new ssb

[30boat]

I may have to buy a new ssb transceiver as my ageing M700 has already broken down twice and I don't really trust it anymore.I have done a Google search but didn't come up with anything useful.Does anybody know of a dealer where I can find a new set at an acceptable price?

Thanks

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[PaulJ]

I see you are based in Portugal so UK suppliers and prices may not be the best available to you however there is a large mail order company called "Nevada" whose prices are pretty competitive (www.nevada.co.uk) or alternatively, you could try ebay.... that is where I found mine......

http://electronics.listings.ebay.co...omZR4QQsacategoryZ1502QQsocmdZListingItemList

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[jerryat]

Hi 30boat!

Do you intend replacing your Icom with a 'marine' SSB? I looked into the cost/benefit of these over standard ham radios a few years ago and concluded, as did several of my friends, that the ham types were far better value for money. True, they are not 'marinised', but as they cost approximately half the cost and perform superbly there was no contest as far as I was concerned.

My Icom IC-706Mk11 is about the size of a car radio and has been used over the last 8 years in the Med and on a two Atlantic circuits. On the last for example, it well out-performed the more powerful (150w) marine units on other boats, and we were able to easily and clearly communicate with Herb and his net in Ontario, to within 200miles of Lands End, when the signals became too weak. In fact we ended up acting as a relays for around 4 other boats, especially when conditions were bad. It can also be used a VHF so there's a backup there too.

Of course, a huge problem for many was the in adequacy of their installation, particularly the proper provision of the counterpoise, but nonetheless, my point is that the selection of ham units is far wider, cheaper and as good as the marine type IMHO. Ok, I know that the marine frequencies are 'blocked', but then on the marine units you can't get many of the ham frequencies. And the matter could easily be resolved.

It's just a thought of course, and I'm sure you will have considered the alternatives, but I would have no hesitation in going the ham route again if I ever had to replace the SSB. I got mine from a company called Multicom 2000 (01480 406770) who were excellent both as regards price and with installation and backup advice. They may well do the marine units if you do decide to go down this route.

Hope this helps

Good sailing!

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[toad]

Try Walters And Stanton at www.wsplc.com

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[jerryat]

Hi Toad!

Just checked that website. Very interesting indeed, thanks for the info.

Good sailing!

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[stevebirch2002]

Hi Nuno

Drop me an email. steve@albinvega.com as I am a Radio Comms man and could fix or show you where to get another SSB.

Kind Regards

Steve B

<hr width=100% size=1>Albin Vega "Southern Comfort" V1703