Late last year, a radio began to show up on the radar, and after watching a few YouTube videos, I thought I'd borrow one to check out: The Moonraker Titan, made for and sold by Moonraker, a U.K. electronics company.
Initial impressions:
The radio while overall small in size, nonetheless is nearly as wide as a President Washington or George, but not as deep. It has a large heat sink. As I go into some specs/options, you may find that this isn't the radio for you, however, for $140 U.S., this makes it a cheap bargain to get yourself on 10m.
Unlike a lot of radios, that have unused space, the Titan's PCB uses all the space within the case. There are no internal adjustments, and everything is done via the Function Menu.
Even though the radio comes in a plastic sleeve, there were a few scuffs on the top of the case, and one slight imperfection in the top case coating (Top left on radio). The radio comes with a Dynamic microphone which uses a 4-pin Cobra/Uniden type connector (there is no option in the menu to switch to another type mic). It isn't wired like a 4-pin Cobra, Uniden, or even the older Midland radios, so I call this the 4-pin "Titan" wiring (see diagram below).
Here's some other information -
Specifications
Frequency range: 28.000 to 29.700 MHz
Mode: AM/FM/USB/LSB/CW/PA
Output Power: Adjustable Low ~200mW - High ~30W
Step: 10Hz, 100Hz, 1KHz, 10KHz, 100KHz
ASQ on/off
ECHO on/off
Hi-cut on/off
Beep on/off
Dual Watch
Noise Blanker on/off
ANL build-in
Scan function
Roger Beep
LCR (Last Channel Recall)
Mic gain adjustable
TalkBack
Scan list
TOT
Digital RFG adjustable
A-RFG (Auto RFG)
The displays themselves are large and easy to see, and it's nice seeing a large frequency display and small channel number versus the usual opposite. The screen on the right displays your received signal, and on transmit, relative output and SWR reading. The SWR tolerance can be adjusted to suit your needs, but I found the 3:1 threshold satisfactory. Does it work? Yup! I unplugged the antenna and keyed the radio (kids, don't try this at home) to find that it disabled RF output completely (I never saw a blip on the watt meter), so yes, it works very well.
The control knobs on the front panel feel a bit delicate, and at first, it's a little confusing to figure out how to get everything to work, but by taking the time to read the manual, and look into the various functions, it's not too bad. It's not really a radio I'd want to use while driving, but as a base or portable radio - no problem.
One other thing I'd like to mention about the displays: The color you see is the color you get. There are no other screen colors available.
CW
This radio can be switched to CW, and it has a jack in the back of the radio for a CW key. As well, I found an interesting feature in the Function Menu called CW FILTER. There are 3 selections, but they don't tell you what they are, you can pick 1, 2, or 3 and it seems to adjust the width of the signal you're listening to, which is pretty cool - I don't recall seeing a feature like this in most other 10m radios.
FINAL THOUGHTS
While this is an inexpensive radio, it offers a few bonus items, but there are distractions. The NB (Noise Blanker) has no adjustments and has a slightly watery/DSP-like sound to it when enabled. Usually on radios that offer that type of noise reduction, it's variable. I set mine to the lowest setting (usually "1"). This sounds more like a "3".
Power output and transmit audio were decent, and I love the display, but the cheap (frail) feeling I got from the knobs/controls, made me wonder how much abuse this could take when thrown in a backpack for SOTA or POTA.
Yes, the CW width adjustment is cool, but if you wanted to make use of a 10m repeater, there are no provisions for that to happen. Your 10m choices would be AM, FM, CW, or USB. The radio's heatsink will get warm, but I never felt it was going to get out of control, unlike another 10m radio like the President Washington, where I found that long QSOs did require the purchase of at least one fan kit.
The radio came as 10m only, and this can be modified for 12m and other frequencies, but it wasn't something I could find in the manual (perhaps I missed 'em?). Scroll past the videos for the verdict...
I've also included two YouTube videos from other channels (including the one I first saw the radio reviewed: Coastal Waves) to help your decision making a bit easier.
VERDICT: This radio seems to have as many pluses as it does minuses, but for a budget 10m - the price point is there. A better quality radio for a few bucks more, like the Radioddity QT40 may be more to your liking (even though it doesn't have a frequency readout on its face). 2.5 stars out of 5.
As usual, if anything happens worth mentioning regarding this radio, I'll put an update on this page!
UPDATE: 01-15-2025
I've had quite a bit more air time on this radio, so here's a quick update:
With numerous QSOs under my belt with the Titan, I've found the SSB audio to be adequate. The audio level can be set from 1 to 15, but it arrived at my doorstep already set to 15, so there is nowhere to go - but lower. AM/FM transmit audio isn't as good as it is on SSB and I often had requests from other stations to "Turn up my audio" in those modes.
The radio is small enough to run mobile, but where you mount it in your vehicle is important. The display isn't as easy to see when full sunlight hits it, whereas this display really looks great in low light situations.
As I mentioned in the review, the noise reduction is not adjustable (only ON or OFF), so during communications it's a "love it or hate it" option (FYI: just about everything I do is either LSB or USB - not AM/FM).
LOVE IT:
When it's first turned ON, the NR sounds like an audio wormhole that encompasses the incoming audio like a weird cocoon (heavy DSP envelope). At times, it quiets the receiver to the point I forget about the heavy handed sound of the NR circuit and forget the radio is even ON - until a station is heard. During noisy band conditions I really loved the DSP, and its ability to allow some stations to be heard, when they otherwise couldn't be, without the radios noise reduction. I did quite a bit of NR ON/OFF toggling to appreciate this feature.
HATE IT:
Once a station comes on frequency, the DSP is unfurled, allowing the signal to be heard, but during a conversation, the IN & OUT of it all can be so annoying that I often just turn it OFF.
Once again: If this was adjustable it would be great! But it's not adjustable. As well, if you normally use heavy DSP noise reduction, you'll probably not consider this a downside, but if you're like me - you won't (I use DSP/NR in other radios, but it's always set to the lowest level that allows the best NR I can get, with the least amount of audible NR artifacts).
