AOR AR 8000 Replacement??

waynger · #1 (**permalink**) 09-11-2009, 01:55 AM

I recently got out my ar8000 that I haven't used for at least 6 years. Put in a new set of batteries and its as good as ever. Unfortunately my hearing is not as good as ever, with -55db hearing at 4k things are not as clear as they once were to say the least even with 6k worth of hearing aids. Not to get off the subject but I'm not 60 yet so wear your hearing protection!! I have to turn the volume up quite a bit to hear most of what is being said and as a result since some transmissions are of much lower audio I am getting blasted quite a bit. I wonder if any of the current crop of wide band receivers have (better) AVC, AGC to provide more even volume levels between someone whispering and someone talking loudly? And how do the newer models compare to my ar8000 as far as general real world performance? Any body had a ar8000 and what do you use today? Any way been doing lots of reading about Icom R20s, AOR 8200***, and would even consider a base unit if it isn't a enlarged hand held but really offered something. I would consider spending $500. - $1000. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance

Wayne Overbeck

Fast1eddie · #2 (**permalink**) 09-11-2009, 04:57 PM

Wayne, I wish I had a answer for you. I picked up a R20 over the summer, and even with the programming software it is kicking my butt....do not use it too often. The audio seems to be much clearer and maybe a tad louder than my 8000 amd 8200.....have you considered using a amplified speaker???

Best wishes,

Ed

waynger · #3 (**permalink**) 09-11-2009, 09:40 PM

Hi Ed, Well didn't consider a external speaker, I have enough volume if I turn it up for the low volume talkers, but its WAY to loud when the dispatchers talk. Thats why I was wondering if a newer scanner might have some kind of automatic volume control?. Is that R20 that much harder to operate that the 8000? How do you feel the 8200 and the r20 compare to the ar8000? My sound issues aside, are they noticeably better as far as sensitivity, selectivy, features?

Thanks Wayne

satob1 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-02-2009, 11:34 PM

hi there everyone, i have a aor 8000 i purchased off ebay nearly 1 month ago. i wreckon the audio and the receive is great i paid $175us for mine from ebay a very good price for what they do modes etc .i havent tried amplified speakers what is the advantage of having 1 ,thanks hamguy1 nsw australia