New Longer Range FRS/GMRS Radios
By Amy Gilroy -- TWICE, 12/20/2004
Two-way radio suppliers are offering extended range and lower prices next year, with Motorola FRS/GMRS radios to be available at a low of $19.99 per pair.
Midland is leading the pack in the range wars with a new 14-mile radio with 5-watt power (the maximum allowed by the FCC), says Midland. The company's new GXT500 has vibrate alert, NOAA weather radio and hands-free eVOX at $64.99 per pair. It also comes in mossy oak with dual headsets at $84.99.
Cobra is pushing extended range with a new model PR 4700-2WX that claims a range of 12 miles, Cobra's longest to date. The unit has 121 sub codes. It also offers 10-channel NOAA All Hazards Radio at $79.95 per pair.
Giant International, which produces and markets Motorola-branded radios, said it prefers a more conservative approach to range ratings. “We invest a lot of time in in-field certification rather than just sitting down and calculating the range. We do robust tests where consumers can actually have a conversation, not just receive a blip of static. So we are conservative in our range claims,” said Cortland Minnich, VP marketing for Giant.
Giant is introducing three new Motorola Talkabout FRS/GMRS radios, including the new FV200 series in a compact case with 3-mile range (without subcodes) at a record low price for the company of $19.99 per pair for the alkaline model and $29.99 for a version with a plug-in charger. Shipping is expected in April
Also new under the Motorola brand is the PW600 series aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. The series features rugged cases with 6-mile, or better, range. The units are full featured and offer NOAA weather with weather alerts, iVox hands-free voice activation and 121 subcodes. They also offer a special Motorola's QT mode, where other Motorola QT listeners can communicate with each other. The new PW600 will be in stores June 1 at list prices of $59 per pair for alkaline battery models and $69 for rechargeable battery models.
Motorola's new high end SX 700 series is its smallest 2-watt capable radios to date. The units have an 8-mile range with NOAA weather, VibraAlert and iVox hands-free voice activation, as well as 121 subcodes. They are offered in alkaline and rechargeable battery versions at the same prices as the PW600 line, or $59 and $69 per pair, said the company.
Audiovox is introducing a new ultra-compact GMRS with a built-in LED flashlight and FM radio. The new GMRS600SCH has a range of 6 miles range and offers 38 subcodes plus lithium polymer batteries. It comes in a twin pack with dual desktop charger and an ear mike with VOX at $69.95.