One other thing to note - the SWR protection is set per mode! In other words, by going into the menu you can have SWR protection on AM,FM, LSB, USB, CW - only (by turning it OFF for the others), or pick and choose where you want it. I can't think of a reason why you'd want SWR protection on only one mode.
UPDATE: 01-17-2025
I've been concentrating most of my reception this morning, to the lower portion of the 10m band, in particular the CW mode, to note how well the CW width control works.
It would help if they actually gave you numbers on how wide each setting is, but there is nothing in the manual, and your selection merely shows an adjustable setting of 1, 2, or 3 (you'll find this under Menu selection 26).
As you might guess, setting no.1 seems to be full width and somewhat noisy. While listening to a station on 28.204 I heard a station in 4-Land on that setting, and while I could hear it, atmospheric noise made listening more punishment than pleasure.
Going back into the menu, and by turning the Band/Mode knob, I selected setting no.2, and there was an immediate change in what I heard - a narrow sounding CW signal, and no background noise. For many years I used a Yaesu FT-817ND with a 300hz filter, and from what I could remember, setting no.2 seemed to be in that general ballpark.
Knowing this, it would be logical to assume that the 3rd setting would be narrower, but when I turned to no.3 I lost the signal entirely, and the receiver sounded very wide. To see if the CW signal could still be found, I changed the frequency in small steps, both below and above 28.204, and couldn't hear the signal again until going back to the 2nd setting - So WTH? And, what did the 3rd selection do? I have no idea, and as I said, there's nothing documented on the actual width of each setting.
The whole time I've been typing this update, I've left the radio on .204 with the CW width setting on no.2, and it's been easy to copy with zero hash coming through, so I'm happy about that.
If you use your Titan on CW, I'd like to hear about your results! Just shoot me an email by clicking on my name below.
DECENT PRICES, NICE SELECTION OF RADIOS & ACCESSORIES, AND STELLAR CUSTOMER SERVICE
One of my worst years medically, yet one of the best years for us all, regarding new radios and sunspots, it's time to pick the dealer/shop that impressed me the most. I've bought a variety of equipment from different dealers over the years, and it's often hard to distinguish a business that stands out, above the rest, unless circumstances and a good memory prevail.
I've picked BELLS CB as the "DEALER OF 2024", so let's get on with it before the ball drops tonight and we wake up in 2025 (and Bells is beginning their 57th year of business).
I've
bought accessories, radios, and other related gear from a variety of
dealers over many decades, and I'd like to tip my hat this year to Bells CB! In the last year I've bought a President George FCC and President
Washington from them, and all of my conversations have been via Text, because
often, many of my questions come up after hours, and they're and hour ahead of me (I'm in Texas and they're in Florida).
Some questions
had to do with pricing, some about stock levels, and a few that
came up regarding the President Washington. I didn't expect, and most
likely, you shouldn't expect zippy answers all of the time, but it
surprised the heck out of me when I got replies to texts I had sent
about or after 6p.m. CST, later in the evening that same day. I was impressed.
"Now that
is how customer support is supposed to work, pre and post- sale..."
My
believe the President Washington was one of the first ones available to the general population, and not long after
setting it up (a day maybe), I had the weirdest problem occur, so I sent
a text about it later that day. I received a reply that evening with some questions for me (if I recall it would
have been around 8 or 9p.m. that night) which I
answered the following morning around 5a.m.
Later
that morning I received word that they had contacted President, who in
turn, was interested in getting their hands on my Washington, and they (Bells) assured me
that a replacement radio was on his shelf and ready to be sent to me. Now that
is how customer support is supposed to work, before AND after a purchase!
It
turns out, after I had disconnected everything (mic, external speaker,
DC power, and coax), and then reconnected everything (after checking coax
jumpers for shorts) the problem couldn't be replicated... So throwing my hands up in the air, I texted
them (not an easy thing to do with my hands in the air) that it seemed like all was well, and if they didn't hear back from
me after the weekend, it was okay. What I did do (after sending the
text) was to replace the 2 coax jumper cables. They were both old pieces of coax, and many times it's easy to overlook something like this, because they've always been connected, and working fine in the shack.
I was thinking, that by disconnecting one jumper from a known good radio on the bench, and putting the Washington in its place, perhaps something happened, although it looked fine to my VOM. The second piece of coax was connected to a switch box going to a dummy load I'd put in place earlier, so if this was something that didn't show up when checking them for shorts, or twisting
them back'n forth to try and replicate the issue - it could still be one or both pieces.
Nonetheless: the issue never reoccurred, and it was working great!
I've
had 5 solid months of operation since then, and I'm happy it wasn't the
radio. I even happier about the outstanding response I received from
Bells CB. They seem to realize that when the playing field is even (like an item
priced the same as every other dealer), that something has to distinguish
themselves from the rest of the pack, and that something my friends,
is customer service!
I'm
not saying every other deaker sucks at this, BUT, because of this one experience, when I'm in the market for something new to use (or review) I'm always going to check their website first. Of course, no one sells everything, so if BELLS doesn't happen to sell what I'm in the market for, I (like any one of us) will look around at the other options.
Otherwise, I'm a BELLS CB fan, and won't hesitate to recommend them to
someone else.
P.S. - If you're a fan of Bells, AND, a NASCAR fan, you might want to follow this fellow in 2025 as well:
In today's age of the Internet, comments/reviews (good or bad) seem to take on a life of their own, and from my experience with Bells CB, they're quite aware of this, and go the extra mile to help us - the consumer. No one can predict the future to see where the effort they extend will go. In this instance, it's gone to being named "Dealer of the Year", by my meager Website and Blog.
IS THE WASHINGTON ONE OF THE BEST RADIOS PAST OR PRESENT?
What a question indeed. Not in question though, is the price tag: the President Washington is one of the most expensive 10 meter radios on the market. Is it worth it to you? Let's take a look..
Easy on the eyes, this radio is one of the best looking radios on the market. At a quick glance, it's almost hard to tell it from the President George and George II, except for the bezel. Unlike the latter, the Washington's bezel is not shiny chrome, but more of a dull dark grey color that seems to fade into the color of its covers. I prefer this over the usual chrome bezel, which is typically a magnet for finger prints, smudges, and scratches.
