You are correct. We had an A99 and a mag mount cobra basic mobile antenna.

[@elektroqtus]

@@640amthemix ahh. This explains EVERYTHING. The A99 was on point but the mag mount was the weakness. A bit later, I did get a burner. That's another story.

[@joeblow8593]

Anytone AT-6666 sounded muffled on receive, the RCI-2950 more clearer on receive.

[@640amthemix]

Anyone was mobile. Maybe noise background. It has good receive

[@nerdinium]

I'm hearing FM on 26.805 - below the regular cb band, not above.

[@640amthemix]

Yes others have mentioned that’s the FM spot! Thanks for the update!

[@timmotel5804]

Why didn't you try USB also? My antenna of choice is always a 102 inch whip, when I can. Best Regards to you both and Merry Christmas 2023

[@640amthemix]

Merry Christmas. 102 inch tends to hit overpasses here in the Big City and attracts unwanted attention from those who shall we say, wants to borrow and not return. So I like a lower profile. Thanks for the comment. 640 out.

[@Warner-uf3mf]

Thanks guys for your time in doing those tests, i talk to a neighbor on fm half the time and am part of the time, ssb sometimes. We haven't tried any further away as of yet. Is the 2950 being used as a base unit and the 6666 in the mobile?

[@640amthemix]

Thanks appreciate the feedback! . For this one it was both mobile in an urban environment hence the shorter range.

[@mikecricket113]

What is the terrain like between your QTH and the other gentleman’s QTH? What is the height of 640’s antenna? I imagine the other station is mobile.

[@640amthemix]

Correct. A99 about 30 ft up and a simple cobra mag mount for the mobile. Thanks for watching Mike.

[@640amthemix]

Big city typical terrain. Flat but full of buildings.

[@mikecricket113]

Thanks for the info. That is as real world as you can get. At least for some of us north easterners. Great test.

[@640amthemix]

@@mikecricket113 Thanks Mike appreciate it!

[@dobermanguy9437]

I have talked over 25 30 miles on a.m. I don't know what kind of radio you're using or what kind of antenna anyway in my opinion sideband is best then am. Fm sucks

[@640amthemix]

I said it on the video SSB is best in my opinion but I dont mind having the options. Antenna was an A99 and a cobra mag mount.

[@dobermanguy9437]

@@640amthemix yeah I know I watched your video I'm just giving my opinion also

[@640amthemix]

@@dobermanguy9437 I'm glad you commented 😊 Just letting you know that I agreed with you.

[@n6vcw]

@@640amthemix - On a stock, FCC Type Accepted CB radio, SSB provides three times the RF power (12 Watts) of AM and FM (4 Watts). It'll naturally carry farther. The A99 base antenna, with its 1/2 wave over 1/4 wave phasing, has far more gain (nearly 10 dBi) than the mobile whip antenna at 1/4 wavelength (basically unity or negative gain, which makes for a VERY inefficient radiator). The base antenna at 30' also has a lot of Height Above Average Terrain (HAAT) in its favor, giving it a substantial advantage over a mobile whip at ground level. The Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) of the base antenna is somewhere in the 100 Watt range on SSB, depending upon the transmission line losses, which are usually quite negligible at 27.305 MHz.

[@640amthemix]

@@n6vcw well said. An educated radio man. I knew about 12W on ssb. Even the 9.9 dbi gain on the A99 but I did not know about EIRP. Another reason for the channel, so we can all learn. Good job 👏

[@rodolfodiaz389]

Excelente experimento !!!...sin duda el video aclara muchas dudas conforme al tema de los modos de transmisión.

[@640amthemix]

Gracias por eschuchar!

[@BeingWolfy]

Great video. Thank you.

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for watching!

[@randallkrohn1155]

Why does it look like the 2950 is in the off position,just curious.

[@640amthemix]

Good Eye! The radio is definitely on but the volume is just low to prevent feedback as there might have been another radio on in the background. That’s an older video. Thanks for watching !

[@critterdoc93]

Active CB radio op. Our local group was on 38LSB for a few years. Now the big question: where to buy am/fm/ssb radios? We're outdoor photographers working between Canada & the U.S. we've tried other ideas but ssb/fm would work well. Have good portable, crankup & vehicle antennas.

