Which scanner for Medic friend?

[N5FDL]

I have a paramedic friend who would like to purchase his first scanner. I need help selecting a model, ideally something inexpensive. I'd like to offer a choice of both a "base" and handheld radio.

Basic requirements:

• Coverage of 155 MHz. Public safety
• Coverage of 453 and 463 MHz. Public safety (the dual-band requirement means an inexpensive commercial radio is out of the question)
• He will be listening to 20 frequencies, tops, and not all at once. He has three locations he cares about.
• Trunking is not required. Nor is 800 MHz. coverage.

It would be nice to have:

• PL tones
• Alphanumeric display -- would like to program without needing to purchase software/cable. Though I think I have Radio Shack stuff already.
• Extreme ease-of-use (why I like commerical radios)

I think what this adds up to is needing a cheap portable with alpha and PL. I'd greatly appreciate suggestions. Did I mention that less-expensive is better? And if I can't get alpha and PL, what would be a good choice?

Thanks in advance.

David

 

[hsdtech]

I'd recommend the PRO-97. It has everything you listed and a lot more. Its a triple trunker and also has the UHF Air Band. So if your buddy discovers he likes scanning he has a lot more variety if he so chooses. You can find them on ebay ranging from around $60-$150. Its an excellent scanner IMO.

 

[N4JNW]

I agree on the Pro-97.

While it IS a trunking scanner, it has lots of features that he is looking for, such as PL tones and Alpha tagging. I used to have one, and it was a really nice scanner. I'm actually kicking myself for selling it now.

It's brother the Pro-2055 is also a nice scanner, as it's the same scanner as the Pro-97, but a base/mobile model.

 

[Nasby]

PRO-97 all the way or PRO-2055. I've owned both for over 1 yr. They will do what you need and more at a very reasonable price.

 

[BaLa]

The Pro97 is also very easy to program manually.