I got one of the first Washington's available from Bells CB, which I consider to be a top quality retailer of two-way radio equipment and accessories. This radio was purchased by myself for this review**.
One thing about being a ham and CB radio operator is the large amount of equipment available for our use, the only limitation being the size of your wallet. While I've gone through more ham rigs than many hams do in a lifetime, it's a lot cheaper buying CB or 10 meter gear to use and review. The last year (from the Fall of 2023 to Fall of 2024) I'll have to admit that I didn't expect the number of new radios to reach the level that they did - but I sure had a lot of fun using them!
Let's start out with the usual stuff: Specs and other information you would get from the manufacturer themselves.
SPECIFICATIONS
Supply
:
13.8 V
AM
:
Y
FM
:
Y
SSB
:
Y
Channel selector
:
rotary
Volume
:
Volume adjustment and ON/OFF
Adjustable RF Power
:
Y
Squelch
:
Manual and auto squelch
ASC
:
Y
Display
:
LCD multifunction
Frequencies display
:
Y
S-meter
:
Digital
Public address
:
Y
Talkback
:
Y
Vox
:
Y
Automatic SWR meter
:
Y
Tone
:
Y
Filter ANL
:
Y
Filter NB
:
Y
Filter HI-CUT
:
Y
NRC
:
Y
Noise Gate
:
Y
RF-Gain
:
Y
Mike-Gain
:
Y
Clarifier
:
Y
Scan
:
Y
Scan + Scan Skip
:
Y
Memory Channels
:
4
Dimmer
:
Y
F / Menu function key
:
Y
Beep Function
:
Y
Roger beep
:
Y
Dual watch
:
Y
Key locking
:
Y
SWR (Power Reading /SWR)
:
Y
CTCSS
:
Y
DSC
:
Y
microphone plug
:
front (6 pins)
External Vox microphone jack
:
Y
External loudspeaker jack
:
Y
Size (W x D x H)
:
7.28 x 6.77 x 2.2 inches / 185 x 172 x 56 mm
Weight
:
~ 2.62 lbs / ~ 1.19 kg
TECHNICAL SPECS
General
Frequency ranges
:
28.000 MHz to 29.700 MHz / 24.890 MHz to 24.990 MHz
Antenna impedance
:
50 ohms
Power supply
:
13.8 V
Size (W x D x H)
:
7.28 x 6.77 x 2.2 inches / 185 x 172 x 56 mm
Weight
:
~ 2.62 lbs / ~ 1.19 kg
Accessories supplied
:
power cord with fuse, 1 microphone and its hanger, 1 mounting bracket with fixing screws
Whenever you're considering the purchase of a new transceiver it's often good practice to read reviews, view YouTube reviews, and download the manual to get an idea of what you're getting into -
As well, compare the features as well as the price. How much radio do you want, and how much space do you have to put it?
While this transceiver has a large footprint (size of case, including controls and heat sink), it still slightly smaller than Radioddity's QT60 PRO, but much larger than the closest competition (in wattage), the QT80 or AnyTone 6666 PRO.
The display is very important as well, especially when you're operating mobile. I found the display used in Washington (and other of their new "Breed") to be fantastic. It didn't matter where the radio was positioned in my SUV, and I even held it out the window, aimed directly at the hot Texas sun, and display readability was never an issue. This was not tried in every color the display offered, and I used it in my preferred color of choice: CYAN. When pointed towards the sun, the display changed to grayscale (i.e. - graduated shades of black & white), very much like Midland's 79-290.
Looking at the image above, you have a row of buttons below the display that are generally useful to you, and not something you'd want to go into a menu while driving, to access:
MODE
MEM (memory channels)
SCAN (scan for frequencies with traffic on them)
ANL/NB (automatic noise limiter and noise blanker)
EMG (takes you to channel 9 or 19, but ch.9 is useless if you need help)
BAND (like just about any radio like this, frequencies are set in block of 40 channels. You'll change bands to be able to cover the complete range of 10 meters).
Above each of these buttons are the main secondary functions you can access:
Memory 1
M2
M2 and/or DUAL WATCH
M4 and/or HI-CUT
RF GAIN and/or MIC GAIN
On the right side of the display you have a column of 4 buttons:
TB (Talkback)
RX/TX NRC (setting the DSP noise reduction to receive only, transmit only, or receive and transmit. Each selection will illuminate in a different color, so you can quickly determine which noise reduction setting you're using.
NRC (Noise Reduction Circuit). Press this to change the setting, or strength of the noise reduction. You'll find that, the higher you go, not only will the noise reduction increase, but the audio quality of the received station will decrease, by sounding quite watery.
VOX (Voice activated transmit). This allows you to transmit without pressing a PTT switch, in hopes you won't be further distracted while driving. President has released several microphone to help you use VOX, while maintaining quality transmit audio - one of those being a small Bluetooth microphone, eliminating a microphone cord altogether.
Inside the radio (i.e. the function/menu settings you'll find this radio quite customizable, with one function relatively new to transceivers: Relay Mode. You can actually set the radio up to act as a repeater. If you're not yet familiar with what a repeater does, it pretty simple - Setup a receive frequency, along with an offset (+ or -), use your up/down buttons on the mike to choose what your offset will be, and you're done.
This works ONLY if you're in the FM mode and have set a have set a CTCSS/DCS code, which is mandatory for the receive end (you generally wouldn't want just any old signal to activate the relay (repeater) which is why it's mandatory, and any station trying to get a message through the relay would have to have their radios set to use the same code as your receiver - if they don't, then nothing will happen. As well, a station activating the relay should have split channel capabilities, because the signal will be relayed (repeated) on a different frequency.
I haven't gone in-depth into setting up the Relay, but whenever (or if ever) I do, I'll provide an update on this page. Suffice to know that it's there for you to setup, if you have a use for it. You'll find information about the Relay feature beginning on page 17, and finishing on page 18 of the manual.
