Suggestions

[bfldworker]

It has been well over 20 years since I have owned a scanner. I want to buy one. I know new tech has come out since I last listened to a scanner so I am way behind with my knowledge.
Can anyone recommend a good scanner that covers all the type of transmissions, ie trunked, etc, etc

thanks

 

[Ubbe]

Uniden BCD536 for base and 436 for portable. If your location uses simulcast, or if you pan to travel to an area that use it, then Uniden SDS200 for base and SDS100 for portable.

You can go cheaper if we know where you live and what you prefer listening to as some protocols might then not be needed, like DMR, then an Icom can be used. If you only need analog and P25 phase 1 then there's lots to choose from.

/Ubbe

 

[N8IAA]

Uniden BCD536 for base and 436 for portable. If your location uses simulcast, or if you pan to travel to an area that use it, then Uniden SDS200 for base and SDS100 for portable.

You can go cheaper if we know where you live and what you prefer listening to as some protocols might then not be needed, like DMR, then an Icom can be used. If you only need analog and P25 phase 1 then there's lots to choose from.

/Ubbe

Have you checked the RR database to see if you can monitor your area? No need to buy a scanner if you can't.
Usually new members include where they live and what they want to hear. Might include that in your next post.

 

[bearcatrp]

The 436/535 or SDS100/200 will probably be your best options depending if your in a simulcast area. Figure out if you want mobile or base station. If you can afford 2 radios, get the SDS200 for the base station and the 436 (or SDS100 if you have the bucks) for when your mobile. Now if your police/fire went encryption, and that’s your main reason for a scanner, then don’t bother as nothing can decode encryption. Your location will help us help you get the right tool for the job. But there is more to listen to besides police/fire. One of the reason I picked up a Icom R30. Best hand held receiver on the market. Doesn’t trunk scan like uniden scanners. Does have phase I decode. It’s more like the older scanners from years back. What ever you decide, you will need to hook it up to a computer. Let us know your location.

 

[Golay]

Like N8IAA says, you may want to include the county and state you live in.
First responders in your area may be encrypted. Or like north of me, using something like OpenSky which no scanner can unmodulate.
If you're blocked from hearing first responders in your area, no matter how much you pay, you may as well dig out your old Bearcat 20/20 and listen to the DPW.