HT Radio Upgrade Path

[hiker64012]

I'd like to post this question to our forum experts at large as I'm a user but not an expert in the field of HTs. I've used Sabers a lot and really like them but have sold off the few I had to upgrade to MTS2000 VHF models. The 2000s I have now I am basically pleased with but would like something that is a little more consistent in rx/tx capability and clarity. I have five radios and they all sound slightly different even though all have been professionally aligned.

The basic question: If I have MTS2000s now and would like to upgrade to something like the XTS2500 maybe five years down the road, what could I use as a solid gap-filler until then?

Here are my requirements:
1. VHF (high number of freqs not necessary but at least 8-15)
2. Motorola only
3. Very rugged (I'm retired military and like that type of gear)
4. Secure-capable so that I can use the 3011DX KVL that I currently use
5. MDC nice to have but not need to have
6. Is compatible with Jedi series accessories
7. Digital nice to have but not need to have

Any guidance you can give me would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Ron

[RadioSouth]

I'm kinda in that gap as well. The Jedi's I have are doing the job for now but looking forward and trying to get away from keeping a clunker computer on hand I'm thinking of some MT1500 PR1500 radios. Nice part on these would be the CPS investment would cover the XTS lineup as well.
Looking at your requirements I think you're right up to the door for an XTS as I don't see any mention in the MT/PR 1500's specs for SecureNet and digital upgrades are pricey.

[hiker64012]

I'm kinda in that gap as well. The Jedi's I have are doing the job for now but looking forward and trying to get away from keeping a clunker computer on hand I'm thinking of some MT1500 PR1500 radios. Nice part on these would be the CPS investment would cover the XTS lineup as well.
Looking at your requirements I think you're right up to the door for an XTS as I don't see any mention in the MT/PR 1500's specs for SecureNet and digital upgrades are pricey.

Yes, that's the problem. I can get some of the features but not all and the path is not clear. I thought the same thing as you - PR1500 or XTS1500. If the XTS1500 was secure I'd say that would be the one but without it ... I'd hate to spend that much money on a radio and not be able to use my KVL.

It's not like anything I'm talking about is ultra sensitive; I just don't like the fact that given the right equipment or settings; I'm on a "party" line.

[N4KVE]

The XTS 3000 might do it for you. Uses the same 3011DX, mike & charger. Uses different batteries however. Good solid radio, but no FPP. GARY N4KVE

[hiker64012]

The XTS 3000 might do it for you. Uses the same 3011DX, mike & charger. Uses different batteries however. Good solid radio, but no FPP. GARY N4KVE

Yes, that looks like it would work but at roughly twice the cost of an XTS1500. Yikes. Do I want to pay $1500 extra in order to go secure - not really but then again I guess I can wait for a good deal on used gear.

[Tom in D.C.]

Ron,

If you ever pay $1500 for an XTS3000 they saw you coming. Prices for the earlier XTS series radios, with full features, have been steadily declining. However, besides price it's just as important to know exactly what you're buying, that it'll work with no problems, and that you have the right to return it if it does act up within a reasonable time of purchase. The worst thing you can do is to buy a radio from someone who has no in-depth knowledge of what it is he's selling.

Except for your requirement for Jedi accessory compatibility you could do what you want to do with a standard Saber III or an Astro Saber, probably a II or III model, and if you don't want/need digital the difference between the two is that the Astro Saber's keys can be programmed as non-volatile.

Regards,

[hiker64012]

Ron,

If you ever pay $1500 for an XTS3000 they saw you coming. Prices for the earlier XTS series radios, with full features, have been steadily declining. However, besides price it's just as important to know exactly what you're buying, that it'll work with no problems, and that you have the right to return it if it does act up within a reasonable time of purchase. The worst thing you can do is to buy a radio from someone who has no in-depth knowledge of what it is he's selling.

Except for your requirement for Jedi accessory compatibility you could do what you want to do with a standard Saber III or an Astro Saber, probably a II or III model, and if you don't want/need digital the difference between the two is that the Astro Saber's keys can be programmed as non-volatile.

Regards,

I thought about that because I love the Sabers; the problem is the form factor. They're just too big and heavy. My wife and I use the radios a lot and she really didn't like the size and weight of the Sabers - especially once she tried the 2000. If it was a duty rig that I was wearing that would be one thing but for having different family members use them for various activities; I think everyone likes the smaller footprint. Besides as I understand it, parts for all the Sabers are slowing going away and they are just old units. I guess I'm looking for the "this generation" Saber.

When I buy gear I make sure I know as much as possible about it ahead of time and then it goes to Moto tech for a full-up alignment.

[hiker64012]

Ron,

If you ever pay $1500 for an XTS3000 they saw you coming. Prices for the earlier XTS series radios, with full features, have been steadily declining.
Regards,

Yes, I mis-spoke, I was referring to the prices when new. However, I still thought there was a big price difference btwn an XTS1500 and a 3000 on the used market.

Thanks for the advice though Tom.

[escomm]

XTS3000 or XTS5000 are the ideal candidates here, even an XTS2500 can be acquired now for an outstanding price. The biggest problem with the XTS2500s is that crypto boards are really difficult to come by, especially at a fair price. The XTS3000s can be had for a song, $400-600 depending on condition/flash etc, and the XTS5000s have really softened in price as well, going for $900-1300 depending.

[hiker64012]

Do the XTS3000 series come already set up for encryption or do you have to install a specific module?

[escomm]

They will require a UCM.

[hiker64012]

Two additional questions for clarity:

1. Which is the newer radio; the 2500 or the 3000?

2. Only the 2500 and 5000 will allow FPP?

[WV8VFD]

1. 2500
2. Yes, with the right software options