The hand microphone you get with the radio is the usual President stock mic. It's lightweight, but delivers decent audio. As an alternative, President sells their "Digimike" for use on this and other 6-pin President radios. The usual retail price is under $50, and President has run promotions where if you buy the Washington, you get a FREE Digimike to go with it, and I really like this mic a LOT (I have one on my McKinley, and George FCC as well).
So you've looked at the specs, downloaded the manual, and now you want to know how well does it work. Rest easy my friends, this is a great radio to own and operate. I have a variety of radios to use in the shack, but the one that everyone seems to like best, is the Washington paired
with a Digimike. Power output on the box and in the specs say 70w output, but that wattage can vary slightly, and some folks are reportedly getting very close to 80w output on their radios. It's of little matter though, because no one could tell the difference on their end, if you were at 70 watts or 80.
The only gripe I have about this radio has to do with the size of the frequency display. Compared to the channel number it's awful small, and a tad hard to see while trucking down the highway, at least for my eyesight. I'd have to take my eyes off the road in front of me to know exactly where I was at on 10 meters. For those out there who don't have a ham license and plan to do the 11m modification for the CB channels, this wouldn't be much of an issue. As well, if operating this as your base station, the small size of the frequency display would not be an issue either.
In a nutshell, this transceiver (IMHO) is one of the best radios President has made in many years. The radio is not a rebranded AnyTone, or any other brand radio - it's a President! If you have the extra pocket money and are in the market for something new, then this radio is for you. And if your looking for a shop to buy it from, there are several to choose from, and I recommend Bells CB Radio shop. They've been around for quite awhile and happen to be my pick as 2024's "DEALER OF THE YEAR" (more on that in my next Blog post).
The President Washington has so many features, it's hard to cover them all in one review, and as I'm oft to do, I've included some YouTube videos about the Washington, from some of the guys I trust to get my info from:
390 WAGON MASTER
CBRADIOMAGAZINE
NLK MEDIA
If my view/review along with the 3 YouTube videos above don't answer your questions, I'm not sure what will. But, there are other Washington "First Looks" and "Reviews" to be found on YouTube if you do a search, and the more views & reviews you can find, the better informed you'll be.
If all you want is a quick fix pathway to 10m until you upgrade to a General or Extra class amateur radio license, and buy an all band HF rig, there are a few 10 meter radios that, when on sale, are almost half of what the Washington sells for, and they will get you where you want to be. For someone who plans on using this regardless as a long term 10m radio, it's a good choice (and if you QRP, dial it down to 1 watt).
P.S. - I got on the radio yesterday and was talking to a friend in the next town when he asked me what radio I was using. It was a Yaesu. He said my audio and signal was good, but a bit subdued. I switched to my QT-60PRO and he said my audio was different (but still subdued) and the signal had dropped. I noticed that I wasn't putting out a lot of watts, according to my PEP watt meter, so he asked me if the Washington was available (Jim likes the sound of this radio). It was, and when I switched the selector to the Washington, and began to talk, I noticed an immediate jump on the PEP meter, and Jim (once again) told me it was the best sounding radio I own.
We haven't had enough time on the air, due to the Holidays, to try the Washington on its stock microphone, and compare it to the DigiMike, but suffice to say that, the DigiMike and President Washington is a butt kicking combination for anyone's base or mobile station.
Being the last review of 2024, I'd like to wish you all a "Happy New Year", as well as "See ya in 2025..."
Each year the number of legal, FCC approved CB radios with sideband seem to shrink when compared to 10 meter radios (a.k.a. - "Export"). The waters got even more muddy when FM was approved. Suddenly 10 meter radios featuring only two modes, AM & FM, after FM radios appeared on the market.
Technically correct amateur radios, these radios boasted more watts, yet looked like a typical CB radio. Conversion to CB frequencies was usually simple, and that's where those units sold in N.America were destined, 11 meters - after all, how many ham operators used AM and FM on 10 meters? Well, a few may try to make use of the 10m FM repeaters, higher up the band, but not all of these radios has the necessary sub-audible codes necessary to use them.
Nonetheless, this post is centered on the radios that have single-sideband (i.e.- SSB). I've tried to make a complete list, but some radios may have slipped through the cracks, likewise, some websites are nightmares to navigate - Example: For some reason I couldn't find the Lincoln II+ on the President website under 10m ham radios, but found it easily enough on Amazon. If you see a asterix (*) next to the price, it means I found a ongoing promotion at the time of this article.
LEGAL FCC APPROVED CB RADIOS
There are few new radios on this years list, as well as a few that have been around for awhile. Let's start with one of the older models...
This radio was first introduced to the marketplace in the early 2010's (around 2013). It quickly caught the attention of buyers who had been looking for an AM/SSB mobile radio that didn't look like a Cobra 148, or Uniden Grant. It features a slick looking display that features a large channel number, and below it, the much smaller corresponding frequency. Unlike export and ham radios, the frequency display is just that: a display (it's not an actual counter).
When the channel selector is rotated to the desired channel (we'll use the picture above as reference), the radio is programmed to also show that channel's frequency. In this instance, turn the knob to channel 19 and it's told to show 27.185 on the screen as well, making it less functional and more window dressing. There have been 2 known versions of this radio, and for several years it suffered display problems: No display, half a display, faded display, etc. I haven't read anything in the last couple years to indicate it's still a problem, but if you're looking for one in the used market, this is something you should be aware of.
If I only went by this graphic from their website, and wanted the ability to hear N.O.A.A. weather reports, I might have moved onto something else because this graphic, called features, doesn't have it listed. Rest assured though, because it does. While I've never owned/tried their wireless microphone, I have read favorable reviews about it. Other information from their website:
The Uniden 980SSB
incorporates professional driver performance enhancement features with
state-of-the-art technology and modern styling. It features upper and
lower Single Side Band that allows more channel positions and power.
This Bearcat CB Radio features a customizable 7-color LCD display with
illuminated front panel nomenclature and provides SWR Antenna
Calibration. Other notable features include NOAA Weather Alerts, RF Gain
& Mic Gain, Talkback feature, and Frequency Counter. No other CB
radio on the market with SSB mode has this many features as the Bearcat
980SSB!
