My old Radio Shack scanner finally gave up the ghost, so I was looking for a simple, basic replacement. This unit does not disappoint.
First, I am in a rural area, so all scanner frequencies here are analog. Also, I have software (PSREdit) which has a database of all the frequencies I use... it hooked up perfectly with this scanner and uploaded the files without a problem. The cable I had from my Radio Shack unit worked fine! Also, I have a subscription from RadioFrequencies.com, which downloads its database to the PSREdit program, so there was no manual programming I needed to do.
There are 10 banks, with 30 channels each, so plenty of room for the 50 or so frequencies that I monitor. The sound is crisp and clear. There are pre-programmed channels for EMS/Police/Fire, but these were not really useful to me in my area. I would highly recommend you check RadioFrequencies.com for your area and get the local frequencies you need there, and program them in.
Finally, there is one minor issue, but not critical: My old Radio Shack scanner showed the description of the channel being received... this scanner does not. I sort of miss that; but since I setup banks for EMS, Fire, Police, etc., I can tell by which bank is lit where the call is originating. (Also, all calls always announce who they are at the onset of the message).
All in all, a solid unit for the price!













