[aprssig] VX-8R

[Keith VE7GDH]

Mathew WA4TKG wrote...

> I have read the specs for this thing, and they claim it is the same 
> for VX-7R, in that it has HF (AM/FM) capability. Is that true? (anyone 
> actually KNOW?). Will/Does it REALLY have ALL the "features" of the 7R 
> (waterproof, HF Broadcast RX, etc)?

The most information that I've seen on it is at 
www.universal-radio.com/catalog/ht/0008.html. Feature-wise, it looks 
like a cross between the VX-7R and the VX-3R with APRS thrown in. 
Various people have either seen it or had it in their hands at e.g. 
Dayton, but weren't allowed to push any buttons. There is already a 
VX-8R support group, but everyone there is pretty much waiting for more 
details. Word is that Bluetooth will only be used for a headset and not 
for a Bluetooth enabled GPS receiver. That's unfortunate if that is 
true. I already have a 7R but would only be interested in the 8R if it 
is a "good" radio for APRS. Time will tell. A built-in GPS receiver or a 
Bluetooth connection to a GPS receiver is probably what it would take to 
talk me into it, but the overall "APRS usability" is a complete unknown 
right now. Of course, if I can sell my almost-virgin VX-8R for a 
reasonable price, I could grab one even if it isn't the ideal APRS HT. 
It's slightly more compact than the 7R.

73 es cul - Keith VE7GDH
--
"I may be lost, but I know exactly where I am!"