Motorola MR350R 35-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair) Review

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(More customer reviews)First of all, all the distances advertised on any walkie talkie like this is based on mountain top to mountain top communication, where the valley increases the range, and no obstruction. That is where they based the 35 miles. For city use, in malls, house to house and areas with trees will be between .5 to 1 mile at most. Since I have been using Motorola Walkie talkies all my life so I knew what I was buying.
I experimented with 3 different models of Walkie talkies in the mall with my wife. First we tried the 5 mile Motorola. I was on one end of the mall inside Macy's and she was on the other side in Nordstrom. She could not even hear me.
We tried the 10 mile Motorola. This time she could hear me press the talk button and a few garbled words, but that was it. We could not communicate.
We tried these 35 mile ones last. We were able to hear each other just fine. Not bad considering the distance and the number of obstructions.
I have also tried this on the open road for car to car communication and it can reach the horizon. If you want more power, you will need to get a license and buy a 5 watt radio.
This Radio has many nice features you would normally find in Professional Radios 5 times the price of this.
UPDATE SEPT 25, 2009-
This radio has a really nice feature I just discovered. It has the hands free iVOX capability. It will broadcast when it hears a sound. There are 3 levels of sensitivity. I tried it as a baby monitor. I left my wife and baby while they were asleep and turned on the radio to High power on one of the GMRS channels(I have an FCC license by the way, so I can use this channel). I drove about 1 mile to my brother-in-laws house. The Radio worked as a long range baby monitor! It was impressive considering that the radio was indoors and I was not line-of-site, and it reached a mile. Very amusing.
I would advice getting an FCC license so that you can use the High power GMRS channels legally. With these radios, it is about 1.5 to 2 watts. If you use the FRS channels 8 to 14, all walkie talkies including this will only use 0.5 watts. Channels 1 to 7 are GMRS/FRS channels. You cannot legally use the high power PTT button if you do not have an FCC license. Channels 15 to 22 are GMRS channels where you can use the High power mode exclusive to GMRS radios. Go to the FCC website and pay the fee for a GMRS radio license, it is good for your immediate family for 5 years. It is worth it if you use it all the time.
****Update October 26, 2009****
I will now detail what I have found out about my Motorola:
Pros:
1. In door range - This is the mall slayer. Go to any mall and give your kids one and you will be able to talke to them pretty much anywhere they are.
2. Audio Quality - Very clear and very loud.
3. Outdoor Range - It has almost the same range as my Icom professional radio which has 3 times the power. That is basically because outdoor range is more about antenna height rather than power.
4. Flashlight - Very useful when you go camping. You dont have to bring an extra flashlight. It is bright. Excellent for emergencies.
5. iVox - Hands free operation. Very useful as a 1 mile baby monitor.
6. Call button - I can call the other radio so that they know I am trying to call them so they can pick up the radio.
7. Emergency button - It will send an alert so that the other person knows you are in trouble.
8. Weather channels - I use it to find out the weather, specially before going Kayaking.
9. Privacy Codes - it has so many Privacy codes so you will never be disturbed by other radios.
10. QT - You can restrict the radios that you hear to only Motorolas.
11. Scan - well most other radios have this too.
12. 2 power settings - You can either transmit on .5 watts or 1.5 watts, depending on the button you press. Unless you are using FRS channels 8 to 14 which are hardcoded to use .5 watts.
13. Vibrate feature - In case you are in a noisy place, this is useful.
14. Ease of use - It does not get easier. Instructions are clear and it is intuitive.
CONS:
1. I am still trying to find one.
********UPDATE December 27,2009*********
I conducted another Distance and clarity test:
Equipment:
1. My Icom F21 UHF 4 watt Professional Handheld Radio(same one Police/Sheriff use. $380 for a pair)
2. My Motorola MR350($59 a pair)
Parameters of the Test:
