VGC VR-6600Pro

[prerunner1982]

The VGC VR-6600Pro is a Tri-Band (440, 144, 220) ham radio. It is a clone/knock off of the Yaesu FTM-350 which is no longer in production and has been replaced by the FTM-400. Both of which retail for over $750, while the VR-6600 sells for about $350 on Amazon.

The radio is also capable of doing APRS in a sub-band while doing voice in the main band. This is a big plus as most dual band radios don't do this. Not sure what APRS is, check out Episode 196 of the Jeep Talk Show for part 1 of Radio Comm Tech - APRS. Part 2 coming soon. Or check out my APRS thread here: http://www.xjtalk.com/showthread.php?t=20773

I have been eyeing this radio for a bit as I like the price and the built in APRS.

Dan, from the 4x4Podcas (http://www.the4x4podcast.com)t is getting his hands on one and will be doing reviews about it on his show. So if you also might be interested keep and eye out. I know I can't wait to hear what he has to say.


Upon doing a littler research for this thread, I did find the FTM-400DR on sale right now for $410 through Ham Radio Outlet. If I was currently in the market I would probably be willing to pay only a bit more for the "real" thing, but still interested in hearing Dan's review.

[Mudderoy]

I paid $550 for my ICOM 706 Mark II Model G

http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/3450lrg.jpg

I'd rather have HF than built in ARPS, especially in Alaska. Oh and if you say "But I don't have a license for HF" In an emergency you can transmit on ANY frequency (or at least that's what I've heard)

:patriot:

Here's on on ebay for "buy it now" $600 or make offer. http://www.ebay.com/itm/ICOM-IC-706-/301767608427?hash=item4642c0486b:g:TB0AAOSwAYtWHaW o

I'm sure you could get one from a local ham for cheaper.

[prerunner1982]

Not everyone wants a 20yr old used radio.... :p

And like I tell the preppers who think they can buy a radio put it in a bag and then use it when the SHTF, it's not going to help you if you don't know how to use it so get appropriately licensed and use the radio then you will be proficient with it when you need it for emergencies.

Though I agree an HF/All band rig would be much better in AK no everyone needs/wants HF...

Also some people prefer to creep in through the shallow end first rather than cannon ball right into the deep end.

[Mudderoy]

Not everyone wants a 20yr old used radio.... :p

And like I tell the preppers who think they can buy a radio put it in a bag and then use it when the SHTF, it's not going to help you if you don't know how to use it so get appropriately licensed and use the radio then you will be proficient with it when you need it for emergencies.

Though I agree an HF/All band rig would be much better in AK no everyone needs/wants HF...

Also some people prefer to creep in through the shallow end first rather than cannon ball right into the deep end.

Hey I'm just trying to save you some money. Buying a VHF/UHF rig for $400 is a waste. You're better off getting an all band and a throw down VHF 50 watt rig. But don't let my years of personal experience sway you. :flameon:

You kids gotta learn the hard way. lol

[prerunner1982]

lol, Im not buying anything I already have a dual band radio. Would like another, one for each Jeep but not for awhile.

I was just putting the info out there for others and $400 for a VHF/UHF rig is entry level compared to whats on the market.

[prerunner1982]

Here's on on ebay for "buy it now" $600 or make offer. http://www.ebay.com/itm/ICOM-IC-706-/301767608427?hash=item4642c0486b:g:TB0AAOSwAYtWHaW o



And it's not even a MKIIG

[Mudderoy]

And it's not even a MKIIG

Both of mine are and neither were $600. I've had one for 10 years, and the other for maybe 5. You can find one locally for less.

[OldFaurt]

I paid $550 for my ICOM 706 Mark II Model G

http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/3450lrg.jpg

I'd rather have HF than built in ARPS, especially in Alaska. Oh and if you say "But I don't have a license for HF" In an emergency you can transmit on ANY frequency (or at least that's what I've heard)

:patriot:

Here's on on ebay for "buy it now" $600 or make offer. http://www.ebay.com/itm/ICOM-IC-706-/301767608427?hash=item4642c0486b:g:TB0AAOSwAYtWHaW o

I'm sure you could get one from a local ham for cheaper.

Really nice looking rig, Tony!

[Mudderoy]

Really nice looking rig, Tony!

lol thanks, but that a stock ICOM photo.