SINGLE SIDE BAND More power, more channels. 4-Watts RF Output Power on AM.
7 COLOR CUSTOMIZABLE DISPLAY Choose one of the 7 colors to match the vehicle’s dashboard.
NOAA WEATHER SCAN & ALERTS One-touch access to local weather information.
INTEGRATED SWR ANTENNA CALIBRATION Built-in SWR meter to precisely tune your antenna for best signal.
RF GAIN & MIC GAIN Adjusts receiver sensitivity for better reception and microphone sensitivity for 100% modulation.
AUTOMATIC NOISE LIMITER / NOISE BLANKER Automatic Noise Limiter and Noise Blanker reduces external noise, and ignition interference.
It has a list price of $199.95, but can usually be found selling in the price range of $150-$170. As we all know everything has gone up in price due to COVID and problems in the supply train. I've owned 2 Uniden 980SSB radios, the first version, and the second. The last one I purchased was in the Fall of 2019, and Amazon had them on sale. Typically, they sold for a hair under $130, but about twice a year, Amazon would have 'em on sale for $99.95, and that's the price I paid for it in 2019. If I could have forecast the future, I might have bought a few more to sell later, but who knew? Plus, this was not, IMHO, a $200 radio. When I did a review/overview of this a few years ago, my main complaint was with the display - not going out, but being very hard to see under certain lighting conditions in a vehicle. As a base radio, this wouldn't be a problem. Other than a modification of the Clarifier (tying RX & TX together) via a YouTube video, there are no other modifications (i.e. - no extra channels). Considering the age of its technology, I rate this radio as 2.5 out of 5 stars.
In case you haven't noticed, PRESIDENT ELECTRONICS owns the market, whether you want a legal CB or a 10m radio, they have a radio for you. They make quality radios, although IMO, they're at the pricey end of the market. To some degree I was surprised when they didn't come out with a new McKinley that also had FM, however, I don't know any sideband operators that were excited about FM to begin with. This model, much like the Uniden before it, are the older generation. But unless you're really hot for FM, this is still a very relevant radio!
This small DIN sized radio has two features that make it the perfect choice for in-dash mounting:
A front-firing speaker
A front mounted microphone jack
The specifications for this radio, taken from President's website are as follows:
General
Number of channels
:
40
Number of weather channels
:
7
Weather alert
:
Modulation modes
:
AM / LSB / USB
Frequency ranges
:
from 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz
Weather channels
:
from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz
Antenna impedance
:
50 ohms
Power supply
:
13.8 V / 27.6 V
Size (W x D x H)
:
6.69 x 5.91 x 2.05 inches / 170 x 150 x 52 mm
DIN Size
:
Weight
:
2.20 lbs / 1 kg
Accessories supplied
:
Ultra light electret microphone with support, mounting cradle, screws
Transmission
Frequency allowance
:
+/- 200 Hz
Carrier power
:
4 W AM / 12 W SSB (PEP)
Transmission interference
:
inferior to -60 dBc
Audio response
:
300 Hz to 3 KHz
Emitted power in the adj. channel
:
inferior to 20 μW
Microphone sensitivity
:
3 mV
Drain
:
2 A (with modulation)
Modulated signal distortion
:
1.8 %
Reception
Maxi. sensitivity at 10 dB (S+N)/N
:
0.6 μV - 111 dBm
Frequency response
:
300 Hz to 3 kHz
Adjacent channel selectivity
:
> 60 dB
Maximum audio power
:
2 W
Squelch sensitivity
:
minimum 0.2 µV - 120 dBm, maximum 1 mV - 47 dBm
Frequency image rejection rate
:
60 dB
Intermediate frequency rej. rate
:
70 dB
Drain
:
300 mA nominal / 1000 mA maximum
While an arguement can be made over what radio looks better, at $175 the President McKinley is far superior to legal competition in the $150-$180 price range. It has an innovative SWR checking system and variable power output (within legal ranges) from the front panel. It does have a brother, the McKinley EU, which offers FM, extra frequencies, and higher output, but is cost prohibitive in having it shipped to the U.S. The display is fairly easy to read while driving along the road, but I wish the display information (channel number, meter reading, etc.) was a lot darker. My score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
If you took the best of several FCC approved CB radios and put them in one box you'd have this, the President George FCC, as reviewed earlier this year in a two part article (pt.2) and pt.1 here. One of the biggest features that puts this radio over the top is the display: Night time, day time, partial sun, full sun, or cloudy with meatballs, you'll be able to see this display easily.
TECH SPECS
General
Number of channels
:
40
Number of weather channels
:
7
Weather alert
:
Modulation modes
:
AM / FM / USB / LSB
Frequency ranges
:
from 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz
Weather channels
:
from 162.400 MHz to 162.550 MHz
Antenna impedance
:
50 ohms
Power supply
:
13.8 V
Size (W x D x H)
:
7.28 x 6.77 x 2.20 inches
Weight
:
2.204 lbs
Accessories supplied
:
power cord with fuse, 1 mounting bracket with fixing screws, Ultra light electret microphone with support
Everything about this radio says "QUALITY", and rather than repeat myself, I've provided links above to the review. I used this radio for several months in one of our vehicles, and when skip conditions were ripe, I had little issue with talking across the country. The upside: it's FCC certified. The downside: it's FCC certified, and at this price it's in heavy competition with those 10m radios that run higher wattage and can be converted to 11m. 1 "Ding" for the price, this radio is 4 out of 5 stars.
The Lincoln II+ is another President model that has been around for several years, and is marketed as a 10/12 meter radio. Several people I know own at least one of these radios. If I recall correctly, it came out in 2017 or 2018, and I've owned several of this model. If it was 2018, it had to have been before my stroke in the Fall of that year, so let's call it late 2017/early 2018?
"I paid $100 less for each one I bought in 2018 and 2019..."
The receiver on both of the units I had (bought in different years) was a little noisier than some, and my biggest issue was my pet peeve about the volume control (on many other radios like AnyTone). It doesn't make a late night, low volume radio for the shack, but in your vehicle you'd never notice it. Power output is adjustable up to 35w SSB PEP. As for the price? I paid $100 less for each one I bought in 2018 and 2019. Considering its age, I think it's a little high.
