Scanner Advice

[tommytomaso]

Hi, I live in Phoenix, AZ and I am new to scanning. I would like to buy a new scanner but I do not know which model to get. I was thinking of getting a Uniden BCD-396T or a BC-246T. If most of the frequencies are blocked then the BCD-396T would be over-kill. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[John_M]

If you can afford the BCD396T then I would get that. Eventually if not now there will be a digital system that you will want to monitor. It also has milair which the BC246T does not have. Take a look at the RR database and see if there are digital systems in your area.

 

[tommytomaso]

Thank you for your response. I do believe most of the police frequencies are digital but I am not sure if they are scrambled or not. I guess I will just go with the BCD 396T and then I should have the bases covered.

 

[AZScanner]

There are many encrypted channels on the digital systems in use here, but there is also plenty in the clear so there's lots to listen to. If you want to monitor Phoenix PD, Mesa PD, Glendale, Luke or MCSO you'll want a digital scanner. You can't go wrong with a 396.

-AZ

 

[tommytomaso]

Thank you for the information. I purchased a 396 and a BCT8 for the Highway Patrol Alert.
I had a BCT12 at one time and the patrol alert worked well so I picked up the BCT8 just to keep in the car. When I go to Vegas I have run into lidar so I use an Escort 8500 and a ZR3 shifter in my Z28. The alert has let me know the cops were around before I even got into radar range.