What is the cheapest table top scanner with Alpha Tags ?

[jtice]

I am looking to get 2 or 3 identical scanners to setup on my desk.
Looking for the cheapest ones that have Alpha Tagging, being able to program it via the computer would be great also.

Why 2 or 3 cheapos vs. one nice one?
I want to be able to monitor multiple services easier.
And be able to listen to at least 2 at once.
I like to monitor just about everything, but notice I miss alot, due to the scanner stopping on say, the police, while I am missing things said on the HAM bands.

Thanks
~John

 

[pogbobo]

not sure about the cheapest with text tags ... check the wiki though
http://wiki.radioreference.com/index.php/Category:Mobile_Scanners

also are you after a trunking scanner? or digital? I know WV has that P25 interop system thats why I ask ...

 

[jtice]

I think I need trunking,, but not digital?
I have a Uniden BC246T scanner now, seems to pick up most the police stuff.

~John

 

[n2mdk]

If you like the BC246T I would recommend the BCT15 for your desktop use.

 

[captclint]

A desktop with Alpha Tagging narrows your choices significantly to Pro-2055, BCD996T, BCT-15, Pro-433?
See this Trunking Scanner Comparison Chart
Looks like you can get Pro-2055 for $170 on eBay, and BCT-15 LIke New for $180

 

[gmclam]

A desktop with Alpha Tagging narrows your choices significantly to Pro-2055, BCD996T, BCT-15, Pro-433?

The PRO-433 does NOT have alhpa tagging.

 

[pogbobo]

that comparison chart is really nice ... the bct15 is an awesome scanner, but pricey, around $200 on eBay ... you might be able to get the pro-2055 on sale for $150 when a good sale hits at RS ... good luck

 

[jtice]

Thanks alot guys !
That chart was a huge help also.
I was thinking I could get one with Alpha tags a bit cheaper :-/
I like the BCT15, reminds me alot of my BCT246 handheld.
Its just a bit steep for me, considering I want to get 2 of them.
I will have to think this over, if I give up alpha tagging, and get a cheaper model, there are alot of other small features I would be giving up with it, it seems.

My BC246 works fine, even at home, as I have it plugged into an external scanner antenna that is mounted on top the house.
Its just that its form factor isnt the greatest for desktop use.
I may have to look into making a small stand for it.

~John

 

[fuzzymoto]

What about an older 780? Trunking, alpha-tags

 

[jtice]

hmmm, the 780 seems interesting.
Though I cant find one for sale anywhere, not even Ebay

~John

 

[rchalupajr]

The 780 is still commanding a good price, 170.00 or more. check here and on ebay for the RS 2053, they have alpha tag's and are usally under a 100.00

 

[hoser147]

If ya dont need desktops you can go with a bunch of handhelds that are at a decent price. Pro 95 or 97. are both good scanners with alpha tagging capabilities.........Hoser

 

[ryangassxx]

disregard,... mistaken..

 

[maalox]

if you do not need tones there is someone selling a pro-2053 for $90.like other's have said you can not go wrong with the bct15.

 

[CLTX11]

whereabouts are in you Virginia, what cities do you frequently listen to so we know if you need trunked or not.

 

[jtice]

I am in West Virginia,,, the state

I mainly listen to Clarksburg, Fairmont, and Morgantown.
I dont think I need any Trunking here in Fairmont, but I THINK that Morgantown uses it.
To tell you the truth, its been so long since I programmed the BC256T, that I dont remember if I had trunking freq. or not.
I will have to look at my freq. list.

I am still looking around, may hold off and just wait for a good deal on one of the above mentioned scanners.

Thanks
~John