Basic & inexpensive UHF handheld

[superquag]

I'm looking for a replacement for my (now deceased) UNIDEN 2W hand-held UHF. - Fitted in top pocket, light weight, good audio level/quality and basic functions... especially the nice old-fashioned rotary on/off volume control.

- Prefer "SIMPLE" as much as possible, minimum features, something like the current 5W JAYCAR ones being sold for $150 or so.

Been following the WOUXUN thread, interesting & tempting... but I really don't want the capacity or requirement to program via computer... Am a born-again Luddite.

Use:- Mostly for country bus/coach driving, both for picking up on over-sized loads and communicating with bushwalking schools who are Geographically misplaced... Capacity to plug in a headset is essential, as the Pax. don't need to be bothered with radio chatter. External antenna also.

Seeing as it'll be used only once in a while, I can't justify big brand-name $$$s, but at the same time, can't afford to be stuck with lousy audio quality that strikes some Chinese brands.

Came across this one via the Whirlpool Forum, good things said about it there...

FEIDAXIN FDC FD-890 UHF 400-480Mhz Rain-proof Handheld Radio Two-way Radio Brand of Radio FDC (http://www.446shop.com/views.asp?hw_id=142)

and this one for Dual band, FD-880 VHF/UHF.
http://www.446shop.com/views.asp?hw_id=9

Dunno what - if any - Shop 446 charges for shipping.

Any and all comments welcome !

James, On the 'Booses, e' bah goom

PS, So far, can't think of a use for Marine VHF for use inland.....
Yet.

[steveG]

I've got one of the Wouxun ones listed on that thread and very happy with it. The "programming" is really easy so I wouldn't let that put you off them. Unless you want to play around with different settings, its really just a case of upload the config file from that thread - and only has to be done once. Worst case if did you have trouble uploading it then just get a relative/friend/forum member who is slightly more computer literate than yourself to do it.

Can't comment on the other models you've mentioned.

Steve

[superquag]

One use for the VHF side is... listening in to our Fire & Emergency Services Authority who live around 161 to 165 Mhz. :D

[DiscoWeb]

I purchased a GME handheld a while again from Presiege communications, website linked below.

Prestigecom GME UHF CB Radios (http://www.prestigecom.net.au/index.php'main_page=index&cPath=32&zenid=hfv1irj2m2tqliposjg0gov7f0)

turned up on time as ordered and i have been very happy.

It included a plug in mic, 12v car charger and desk top charger as well for around $120.

I also purchased 2 0.5w handhelds for kids at the same time.

Hope this helps.

George

[Mick_Marsh]

I just paid $150 for an Uniden twin pack (1W).
I think Aldi or DSE have single 80 channel ones for 60 of 80 dollars at the moment. Check you junk mail (in the letterbox).

[superquag]

I must admit feeling a bit like a turncoat... looking at Chinese stuff, when the GME is (?) still Aussie owned. My 5 watt/40 channel car CBis the little GME, and has always worked well.

Got my notice for the Heavy vehicle medical... may put off purchasing till I know whether I'll still be driving...:(