VHF Radio

[Swordfish]

It looks like my VHF radio is not working. Any recommendations on a radio as well as a antenna? Overkill is OK.

While were at it I think I am going to replace the AM/FM as well.

Thanks in advance.

[FlyFishKid]

I know Icom is a good brand. thats what we have on our boat and it has nice features and we havent had of any problems with it yet. As far as antennas i dont know of a one brand that is better than the rest but im sure someone on here will. Good luck!

[ScottM]

I've been very happy with my ICOM M302 and 8-foot Shakespeare Galaxy 5225-XT antenna. Standard Horizon also makes great VHFs and Digital makes great antennas.

[itsmoderating]

Either I-com or Standard should be fine.
A mid range model $ 250 350 dollars & a good antnena is all you shoud need.
IT'S

[DaleH]

FWIW the Shakespeare Galaxy (~$100-$120) 5225 XT antenna was the bestof the best in a recent Powerboat Report testing, beating out even the Digital brand antennas by a good margin.

I can also tell you that I tested > a fozen sets and antennas last year using a marine SWR meter and without a doubt, the top 3 performing combos were all using Standard Horizon VHF radios, that 52256 Galaxy antennas, and the Shakespeare 'solderless' Centerpin connector. All 3 put out 25+ watts of output and had the 3 lowest reflected engergy ratings.

IMHO you don't need to spend > $200 on a VHF radio. You can buy one for < $150 with DCS and position send/request for that amount. I'd buy either a Std Horizon or Icom set for the radio.

[Go Fish]

Save for an initial display fogging problem I have been very happy with my Standard Horizon QuestX:

http://www.standardhorizon.com/ProductImages/GX1500S_thumb.jpg

The big display allows possition information to be completely displayed rather than scrolled. It is set up with a Shakespeare Galaxy antenna like Dale recommended...

[FireFly]

And if space is an issue you can look into the SH PS1000 black box system with full DSC capabilities and it puts out 25W. I used one last year and have not one complaint about it and they can be had for $105. It should last longer than your boat.

[DaleH]

And if space is an issue you can look into the SH PS1000 black box system with full DSC capabilities and it puts out 25W. I used one last year and have not one complaint about it and they can be had for $105. It should last longer than your boat.
IMHO that buy CANNOT be beat right there! Good one Joe :-% !