[@640amthemix]

Sounds like an organized CB group. I agree SSB for longer comms and FM for local is a good plan, as for purchasing equipment there are many regional CB shops and most have an on line presence. I have no affliations and shipping rates tend to be quite uniform. As for if Canads is better than US to purchase that I'm not to sure about. I hope this helps you get started on outfitting your group. 640

[@critterdoc93]

@@640amthemix Thanks for the callback. I'll look around in Northern MI & WI for a dealer. Supposed to be a guy selling President radios out of house in Grand Blanc, MI. I'll check him out, too. Took long enough for the FCC to clear FM on CB radios, I think since several brands are selling them in Europe (saw a couple nice AM/FM/SSB mobiles in Newfoundland last fall), our FCC should get crackin' and clear the way in the US soon! BTW: Canada has a hands off policy about operating there: just get a license (for CB/Ham/commercial/VHF marine) and you're good. Finally: I tried to do a 333 check-in about 5 mi. North of International Falls & got nothing but crickets!

[@640amthemix]

@@critterdoc93 check on line, these local dealers have an online presence and will ship. I do agree I think the FCC is about a decade late on releasing FM but as they say better late than never. BTW not familiar with the 333 checking.

[@critterdoc93]

@@640amthemix 333 comms checks are used not just by SHTF operators, but anyone needing fast, solid comm checks. Works like this: On CB gear, go to channel 3 & listen for 3 minutes. Then announce yourself as briefly as possible. Giving your exact location can help in emergencies & can also get you killed. Your choice. Anyway, repeat the above every 3 hours, round the clock if necessary. Whether you are the one needing help or available to render aid, this 3-3-3 setup can be a lifesaver! It won't kill your batteries in a blackout & it's a good way to maintain comms security during storms, civil unrest, or other emergency. For GMRS, MURS, as well as CB, it's channel 3, three minutes listen, TX, top of the hour each 3 hours. Remember: AM,FM, SSB, across the bands all have pluses & drawbacks. (range, noise, weather & equipment) . Truism: All the TX power in the world means nothing if no one is listening! And the weakest signal can always be heard with a good antenna. Good luck & check six.

[@640amthemix]

@@critterdoc93 Thanks for the feedback and now I will remember the 333 check in for emergencies or just casual listening to see who's out there. Good point if no one is listening no comms are to be made. 640 out

[@vannooch]

It looks like at 13:58 the RCI-2950 was on Am, while the Anytone was on FM

[@640amthemix]

Good ear,. It was a mistake but we decided to leave it in video to show what FM sounds like on AM so people can spot an FM signal.

[@alivia4907]

Great video. I do like how fm is quiet when your within a few miles. I know I'm definitely getting a Rado with ssb now. Still not sure which one. Thanks taking the time to make this

[@640amthemix]

Glad to hear that. Uniden 980 is a great choice. SSB with modern features at a decent price. Let me know how it works out.

[@befree2771]

I have two President McKinleys and an Anytone 6666. You can’t go wrong with either one. I get great reports on both.

[@640amthemix]

@@befree2771 Couldn't agree more with you. Just picked up my 1st president radio and so far impressed.

[@tahoma6889]

Find a good deal on an old school. Nothing made for the CB band since the 90's is worth anything compared.

[@bluenetmarketing]

President Electronics McKinley is a great radio for SSB.

[@redjohn20001]

What power were you running? Just seen in the comments that you are using 4 Watts. I'm guessing that you are mobile to mobile and not clear line of site?

[@640amthemix]

Yes and Yes. Explains the short range.

[@redjohn20001]

@@640amthemix Many thanks for the video.

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

How can the signal be so weak at only 4 miles? Did you use a indoor antenna?

[@640amthemix]

City environment

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

@@640amthemix I see :-)

[@MagicRoosterBluesBand]

AT-6666 is 60 watts. Only getting 4 miles??

