Two scanners battle it out, Whistler WS1040 vs BCD996P2 Base.

[dibiasi]

Hi

I just purchased the Whitsler Ws1040 and the Uniden BCD996P2. I set them both up with the same frequencies. I have to say the Whistler is blowing the Uniden away. I pick up more transmissions and they just sound better. I lock on to a channel on the Whitsler and can hear it fine while the Uniden is silent. I am returning the Uniden. I really liked how this scanner operates but it picks next to nothing.

 

[Whiskey3JMC]

Great, but are you using the same antenna on the Uniden? Are the proper service types enabled on the Uniden to allow it to track what the Whistler picks up? Are the channels conventional? trunked? Are digital modes utilized? How is the squelch set on the Uniden? These are just a few of the many different variables that need to be factored in to determine why the Uniden is "silent". The 996p2 is a superior radio, very versatile on non-simulcast systems. A good test to determine if you received a defective unit would be to tune to the closest NOAA weather frequency, assuming you have a reliable pick up on one in your area. If the Uniden struggles to pick it up, then you may have a defective unit.

 

[phillydjdan]

My Ultimate scanner smackdown video tends to disagree with your assessment. While they both sucked testicles, the Whistler was FAR worse in our testing. Total piss poor performance. I ran my Whistler in the car and while running I-95 through Philly I would routinely hear the weather channel (162.475) come across in the background of a VHF conventional channel. NO front-end filtering at all. Toss that damn thing in the trash can where it belongs!

 

[dibiasi]

I came out of the basement and the signal improved big time. So I guess if I want it down stairs I will need to upgrade to a roof antenna. The weather did not work down there as well. I hear you Philly but I am getting everything with the Whistler at all levels at my home. I don’t use it in the car. I really like The unit. I am ordering a roof antenna. I am keeping both now.

 

[Whiskey3JMC]

Yeah the basement is the worst possible spot for any radio with no outdoor antenna reception wise. The higher your radio and antenna are, the more you'll receive. Get that antenna mounted nice and high and you'll notice a dramatic improvement

 

[dibiasi]

I will do it asap. The BCD is working perfect up here. It wont stop picking up. Thanks for your help.

 

[eaf1956]

Keep in mind that the Whistler is working better in the basement because the signals are attenuated by virtue of the location. The Whistler may overload the front end if fed from the roof mounted antenna. The Uniden on the other hand isn't as HOT on the front end and should do great with a rooftop antenna.

 

[dibiasi]

Excellent advise. I will work on a roof antenna. Thank you

 

[eaf1956]

Yeah the basement is the worst possible spot for any radio with no outdoor antenna reception wise. The higher your radio and antenna are, the more you'll receive. Get that antenna mounted nice and high and you'll notice a dramatic improvement

My metal enclosed garage is about as effective at blocking signals! Sirius XM, WI FI and Satellite GPS all die out there.