This radio comes ready for the 10 and 12 meter ham bands, can be modified to 11m, so buyers risk voiding the 2 year warranty and/or getting caught by the FCC (it would suck if both happened). There were issues with the stock microphone that caused it to change channels when pushing the PTT switch, but it was very random, and the only fix seemed to be getting a replacement microphone from President. Does this still happen? I don't know. This, and my pet peeve gives it a 3.8 out 5 star rating.
$39 dollars more than the Lincoln II+ will get you the President Washington, an 70 watt powerhouse. Every detail seems to have been planned out very well, including the none reflective bezel, and grooves and screw holes for the optional fans. I don't have a review to point you to because I'm still writing it, but I can safely tell you that I found no unpleasant surprises. (This radio, as well as several others I've reviewed were purchased by Bells CB, my 2024 "DEALER OF THE YEAR". More about that in another Blog Post).
This radio has many features, and I suggest you download the manual and view the many YouTube videos as well, to see if this radio is for you. The display is as easy to see in any light as the President George or George II is, but if I have to fault President on anything to do with the Washington, it's the small frequency display, large channel number, and no way to toggle flip their size. When I'm trying to work stations on 10 meters, while be-bopping down the freeway, it's impossible to see the frequency and keep my eyes on the road at the same time. Shame on you President.
The radio accepts 2 optional fans, and I've found that by using it in the shack and spending a lot of time trying to get through a pileup, the radio got pretty darn hot. I ordered one fan kit, and that took care of it. Casual, and non-lengthy QSO's are fine, but I would imagine the modes with a constant carrier (AM/FM) might need a fan as well.
SPECS:
Supply
:
13.8 V
AM
:
Y
FM
:
Y
SSB
:
Y
Channel selector
:
rotary
Volume
:
Volume adjustment and ON/OFF
RF Power
:
Y
Squelch
:
Manual squelch
ASC
:
Y
Display
:
LCD multifunction
Frequencies display
:
Y
S-meter
:
Digital
Public address
:
Y
Talkback
:
Y
Vox
:
Y
Automatic SWR meter
:
Y
Tone
:
Y
Filter ANL
:
Y
Filter NB
:
Y
Filter HI-CUT
:
Y
NRC
:
Y
Noise Gate
:
Y
RF-Gain
:
Y
Mike-Gain
:
Y
Clarifier
:
Y
Scan
:
Y
Scan + Scan Skip
:
Y
Memorie(s)
:
4
Dimmer
:
Y
F / Menu function key
:
Y
Beep Function
:
Y
Roger beep
:
Y
Dual watch
:
Y
Key locking
:
Y
SWR (Power Reading /SWR)
:
Y
CTCSS
:
Y
DSC
:
Y
microphone plug
:
front (6 pins)
External Vox microphone jack
:
Y
External loudspeaker jack
:
Y
Size (W x D x H)
:
7.28 x 6.77 x 2.2 inches / 185 x 172 x 56 mm
Weight
:
~ 2.62 lbs / ~ 1.19 kg
General
Frequency ranges
:
28.000 MHz to 29.700 MHz / 24.890 MHz to 24.990 MHz
Antenna impedance
:
50 ohms
Power supply
:
13.8 V
Size (W x D x H)
:
7.28 x 6.77 x 2.2 inches / 185 x 172 x 56 mm
Weight
:
~ 2.62 lbs / ~ 1.19 kg
Accessories supplied
:
power cord with fuse, 1 microphone and its hanger, 1 mounting bracket with fixing screws
I've paired this radio up with President's Digi-Mike and it's a great combo, as well, they often run promotions where buying the radio gets you a free Digi-Mike. If you buy this radio and add a fan kit or two, you'll be spending over $400, and that's something to think about (and then think a little more after that). The small readout and the price are a ding, but this is a 4 out of 5 star radio if there every was one (and yes, I bought mine at Bells).
The QT-60PRO is the evolution of the QT-60. They're identical to look at, with only some internal features (smaller board, smaller footprint), and you can tell one from the other after power up - it has QT60P on the display, below the meters. It's currently 10% off on Amazon ($233.10),or get a great bundle from Radioddity for $239 (at the time this article is being written) -
If you think you've seen this before, you probably have - the QT60PRO and QT80 are re-branded AnyTone radios. Is there a difference? Yes: Customer and Warranty support, something almost non-existent with the AnyTone. For further details I'll direct you to my "First look / Review".
Radioddity often has these on sale for around $200, or they bundle it with other add-ons. My biggest issue was with how the screen is portrayed as a light tan/orange background, when it's actually closer to the darker orange you can see in the picture above. Nonetheless, this radio has the most bang for the buck and IMHO is a 10/12 meter radio you should strongly consider, especially it you're a new Tech class ham, and would like to try HF SSB on 10 meters (after all, the Sunspot cycle won't last forever). I would have preferred a real mic jack (i.e. - non-RJ45), but if you catch this on sale, it's a definite 4.5 out of 5 stars!
The QT80 is, once again, a re-branded AnyTone. The features are the same, as is the warranty support situation. Of all the radios you've read about so far in this article, the QT80 is the ONLY one I haven't bought, tested, and used myself. I've read plenty of nice things about it, written by various owners, my take away is that it works well but gets hotter than hell. The only reason I did not buy one is purely my own dislike of it's layout and cosmetics. Do not let that deter you if you like the looks of this radio.
It will do 10 and 12 meters out of the box, and when modified you'll have 10-11-12, and 15 meters (a first). This is an 80w radio, but reports put the output on 15 meters at 15 - 25 watts (your mileage may vary). Usually this sells for $299, at Radioddity or on Amazon, but Radioddity has, at the time this article is being written, a promotion which drops the price $20, and you get a free external speaker and free eBook about HF VHF, UHF beginner's guide to communications -
That's a pretty good deal if you ask me (even if you don't need the speaker or eBook). From the website:
80W High Power: Experience clearer and stronger signals in
challenging conditions with our 80W high-power radio. Perfect for
amateur radio enthusiasts and professional operators, it guarantees
reliable long-distance communication in any environment. FCC ID:
T4K-AT6666PRO
Versatile Communication Modes: Seamlessly switch between FM,
AM, SSB (USB, LSB), CW, and PA modes to adapt to various communication
needs, from casual use to professional applications, catering to various
communication scenarios.