[@640amthemix]

Urban environment and low power

The true differences and advantages between the modes come in when they are needed. AM and SSB are resilient to intermodulation, where several stations transmit in the same time, the stronger station has less chances of completely covering the weaker one, leaving some room for carrying out the message thru the interference. FM will provide higher noise rejection but a stronger station will completely swamp up a weaker/further one. SSB is the most electrically efficient analogical mean of transmitting human voice over radio, the SSB modulation and the demodulation preserve intelligibility within a narrow bandwidth and low transmitting power. Most noise, natural and man made, is a form of amplitude varying signal. Lightning, geomagnetic storms, sparkplugs, switches, all make varying amplitude noise that the FM demodulator limiter rejects pretty well, nothing in nature makes a clean, constant amplitude signal that varies it's phase or frequency within the strict limits if the demodulator. AM is cheaper and simpler than SSB. SSB will reach the furthest but needs more complex and precise components and alignment. Also, SSB could enable two simultaneous parties, one on USB, one on LSB, on one channel as they occupy about half the bandwidth of an FM transmission. FM will give crisper voice short-range that can be desirable in higher information-over-time requirements. An AM or FM transmitter enables the user to transmit information even without voicing due to impairments or equipment failure (cw telegraphy) even if most CB radios cannot be PTT keyed very efficient or at any decent speed. But most CBers will not break any speed keying records either :) It's best to have a radio that can work with *all* modes and use the mode that suits best the particular situation. It was really enjoyable to watch this!

[@640amthemix]

Thanks I'm glad you enjoyed the video but I must also thank you for sharing your explanations of all three modes in a well written post that newbies as well as seasoned radio enthusiasts could understand. Starting dialog and interest in radio is what this channel is all about. 👍📻

[@ZzedZed]

4 miles ! what are using for antenna, dirt ?

[@640amthemix]

Lol well it’s ground wave, stock, mobiles and for the finale , in the big city.

[@640amthemix]

BTW check out the latest video on Skip, even you might be impressed!

[@ericstruna2193]

AM modulated to a FM Receive, I select AM carrier 5Khz up or down(27.300),while FM carrier remains centered at 27.305 works fine mixed modes AM to FM or Viceversa?

[@640amthemix]

Excellent feedback! I will try that out. Thank you for commenting.

[@ERICtheLATE]

Good test vid. AM and FM just always tie, they have slight pro and con differences. AM...just barely wins because of availability. Still 0.00 FM capable rigs at the truck stop, they reject interference much better over distance, and lil hunting 462 radios do not count. Anytone makes some great equipment

[@640amthemix]

I agree. I beleive truckers will benefit the most from FM has they are usually communicating short distances. AM is plagued with more noise but is readily available. SSB is king for long haul communications in my opinion. Thanks for commenting.

[@VicGreenBitcoin]

In My country we only use FM, its better over distance. AM always noise, specially in city`s

[@640amthemix]

@@VicGreenBitcoin Thanks for your comment. I'm learning that now. Hopefully more videos to follow showing that!

[@buzzie0047]

Just wondering. Are you two testing these radios in the city only, or is it a combination of city/suburbs?

[@640amthemix]

City, usually reduces your range.

[@flash001USA]

If you are transmitting on FM and the person can hear you clearly on AM this would be due to the receive frequency being off center. If both radios are aligned correctly then a person transmitting on FM will be very quiet on the person on the radio receiving on AM.

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for clarifying (radio pun intended lol), I recall the signal was distorted. Thanks for watching

[@flash001USA]

​@@640amthemix I worked in electronics up until I retired a few years back and in the late 70's into the 80's we used to add FM kits to the older radios of that time when FM in CB radios wasn't really heard of. We would use the same FM discriminator IC's used in televisions for the Audio and we would tie the CB mic audio into the TX section normally through a varactor diode of the radio to make the carrier sift in the FM mode. The way we did this was to add a toggle switch to the radio that allowed the FM receive to tie into the IF section of the radio and take place of the AM receive feeding the audio amp. The same thing would happen with the switch where instead of modulating the radio with an AM carrier, the audio would be fed into a small pot that you set for the correct FM deviation and it worked quite well and at the flip of a switch you could go back to AM. The only issue was the older radios were prone to temperature changes which would throw off their alignment out just enough to hear exactly what you were hearing in the video when you were listening on AM and this is why a lot of the older radios like the Midland CB radios had the delta tune switch if you remember them. FM radios have to really be spot on with each other and if one of the radios is even slightly off, the audio will be low and slightly muffled. The only fix to the drift issue was to change out a lot of the cheap non temperature stable capacitors in the IF and mixer sections of these older radios with more expansive temperature stable capacitors. That's kind of what separates the high end HAM rigs from CB or at least it did because these days, your average truck stop CB's are built quite well and do not suffer with temperature issues especially after they have been turned on for a few minutes. Technically if both radios are perfectly aligned you should hear very little audio if you are listening to a FM signal in the AM mode and if you have a clarifier all you have to do is null out the FM audio while listening in the AM mode then when you switch to FM you should have the best and loudest FM audio as long as the FM circuit in the radio is aligned correctly. Anyhow, I didn't mean to write a novel here and I hope my first reply to the video made sense as to why you could clearly hear the FM audio on the AM mode on the other radio.