I have a 40 Watt GMRS Base Station at home. My Home is by the Beach Blvd. I will drive North on beach Blvd and at every quarter mile, I will get down from the car, and transmit. I will transmit first with the Icom, then the Motorola. I will also note down if I can hear a reply back and how clear the reply was.
Result of the test:
Distance
1. Icom- was able to transmit and receive clearly up till 3 1/4 miles. It then started to become choppy from that point.
2. Motorola - was able to transmit and receive clearly till 2 3/4 miles. It then started to become choppy from that point.
Clarity
1. Icom - There were times I had to ask my wife to repeat herself because it sounded a little muffled.
2. Motorola - Just like listening to an FM radio. Loud and crystal clear.
Conclusion
Although the extra power of the Icom gave it a slight advantage in range, about 20%, you can buy 8 pairs of these Motorolas for the price of the Icom. Let the result speak for itself.
Note: This test was meant to show that the Professional Radios only have a slight advantage over the Motorola. The distances were that far because I have a base station with a 10 foot mast and an external J-pole GMRS tuned antenna. Hand held to hand held still follows the laws of physics so it is the same as I mentioned at the beginning of the review, .5 to 1 mile in the city. Completely different story if you are on an elevated position. Distance in miles = Square root of the Height(in feet) x 1.4.
*****UPDATE FEB. 04,2010******
I would like to now discuss the Cost savings of this MR350 over Professional Radios.
My Motorola MR350 is still going strong. I have since bought more Professional Icoms and have had to go through the hassle of tweaking them and programming them manually to get them to function the way this Motorola does when you first take it out of the packaging. I had to buy these Icoms because I am a member of a GMRS Radio Group here in Orange County and Los Angeles and I need the repeater functionality and external antenna.
If you buy a professional radio, you will have to pay to have it programmed. It can cost from between $20 to $80 each time you need to have something programmed. I bought the software and equipment to program my Icoms and they were very expensive. Again, this is something you will never have to do with the MR350.
Batteries on my Icoms cost about $60. That is even more than the cost of this MOTOROLA!!! Not to mention that I had to buy an external battery pack for my Icoms costing $45 so that I can use Energizer AA batteries. The Motorola can use the included rechargeable battery, or you can use Energizer.
I have my Motorolas fully charged all the time so if ever the big earthquake hits LA, this will be my primary survival gear together with my Swiss Army Knife.
Conclusion:
In a cost perspective, the Motorola MR350 wins hands down. You will easily spend about $650-700(hardware and software) to equip a pair(2) of Professional Radios to have some(not all) of the features of this Motorola MR350. At the end of the day, cost will always be a factor when we purchase anything.
Hope to talk to you on the air.
******UPDATE APRIL 19,2010*******
I just bought another set of Motorola MR350 radios. I leave a pair in my car for emergencies where I cannot use my car mounted Mobile UHF radio. I still think these are the best deal on any UHF radio.
******UPDATE OCTOBER 26,2010*******
I just wanted to update all of you since it has been 1 year since my original post. The 4 Radios and the batteries are still working great. That being said, one of the nice people to comment, mentioned that one or both of his new units were defective. Unfortunately, that is not unique with Consumer radios. Once you receive your radio, whatever you buy, please test it right away. If you find that something is not right, tell Amazon that the unit is defective, then exchange it for a new set. That is the nice thing about Amazon. And if you have more issues, drop me a comment, and I can point you to other radios that you may like. I collect radios and I have tried most of them already so I can save you the trouble of deciding.
Also, he mentioned that there is a site that you can get a free replacement faceplate for the MR355 which has the Repeater capability and all of the features of the MR350. The catch is the original faceplate of the MR355 is camo. The free replacement faceplate will make the MR355 look much more discreet. Look into that radio as well. From what I hear, they are almost the same price. Oh, and I also have that MR355 radio, but never take it out because I have not replaced the faceplate yet. I will eventually.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Motorola MR350R 35-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair)

