OK folks, here we go. I'm planning on making the switch to Uniden (not that it's too much of a big deal for me) and I'm looking at the BCT898T, BCT15, BCT8. There isn't much call for trunking here in central NY- where I live at least- so am I making a good choice? Should I go ahead and get the software package? Is the RR recommend a good place to buy? I have other querries but I'll let this float around for now. I'm sure this has been thrown around at you all a hundred times or more but I need a "fresh" perspective. I've foraged through quite a bit of the forums so don't throw too much of that at me. Just trying to make it a "be-all to end-all" discussion for myself...new to the site but old in the scanning. I've pretty much done all that I want or can with the "old" tech so now it's time to frustrate myself with the "new" stuff. I'm really digging what you guys are offering up here. I can't believe it took me this long to find it. Time I suppose. Not to mention my better half probably won't be thrilled! Other interests have gone by the way-side now so it's time to jump into this! I appreciate in advance any thoughts, comments, suggestions....AE
New purchase thoughts
- Thread starter AuntEnvy
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Forget about the BCT898 and BCT8 and get the BCT15 along with ARC15.
Any further explanation for this? I assume, because I've forgotten already, the ARC15 is the software for that model? I also don't remember if that was a package deal. I know 2 of them had it but 1 did not for some reason.
Yes ARC15 is the software for the BCT15. The 898 and 8 are both older technology. Also there have been many reported problems with the BCT8. The BCT15 is one of the latest and greatest scanners to hit the market. Do a comparison of all 3 and you will find the BCT15 to be the winner.
I've been doing the comps and "researching" here at the site/forums etc and you're pretty much right. Just trying to get some final input and opinions put together for the ole pro-con issue. I may be setting myself up for more confusion.
kreepus
Member
Definitely get the ARC software for programming. It's hands-down the best on the market.
jonny290
Member
Seconding (third?) the BCT15 - it's about as slick as they come. I already own a 396 and will be grabbing a BCT15 right after Christmas for a secondary radio.
jrs71
Member
The 898 is old school (channels & banks, no alpha-tags) and doesn't have some of the other features of the BCD-15. Having said that, it is one if not the best sounding scanners I have ever owned. Excellent sensitivity/selectivity. I also like the large form-factor of the 898 and the big VFO knob is handy. Many times I prefer to listen to the 898 in place of my 996 or 2096.
Just something to consider, good luck with your decision.
Just something to consider, good luck with your decision.
jrs71 said:
Just to be sure, I noticed you had slightly different model "labels". Are we talking about the same ones?(BCT15/BCT898T) I'm asking because you said the "898" was old school. I'm going under the assumption "old school" means non-trunking. Maybe I don't have the right model numbers or can't remember correctly - which is entirely possible. I guess I'll have to keep the info with me. Anyway I certainly appreciate your reply.
Eng74
Member
I am looking at geting a BCT15 myself. I have been thinking of picking one up for about a month now.
jrs71
Member
AuntEnvy said:
Yes I was referring to the BC898T. My reference to "old school" was in regards to the BC898T's not having dynamic memory, alpha-tags, close call, etc. like the latest models (i.e. BCT15/BCD996T) have. The BC898T is a TrunkTrackerIII and will monitor trunked systems. Neither the BC898T or the BCT15 will monitor digital systems (APCO 25). For digitally trunked systems, you'll need a BCD996T, BCD396T, or BC796D. Hope that clears it up some.
[EDIT] PS - If you haven't already seen it, there's excellent information about Uniden scanners in the Radio Reference WIKI:
http://wiki.radioreference.com/index.php/Uniden_Scanners
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jrs71 said:
You forgot to add the radio Shack models (PRO-96 PRO-2096).
jrs71 said:
I think I checked that out. With all the stuff I've checked out it's hard to remember but I'll give it a look...thanks. As for the digital capabilities I don't believe there's a call for that in my area yet. That's one of the reasons I'm trying to figure out if I should stay ahead of the curve or just wait until it's really required. Again, thank you.
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