The Radio Information Board

I'm looking for some input for a first time 2 meter radio that also has the ability to receive public service freqencies. I saw the above Kenwood...anyone have any experience with one? Is there a need for a lot of channels for 2 meter coverage or do you normally keep to a couple for local communications? I'm sure more channels mean less programming. How would a Motorola GM300 be for 2 meter use or would it be lacking features I may need or want? Any suggestions for an entry level, reasonably priced 2 meter radio that'd keep me happy? Thanks.

200 memories, 100 alpha numeric ! Advance scan functions ! I may need to order one myself.

If this doesn't make you happy you are too hard to please.

there are pros & cons for both of the radios you mention.

you might find a gm300 lacking in features. there is no way to switch to simplex (direct or talkaround) & no way to reduce your rf output. if you do not have the hardware to program it you might find yourself in a fix if you wanted to make frequency changes for whatever reason.

ham radios usually have more bells & whistles than you can ever figure out, but are usually your best bet if you need to be frequency agile.

2 meter ham radios are generally lacking in the selectivity department - rx overload with intermod is inevitable in a high rf environment. the gm300 will handle that much better.

Thanks for the replies....I decided to go the GM300 route first. At least these are durable radios and I already have a UHF model I like. I do have the capabilities to do the programming which helps. We'll see what happens....if it doesn't work out, it'll give me an excuse to make another purchase. It was suggested I look into a Icom T2H. Any comments on that?