The Motorola Talkabout MR350, with its range of up to 35 miles and bundle of great features, is a great communication tool for the serious outdoor enthusiast. Lightweight and rugged, with extra large buttons to help you operate even with gloves on, the MR350 is built to handle any challenge without weighing you down. The MR350 includes an emergency alert feature, to inform others should any dangers come your way. The MR350 also features a built-in LED flashlight for peace of mind during evening adventures or unexpected emergencies and power outages. Weather alerts will provide your group with warnings of incoming storms or dangerous conditions. And, by tuning in to one of 7 NOAA channels, you'll always know what to pack. This radio also features the VibraCall silent vibrating ringer, which is useful for locations where ringing can be intrusive or background noise would drown out your ring tone.


MR350 Features
35 Mile Range The MR350, under ideal conditions, gives you a range of up to 35 miles. Conditions vary with geography and other variables.
22 Channels The MR350 boasts 22 channels (including 7 NOAA channels).
Emergency Alert Button When the alert button is activated, the radio transmits an alert siren followed by transmission of spoken or incidental sounds. This allows you to send the signal to other radios and warn of impending danger.
Channel Scan Use scan to search the 22 channels for transmissions from unknown parties, to find someone in your group who has accidentally changed channels, or to quickly find unused channels for your own use.
Charging Options You can charge the MR350 using the Motorola standard charging port (with the included charging adapter), the Drop-in cradle charger (also included), or purchase a mini-USB cable for use with the Mini-USB charging port, especially useful when traveling.
121 Privacy Codes Interference Eliminator Codes help minimize interference by blocking transmissions from unknown sources. The MR350 features 121 codes for superior interference protection.
Twenty Call Tones The MR350 can transmit different call tones to other radios in your group so you can alert them that you want to talk. Choose from 20 different tones.
Hands-Free Communication Use the iVOX feature to transmit hands-free without the need for any headset accessories. Once iVOX is turned on, the radio detects your voice and transmits when you speak into the internal microphone.
QT (Quiet Talk) Noise Filtering The QT noise-filtering feature helps to ensure uninterrupted communication with other Motorola radios, filtering out unwanted transmissions from other radios. This is useful in places where there is heavy radio traffic, such as amusement parks or ski resorts.
Weather Receiver Tune in to broadcasts by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio and Environment Canada Weatheradio. Both NOAA and Environment Canada have transmitters located throughout the United States and Canada, respectively. These transmitters broadcast watches, forecasts, and other information 24 hours a day.
Weather Alerts A special alarm tone sounds an alert and turns on the weather receiver to give you immediate weather and emergency information.
Flashlight Handy built-in LED flashlight comes in handy in the dark or during power outages.
Push-to-Talk (PTT) Power Boost When activated, this feature helps extend the transmission range by increasing the transmitter power output while helping to save battery life when no power boost is necessary.
Extra Large Buttons Skiers and winter sports adventurists will appreciate the new design that features extra large buttons making it easier than ever to operate with gloves.
VibraCall For quiet adventures or when ringing is intrusive, the VibraCall feature can be enabled to silently alert users to incoming transmissions.
What's in the Box Two MR350 Radios with Removable Belt Clips, Dual Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter, Two 2 NiMH rechargeable battery packs, Owner's Manual

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Audiovox GMRS7001 7-Mile 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Radio (Pair) Review

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(More customer reviews)I recently purchased a set of Audiovox GMRS7001-2. We operated them side by side with the larger Cobra PR-4000 series radios.
As far as range and transmit power, they appear to be almost equal with the larger Cobras. However, the receiver appears to not be quite as sensitive as the Cobra, and the receive audio is a bit tinny with somewhat poor audio reproduction. The squelch and quieting are not nearly as good as the Cobra. On the GMRS side of the radio, the volume control is appropriate and balanced.
The weather radio works, as well as does the alert. The volume on the weather part is somewhat loud, and I fear overdriving and blowing the speaker. (I would guess the speaker has been engineered to take whatever the final audio amplifier puts out...)
On the whole, the Audiovox GMRS7001-2 gets the same range, but does not perform as well as the Cobra PR-4000 and PR-4250 radios. That being said, they are physically smaller, and only cost about half as much.
Which makes them, on the whole, an excellent value for the money.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Audiovox GMRS7001 7-Mile 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Radio (Pair)

