I'm a Newbie...best place to buy my scanner?

[itsmesuzq]

Hi, I haven't had a scanner in years but I can't wait to jump back in with both feet! My question is: What are your recommendations as to where I should buy my scanner? I've looked on a couple of WEB sites, but I'm not sure if I'm getting a good deal or not. I'm interested in getting the Uniden BCD296D. I don't need 6000 channels (BC396T) and I think this model will be easier for me to program etc. (At least I hope so!)

Can any of you give me some advice on some good sites, with fair prices and a good reputation? Many thanks.....
~Susan

 

[Joseph11]

I'd say go with a reputable seller on eBay, but I know others will disagree.

 

[John_M]

Jeff at Hamstation I would recommend www.Hamstation.com, www.Scannermaster.com I would also recommend. Both have the BCD396T around $519.99.
I think if you bought the 296D you would be kicking yourself in the head after about three weeks for buying it over the 396T. You may not need 6000 channels but you may need 1000
channels dynamically allocated so you can move around with your scanner at different locations.

 

[scanjunkie]

Scanners Unlimited is also a phenominal place to deal with. Talk to Glenn Cohen there...you won't find better customer service!!

 

[John_M]

If he buys for Scannnersunlimited he will have to pay sales tax which he wouldn't have to do buying from out of state. I think Ebay charges sales tax but I am unsure of this.

 

[jpm]

Communication Electronics Inc. has very good prices.

 

[Joseph11]

eBay doesn't charge sales tax. eBay sellers sometimes do charge sales tax but they must be a business and in the same state as the buyer.

 

[Declared_Hostile]

I've never had a bad experience with Grove Enterprises or Universal Radio. Usually pretty good as far as price goes and always great customer service. I've bought used gear from Jeff at the Ham Station and got great service too.

 

[BaLa]

if you weren't looking at the Uniden models I'd recommend you buy from Radio Shack, as they will program your scanner for you.

Which is quite helpful when you first get started out.

 

[MacombMonitor]

Jeff at Hamstation I would recommend www.Hamstation.com, www.Scannermaster.com I would also recommend. Both have the BCD396T around $519.99.
I think if you bought the 296D you would be kicking yourself in the head after about three weeks for buying it over the 396T. You may not need 6000 channels but you may need 1000
channels dynamically allocated so you can move around with your scanner at different locations.

The BC296D has 1000 channels! I think the BC296D is more than enough for most people. It is made extremely well, performs well, and has all the features that one "needs". Granted the BCD396T goes somewhat beyond that, but not everyone requires, or even desires those extras. There are pro's & con's to both.

 

[Soundboy61088]

try scannerworldusa.com, I never bought anything from them but my friend, who's a cop, does all the time.

 

[wesct]

dont forget that the 296 is now dsiscontinued and the 396 replaces it.

wesct

 

[safetyobc]

Scanners Unlimited is also a phenominal place to deal with. Talk to Glenn Cohen there...you won't find better customer service!!

I agree 110% I never had service like that of Glenn's. Absolutely wonderful to deal with. Even if he has to pay tax, it is worth it for the service that you get with Glenn. ScannersUnlimited is my exclusive dealer of scanners since purchasing my BCD396T from him. At least give him a call and talk with him before you buy.