@amateur_radio Just passed my Technician test!! Looking into the Anytone 878. Is this a good or bad first unit?

  • pc486@reddthat.com
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    10 months ago

    Congratulations and welcome to the world of collecting radio equipment that you swear you’ll use someday!

    That’s a fairly full-spec DMR HT. Others to consider around that price point and lower are Yaesu VX-6R, FT70DR, and FT-60R as well as Icom’s IC-T10. They all have their quirks, but they’re quality radios and can be field programmed easily.

    One thing to consider is how much budget you can afford for accessories. Things like:

    • Antennas
    • Extra batteries
    • Charging stand
    • Hand mic
    • Band pass filters

    I recommend at least getting a roll-up J-pole antenna, like the Ed Fong DBJ-2. Stock HT antennas will work, and they do their job well, but they’re just not the same as a full-sized, resonant antenna. A roll-up J-pole is a full sized antenna that you put up 10 feet into the air, yet it can be packed into a small pouch. You’ll reach out to much further away repeaters or be able to make simplex contacts further than three or four miles out.

    If you have a specific area of interest in the hobby, then drop a reply with some details. I, and others here, can help narrow you in on the right kit without spending big bucks.