Need new replacement 25 watt VHF Radio

[Chaunclm]

I would appreciate any suggestions you folks might have regarding a new 25 watt VHF. Thanks.

[btrayfors]

The Icom 504 is a very nice unit. It is a true Class D DSC rig, i.e., it has two receivers and monitors DSC transmissions on Channel 70 continuously.

It's also easy to find, and priced right (e.g., $272 including shipping). You can also add a full-function remote microphone if you like ($138).

The Standard Horizon Quantum models are also very nice. I have one aboard my boat.

Bill

[SailorMitch]

Icom and Standard Horizon rate well on Practical Sailor. I have a SH on my boat and like it. I also have a RAM mike installed in the cockpit that's hard-wired back to the radio. Having the full range of the high antenna on the radio is a big plus for me and easily beats the range of a handheld. So think about features like that you may want.

[Valiente]

I have a middle-aged Icom M-45 fixed unit and two Standard Horizon handhelds, the latest one with DSC and multi-band reception, which is handy. I plan on getting an ICOM M-802 SSB radio for offshore, and I have an SH wind instrument, so I would say I'm pretty positive on either brand!

For a capable "bargain" unit, investigate Uniden. I know a few people who've bought the handhelds and think they are very nice.

[Ladyhawke2]

I have an ICOM 402 with a hard wired mike back to the cockpit. I have had it for over a year now and it has worked flawlessly. The fully functional mike back in the cockpit makes a big difference. I also have a handheld Uniden Atlantis 250...which for the price works exceptionally well.

[BarryL]

Hello,

Last spring I bought and installed a Standard Horizon GX1500S. It was affordable ($150 for the base unit, another $100 if you want the remote mic).

One nice feature is that if you connect it to a GPS it will work like a repeater and displays your SOG, COG, etc.

The sound quality is great, it is DSC, etc. etc. etc.

[sailingdog]

It's probably not a bad idea to spring for the Icom that Btrayfors pointed out, since it isn't that much more expensive, and it is a much better unit. Most of the other units recommended are single-radio units, and can't monitor the DSC broadcasts continuously. Icom is also a bullet-proof brand as radio equipment goes.

If you really want versatility, it would be a good idea to look for a unit that has a hailer/foghorn function as well. The Icom 504 has one built in.

[artbyjody]

I use Icom as well - and their technical support is fast and friendly...I have used both the 4X and 5X series with the external mike... if you are looking for something that ties in to your Raymarine or other system however - it may not be the way to go - but for a standalone system Icom I recommend...

[Chaunclm]

I'm leaning toward an Icom 604 with a command Mike III. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

[teshannon]

I have the ICOM 504, a great unit. Whatever you buy you should definitely get a unit with a remote cockpit mike as has been pointed out. It adds a lot of versatility.