VHF marine radio - solid mount. Recommendations ?

[Rob V]

Looking too replace my aging VHF radio. I’m not looking for anything overly fancy but the best quality/features for my $’s. The only thing I’m really looking for it to include is an internal GPS. Any recommendations from experienced users/tech’s out there ? If not the specific model perhaps the brand ? Currently I’m leaning towards a cobra or lowrance unit. I’d say my budget was around $500. TIA

 

[rockin-steelhead]

I like the Standard Horizon products. I believe this is what you’re looking for

Fixed Mount Radios - Marine Outfitters - Ontario Canada

Discover the best Fixed Mount Radios at Marine Outfitters at competitive prices

www.marineoutfitters.ca

 

[GPS]

I have a Lowrance marine radio that has served me well. Not sure of the model but can look it up.
This is a newer version of mine but here is their site.

Link-6S VHF DSC Marine Radio | Lowrance USA

Low-profile fixed mount 25 W DSC VHF Radio with four-button fist microphone.

www.lowrance.com

Got it from Joc at Angling Outfitters

 

[Twister]

Standard Horizon for me. The Binncale has a couple on sale this week

 

[hvyhaul]

Good thread.

Marine radio

The recent post regarding the poor fellow who has gone missing makes me wonder about safety on the water. I don’t go alone and always wear a PFD so that’s not my concern but what about breakdowns and fire hazards. I’m considering getting a marine radio for the boat. I know a course is required...

www.longpoint.on.ca

 

[Elmerfudd]

Standard Horizon on mine. Ive had 4 of them over the years. ZERO issues. They have several models in your budget range.

 

[willisride]

Standard horizon GX1600SB for me. Tied into my Lowrance HDS for gps cords for emergency PIN activation. Reasonably priced when I purchased (marine outfitters Canada 207$) grabbed an antenna separately. Works great.

 

[hvyhaul]

Your antenna is actually more important than the radio.

Many excellent radio options by numerous brands in your price range, but an under performing antenna will turn your new radio into an unreliable disappointment.

 

[Rob V]

Your antenna is actually more important than the radio.

Many excellent radio options by numerous brands in your price range, but an under performing antenna will turn your new radio into an unreliable disappointment.

Yes - I plan on replacing my 20 year old antenna as well. Certainly good insurance for the price !

 

[mrozborn]

Your antenna is actually more important than the radio.

Many excellent radio options by numerous brands in your price range, but an under performing antenna will turn your new radio into an unreliable disappointment.

Very true. VHF radio works on "line of sight". Get as tall as possible for max range. My boat is only 16.5' but with a swivel mount I managed to mount a 10' antenna. I bought a Cobra radio with DSC and GPS at Amazon a few years back. It was reasonably priced then, of course that was before NOW, when we can hardly afford any new toys

 

[moemoe]

HI rob, i have a radio and 8ft antenna, that i just took off the boat i sold, sent you a pm,