I'm looking to get my first radio & wanting a mobile unit. I need it to eventually reach from Parker to around Calhan. I need it as a backup communications. Would digital with a repeater cover that distance or would that be best suited for HF?
Thanks,
John
Neither IMO. If you're wanting to talk to folks locally, you need a good 50W UHF/VHF rig. Now if it does a digital mode as well, cool, but the reality is, most folk still talk on the analog repeaters. I've not personally been mobile in Calhan but I'd bet you can hit W0CRA/R and W0CFI/R no problem. I know I was into W0CFI/R full quieting from Byers. Don't skimp on the antenna. Makes ALL the difference from fringe areas. I run a Comet SBB-5NMO mounted smack in the center of my truck roof.
AB0L (Formerly N0KAI)
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Kenwood TM-V71A, Kenwood TS-590S, Icom ID-4100A, Yaseu FT-891, TYT MD-UV380, TYT MD-380, Kenwood TH-D7A, BTECH UV-5X3, µBITX V5, µBITX V4, QRPGuys 40/30/20m DSB Digital Transceiver
Thank you! The info I've been looking for.
Appreciate the help!