So I want a new scanner. Of course I don’t want to break the bank, but something newer then what have. (Pro-2046) I actually got it new in the box from a local about 2 yrs ago. It works good but I want to upgrade. I currently have a makeshift external antenna. It’s a Shakespeare marine on my roof. I can pull in Police from 40 miles away. I have a scanner ant that will be about 40’ to the tip when we get it installed next week, 🤞.
I’m looking at these 3 scanners the WS-1065, BCD996p2, or the BCD536hp. I’m kind of lost 😞 at all the differences. I live in 84701 Sevier county, UT
Any help would be appreciated I’m looking at just base stations and I want to reach out as far as possible I heard something about a 50 mile range on the 536...
Thanks guys in advance...
As Bob & Whiskey have both noted, your range for possible reception is affected more by whatever antenna and coax you use, than just by the scanner. I think the "50 miles" you've mentioned is probably the "50 mile" range setting on the 536HP (and other Uniden database scanners). That 'range' is used, along with your location, to enable systems within the range selected when using only the
database & location. It has zero affect on whether or not a specific system or agency can be monitored. If, based on your location & antenna setup, the scanner can receive the system, you'll hear it whether your range set is ten miles, fifty, or something else.
While the 1065 is a good scanner, it is based on a design that is over ten years old. It's probably a little more sensitive on weak signals than the 536HP, however the difference is not enough to really notice. The WS1065, and other Whistler scanners, are more prone to overload and desense (hear less) when there are strong signals from nearby towers at your location. These could be broadcast band (FM radio or television channels) or cell towers, or other transmitters.
A couple of your neighboring counties are beginning to use a
NXDN system, so NXDN capability (via a paid upgrade) is available on the 996P2 as well as the 536HP, but you do not have that option with the WS1065. Your statewide
system is an older Motorola Type II. These are no longer supported by the manufacturer, so many cities, counties, and states that use this system type are upgrading toP25 (digital) systems. Whether any upgrade is planned in the near future in your state & specific area, that question would best be asked down in the Utah forum. Should, at some future date, an upgrade was made to a P25 Phase II system (which are becoming much more prevalent in many areas), the WS1065 cannot receive that type; the two Uniden scanners can right out of the box. The database capability of the 536HP is an advantage if you were considering travel & taking the scanner along.