[@640amthemix]

@@flash001USA That makes sense and thanks for clarification. I do recall older radios would drift and I now understand why. I have also heard that the best place to go back in the day to fix radios was the TV repair shop and to the average consumer that didn't make sense. I will be working further with the President to see how it stacks up with older radios on AM as well as FM. Thanks for commenting with your knowledge.

[@JAFO.]

Curious what type antennas you're employing for mobile & Base?

[@640amthemix]

Weak link is the mobile with just a inexpensive mini cobra mag mobile. Base is the A99.

[@CharlesSmith-ye3fv]

SSB we’ll go the far this.

[@TheDixieDXer214inSC]

when doing FM mode and you've got a Q5 Armchair copy on someone, it's known on FM as, "Fully Quieting" and other FM specific term like, "picket fencing" might get you change your mind and NOT like FM. After using all three modes over last 20 years, I prefer and choose SSB, the WINNER!

[@640amthemix]

Great tips and thanks for the feedback, I enjoy FM but I agree with you when it's all said and done it's SSB!

[@ErnestGWilsonII]

Next time you do this test, please turn the RF power all the way up on the 2950. No wonder the any tone had some trouble receiving.

[@640amthemix]

Both radios were powered down.

[@CharlesSmith-ye3fv]

Another good ways to let your SWR Be down to 1to1swr have a good Coax

[@640amthemix]

I know I know , it's not the best set up. But it does show it doesn't take much, and use what ya got. Thanks for the feedback. 640 Out!

[@tah6746]

What about USB? vs the others?

[@640amthemix]

Good question. CB users tend to use LSB kind of an unwritten rule. If you go onto the ham bands they use USB.

[@pdean2010]

Just got my first trucking job. Looking for a cb radio. Are most truckers on am? I’m looking at a cobra 29 ltd. Is this a bad choice? I’m not sure I would want it to travel/ receive very far. It looks like all the trucks I have looked at have a spot built in to hook one up. Any advice would be appreciated.

[@640amthemix]

Welcome to CB! Most truckers have CBs but not all use it. Those that do are mainly on Channel 19 with AM usually on the Interstates for long haul trucking. The Cobra 29 is a good choice for short range comms. SSB is preferred for "Skip" -long distance comms when the skip opens up. Although not a trucker when I travel I always have the radio on 19 AM. At times it can be entertaining. Hope that helps.

[@alexyu6928]

Your best choice is not the Cobra 29 but Anytone 5555 or Radioddity QT60. The two export radios are equipped with 60 watts, multi bands and SSB.

[@ItsRael108]

Such a shame you didnt move from lsb to usb as opposed to fm of which am should of followed .. I take it you guys are young newbies to the hobby All the best 👍👍📻

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the well wishes, Newbies ? Sort of lol. Long Hiatus from Radio but due to Pandemic came back to Radio. But in my defense to put the video into proper context FM had just been authorized by FCC, and we wanted to compare. Check our my other CB videos. Thanks for watching.

[@paherbst524]

4 watts on each?

[@640amthemix]

Yes

[@tunercars3]

this video just gos to show that there is a need for amplifier's on the 11m band

[@640amthemix]

Agreed.

[@alexyu6928]

Honestly the 4 watts limitation on 11 meter is just make no sense and despites amplifiers are "illegal" to use I heard them all the time.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

fantastic video Mr

[@640amthemix]

Thank you!

