LiveATC Discussion Forums

Air Traffic Monitoring => Listener Forum => Topic started by: jrsx on November 14, 2010, 11:26:25 PM

Title: Help choosing a scanner/transceiver
Post by: jrsx on November 14, 2010, 11:26:25 PM

Hello, I have finally made the decision to purchase an air-band transceiver and was looking for some help/suggestions on choosing a good model. Here are my buying criteria:

1. Needs to be handheld
2. Because I am a pilot, I need a transceiver that can transmit on air-band frequencies
3. I would really like to receive non air-band frequencies (police, fire, etc. etc.) however I do not need to transmit on these.
4. Would prefer to spend under $400 U.S.

Thanks for the input guys.....     

Title: Re: Help choosing a scanner/transceiver
Post by: K5PAT on November 15, 2010, 01:41:04 PM

I don't know of any air band portable transceivers that will also receive police, fire, etc.  The good portable radios for pilots are dedicated to aircraft frequencies and some can also receive VORs, but none can also receive public safety or business channels.
    Your best bet is to purchase a good portable for flying and get a $99 Radio Shack portable scanner for the rest.  Used scanners are also available on Ebay, Craigslist, etc.
    Sporty's, ICOM, and JRC make some nice aircraft transceivers. Try Gulf Coast Avionics for discounts. http://www.gca.aero/default.asp (http://www.gca.aero/default.asp)

Title: Re: Help choosing a scanner/transceiver
Post by: K5PAT on November 15, 2010, 02:52:54 PM

Here's a nice one for $89.00.
http://www.gca.aero/detail/6406/Handhelds/MAYCOM/AR-108AE/ (http://www.gca.aero/detail/6406/Handhelds/MAYCOM/AR-108AE/)

Title: Re: Help choosing a scanner/transceiver
Post by: K5PAT on November 15, 2010, 02:57:13 PM

Another one on Amazon.com for $59 refurbished
http://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BC72XLT-Handheld-Scanner-Black/dp/B0002QIBNK/ref=pd_cp_e_1 (http://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BC72XLT-Handheld-Scanner-Black/dp/B0002QIBNK/ref=pd_cp_e_1)