Advanced Noise Reduction: Customize your listening experience
with adjustable TX & RX background noise reduction. Enjoy
crystal-clear audio with minimized background noise and enhanced voice
clarity, ensuring smooth and intelligible transmissions every time.
ASQ Function: The Automatic Squelch Control (ASQ) function
intelligently filters out unwanted noise and static, providing a cleaner
and more enjoyable listening experience. Say goodbye to constant manual
adjustments and enjoy hassle-free communication.
7-Color LCD Display: Personalize your interface with a
vibrant 7-color LCD display that complements any environment. Choose
your preferred color for optimal visibility and a modern touch,
enhancing your communication setup.
CTCSS/DCS:Use CTCSS/DCS codes to prevent interference and
enhance privacy during group communications, ensuring clear and secure
conversations.
Precision Frequency Tuning: Tune precisely with 7 Frequency
Tuning Step options (10Hz/100Hz/1KHz/5KHz/10KHz/100KHz/1MHz), enabling
accurate adjustments for clear communication.
Disclaimer: No License is required to purchase this radio, nor
to Monitor (listen) to the many Amateur (Ham) Radio frequencies.
However, an FCC License is required to Transmit (Talk) on Amateur Radio
Frequencies in the USA. Please visit
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/amateur/licensing to learn more.
Download the user manual and CPS.
Having not used it, I've embedded a good video from Josh @ Ham Radio Crash Course. If you're a radio guy, then I'm sure you're familiar with his videos, knowledge, and trust. Not tested by me, I'll give it 3.8 out of 5 stars, based on other reviews.
This was the last radio reviewed this year (not counting the ongoing President Washington review), so I'll point you to the HS4 review in order to get an idea about the features of the radio. The $199 price is a sale price on Amazon, but very often this radio can be found on sale for $199 along with a discount coupon, bringing the purchase price to about $179 (so keep your eyes open).
The first unit I purchased had enough quirky issues that I returned it to Amazon. Shortly thereafter I ordered another HS4. The 2nd one I received was better than the first model, but still slightly quirky - which is a shame, because it has a lot of good things going for it, like the large display (dark background, bright readout, like the Midland 79-290), 4-pin cobra wired mic jack, cw key port on the back of the radio, and a single/simple one tone roger beep, amongst other things. Best of all, if you were so inclined as to modify it for 11 meters, you wouldn't even have to open the case. The jury is still out on this one, and at the least, it would be a 2.5 out of 5 star radio, but is it worth a shot? If you happen across a great sale and can get it for under $180, perhaps.
Is it still be manufactured or has it been discontinued? Was it discontinued and then resurrected? Questions like these seem to have followed this radio back when it was labeled an Alinco DR-135DX. It disappeared and the DX-10 rose from the ashes - operators were intrigued by it's features and relatively small footprint.
I caught sight of this in the mid-2010's, only to find out it was only sold outside North America. Much to my surprise, last Fall while perusing the Bells CB website, I saw the DX-10 listed. I clicked on the link, expecting to see either "PAGE NOT FOUND" or "DISCONTINUED", but no - it was in-stock and available now. I bought it. Like other radios I buy and use, I wrote a two part review of this radio, which you can find here:
Alinco DX-10 All-Mode 10 Meter Transceiver (from DX ENGINEERING)
Technician or Extra Class, Alinco's DX-10 All-Mode 10 Meter
Transceivers let you find the excitement on the highest HF band! You may
operate SSB/CW/AM or FM at your choosing from 28.0 to 29.7 MHz! Go
mobile or install in the shack!
The smooth and easy operation of Alinco's DX-10 is inherited from
other popular Alinco Amateur Radio equipment. Their large back-lit
display, excellent transmit and receive audio, SSB modes, 6 banks of up
to 60 channel memories each, dual-watch, scanning, built-in SWR meter,
key-lock and more, are the features hams asked for. Its dual displays
show frequency on one screen and memory channel on the other.
Alinco's free programming-software download makes using your DX-10 a
snap. Simply order their optional ERW-10 USB programming cable and be
ready for all 360 channels!. Of course, you may also use direct entry
controls.