[@elektroqtus]

I used to love having all 3 modes at my fingertips. You guys must not have been using full 1/4 wave mobile antenna with my friend and his Antron 99 1/2 wave base vertical antenna. My 102 inch stainless steel and RG-8 coax got me 30 to 60 miles on 25 watts UPPER SIDEBAND!!! We also knew some lower sideband people as well. Used both of them. If your equipment is properly tuned, and both sidebands are symmetrical to each other, it doesn't matter which one you choose. Just remember one small detail next time you all brag that lower sideband is the best. 37 Sidewinders might check someone on that. We ran 27.375 USB. P.S. I would be PISSED if my radio couldn't do LOWER SIDEBAND!!!! !!! all 11 meter ssb skip is mainly in this mode. USB can be less crowded but not really. Just different people than the other sideband.

[@640amthemix]

Never really picked up USB activity on the 40 but from now on I will looking out for it. You can hear USB activity on the triple 5.

[@elektroqtus]

@@640amthemix actually 4 modes. I keep forgetting I could do am stereo at any given moment. My story is 2 high quality high dollar audio transformers. I really wish I still had those bad mugs. They were my passive L+R mono sum, L-R stereo difference matrix. All I had to provide was a stereo audio source with impedance of less than 300 ohms unbalanced and we were good. What that translates to is I could have a conversation with someone in am, fm, usb or lsb, and within 2 seconds, start playing high fidelity music in am stereo. I didn't have a 25Hz pilot tone generator so it wouldn't activate Motorola CQUAM chips. But my Sony all system radio did nicely. Did I mention that I had acquired radio number 3? Not because of failure. It's a very long story. I'll be eventually getting off my ass and start this darn series about all of this. I have one hell of a story to tell and you can grab a front row seat. Subscribe to my channel and you're in.

[@CMCSS-to3to]

Pretty good for 4 watts

[@640amthemix]

4 miles for 4 watts not bad. 👍📻

[@joetripi3255]

Squelch has nothing to do with transmission it only blocks out the noise in receiving

[@640amthemix]

You are correct. Thanks for the feedback

[@ernestbodvar2546]

Just for a president Randy walkie-talkie with FM you are talkin 194 but everybody's got their kind of money to blow on a new radio

[@640amthemix]

Good point. Who has the money for all these radio's I wish they made one radio with all three. Thanks for all the comments.

[@AvocaSingleTrack]

The receiver in the RCi is much better than the anytone. Also, you need to pull over and not be moving when making the comparisons. Some of them you were moving, driving and that comparison is not valid

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the suggestion! Appreciate the feedback and thanks for watching

[@kylewilliams1223]

I have never owned a cb radio that was capable on a m or even fm for that matter. For a long time, I had a cobra 25 wx s t, and that radio didn't have the functionality.

[@640amthemix]

Cobra 25 is an AM Radio I believe. So if no AM only SSB?

[@dr.jamieadamspleasantph.d.1609]

SSB LSB is King for sure with distance!

[@640amthemix]

I agree but FM is also capable of skip, just not as efficient.

[@JAFO.]

If 100 watt radio: AM = 40 watts FM = 40 watts often sucks due to multipath audio grunge SSB = 100 watts PEP AM = both USB & LSB + carrier whereas SSB concentrates all the transmitter power into one sideband, no carrier, more available power when concentrated - almost like a compressor.

[@JAFO.]

Sounds like the 2950 needs an SSB touch-up. Doesn't seem to be providing full power. Maybe the ALC VR is still turned down to 10 -12 watts. It's designed as a 25 - 30 watt SSB radio

[@640amthemix]

I agree and that's why SSB is far more efficient for long haul skip.

[@640amthemix]

Correct its an old 2950, maybe from the early 90s from what I can see.

[@JAFO.]

@@640amthemix Has it been "peaked" or aligned?

[@640amthemix]

@@JAFO. Appears "barefoot", may need an alignment.

[@dr.jamieadamspleasantph.d.1609]

Imagine FM though with linear amps!

[@640amthemix]

AMPS are great but first ingredient in my opinion is propagation then a good antenna then fire in the wire 😀

[@SimonBlandford]

Big advantage of FM is that the amp doesn’t need to be “linear”. It can also be driven to a higher power because there is no modulation envelope to accommodate. As long as the heat sink is large enough and the components and PSU can stand it.