Do you need an enormous seven mile range out of your 2-way radio?Would youappreciate the feature of having three Canadian maritime channels and seven NOAA weatherband channels? If so, then these radios might be just for you. Don't worry, Audiovox left thefeatures that you expect out of any other 2-way, like hands free capability, twenty-two channels(each with thirty-eight privacy sub-channels), a detachable swivel carry clip, a backlit LCDscreen, scan button, and full electronic channel and volume controls. The radios run on five AAAbatteries, and even powering a seven mile range, will run for fourteen to thirty hours. Rememberthat with this range, you'll need a FCC license. With the features listed above, one can see howthese radios would be ideal for skiers, hikers, hunters, and boaters. Order this twin pack and getout in it!
What's in the Box Two GMRS70012 2-way radios, belt clip, a user's manual, and a 90 day parts and laborwarranty.

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Midland GXT1000VP4 36-Mile 50-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair) (Black/Silver) Review

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(More customer reviews)The radios by themselves are good, but be careful to read the fine print. The first time I went to use the radios one of them didn't have a full charge on it. No problem, I just used AA batteries. Then we realized we could barely hear each other through the headphones even with the radios turned to max volume. I thought it might be the headphones, but they were very loud when plugged into a friend's radio made by a different company. Midland blamed it on the headphones anyway, but they were not covered under the warranty. So I didn't use the radios again for a few months until we went on another trip and I made sure to place the radio on the charger a day early this time so it would have ample time to charge. Same problem one radio didn't take but half a charge. I contacted Midland on Friday explaining my situation, they got back to me on Wednesday to say there was probably an issue with the battery pack (No duh). I emailed back around 10:30 am and said I figured that much, but how do I correct it. They got back to me on Thursday night saying I needed to buy another battery pack because they are not covered under the warranty either. So what is covered? Turns out not much, not the headphones, not the battery packs, not the charger, not the adapter and not even the antennas. In short if all you need is just the radios and there isn't a problem with them, the radios are OK, but heaven help you if there is a problem with them. It will take forever for someone to tell you that's not covered under the warranty. That large 3 year warranty logo needs to include an even larger asterisk. Radios get 5 stars, everything else including the warranty and service gets 1 star for an average of 3 stars. If I need to buy all new accessories to replace all these defective ones I just bought, maybe I should consider a different brand radio.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Midland GXT1000VP4 36-Mile 50-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair) (Black/Silver)

Midway's GXT1000VP4 two-way, 22-channel radios are designed for GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) operation, in a rugged, weatherproof package. With a range of up to 36 miles, they're perfect for most any adventure. Features include privacy codes, direct/group calling, NOAA weather radio/alert/scan, silent operation, whisper function, SOS siren, and plenty more.


GXT1000VP4 Features
22 Channels PLUS 28 EXTRA CHANNELS Clear, crisp communication with easy button access.
Up to 36 Mile Range Longer range communication in open areas with little or no obstruction.
387 Privacy Codes Gives you up to 5560 channel options to help you block other conversations.
NOAA Weather Alert Radio with Weather Scan Automatically locks on to your local weather channel and alerts you to severe weather.
SOS Siren Allows you to send out distress/locator signals in an emergency situation.
JIS4 Waterproof Protection against light rain or splashing water from all directions on the radio.
Whisper Allows you to speak quietly and still be heard clearly by others.
Group Call Allows you to make "direct calls" to other people within the group without alerting the entire group.
eVOX Hands-Free Operation (9 levels) with easy voice activation--no need for an external microphone.
X-TRA TALK Power Maximum allowed by law.
Weather ScanEasily scans the active weather channel in your area.
Direct CallAllows you to instantly contact one member of your party without alerting the others.
10 Call AlertsDifferent call tones to notify you of incoming calls from your group.
Channel ScanAutomatically checks channels for activity.
Dual WatchLets you monitor two channels.
Vibrate AlertProvides silent page / call notification.
Auto SquelchRemoves annoying background noise.
Keypad LockLocks in your selected settings.
MonitorChecks for any activity within your channel.
HI/MED/LO Power SettingsLets you adjust transmit power & conserve battery life.
Roger BeepIndicates call completion.
Silent OperationTurns off all tones for quiet operation.
Bright Backlit Display [LCD]Easy to read day or night.
Keystroke Tones Audible tones with each key press
Mic and Headphone Jacks
Battery Life ExtenderProvides longer battery life.
Drop-in Charger Capable
Dual Power Options4 standard "AA" batteries (not included) or rechargeable batteries.