DX-10 features and specifications:
* Frequency Range: 28.000MHz to 29.700MHz
* Operating Modes: SSB/CW/AM/FM
* Frequency Resolution: Selectable 10-Hz, 100-Hz, 1-kHz, 10-kHz
* Channels: Up to 60 per bank (6 banks), 360 programmable channels
* Channelized, with "fine tune" Clarifier frequency adjustment
* Antenna Impedance: 50 ohms, unbalanced SO-239
* Frequency stability: plus/minus 1 ppm
* Microphone Impedance: 2 kilohms
* Built-in Time-Out Timer (TOT)
* Switchable S/RF Meter
* Power supply requirement: 13.8V DC plus/minus 15 percent (11.7 to 15.8V DC)
* Operating Temperature: Negative 22 degrees F to 122 degrees F
* Supply polarity: Negative Ground
* Current drain: Transmit 6A, Receive 750mA (maximum) 350mA (Squelched)
* Dimensions: (approximate.) 6.7 in. (w) x 2.04 in. (h) x 8.4 in. (d)
* Weight: 3.09 lbs. (1.4 kg)
Transmitter details: * Output power: FM/AM/CW: 1 to 12W, USB/LSB: 0 to 25W
* Modulation systems: Balanced (SSB) modulation, Amplitude Modulation, Variable reactance Frequency Modulation
* Spurious emission: Less than -50dB
* Maximum FM deviation: plus/minus 2.5 KHz
Receiver details: * Receive system: Double or Single conversion Superheterodyne
* Sensitivity SSB: 0dBu (1uV), CW: -12dBu (0.25uV), AM: +6dBu (2uV), FM: -6dBu (0.5uV)
* Intermediate frequency: AM/FM: 1st 10.695 MHz, 2nd 455 MHz, SSB: 10.695 MHz (single conversion)
* Selectivity: SSB, CW, AM (narrow): -6dB at 2.4 KHz, -60dB at 4.5 KHz. AM, FM: -6dB at 6 KHz,-60dB at 18 KHz
* Spurious and image rejection ratio: 48dB
* Noise Blanker and ANL
* Audio output power: 3W (8 ohms at 10 percent THD)
* Intermodulation rejection ratio: 65dB
Included Accessories: * EMS-70 hand microphone
* DC power cable
* Microphone hanger
* Mobile mounting hardware
So it's been a year, and a month after the 2nd part of the review (February) it went back in the box to make room for something else I was reviewing. I actually went back and read the entire review to refresh my memory, and I can't say that the DX-10 is a bad radio - just middle-of-the-road, with nothing that made it stand out against the competition. Sticking with my rating scale of 0-5, I'd have to say the DX-10 is 2.5 out of 5 stars. 😕
StarLite Faceplate (Glow-in-the-Dark red and
blue lettering)
Large, easy-to-read meter with 4 scales:
"S" Meter indicates up to 60 dB over S9
Modulation Percentage Scale for use on AM
Power Scale Calibrated for AM and SSB
SWR Scale
Automatic SWR Circuit (no complicated calibration
procedure)
"Talkback" Circuit with On/Off Switch and
Volume Control
Variable Power Output Control
Roger Beep with On/Off switch and LED Indicator
Galaxy Noise Filter for use on weak signals
High SWR Alert LED Indicator
Two Year Warranty as explained below:
Five-digit Frequency Display
+/- 1.0 kHz Receive Clarifier
Noise Blanker and Automatic Noise Limiter
AM, SSB and PA Modes
3-Position Tone Control Switch
Blue/Red LED Indicator for RX/TX
Blue LED Channel Indicator
Dimmer Control
Receive Gain Control
Mic Gain Control
The inverter that powers the blue lettering causes a faint high
pitched noise to be heard in the receive signal. Galaxy has not come
up with a fix for this. It bothers some people a lot. If you
think it might bother you, then you might want to get the regular
DX-959 instead.
If you prefer the classic look of an older CB, this radio may be for you, with an output of 25-30 watts. I don't have any direct knowledge or experience with current Galaxy radios, but I'm sure you can find something on YouTube. This is a radio with SSB, so it's on the list for 2024. Untested, and unknown to me: 3 out of 5 stars.
Are regular CB radios with AM and SSB no more? Nope. Pictured above is a sharp looking CB radio with all the necessary controls you'd need in a legal FCC approved radio (40 channels & 4w AM).
TRE797 FEATURES
Single Sideband USB/LSB (SSB)
Built-In SWR Meter Use To Check Your Antenna System
Variable Talkback Hear your own voice while talking, useful to monitor your transmissions
Variable Mic gain Adjusts the loudness of your voice
Variable RF gain Adjusts the receiver sensitivity
PA Speaker Ready Easily Connect A Public Address Speaker
Front Mounted Microphone Straight Pull From The Front
Variable RF Power Adjusts your AM carrier 1-4 watts
This is another radio I've never used, but it's on the marketplace, in this instance, sold by Walcott Radio, and considering the current prices of gear, and if you're not obsessed with having a frequency display (why would you need one for 40 channels?), this slick looking radio could be just what you're looking for. I have read enough reviews from other websites to give this 3 out of 5 stars(I'll revise this if I run across one to try out).
I'm sure I missed some radios, and if they weren't mentioned, no slight was intended. I would have liked to have had this online 4 days ago, but stuff happens. In any case, do your due diligence in researching a radio before making a purchase, and I'll correct any spelling or grammar mistakes once it's gone "LIVE".
Oh my gosh, I can't believe I forgot this model. This is a radio I bought to review earlier this year and never got around to it. Yesterday, after posting this article I realized I'd been using this (still in the box), as a doorstop to the shack door! Today, I see a "Flash" deal on this radio, so it's a good time to grab one if you can:
At this price it's a fantastic deal. Granted, I haven't used mine, or even taken it out of the box, but one of the guys I talk to local, uses one for his base radio and he's pretty satisfied with it. I can honestly say that his audio, using the stock hand microphone, is superb! It doesn't have a frequency display, but you can view the frequency in scrolling fashion. It's the one thing my friend might change, because that feature doesn't work unless you're using the stock mic.
Features
FM/AM/USB/LSB/PA modes
Weather Channel with Alert and FM receiver 140-170MHz
CTCSS/DCS Codes, with separate settings for TX and RX
SSB: 3rd order, more than -25dB; SSB: 5th order, more than -35dB
SSB Carrier Suppression:
55dB
Unwanted Sideband:
50dB
Frequency Response:
AM/FM: 450 to 2500Hz
Output Impedance:
50ohms, unbalanced
RECEIVER
Sensitivity:
AM:1.0μV for 10 dB(S+N)/N @ > ½ watt of audio output. FM: 1.0 μV for 20 dB (S+N)/N @ > ½ watt of audio output. SSB: 0.25μV for 10dB(S+N)/N @ > ½ watt of audio output.
Less than 10dB change in audio output for inputs from 10 to 100,000μV
Squelch:
Adjustable; threshold less than 0.5 μV. Automatic Squelch Control(only AM/FM)0.5 μV
ANL (Active Noise Limiter):
Switchable
Noise Blanker:
RF type, effective on AM/FM and SSB
Audio Output Power:
3 watts into 8 ohms
Audio Distortion:
< 3%
Frequency Response:
AM/FM: 300 to 2800 Hz
Built-in Speaker:
8 ohms, round
FM Modulation Level:
2.8 Khz
WHAT'S IN THE BOX?
As you can see, the programming cable is included (usually some vendors will try and get an extra $20-$30 out of you to get this. Once again, I can't believe I forgot about this radio - a real "Wolf" in sheeps clothing. 4 out of 5 stars.
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