[@tahoma6889]

Using two illegal radios to perform a test that really is not done properly at the receive end? FM was just approved. It will some time before there is much activity. My concern is the damage it will do in the hands of jammers.

[@640amthemix]

Radios were set at 4w. How could we of improved the test at the mobile end? I agree that FM will take time to gain a foothold.

[@joestevens8975]

I can talk 20 30 miles no problem with my stryker in the truck. You guys need better antennas

[@640amthemix]

We definitely need better antennas but you also have to figure in the city landscape also plays a role. Thanks for the Comments. 640

[@ernestbodvar2546]

I will stick with am and SSB over FM any day

[@640amthemix]

I prefer SSB for my personal favorite but I like to have FM for those that want to switch. I am working on another FM video for the future. Thanks again.

[@genereddington1686]

not a very good test , if your using a small mobile whip at the base will be absolute rubish , what you need is a silver rod 5/8ths wave for the base on top of your building , power meter calibrated to set both radios at 4watts .now why it wasnt fair with ssb as the radios put out if set leagal is 12 watts so they will have more range .Also the anytone sounded off frequency on fm .Here in the uk we get much more miles not just 4miles ,we work on avaerage 25miles ground wave with clear fm .As you will find out on a decent test FM will walk over AM .. Get it right with the base and make sure both sets are bang on on fm frequencies . 4miles to us in the uk would be rubish , we have used Fm for many years since the early 1980s.

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the feedback. This range test was with a common set up - the mobile with yes compromised antennas which is what many have. I agree top side antennas will garner more range but there are plenty of examples of pristine tests on YT and elsewhere but that might give the newcomer a false sense. This was to show an urban real world type of test. I have an A99 which is an excellent vertical aerial. But thanks for the feedback. Catch u on the air.

[@fransahm1956]

Luckily GMRS allows 50 watts!! I use it much more than CB!!

[@640amthemix]

True gmrs is a viable option but license is required.

[@billloveless6869]

Good test

[@640amthemix]

TY sir for the feedback. 640 said that!

[@miker8379]

Aren’t RCI known for terrible fm

[@640amthemix]

I would say by today's standard it's not the best but for a chasis that's over 30 years old, its stood the test of time.

[@miker8379]

@@640amthemix I think the fm guys in Europe would say it was bad 30 years ago but sounded ok in the video

[@640amthemix]

@@miker8379 Europeans love FM, and I agree.

[@CharlesSmith-ye3fv]

SSB is the strongest will go the father rest I’ll skip a.m. and SSB is the best

[@640amthemix]

I agree but some don't like the hiss rattle and roll. I say SSB for skip and FM for short comms.

[@bigbone88]

Turn up the rf gain,next time

[@640amthemix]

Will do thanks

[@Johnyrocket70]

Narrow vs Wide band FM UHF

[@640amthemix]

Excellent suggestion 👌

[@smithderf]

The only reason for FM is to sell radios. The manufacturers will benefit, hence the petitioning of the FCC for the FM mode, but there is no benefit for the operator. Just a cash grab of the ignorant.

[@640amthemix]

Thank you for the comment and I agree with the first part. Its definitely to sell radios but it will improve the quality of comms especially short range. Truckers should take advantage.

[@14KiloWhisky]

😁👍

[@conmullen1670]

I have talked DX all over Canada and the USA on Fm ,including the UK 🇬🇧 when conditions are great it works fantastic on 26.805 FM

[@CharlesSmith-ye3fv]

Use 102 inch stainless steel Welp is your best antenna in CB good job boys

[@640amthemix]

Thanks! I agree but it's a large footprint, so I tend to go low profile. I agree it's compromised but once in awhile 640 gets out!

[@ericephemetherson3964]

SSB is the most efficient.

[@640amthemix]

Without a doubt for long haul skip

[@ernestbodvar2546]

When I had my RCI 2980 I talked on FM cuz I had a built-in and I hated it FCC never should have allowed this those idiots all I can say is they dropped the ball on in the radios are so overpriced it ain't funny

[@640amthemix]

They take advantage of those that want FM, good point again.

