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What Radio Do I Need?
Radios, as we all know as amateurs, are a personal thing. We all have a preference for a brand, a mode, a sign, a colour, and every other variation imaginable. So, there isn’t one to rule them all. However, we’ve compiled a list of suggestions, comments, and ideas to help you if you’re on the hunt for that next radio to add to the every growing collection, all which are angled towards DMR.
Where to Buy?
We recommend getting in touch with a local supplier if you are looking to purchase a new radio.
We work closely with Techoman, and highly recommend them!
Amateur DMR Handheld
Options
Anytone 878
TYT MD-380/390
Baofeng DM-1701
Many other options are available, but these have a good reputation.
Pros
Handhelds are extremely useful. They’re portable, easy to pop in a backpack, and some are very lightweight. They are useful if you’re on the move our out and about. Majority will operate on 4 or 5 Watts and allow for antennas to be changed to one that suits your needs.
Cons
Some are only single band and compared to a 25W mobile, you may require more power if you want to reach further away repeaters or simplex contacts.
Amateur DMR Mobile
Options
Anytone 578
TYT MD9600
Retevis RT-73
Many other options are available, but these have a good reputation.
Pros
Gives you the ability to have a higher output power (majority have a minimum of 25W).
Cons
An additional power supply is required to run this as a ‘base’ unit. You will also need to purchase an external antenna and potentially a mount depending if your antenna comes with one or not.
Amateur vs. Commercial
Options
Tait
Hytera
Motorola
Pros
A lot of Commercial style DMR radios are built to be more durable and can take a bit more of rough usage.
Cons
They can be expensive to purchase, require a specific programming cable and software, and majority are single band only.
Where to Buy
Trademe
Brand New at a local supplier
Google Sites
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