Midland Radio Corporation Midland Radio Corporation is an international industry leader in wireless communications with affiliates in Italy, Bulgaria, Germany, Poland, Russia, Spain, and the United Kingdom, as well as representation in Latin America.Midland develops high quality consumer products such as GMRS Two-Way Radios, Citizen Band (CB) Radios, Marine Radios, Bluetooth intercom systems, and All Hazards/Weather Alert Radios.Also, as a leading manufacturer of Land Mobile Radios, Midland supplies professional grade analog and digital (P25 Technology) Portables, Mobiles and Base Stations/Repeaters for government entities such as forestry, public safety, and other commercial users.
Known in the '70s primarily for CB radios and household electronics, Midland has grown with the times by producing innovative new communications products and by actively promoting public emergency preparedness. Midland has manufactured quality Two-Way Radios for the last 50 years and is a market leader in several individual categories.

What's in the Box Pair of radios, belt clips, desktop charger, rechargeable batteries, pair of mic headsets, AC wall adapter, DC (vehicle) adapter and owner's manual

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Motorola MR355R 35-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair) Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased these radios after extensive research discovering they are the best 2 way consumer radio motorola makes. once they arrived i charged them fully and followed the instructions to the T. Tested them in the country with nothing in the way of the 2 radios and they didnt make it past 4 miles. in the small little town i live in of 150 people, the radios managed to cut out after 3 blocks and no more communication. also the operating temps of these radios are insane. 20 degrees F and they shut down and refuse to transmit. i was using the hi power channel transmitting at 2 watts as well as the hi power ptt button. called motorola and they told me that they dont make them even. come to find out they hired a company giant international to build them. motorola only builds their business class radios is what they told me. i returned the items to amazon as they did no good. i mentioned that i would at least want to get 1 mile out of a 35 mile radio. guess not. im now trying out the much better looking midland gtx1000vp4 with a transmit power that ranges up to 5 watts! hoping to have better luck with midland. take my advice and dont waste your time with these supposed top of the line latest motorola radios.. they are more than a joke. i purchased a pair of cheap $20 midlands for kids to use in the woods and they worked better...in colder weather (by the way midland operates in -22F).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Motorola MR355R 35-Mile Range 22-Channel FRS/GMRS Two-Way Radio (Pair)

Sporting the REALTREE AP HD CAMO pattern and featuring a range of up to 35 miles, the Motorola Talkabout MR355R is an ideal communication tool for the serious outdoor enthusiast. Lightweight and rugged, with extra large buttons to help you operate even with gloves on, the MR355R is built to handle any challenge without weighing you down. The MR355R includes an emergency alert feature, to inform others should any dangers come your way. The MR355R also features a built-in LED flashlight for peace of mind during evening adventures or unexpected emergencies and power outages. Weather alerts will provide your group with warnings of incoming storms or dangerous conditions. And, by tuning in to one of 7 NOAA channels, you'll always know what to pack. This radio also features the VibraCall silent vibrating ringer, which is useful for locations where ringing can be intrusive or background noise would drown out your ring tone.


