Features:
- 14 channels and 38 talk groups
- 4 ring tones
- Extra-large LCD screen
- Power-saving features
- Auto channel select
Description:
Kenwood's UBZ-LH14 FreeTalk radio is a sleek little Family Radio Service unit that can handle all 14 FRS channels along with 38 subcodes per channel, making it ideal for crowded environments. It offers plenty of features and great expandability. The radio isn't the smallest we've seen, and its three AA batteries add to the weight, but we're certain most users will be able to overlook these minor drawbacks once they start tapping the FreeTalk's abilities. For example, a scanning function automatically finds free channels, eliminating the typical trial-and-error process. And although the FreeTalk doesn't have many buttons cluttering its face, there are many advanced options that can be configured through a hidden menu. The FreeTalk's many features are spelled out in the well-written manual, and we needed only a few minutes to set up the radio once we learned what the cryptic menu entries stood for. The menu let us change call tones, enable the automatic power off feature, and eliminate the beeps that sounded every time a key was pressed. The FreeTalk can even tell if a member of your party has wandered out of range, a feature we typically don't see on FRS devices in this price range. Portability is enhanced by a swing-down antenna that stows behind the unit, a testament to the unit's carefully considered physical design. The rubber-coated push-to-talk button is easy to press, yet difficult to press accidentally. The microphone and external speaker jacks are covered by separate rubber plugs that keep them nice and clean when the peripherals are not attached. Kenwood even threw in a belt clip. We were happy to learn that FreeTalk performed as well as it looked, with a range comparable to all the other FRS radios we've tested and with excellent transmission quality. The sound sometimes crackled a bit at maximum volume, but we rarely had to turn our radio up that loud. Overall, this is an excellent unit, boasting several useful features that actually justify the price. --T. Byrl Baker Pros: - Many advanced features, including call tones and out-of-range alerts
- Swing-down antenna makes the device easier to carry
- Excellent documentation
Cons: - Establishing settings is nearly impossible without consulting the manual
- Sound quality suffers slightly at high volume levels
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