Looking for advice/recommendation

[DaMunchMan]

I am looking into getting a police scanner and wondering what features exactly I need in a scanner to listen to these. I live in Mesquite, Nevada, Clark County area code 89027 and the frequencies I am looking to get that I found for my area are

Frequency License Type Tone Alpha Tag Description Mode Tag

154.84500 WNFL592 BM 131.8 PL Mesquite PD Police Dispatch FME Law Dispatch

155.40000 WQFM449 BM 71.9 PL Mesquite FD Fire Dispatch FM Fire Dispatch

154.41500 WNSP721 BM 131.8 PL Mesquite Tac Police/Fire Tactical FM Multi-Tac

Thank you in advance for your help if you need any other information please let me know and I will do what I can.

 

[bob550]

Well, if this is all you will be monitoring, then a very basic scanner will do fine. Models such as the Whistler WS1010 or WS1025, or Uniden BC365CRS or BC75XLT will receive analog transmissions up to 512 MHz. A visual scan of Clark County systems shows some digital P25 Phase 1 in use, and Phase 2 (mostly encrypted and beyond the reach of any scanner). Any digital systems seem to be too far away from you to receive, even considering the flat terrain in your area. What you ultimately choose will depend, in part, on what you want to spend. The above-mentioned models can be purchased for $99. Digital-capable models are $300 on up. Also keep in mind that your choice of antenna, stock or aftermarket outdoor, will greatly impact your receiving range.

 

[DaMunchMan]

So with it being encrypted in my area would I still be able to listen to it? Bare with me I don't know much about these devices. I know I live in a small town and I'm kind of curious what's going on and just want something to listen to in here in Mesquite.

If I can get by with the $100 model that would be awesome.

I also have the option to pick up a Whistler digial handheld the 1040 or the analog desktop 1025 by Whistler as well.

 

[flythunderbird]

So with it being encrypted in my area would I still be able to listen to it?

You will not be able to listen to the encrypted signals. As bob550 said, no scanner can decrypt encrypted signals. Even if a scanner could do it, listening to the decrypted signal is illegal.

 

[bob550]

I also have the option to pick up a Whistler digial handheld the 1040 or the analog desktop 1025 by Whistler as well.

If you can, I'd go with the digital Whistler WS1040, as that model is a significant upgrade over the WS1025. You'd have coverage to include the 800 MHz band and any Phase 1 digital transmissions within range. Aside from local public service frequencies, you may enjoy monitoring nearby casinos as well. Whatever you buy, start out using the supplied rubber duck antenna and see how much you receive. Later, you can consider upgrading to an outdoor antenna, if possible, for much improved reception.

 

[DaMunchMan]

I thank you guys for all your help I appreciate it. My soul purpose was just to listen to what was going on around town with police and fire. We have had some crazy stuff happened in this small town. but with it being encrypted and no way to listen to it I guess I will move on to my next hobby. Maybe when I save up a little money I'll come back and see what other kind of trouble I can get into I know there's government stuff and all kinds of crazy stuff and listen to. Again thank you everybody

 

[bob550]

It appears your local PD is encrypted, unfortunately. But as you say, there's other stuff to listen to. Some folks spend most of their time monitoring the air bands listening to general aviation comms. Get a scanner that covers Military Air (225 to 380 MHz), and who knows what you could hear in your neck of the woods. You still have choices. If you want to pursue this hobby, one suggestion is to make contact with a local or regional amateur radio club. You may have to look to Las Vegas for that, but many hams also own scanners and could be of great assistance.