MR355R Features
35 Mile Range The MR355R, under ideal conditions, gives you a range of up to 35 miles. Conditions vary with geography and other variables.
22 Channels With 8 Repeater Channels Starting with the same 22 channels as the MR350, the MR355R adds 8 built-in repeater channels, which can work with a local repeater station to carry your signal further. Take advantage of this value-added feature by switching to GMRS channels 15R-22R, but don't forget you'll need a GMRS license and an accessible repeater station to take advantage.
Emergency Alert Button When the alert button is activated, the radio transmits an alert siren followed by transmission of spoken or incidental sounds. This allows you to send the signal to other radios and warn of impending danger.
Keypad Lock Lock your keypad to avoid accidentally changing your radio settings.
Channel Scan Use scan to search the 22 channels for transmissions from unknown parties, to find someone in your group who has accidentally changed channels, or to quickly find unused channels for your own use.
Charging Options You can charge the MR355R using the Motorola standard charging port (with the included charging adapter), the Drop-in cradle charger (also included), or purchase a mini-USB cable for use with the Mini-USB charging port, especially useful when traveling.
121 Privacy Codes Interference Eliminator Codes help minimize interference by blocking transmissions from unknown sources. The MR355R features 121 codes for superior interference protection.
Ten Call Tones (Five Standard, Five Animal Sounds) The MR355R can transmit different call tones to other radios in your group so you can alert them that you want to talk. You can also add stealth and fun to your outdoor adventure by masking your radio's normal ring tone under the guise of a quacking duck, a cackling goose, a gobbling turkey, a bugling elk or a howling coyote. You will find this a helpful way to blend into the untamed habitat of the wild.
Hands-Free Communication Use the iVOX feature to transmit hands-free without the need for any headset accessories. Once iVOX is turned on, the radio detects your voice and transmits when you speak into the internal microphone.
QT (Quiet Talk) Noise Filtering The QT noise-filtering feature helps to ensure uninterrupted communication with other Motorola radios, filtering out unwanted transmissions from other radios. This is useful in places where there is heavy radio traffic, such as amusement parks or ski resorts.
Talk Confirmation (Roger Beep) Alert You can set your radio to transmit a unique tone when you finish transmitting. It is like saying "Roger" or "Over" to let others know you are finished talking.
Weather Receiver Tune in to broadcasts by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio and Environment Canada Weatheradio. Both NOAA and Environment Canada have transmitters located throughout the United States and Canada, respectively. These transmitters broadcast watches, forecasts, and other information 24 hours a day.
Weather Alerts A special alarm tone sounds an alert and turns on the weather receiver to give you immediate weather and emergency information.
Flashlight Handy built-in LED flashlight comes in handy in the dark or during power outages.
Push-to-Talk (PTT) Power Boost When activated, this feature helps extend the transmission range by increasing the transmitter power output while helping to save battery life when no power boost is necessary.
Extra Large Buttons Skiers and winter sports adventurists will appreciate the new design that features extra large buttons making it easier than ever to operate with gloves.
VibraCall For quiet adventures or when ringing is intrusive, the VibraCall feature can be enabled to silently alert users to incoming transmissions.
What's in the Box Two MR355R Radios with Removable Belt Clips, Dual Drop-in Charger, Charging Adapter, Two 2 NiMH rechargeable battery packs, Owner's Manual

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Midland GXT950VP4 5-Watt 42-Channel 30-Mile Waterproof GMRS Radio Pair with NOAA All Hazard/Weather Alert Review

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(More customer reviews)I contacted Midland customer service to find out what these additional 20 channels' frequencies were, as they're suspiciously absent from the list of radio frequencies in the back of the owner's manual. I wanted to listen to these mystery channels on my home scanner when not using the radios. I was told by a rep that the information I requested was "proprietary". Translated that means "Screw you". So I did a little experimenting of my own, and here now it can be revealed the identities of these extra channels:
They're mere COPIES of some of the first 22 channels that are standard on most FRS/GMRS 2-way radios in the first place! That's right. Some of us have been duped into believing that Midland created from whole cloth twenty additional FCC-approved channels for this model (and the model 900 radios) that other devices lack. When in fact they've really just doubled up on several of the old boring channels. Here's how they get away with it. Channels 23, 24, 25 and 26, for example, are just FRS channels (in Hi power) that coincide with channels 1, 3, 5, and 7 found on virtually any 2-way radio with FRS coverage. What prevents signal interference between these souped-up 950's and someone using the lower channels on some other radio is Midland's use of an astounding number of Privacy Codes, which these high-end radios are liberally endowed with. The four channels noted above are simply PRE-SET at the factory with specific privacy codes. It's as if you were to utilize channel 1 and let the manufacture choose the privacy code for you instead of using the common '0' settting.
Try this: program a second radio (not a 900 or 950) with privacy codes by manually tuning through the code spectrum and then hitting the transmit button on the King Camo radio (as I call mine) repeatedly until you get a clear receive signal on the lesser unit. Voila! You've discovered Midland's privacy code for that "hidden channel" on this system. Don't believe me? I found an exact code/channel combination on one of the ostensibly bonus channel frequencies. If someone with one of these top dollar radios is transmitting on channel 27, anyone with a cheaper radio can't communicate with him/her, right? Wrong! They can, if they tune their cheapo unit to Privacy Code #26 on channel 15. Of course, that's assuming their privacy code range goes as high as 26. Many don't. But if so, they're talking to Richie Rich across town who shelled out three quarters of a C Note for his system while they're coasting along on the $25 HT their mom got them for Xmas (albeit using much less transmit power than the fat cat!).
So there you have it. Endowed with the same old 22 standard channels after all, along with several mirrored frequencies from that same lineup disguised as special channels, only with privacy codes in place to act as those additional channels, the makers of this radio have succeeded in pulling one over on the consumer.