[@Eugen963]

RCI receiver sounds better

[@640amthemix]

I agree. Bigger chassis and larger speaker. Anytone ia eaaier to nip and tuck into spots. Thanks for commenting.

[@rawlinharringtonke8tiq837]

I have no clue what you guys are running for antennas and your local terrain but in my area from my base to my truck I can get 30 miles before I drop below 9S units. At 2 miles if you're only getting 5S units you're doing something wrong.

[@640amthemix]

Local terrain ground wave. Not sure what state, terrain, urban or rural your in. Ive made contacts to the UK on that mobile and Mexico on that base. Hope that helps and thanks for commenting!

[@kontikinomads6750]

Of course the rci is way off on ssb😂

[@640amthemix]

Its an old radio!, give her a break!

[@reg428]

I know AM is 4 watts, and SSB is 12. How many on FM?

[@640amthemix]

FM will also be 4w.

[@vancamper7650]

This is a terrible test. First, the Anytone for some reason is muffled (like covered with pillows), and that is not normal. Mine is clear and crisp like the RCI, others get same results. Second, you say you got only 4 miles on AM (mag mount and other antenna was an Antron). . You should be getting better results. I got (in city) 4.2 miles on AM using Anytone 6666 with President Virginia 19 inch antenna, and power set to 3/4 (max is 15w AM). The other radio was a Galaxy 959b using a 3 ft Little Wil at 4w AM.

[@640amthemix]

Appreciate the feedback. Both were mobile with mag mounts and you got it correct the lil will at 4w. Muffled audio was probably due to the fact they were tucked in between seat snd post. To get in time perspective it was around the time as I was getting back into CB. To see better results check out latest Roll Call video with the NYCCBA on ch 36 lsb. Thanks for watching.

[@mediamike693]

+++++++++++++++NO! I THINK ??? I WOULD GO 4 THE SIDEBAND MODE + OUT 0F EXPERIENCE IT IS MUCH BETTER 4 DX++++++++++++++I WOULD SAY SSB++++++++++++++++FROM PIONEER RADIO 626 OF ADELAIDE+++++++SOUTH AUSTRALIA+++++++++++++

[@640amthemix]

Thanks for the comments. I agree SSB will always be best for Skip. But peoole do make long haul skip with AM. European CBers have attested to also making great skip on FM as well.

[@josephwilkins3982]

I’ve had my nose in CB for almost 30yrs. I know enough to get into trouble. But, you people need to speak in plain English! Don’t show me schematics,charts,polarities,… I don’t understand electronics! Speak English!!!!!!🤬🤬🤬🤬🤬

[@640amthemix]

Couldn't agree more henceforth all future videos hereth on the channel shall be in plain straightforward terms that any layman would and could decipher 😁 All kidding aside good point and that's what we do here in an effort to bring in new users to the 27mhz CB Band. Thanks for the comment, 640 out uh I mean 640 ending his reply lol

[@johnlupo3919]

STOP STARTING SENTENCES WITH "SO"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@640amthemix]

So what your saying?.. 😀Sorry couldn't resist. I'll work on it.

[@dobermanguy9437]

FM totally sucks!!!! when it comes to rangeI don't know why CB manufacturers and wasting their time with this crap focus on making some good base stations there's hardly any available nowadays I would much rather have a radio with SSB than FM sucks 2 miles are you kidding me dude that is no kind of range test why don't you do a 5-10 mile range test and see what happens am is still better than FM in my opinion Inside Man is way better than FM FM is a joke

[@640amthemix]

I agree usually FM is best at close range but you can hit some skip with it. Check out Kate CE 26 radio dx channel. Her latest video is FM skip. FM is very popular in Europe. Thanks for commenting.

[@640amthemix]

@6One5 Got Down I partially agree. Skip is possible on FM. Take a look at Kate 26 CE 01 radio dx channel. Look.up "922 Maryland USA first contact on 26.805 FM" FM from UK to USA

[@640amthemix]

@6One5 Got Down Skip is skip in any mode in my opinion . Only factor I think that can effect the distsnce is bandwidth and propagation at the time.

[@jamesgardner9583]

Fools, can't correlate....

[@640amthemix]

Experimentation is half the fun!

[@jamesgardner9583]

Experiment but correlate.