[Tandy] HTX-420 (2M + 440 HT) ??

[A10382]

Hi Ron,

Thanks for the input.  There were some things that I liked (if the specs are
accurate) about the new 420, including the ability to expand the TX for 440
into the FRS/GMRS band.

I've emailed both RS HQ Product Support and their Corporate Customer Support
manager about their not stocking ANY amateur radios in any of the local
stores and the obscene shipping charges.  I bought in excess of $1,200 of
gear from HRO this year, and their shipping charges for the 20 pound box was
only $11 !
-----------------------------
Despite the word 'Radio' in their name, they seem to have very few if any
employees who know anything about radio other than "fm is better than am"
(an quote from a store employee).   In another store I was told that: "you
would be better off with our 'professional' radios instead of that cheap
amateur stuff".

At one time (a long time ago), RS had some pretty good gear AND
knowledgeable staff.   Lately, however, they appear to have to succumbed to
the 'cheapest employee is best' syndrome.  I can testify that they do in
fact get what they pay for.

I had some RS shortwave receivers from the 1980's (and still have a Sangean
SW receiver in RS logo - DX-440) that were very good for the price.  I do
still see lots of older RS 2M HTs around that appear to be rather
bulletproof.

I did run across a rather humorous web site that is apparently maintained by
some disgruntled and ex RS employees.  It is funny (and a bit crude at
times), but does seem 'right-on-the-money' about how they currently operate.
Some folks might consider the URL itself to be crude so I'd be happy to send
it off-list to anyone interested.

Again, thanks for the info.  I will take a peek at the Alinco HTs - a brand
that I had not considered before.

73
Frank

 ._._.
----- Original Message -----
To: <tandy@mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Friday, July 26, 2002 10:49 AM

> MY 2c worth,, , , , ,
>
> The problem with the RS  HTs, has always been that they did not/could
> not tune out of band.
> Otherwise the quality, IMHO, has been great, and they were always pretty
> much bullet proof.
>
> My experience only, your mileage may vary, , , , , , ,
>
> I picked up an Alinc DJ-580 Dual bander on Ebay, and it does everything
> I want and more.
> It even does 800 mHz transmit anmd recieve.
>
> Ron C.
>