Scanner Recommendation for NE OK

[jwreich]

Hello, I've been reading and searching on this site for weeks about different scanners from the Radio Shack options to the GRE/Uniden versions. I continually see recommendations to get the best scanner for your region. So I thought I'd ask you seasoned vets.

I understand we have rebranding throughout the state network and Tulsa is running trunks. I've been looking at the Uniden 396XT hand held scanner because I don't have a place in my home to setup equipment. The reason for the Uniden option is because it appears to offer just about everything and can be programmed from the computer.

I'll take my HAM test next month so as I prepare for that, I'm wanting to not only listen to public safety, but also storm chaser and general HAM chatter. As always I'd like to get in to this hobby as cheap as possible, but my wife won't allow me to switch equipment every 3-6 months. I have to make calculated purchases that will last for the near future.

Any help and suggestions are greatly appreciated as I've read so many specifications at this time, my eyes are crossed. Any local shops you would recommend?

Thanks,
Jesse

 

[sphipps]

Most of NE OK including Tulsa runs on the OKWIN statewide system. It's a Motorola analog trunking system. You really wouldn't need a digital scanner to monitor that area... but if you can afford one, it's certainly not a bad idea to go ahead. I doubt the OKWIN system will go digital anytime soon... but you never know.

Broken Arrow uses an OpenSky network. I don't know if they have fully switched over to it... but if they have you're not going to be able to monitor them regardless of having a digital scanner due to encryption. Tulsa will still keep you well "entertained" with just an analog scanner.

I routinely monitor OKWIN out of Ottawa and Craig counties and Tulsa now and then when I'm down that way with my older analog trucking scanners.

A Uniden 346XT would work just fine in that area for now. It's basically the analog version of the 396XT. They run about $200 or so at Radio Shack.

The only place other than Radio Shack that "might" sell scanners around Tulsa is the CB shop on the east side at town just north of Exit 238 on I-44. It sits directly north of the truck stop you see on your right if you exit I-44 going west. Tiny little place... but he carries quite a few radios and I've seen new and used scanners in there now and then. The owner is a pretty good guy. I've bought a few radios from him over the years.

Take care!

 

[jwreich]

Thank you very much for the input! I had learned the BA system couldn't be monitored, sad but oh well. I've been using an iPhone app to monitor Tulsa right now, but thought a scanner would be a nice addition.

Thanks again!

 

[N5TWB]

I have a 396XT and like it for all the reasons you are considering buying it. It works well in both handheld and mobile applications. Uniden does a really good job of supporting the firmware and it does do the rebanded sites just fine, too. I don't use mine for monitoring any ham frequencies since I already have the radios to do that.

Good luck on your test session. Make sure you hook up with the BA amateur radio club - good bunch over there and you can learn a lot. Make sure you plan to go out to Field Day in June with them to get exposed to HF operations, too!

 

[jwreich]

It's great to hear some first hand experience for my area. I was just looking at the BA club site this morning and will plan on making contact with them. Now I'm just trying to find a scanner locally.

 

[plaws]

As always I'd like to get in to this hobby as cheap as possible, but my wife won't allow me to switch equipment every 3-6 months.

No, no, no! Totally wrong strategy. Tell her that new equipment every few months is totally normal and that it's expected and desirable.

There are really only two scanner makers, Uniden and GRE. Radio Shack has branded a few Uniden radios in the past but their current stuff is all GRE.

Here's the problem: regardless of the merits of GRE receivers vs Uniden (and I'm a Uniden guy and I am biased), GRE has stopped production on scanners with no timetable (or even a hint that they will) resume. Warranties on GRE-branded radios are being honored by GRE America and, as you'd expect, Radio Shack stands behind their warranties.

There is a thread on the forums somewhere with the latest news but I don't recall exactly where.

 

[jwreich]

Well I made my decision after researching uniden scanners on RadioReference.com and the suggestions of you to purchase a Uniden BC346XT. A quick search on Radio Shack it shows the model is in stock at my local store. I hop in my car and drive up to the store. I'm greeted by three employess looking to assist me and when I tell them what I'm after, I get three different responses. One person says Radio Shack doesn't carry scanners in store and they are a web only item. I reference my search on the website and the fact it shows in stock at that store. The next guy picks up the conversation telling me all the units have been gathered and shipped back to "corporate" and are no longer offerend in the store. I'm at a loss at this point and question this as another RS store had scanners just not the model I wanted.

