VHF Handheld Recommendations

dougshipl · #1 (**permalink**) 12-26-2009

We're in the market for new handheld VHF. Looking for quality and performance over price. Any thoughts ?

Also, any thoughts of icom 504 vs 604 (fixed unit) ....or other mfg in same range ?

All thoughts appreciated. Thanks Much

JohnRPollard · #2 (**permalink**) 12-26-2009

We have the Standard Horizon 850S, which among all the usual VHF features also has built-in GPS and DSC position signaling for emergencies.

It is a nice unit. About my only complaints are that the volume can't be turned as low as I'd like, and battery life is not the longest when the GPS receiver is functioning (but it is easily turned off).

Although the 850S has only been out for about a year or two, I think Standard Horizon has come out with an updated/improved version that includes a digital compass feature as well.

roline · #3 (**permalink**) 12-27-2009

I have several ICOM M1's. the batteries are no longer manufactured, so a bought a couple extras. Nice to throw a charged one in a ditch bag when I go out... I keep on in the cockpit, more convenient than the fixed mount.

Faster · #4 (**permalink**) 12-27-2009

We're using the basic Icom M 34 (?) floating handheld... also kept in the cockpit. It definitely has reduced range compared to the ship's station, but convenient for short range and marina contact.

We had an opportunity to test it's floating features last summer.. it slipped over the side as we were beating in 12-14 knots true - managed to spin around and pick it up in a single try.. couldn't get the grin off my face the rest of the day!

(I can only hope a real MOB goes as well.....)

They float antenna-down with only an inch and a half or so above the water.. suggest marking the bottom with coloured tape or something else more visible.

The radio's nothing fancy but it works for us.

groundhog · #5 (**permalink**) 12-27-2009

Yes, I learned this summer the difference between a submersible and floating hand held...

CaptainForce · #6 (**permalink**) 12-27-2009

We have an ICOM handheld that I'm pleased with, but the greatest factor that allows my handheld to be reliable is that I have adapted the mount of my fixed VHF so that it functions at the helm and my handheld sits at ready with it's charger. 'take care and joy, Aythya crew

dougshipl · #7 (**permalink**) 12-30-2009

Thank you all for your time and thoughts.

dantaden · #8 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

I currently use an Icom 604 on board our Celestial 48'. The NMEA interface is handy at the nav station to show co-ordinates and integration with remote MIC capability for the cockpit. The remote MIC has intercom capability with main unit.

I also have a 504 for sale brand new still in its original box.

eherlihy · #9 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Faster

We're using the basic Icom M 34 (?) floating handheld... also kept in the cockpit. It definitely has reduced range compared to the ship's station, but convenient for short range and marina contact.

...

They float antenna-down with only an inch and a half or so above the water.. suggest marking the bottom with coloured tape or something else more visible.

I also have, and recommend, the Icom M34 which I keep in the cockpit every time I go out. The weather alert has saved my bacon several times. You can get an alkaline battery pack for it (which I have in a ditch bag), but it only floats with the LiIon battery. I have red SOLAS tape on the bottom of the unit, and the LiIon pack. I have used it many times, and really like it. Icom is informally known for units with good sound.

In comparison, I was sailing with a friend this summer with one of the new SH hx850s units with the built in GPS/DSC. The SH unit was inaudible (garbled) after he rowed about 1/2 mile from the boat. He tried all three power settings to no avail.

fourdegreesc · #10 (**permalink**) 12-31-2009

I'd recommend the HX370S (Icom). It's an old model so there are tons of them available for cheap cheap, they're waterproof, but do not float. We use them on our offshore supply boat and rest assured we mistreat ours much more than you will mistreat yours. We've never had a problem other than routine maintenance (the battery was past its life), but everything about these radios is excellent. I have two on my own steel cutter too.

They come with a cool emergency battery pack so if your rechargeable battery is dead you can slap in some AAs.

Good luck,
-dennis