Customer Reviews

Cobra 19DXIII 40-Channel CB Radio

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The range of any cb depends upon the antenna. A $30 cb on a good antenna will have considerable more range than a $150 cb on a cheap antenna. Inexpensive cbs do have less sensitivity and features of more expensive cbs, but if you are just starting out, I would suggest an inexpensive cb with a good antenna such as a Wilson 'Lil Will' magnet mount. If you purchase the antenna at a cb shop, normally they will be more than happy to install and tune the antenna for you free of charge. The antenna normally runs around $30 and is one of the better entry level antennas out there. I have ran a cb for 10 years and I still use one as a back up. But remember, the secret to range is in the antenna system.. not so much the radio. But whatever you choose.. do not get one of those 'through the glass' or a 'rubber magnet mount' antenna. These are poor antennas with very limited range, usually less that a mile. Get something with a steel whip equal to or over 36" in height.

The previous review that mentions antennas are key to a good CB setup is correct. For a normal CB user I would recommend either the Wilson lil' Wil or the Wilson 500 antenna. Both are magnetic mount antennas. The lil' Wil antenna is a relatively small antenna and it's only around $39.00. Actually any Wilson CB antenna will be fine. Also, to do a good job at setting up your antenna you should purchase an SWR meter. They are not expensive. You only need the meter connected inline between the radio and antenna when you are adjusting the antenna. Once you are done adjusting the antenna you can take the meter out of the connection and connect the antenna directly to the radio. Don't be fooled by cheap ordinary CB antennas like you will find at radio shack. Do not settle for anything less then a Wilson antenna. Cobra and Uniden both make fabulous CB radios so either make will be fine.

OVERVIEW
I had this radio in my 2004 Jeep Wrangler. It tucked nice under the dash and was a great performer. Power was good as well as reception. Great Buy!
POWER
Any CB you purchase is limited to 4 watts output power so dont let size fool you. ALL CB'S are limited to 4 watts due to FCC regulations, look it up!
PRICE
The price on this site is high retail to say the least. I purchased this unit from Wal-Mart for 35 dollars. Its now called 19DXIV or 19 Ultra III, it comes with an updated appearance and digital screen.
SIZE
This will not take up a bunch of in-cab space that you dont have to spare due to manual tranmissions and transfer case levers. It tucks away nice and doesnt get in the way.

This unit's small size makes it possible to mount in any vehicle. Every car at my house has a spot where it could be mounted (but it stays in my truck!). This radio works just as good as the more expensive ones, as long as your antenna is of high quality and tuned. I highly recomend this radio to people who are looking for a basic radio that won't break the bank, and for the CB'ers who just want to communcate to other drivers without having to mess with RF gain, delta tune, dyamic boost, etc.