I know, you may be saying that with all the privacy code combinations out there, we really have hundreds of channels at our disposal. These radios just add a few hundred more to the menu, so why nitpick? Fine, but there's no excuse for the company's less-than-honest marketing gimmicks. Anyway, now you know how this manufacturer has gotten away with it...Till now! That's why I'm deducting a star from my ratings. Call me petty, but I've got their "proprietary information" right here!...
Truly, this IS one superb radio system. While $70 is a bit steep for handheld communications, the Voice Scramble feature makes it all worth while. I've never been much for the silly privacy codes anyway. They're cumbersome to utilize on the fly, and everyone tuned to that channel can hear everything you and your partner(s) are saying, you just can't hear them when they try to break in. Voice Scramble is like the Mute button on your phone; it kills the transmit and receive to third parties while putting out an obnoxious gibberish that will annoy anyone within thirty miles. That's one way to clear the frequency.
Seriously, I agree with others who've written that this comes with more features than most people could ever use. But who cares? It's an excellent radio and I highly recommend it. Midland's disingenuous tactics be damned!
So until the FCC approves base station FRS/GMRS units with more power than handhelds, and huge rooftop antenna access for those inevitably hopped-up super system "shacks" that harken back to the glory days of C.B. radio (God help us!), then the Midland 950vp4 stands tall as THE Cadillac of 2-way radio communications! (As long as you think that Cadillac comparisons signify a good thing!)

Click Here to see more reviews about: Midland GXT950VP4 5-Watt 42-Channel 30-Mile Waterproof GMRS Radio Pair with NOAA All Hazard/Weather Alert

Midland GXT950VP4 5 Watt 42 Channel Waterproof Mossy Oak Break Out Camo GMRS Radios with NOAA Weather/All Hazard Alert. Includes Rechargeable Batteries, Dual Desktop Charger, Headsets, and 12 Volt Vehicle Adapter,Pair Packed.The GXT950VP4features the standard 22 GMRS Channels and an extra 20 Channels.The GXT950 meets the JIS4 Standard of exposure to water for 30 minutes and features the Maximum Power allowed for GMRS Handheld Radios of 5 Watts, for up to a 30 Mile Range. The Weather Scan feature finds the nearest NOAA broadcast to stay up to date with the latest weather and hazard information.In addition to important weather announcements, All Hazards Alert means the GXT950VP4 will receive other emergency announcements such as Child Abduction (Amber Alert), Nuclear Power Plant warnings, Biological Hazard, Fire, and Landslide Warnings.The GXT950VP4 features Voice Scramble to add security to conversations and Direct Call which allows you to reach one person in your group without alerting the others.A Vibrating Alert for silent notification, 9 Level E Vox for Hands Free operation, 142 Privacy Codes,Scan of the 42 Channels, Hi/Med/Low Power Settings, 10 Call Alerts with an additional 5 Animal Call Alerts, Keypad Lock, and Battery Save Circuit. Unlike other GMRS radios on the market that use lithium batteries, Midland's Dual Power Option allows the use of the included rechargeable batteries or 4 "AA" batteries (Not included).

