Back in the day......!

bobs415 · #1 (**permalink**) 08-04-2009, 07:43 PM

Used to be that the price of a scanner was based largely upon the number of available channels. Having seen an ad from Radio Shack for a handheld that has the potential of 39,000 channels, I suspect that this may no longer be the case.

As I anticipate my next purchase -- retiring my Pro-2005 -- can you tell me what variables I need to consider in a new radio? I like the portability of a handheld, am curious about digital, and live in Orlando. I tend to lean toward Radio Shack, since it's nearby and other manufacturers don't seem to be substantially better for the price (right?).

I've heard that the RS Pro-106 handheld is considered state of the art; should be, for $500. Other than an outrageous number of channels, what makes it so good?

I'm seeking your honest advice. I offer my sincere gratitude. -Bob

ElroyJetson · #2 (**permalink**) 08-04-2009, 10:53 PM

Uniden BCD396XT. With digital being the name of the game these days, there's NO sense in getting anything less. Everybody who isn't digital NOW, eventually WILL be. Orlando is digital. Lake County is digital. Every other county is at least thinking about it. The state's system is digital. And encrypted, so forget listening on THAT system.

Elroy

khoelldobler · #3 (**permalink**) 08-05-2009, 12:33 PM

Bob, I am seriously enjoying my RadioShack Pro-106 hand-helf scanner... it operates flawlessly for me, and I am monitoring Marion County's digital system. I personally feel its the best out there for the money right now... as we speak, I believe that the 106 will be on sale this week, check it out by going to the store or visit them on0line. I think the 106 is on sale till August 8th. Other posts may have better detailed info on this subject as far as the sale is concerned. Good luck to you.

rmiller818 · #4 (**permalink**) 08-05-2009, 01:20 PM

I have a Pro-106 and love it, just ordered a 197 too. I compared my 106 to some 396XTs and honestly, they both hang together pretty well, both missed some stuff but they are both great radios.

The 106 and 197 are still on sale and have free shipping:
RadioShack - mobile phones, MP3 players, laptops, and more

nova1010 · #5 (**permalink**) 08-05-2009, 02:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by khoelldobler

I believe that the 106 will be on sale this week, check it out by going to the store or visit them on0line. I think the 106 is on sale till August 8th. .

Yes it is on sale good price too.RadioShack.com

kc4wwu · #6 (**permalink**) 08-05-2009, 10:07 PM

There have been reports, and I have witnessed, that the Radio Shack 106 has problems with intermod.
The radio is too sensitive if you will, and has a flaw with overloading. I know of a few people hat offloaded theirs for this very reason. Mind you, it may not happen in your area, but if you live in Orlando, my personal opinion would hbe to stay away. I have to agree with Elroy... Uniden 396xt would be a better choice.

73, Pete
K4QHR