Base Scanner recommendations for Barry County

[babyboomerfun]

Would the Uniden BCD996P2 be a good choice for Barry County, Mich for police, fire, amblance? We won't be taking it in a vehicle maybe just as far as the garage/driveway this summer around our portable campfire. Not interested in weather, marine etc. If a tornado is coming by the time I get down the stairs to the basement, I going up like Dorothy. On my i-pad I have the 5-0 pro scanner app but not hearing as much so I listen to Allegan county more, just doesn't seem to be hopping like the old days.

I just need some retired old folks entertainment. Thirty plus years ago we had one and then we couldn't hear hardly anything and someone told us Barry County started using a diff. system. Hubby put an antenna on roof which since has been takin down. Then we bought a handheld and had to download something and had to purchase a cord from my desktop to the scanner, no idea where cord is. To be honest I can't remember if it broke or I just gave the fu.

Will I hear more on these newer scanners. We both miss so much our scanner days. Any purchase advice on type other base Brands Model # new antenna for Barry County would be appreciated.
Sinc. Deb

 

[just1bob]

I had a Home Patrol 2 that worked very well there. But keep in mind a lot depends on location.

 

[drdispatch]

If you're on the west side of the county, you should be able to hear Allegan County, but it will depend on your elevation and the terrain in your area. Allegan County uses a simulcast cell, so if you are significantly closer to one of their towers, the 996 might be okay. The SDS200 & SDS100 are designed to handle simulcast, whereas other scanners are not.

 

[dispatchgeek]

Word on the street is that Barry County may be moving to a simulcast cell shortly down the road. I would be inclined to do the SDS100/200 if you are able. If you are in range of the Plainwell Tower (right on the Barry/Kalamazoo/Allegan line) then you might be ok with the 996P2. I don’t see that one being added to any simulcast cells as it’s too busy with all three counties radio traffic.