Click here for more information about Midland GXT950VP4 5-Watt 42-Channel 30-Mile Waterproof GMRS Radio Pair with NOAA All Hazard/Weather Alert

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Motorola Business CLS1110 5-Mile 1-Channel UHF Two-Way Radio Review

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(More customer reviews)I ordered these for our 130,000 warehousing facility for communication between our workers. They work perfectly! I would highly recommend these 2 way Radio's to anyone in our industry.

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Delivering remarkable functionality at the push of a button, the CLS 1110 on-site two-way radio is designed for the fast pace of business. It operates on a single channel with a choice of 56 business-exclusive frequencies for enhanced voice quality, privacy and reliability. This radio is part of CLS series, an easy-to-use, affordable wireless solution from Motorola.

Enhance Your Productivity
Designed with business productivity in mind, CLS Series radios and headsets provide a communications solution that is not only smart, simple and reliable, but also able to withstand the daily rigors of the workplace.

Lightweight Durability Weighing just ounces, CLS Series radio handsets are designed to be comfortable to wear, yet durable enough to withstand everyday use.

Business Exclusive Frequencies CLS Series radios operate on 56 different business exclusive frequencies and feature 121 codes, which means you can rely on getting a clear signal (FCC License is required for use).

Dependable Coverage One watt of power provides coverage of up to 200,000 sq. ft or 15 floors.

Long Lasting Battery Life A rechargeable Lithium Ion battery provides up to 12 hours of use, more than enough for a standard work shift.

Convenient Charging An easy-to-use drop-in charger keeps radios charged, ready--and centrally located.

Keypad Lock Helps prevent settings from being accidentally changed, limiting unnecessary downtime.

Call Tones 3 selectable call tones alert users of incoming transmissions.

Fast Settings Transfer CLS Series radios are cloning capable with the use of a multi-unit charger accessory, which allows you to quickly copy settings from radio to radio.

Built for Your Business
RetailRaise the level of customer service by enabling employees to communicate instantly. With the CLS Series, all retail activities, from restocking to security are enhanced. Cashiers can perform price checks at a moments notice. Managers have a constant eye on customer flow and inventory. And security is always alert and ready for any potential in-store problems.

RestaurantThe restaurant business is as fast-paced as they come, and quality service is a key ingredient for success. The CLS Series enhances efficiency by allowing hosts, managers, kitchen and waitstaff to instantly connect, minimizing wait times, getting food out quicker and controlling the pace of large parties. It all adds up to more table turns with greater satisfaction.

Hospitality The CLS Series makes everything from arrival to departure seamless. Coordinate restaurant and hotel staff, event planners, security, cleaning and maintenance personnel though efficient, uninterrupted communication with minimal guest interference. Security is also enhanced, allowing for immediate response to emergencies or suspicious situations.

EducationMaintaining order and ensuring student safety are priorities for any school. Whether monitoring assemblies, sporting events, or cafeteria time, the CLS Series helps keep things running smoothly. It's also an effective way to increase maintenance staff productivity, direct busing activities and bolster school security.

Excellence in Design; Real World Benefits
Enhance Security With security and safety such a major concern, your team will be able to coordinate quickly, and respond to disturbances, accidents or emergencies.

Reduce Costs Helps utilize resources more efficiently and productively, so you can get the most out of employees. And, there are no monthly fees or service contracts to worry about.

Simplify Daily Tasks With little to no training required, CLS radios are remarkably simple to use, making them ideal for high employee turnover industries. Helping to eliminate wasted time and inefficient processes is simple with communication provided at the touch of a button.

Heighten Service By enabling instant communication between employees, customer needs are better and more quickly served.


CLS 1110 Specs
What's in the Box
One CLS1110 Two-Way Radio, Drop-In Radio and Battery Charger, Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery, Radio Carry Holster, AC Adapter, and User's Guide

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