Intek Dolphin VHF FM Marine handheld transceiver

[cygnusv]

Anyone got one of these? Is it suitable for use on GB inland waterways and inshore cruising?

Many thanks, CV

 

[prv]

I don't have one, but a quick look online suggests that it's similar in concept to another budget radio I do have - basically a PMR446 walkie-talkie reprogrammed to work on the marine band. Features like VOX and CTSS tones are the giveaway.

It will do the job, but the usability might not be ideal - my budget radio is quite confusing to operate and I suspect this one would be similar (may even be the same chips inside).

I don't know what price you're looking at for the Intek, but one of my google hits is Amazon selling it for £94. For that money I would certainly opt for the Standard Horizon HX290 instead at £99.95: http://www.mesltd.co.uk/standard-horizon-hx290e-waterproof-p-13442.html . I do have one of these and it's an excellent high-quality radio. Completely waterproof as well which I don't think the Intek is.

EDIT: Just realised it's the HX300 that I have, not the 290. Same price at MES, I'm sure both equally good radios. For that application I needed the USB charging.

Pete

 

[Alpha22]

I would question it's use on inland waterways.... OK the tidal thames being the exception..... but there is very little use of VHF inland. Range is limited inland at the best of times, but from a hand held even more so.

It would be useful for calling up bridges from close by, but I'm not sure that many use VHF these days.

If you do need one, I would second the recommendation to go with Icom or Standard Horizon.......

 

[cygnusv]

I don't know what price you're looking at for the Intek, but one of my google hits is Amazon selling it for £94. For that money I would certainly opt for the Standard Horizon HX290 instead at £99.95: http://www.mesltd.co.uk/standard-horizon-hx290e-waterproof-p-13442.html . I do have one of these and it's an excellent high-quality radio. Completely waterproof as well which I don't think the Intek is.

EDIT: Just realised it's the HX300 that I have, not the 290. Same price at MES, I'm sure both equally good radios. For that application I needed the USB charging.

Pete

Thanks Pete and Alpha22, I've ordered an HX300 from MES <£105.00 delivered (£135 on Ebay and over £200!! on Amazon)