Review on Yaesu Original FTM-300DR: 50W 📻 Dual-Band Digital Mobile Transceiver - C4FM/FM 144/430MHz by Arnold Carrigan

I don't normally buy Revain ham radio gear as I try to support ham radio shops so they don't end up like Radio Shack but this one came from Ham Radio Outlet anyway and it was a good deal. I've been switching between radio options for my Jeep for a few months now and have narrowed down the choice between the FTM-400 and FTM-300. The only thing that put me off the FTM-300 was the screen size, but I went for it anyway and I'm glad I did. The screen is very beautiful. It has excellent resolution and color. It's not difficult to read at all. In fact, I prefer a smaller jeep because space is limited. Now let's move on to performance. Although this radio (full disclosure: I'm a Yaesu fan) is extremely easy to program from the front panel, I used RT Systems software to program all of the repeaters and simplex frequencies and it was up and running in no time. Scanning is very fast even with a large number of channels. The sound quality of the built-in speaker was loud, but since I installed it under the front seat of my Jeep and often removed the top and doors, I added an external speaker (which is not necessary to have a speaker for A/B). or one speaker each). The touchless screen was an advantage for me. It works reliably and the menus are easy to navigate. The lack of touchscreen menu items actually makes the screen size more comparable to the FTM-400 in usable space. It's also easy to use, even when you're wearing gloves. I also don't permanently erase my fingerprints from the screen. One of the main reasons I chose this radio was the APRS feature. APRS sends a signal that allows someone else to see your GPS location on aprs.fi. It also allows you to send messages to other people via amateur radio. I live in Utah and most of the places I visit have no cell phone service. I like having lots of options to make sure I and the kids get home. A ham radio station is great for this, but just in case I want someone to be able to see where my last APRS beacon was and look for me. Yaesu has a separate manual for APRS function only. It was easy to customize to my preferences even though I've never used APRS before. I also like the new microphone. Excellent build quality, intuitive key layout, programmable keys, feels comfortable in the hand. Yaesu did a great job with the mic. The mounting plate on the case is great. Yaesu walked over to the mounting plate where the radio body will be inserted and secured. I screwed the panel into the panel, through my carpet, and into the board under my Jeep's carpet. The radio is then inserted and locked in place with a latch for easy removal. A simple thing, but works great. The front panel mounting plate is very basic but works for most applications. I wanted something that could be easily removed because I don't leave the bezel in the jeep when the doors/top are off. I also want to protect it from the sun. That's why I bought the Lido Mounts suction cup mount. This is a standard ball joint that attaches directly to the front panel. I can easily remove the mount from the sphere whenever I need to get it out of the jeep. To be honest I don't really like Wires-X because there are no repeaters in my area and I don't walk. Hotspot, but this radio can handle it. I had several contacts with YSF and the sound was great. In summary, I don't need any remorse from the buyer. This is a great radio and a great addition to my Jeep. Simply a great product from Yaesu.******************************************** * ***** **** **************************************** ***** ********** ************ ************************ ****************** ************** I rely on reviews when I shop, so I spend a lot of time checking everything I buy from Revain, personally and personally verify business use. Please show your appreciation by clicking 'helpful' below when asked if the review was helpful!