TM-281A or FT-2900R.....

[kf5bti]

I've owned both and both are great radio's. Currently I am running Kenwood's in both my shack and truck, couldn't be happier. The extra power difference will not likely be noticed in the real world. If starting with the antenna make sure you get the appropriate coax depending on the length you are running. Anything under 50' I'd go with RG8x, longer than that and I would be looking at a LMR400 or similar coax. I personally mounted my VHF/UHF antennas in the attic so I didn't have to worry as much about lightning protection. Once outside you need to take special consideration to protect it during storms.

 

[SCPD]

I had both. Switched to all Kenwood gear. 271/281 and a v71a. Very happy. I know it's petty but the yaesu mics felt like cheap toys compared to the kenwoods.

+1 to Kenwood as well. Big difference in Tx audio quality too. The Kenwood microphones feel more professional and are very comfortable in the hand.

The front firing speaker was a huge selling point for me since I had mine installed in a Jotto radio console.

I now have the V71a in the console and have to use an external speaker. My Motorola XPR5550 is now my primary transceiver in the console and its front speaker is incredibly loud.

Kenwood's programming software is free and 3rd party USB cables using FTDI chipsets are easy to find on E-Bay for a reasonable cost.

 

[robertmac]

I really can't recommend one over the other. I really can't tell the difference between these 2 radios on receive. Some have commented on the lack of power settings with the Kenwood. I think if one reviews the features of both and see what they really want/need then both can be considered. So price may determine [I haven't really compared prices as I would always want a dual band unless I was going to set a VHF to do APRS.