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LFH
> 24 hourI hadnt used a CB radio for literally decades, and cell phones have really hammered the CB market, but CB still has some great uses, especially where cell service is spotty (like in the mountains or deep wilderness, which is why I pulled the trigger on this purchase). Of course, CB performance, especially transmitting, depends a great deal on your antenna, but this radio does what its supposed to do in that department, even with the cheap antenna I have. I also like the dual coax connector so it should be plug-and-play for all applications. I like how this radio is really small, like only 4 square and 1 deep small. Since Im using it infrequently, I can easily store it and then pop it on the bracket with the two thumbscrews when I want it. I do wish they had included a 12v connector on the power leads or at least a cigarette lighter plug to make it easier to remove from the vehicle when I want to, but I added one myself so no worries. However, the downside (for me) to the small size is they have chosen to put ALL of the controls as well as the display only on the microphone. If you used this all the time, you would eventually get used to where all the small buttons are located, but for the occasional user like me, its a bit of a guessing game. Plus, with so many functions, you often need to switch modes to use the same button for a different function. I havent followed the technology over the years, but I think Id prefer a dial for squelch control, for example. Also, having to look at the microphone to find buttons and read the display while driving is probably as bad as texting while driving. As I said, its a learning curve issue, and I AM an old dog trying to learn new tricks. Seems like a good, solid radio for the price; just expect to spend some time familiarizing yourself with the controls and display on the mic.
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CStone
> 24 hourSo we got this for my husband to put in his car because he travels frequently within the region and spends a lot of time on the road. the best feature is that most of the controls are on the mic so you are not fiddling with buttons on the unit if you are using this while driving. My husband was able to hook this up to his car and test it easily in a short amount of time. The range is probably not as good as some more professional units but for keeping him informed and offering another level of safety when he is on the road it is perfect!
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Greg S
> 24 hourGreat little CB radio that operates in the AM and FM bands!! Really small profile but powerful output. Had decent reports when transmitting to the local area. I’m pleased with the durability of the unit and the compact nature of this radio. Very intuitive to use too! Easy to recommend!
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Kelly Jean Packham
> 24 hourWhile the popularity of cbs have waned, my good ole buddy hubby loves this. Its compact and works just the way its supposed to! Easy to install.
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CG
> 24 hourAlways wanted to get a CB since I was a kid in the 70s when CBs were all the rage. This is a very compact yet capable 40-channel CB - good value for the money. For home use you would need a 13.2 volt power supply (I already had one) that can handle a few amps of current. I just needed to purchase a CB antenna which I did. I did not do a SWR test/calibration which everyone should do for maximum performance - I just didnt have the time but will do so soon. Nevertheless, I connected the antenna and reception was good from my apartment window - I suspect reception would even be better outdoors in a mobile setup (there is an under dash mounting bracket supplied). Transmission clarity was good as I talked to several CBers and they heard loud and clear from about 2-5 miles away - not bad from a basement apartment window! All functions are done via the mic PTT handset. Tried several channels and it seems to work well across several channels. This unit requires some getting used to as there are many functions available from the handset, so there is a learning curve to access special functions. Good value for the money and a good starter CB for home or mobile use.
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C. Sulto
> 24 hourFirst, unlike others who received this item for free, I purchased it which in my opinion limits the bias in reviews. That being said, I was looking for a simple CB radio mostly for my state to state travel when I am stuck in traffic on smaller highways and either do not have cell reception or the maps are useless as they do not have up to date info. I am an amateur operator but dont bring my equipment to be put at risk on travel. I did not want to have a large radio or even deal with mounting the rig if I chose not to. I was surprised to come accross this Radoddity CS-47 CB which appeared to be a good value for $99 and would meet my needs for communication in desolate areas. I bought the unit and upon unpacking, confirmed my amazement for such a small unit but it also had a good build quality as well. I did initial testing at the base station and had no issues making a contact many states away which a great sounding radio report was given. The mic is very functional, simple, and most importantly, small but has all the controls. I saw a video on the various settings and such and customized the color display. I ran some tests against my other radios and found that the tonal quality on both transmit and receive was very good. I tried the various DSP modes and set it on 3 which provides a large noise reduction but still allows for a decent sound on receive. I tried the transmit noise reduction as well but did not feel like it was too effective however I set it at 2. The controls are layed out well and in one hand I can change volume, channels and even modes if I care to employ FM. I still have yet to find an FM operator to talk with on the CB bands here in the US, but maybe it has more support elsewhere. In testing FM listening with my amateur equipment it sounded great of course. The various roger beeps are great too. I paired this with a Lil Wilson magnetic mount antenna but the range is not far via ground wave (maybe 2-3 miles) so I am upgrading the mobile antenna with something larger. One complaint I have is about no SWR (even a warning) so you have to use a meter to check. The other is no SSB which I knew going in to this. I think that this rig is fine for the most part with AM/FM but it would be nice to see another model with SSB. There are other rigs like Anytone that offer SSB and more but those are much more than $99, however Radioddity should have an SSB offering to compeat in the next segment up as this is a nice quality radio and a great value for AM CB communication when traveling like I do.
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Leonard Parker
> 24 hourIt sounds great good little radio, works in the house but doesnt like my car. I really think someone in my neighborhood is jamming my signal. GMRS radio does the same stop coming on but works in the house. All the fuses work. Really great radio am some pickup fm great at times. Still, not a lot of people hasnt switched to Fm.
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Muffi
> 24 hourThis device is very small and compact. Havent been able to use it yet. Had to order antennae. Have to get back to you with how it works.
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Curtis
> 24 hourThis little cb radio is perfect to keep on hand for emergencies or general driving use. All off the radio feature are on the mic so you can mount the body of the radio out of the way. This is a great little cb that also include fm (newer feature added to cb airwaves by the fcc).
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Gregory Girard
> 24 hourThis is a good radio to have on our RV. We enjoy chatting with other vehicles on the road while traveling. The hands free mic is a must have feature. Small, compact and powerful.