I’m very well versed with our 996XT’s. Should the 996P2 handle it or would y’all recommend a 536HP/SDS200 (even though it’s a hefty price)?? I prefer the base model designs, it’s either mounted in my truck or sitting on my desk. Both the 996P2 and 536HP have the same dimensions, so they’d be plug and play in my truck with the same bracket/cables.
When dealing with simulcast, the SDS series scanners are the best choice. The x36HP scanners (436HP & 536HP) are not as successful, but they are above the P2 scanners (996P2 & 325P2). In tests I tried around my area, when the SDS scanners were first released, the SDS100 was getting nearly everything. My 436HP was in the 70 to 80% range, with the 325P2 in the 50 to 60% slot. My Whistler TRX-1 was below 50%.
If you were using a scanner in only a fixed location, then a 996P2 or 536HP might work out for you, if using a directional antenna to focus on a single sub-site. But when out & about mobile in the area, you likely will need to go with the SDS200, because the issues with simulcast will change depending on your exact position relative to the transmit towers. The Unication pager handles simulcast, but it can only monitor one site at a time, with a limited number of talkgroups. (You can program other sites & sets of talkgroups, but it can only scan one site at a time.) The
Blue Tail receiver can also deal with simulcast, but there is not a display. You program it with a PC, and then power it with an external power supply.
Should you decide to try a scanner other than the SDS200, be sure to buy your 996P2 or 536HP from a dealer that does not impose large restock fees if you have to return it & go to the SDS200.
