High End VHF

[Mithril]

I am trying to decide on a high end VHF transceiver with DSC. Currently I am looking at ICOM's M604 and Standard Horizon's GX5500S. They seem to be quite comparable although the GX5500S is about $35 dollars less expensive. Practical Sailor seems to favor ICOM's VHF radios but they have not reviewed recent VHF models.

Has anyone used either of these models? Do you have any comments or recommendations?

Thanks in advance.

[camaraderie]

Just put in a Uniden 525 here at the marina and added a couple of WHAM x4 wireless mics. Most impressed with the radio itself AND with the way cool ability to add remote mics for the helm and crew. Worth looking at. $168 buks here at sailnet store.

[Mithril]

Thanks Camaraderie,

I was looking at the Uniden 625c, it boasted the best IM (85db) and SRR (90db) and the WHAM mics sound useful.

Without a keypad, though, I thought it would be difficult to take full advantage of the DSC features. I am also looking for a VHF model with a built in PA system.

[hellosailor]

From personal dealings with SH, I can say their customer service staff actually answer the phone and provide SERVICE. My first HT was a standard horizon and still works 100%, built like a brick.

Those gizmos like a WHAM mike....They arouse the inner Luddite in me. I'd rather just have two or three or four separate and fully redundant radios on the boat, and it seems like that would often be cost competitive too.

[labatt]

I've got a Uniden 625C with the WHAMx4 mics... I find that I get "Low Power" messages quite frequently on the display... the wire gauge is correct. I also find the wireless mics run out of batteries by the end of the day. Overall, I haven't been too excited... I like the features, but the power issues are frustrating.

[sailingdog]

I'd rather have two separate radios, than a WHAM mike. Two spearate antennas too.

[teshannon]

I've got a 604 with wired remote mike and am very happy with them. The GPS interface is a great feature.
Tom Shannon

[Giulietta]

Originally Posted by sailingdog

I'd rather have two separate radios, than a WHAM mike. Two spearate antennas too.

You better get a third antenna, you might capsize, if you put only 2