Finally the third guy, who is counting out the till for the day and is not in RS uniform, prceeds to tell me that RS doesn't sell scanners any more because they can't guarantee they will work. Ok, that makes no sense at all seeing as most of the radio traffic is not secure an fully open for those wishing to listen. I asked if he had the model I was looking for, at which time he proceeded to tell me all the reasons it wouldn't work, none of which answered the question of did they have the unit I was after.

I have inquired with RS corporate if this is there new stance on scanners, but I can find the unit for a lot cheaper online and have it quickly. I don't see myself doing business with them again. The Claremore store and the South BA store both had scanners on the shelf, just not the model I wanted.

Anyone else experience this?

J

 

[HogDriver]

I would go digital if you can. Most metropolitan areas east of here are digital so unless something comes up that stops us from getting it, it will happen eventually.

 

[jwreich]

That had crossed my mind, I guess I'll need to either find a used one or save my pennies longer to buy a new model. I'll keep checking fleabay...

 

[xerb1962]

Well I made my decision after researching uniden scanners on RadioReference.com and the suggestions of you to purchase a Uniden BC346XT. A quick search on Radio Shack it shows the model is in stock at my local store. I hop in my car and drive up to the store. I'm greeted by three employess looking to assist me and when I tell them what I'm after, I get three different responses. One person says Radio Shack doesn't carry scanners in store and they are a web only item. I reference my search on the website and the fact it shows in stock at that store. The next guy picks up the conversation telling me all the units have been gathered and shipped back to "corporate" and are no longer offerend in the store. I'm at a loss at this point and question this as another RS store had scanners just not the model I wanted.

Finally the third guy, who is counting out the till for the day and is not in RS uniform, prceeds to tell me that RS doesn't sell scanners any more because they can't guarantee they will work. Ok, that makes no sense at all seeing as most of the radio traffic is not secure an fully open for those wishing to listen. I asked if he had the model I was looking for, at which time he proceeded to tell me all the reasons it wouldn't work, none of which answered the question of did they have the unit I was after.

I have inquired with RS corporate if this is there new stance on scanners, but I can find the unit for a lot cheaper online and have it quickly. I don't see myself doing business with them again. The Claremore store and the South BA store both had scanners on the shelf, just not the model I wanted.

Anyone else experience this?

J

Avoid Radio Shack at all cost! Used to be THE connection for cool stuff.....I don't see how they can stay in business much longer?

 

[Freqed]

If you plan to keep monitoring Tulsa you need a Digital capable scanner as TPD has already gone Digital with there few monitor-able ID's. They are currently still linking to Analog ID's but that will not last for much longer. Not getting a digital capable scanner at this time is a mistake.

 

[jwreich]

Thanks for helping me not make a mistake and buy a scanner that won't last long! Digital it is!

 

[marshall58]

I agree with Freqed, go with a digital scanner with the way some of the dept's are moving to it. I use both digital and analog scanners and like them both (BCD996XT and BCT15X). I never had any problems at Radio Shack. Always been treated good at the Claremore RS.

 

[jwreich]

Marshall, the Claremore RS store was wonderful. I was up there yesterday just to see what they had. Although not what I was looking for, the staff was superior. I don't think it is company owned. Nevertheless you have confirmed that I shouldn't make the very mistake I didn't want to make. It will take me an extra month or so to save up for the Digital 946xt, but that is what I'll do. I might catch a good deal somewhere...

 

[jwreich]

Since I'm going digital now... Used Pro-18 or 396xt? Or does it matter both are great? The freescan software seems to make the uniden a better choice?

 

[Freqed]

Uniden would be my choice, but I have no exp. With the 396.

 

[plaws]

Uniden would be my choice, but I have no exp. With the 396.

GRE isn't a good choice unless and until they decide to start producing scanners again. Uniden, FBOFW, is the only game now. I happen to be a Uniden fan (I've had about 10 of them) but I'd rather have GRE keeping them on their toes. GRE is who has made 99% of RS's scanners over the years.

BCD396XT is a fine receiver - you won't be disappointed ... once you get it programmed. Get FreeScan and someone here can probably give you config files to get started. Also, google up the "easier to use" manual for it - it ships with a "manual" on disc which makes a fine coaster.

I have one and had a 'T before it and have 2 BCD996XTs (same radio, basically, much bigger box).