Looking for my first scanner for Washoe County

[ScannerReno]

I am in Washoe county and am looking for a nice scanner to use so I can monitor RPD, Fire, and REMSA. Using smart phone apps has gotten annoying since I can't listen to one channel only.

What is a good entry level scanner that will work in the area? The list of frequencies on here for Washoe shows mostly 1xx.xxx - 4xx.xxx frequencies, but when I watch what frequencies are shown on the app it seems to be stuff like VC:853.175 and Green VC:853.575.

A year ago I ordered a Uniden BC75xlt and wasn't able to get it to work correctly. Not sure if it was me being stupid or the scanner not able to work in the area.

I am willing to spend more money for something that will work in the area, I just want to be sure it will work before putting down some more serious coin.

 

[737mech]

Reno area suited scanner

A Uniden Bct-15x would work. Be aware there’s talk about the statewide system changing to digital in a few years. That might end your ability to scan those agencies. If you can afford more look into a digital scanner. Not sure what kind of p25 is in use up there but may be a good thing to have if you travel around?

 

[ScannerReno]

A Uniden Bct-15x would work. Be aware there’s talk about the statewide system changing to digital in a few years. That might end your ability to scan those agencies. If you can afford more look into a digital scanner. Not sure what kind of p25 is in use up there but may be a good thing to have if you travel around?

I have heard about switching to p25. From what I understand (very little) the p25 is to encrypt communications and there would be no way to scan/listen in anymore?

I don't mind spending some coin on a digital scanner, I just want to make sure I can still use it in a few years.

 

[6079smithw]

Washoe County and NSRS are both 800mHz. EDACS. Try a RadShack Pro-97 for listening on the cheap; I've used one here in SW Reno for years with great results. NHP RPD/Sparks/WC Pd sheriff and fire are all on the trunk system. REMSA uses std MED freqs., a 97 will cover them all for less than $100.00 on eBay while you're savin' up for a SDS100. Hope this helps, good luck!

 

[KG7PBS]

i would buy the new SDS-100 you will get a lot of use out of it and should be fine Evan after they State/Washoe go P25 P2

 

[gmclam]

There's two lines of thinking. One is to get you monitoring today for as cheap as possible. A PRO-95 or PRO-97 (or PRO-164 or PSR-300 or PSR-310) can likely be had for cheap used and will do the job TODAY. But things are changing.

To be "future proof" to the next level you really need a digital scanner. Everyone has their favorite, and each has its own set of pros and cons. I use a PSR-500. Jump ahead a few years when you need digital, and it is likely at least some channels will be encrypted.

 

[Darmtn]

The pro-92/95{ $ 50 on ebay} would allow you to get into listening now and FREE software is available. As others have pointed out , you can then spend $500 + for a new digital if your still interested when it arrives - . you'll have an idea of what and how newer scanners are programed etc.
On the other hand you could get the digital now but be aware there is a learning curve!