Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio Review - Best Dual Band Ham Two Way Radio
Introduction
The Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio is a versatile and feature-packed two-way radio that is perfect for ham radio enthusiasts and professionals alike. With its dual-band, dual-mode, and dual-standby capabilities, this radio offers seamless transitions between analog and digital communication. It also acts as a cross-band repeater, extending the communication range and supporting cross-band repeating between analog and digital bands. In this in-depth review, we will explore the various features and functionalities of the GD-88, its pros and cons, and its overall performance.
Product Description
The Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio is a versatile and feature-packed two-way radio that offers both analog and digital communication options. With its dual-band, dual-mode, and dual-standby capabilities, this radio provides excellent flexibility and performance for ham radio enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the GD-88 is its dual-band operation, which allows it to operate on both VHF and UHF channels. This means that you can communicate on a wide range of frequencies, giving you greater versatility and coverage. Whether you need to communicate with fellow hams or emergency services, this radio has you covered.
In addition to its dual-band capabilities, the GD-88 seamlessly transitions between analog and digital DMR (DMR Tier II) communication. This ensures that you can stay connected with other radio users, regardless of their preferred communication mode. With the dual-standby feature, you can even monitor two channels simultaneously, making it easier to stay on top of important communications.
Another impressive feature of the GD-88 is its cross-band repeater function. Acting as a base radio, it extends the communication range by transmitting on one frequency band (UHF/VHF) and receiving on the other (VHF/UHF). This means you can effectively repeat signals between analog and digital bands, allowing for seamless communication between different types of radios.
The GD-88 also comes with GPS/APRS capabilities, SFR (Single Frequency Repeater) functionality, and an impressive 300K contacts capacity. With its IP54 rating, it is also resistant to dust and water, making it suitable for use in various outdoor environments.
Overall, the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio is a powerful and versatile two-way radio that offers exceptional performance and features. Whether you're a ham radio enthusiast, emergency responder, or outdoor enthusiast, this radio is sure to meet your communication needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Powerful Performance: The Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio boasts a powerful 7W output, allowing for clear and reliable communication over long distances. Whether you're using it for ham radio satellites or other applications, this radio delivers excellent performance.
Versatile Functionality: With its dual-band capability (VHF and UHF), this radio offers flexibility in terms of frequency range. It also comes with a range of features, including GPS/APRS, cross-band repeater, and SFR (Single Frequency Repeater), enhancing its functionality and ensuring seamless communication.
Solid Build Quality: Users appreciate the sturdy construction of the GD-88. Its good-looking design and solid build quality make it a durable and reliable choice. Additionally, the programming software options are better than other models on the market, allowing for easy customization and setup.
Cons
Volume Control Issues: Some users have reported that the volume control on the GD-88 could use some improvement. They have found that the volume does not have a linear increase or decrease, and the low volume end drops off abruptly instead of gradually reducing. This can be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer precise volume control.
Steep Learning Curve: A few buyers have found the radio to be difficult to use, especially when it comes to programming and navigation. While the programming software options are praised, beginners may find it challenging to understand and operate the device effectively. A more user-friendly interface or detailed instructions could help alleviate this issue.
Mixed Feedback on Audio Volume: While the latest firmware update seems to have addressed earlier audio volume issues, some users still find the audio volume to be slightly low. Although this may not be a significant drawback for most users, it's worth considering if you require consistently loud audio output in certain settings.
In summary, the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio offers powerful performance, versatile functionality, and a solid build quality. However, it does have some drawbacks, including volume control issues, a steep learning curve, and mixed feedback on audio volume. Regardless, it remains a popular choice among those looking for a reliable and feature-rich handheld radio.
Customer Reviews
The Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio has received mixed reviews from customers. With an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars based on 25 ratings, it's clear that opinions are divided.
Some customers have expressed disappointment with their purchase. One reviewer mentioned that they expected the radio to be used to work with ham radio satellites but found that the minimum volume was too loud, making it difficult to use (3 stars). Another reviewer simply stated that the radio was not what they expected (3 stars).
However, there are also positive reviews from satisfied customers. One reviewer praised the programming software options and confirmed that the output power was in-spec (3 stars). Another reviewer liked the radio as an analog 2M and appreciated the firmware update that added support for DTMF (4 stars).
One customer mentioned that the volume control could use some improvement, as it did not have a linear increase or decrease, and the low volume end dropped off instead of going lower (4 stars). Another reviewer, who had never used a DMR radio before, mentioned that they were enjoying their experience with the GD-88 and that most of the earlier issues had been fixed with the latest firmware update (5 stars).
On the other hand, one reviewer found the radio difficult to use (2 stars).
Overall, the customer reviews for the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio are somewhat mixed. While some customers have had issues with the volume control and found the radio difficult to use, others have been satisfied with its performance, especially after firmware updates.
Conclusion
The Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio offers a range of features that make it a versatile and powerful communication device. With its dual-band, dual-mode, and dual-standby capabilities, it allows for seamless transition between analog and digital communication. The cross-band repeater function further extends its communication range, making it a valuable tool for both amateur radio enthusiasts and professionals.
However, it is important to note that there have been some mixed reviews from buyers. Some users found the radio difficult to use, while others had issues with the volume being too loud. Additionally, the firmware of the device may need updating for optimal performance.
Despite these drawbacks, the majority of buyers have found the GD-88 to be a good-looking and solid handheld radio. The programming software options are better than others in its class, and the output power has been confirmed to be in-spec.
In conclusion, the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog 7W Handheld Radio offers a range of features that make it a versatile and powerful communication device. While there have been some mixed reviews, the overall feedback from buyers is positive. If you are in need of a dual-band handheld radio with cross-band repeating capabilities, this could be a good option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this handheld radio be used with ham radio satellites?
A: While the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio is designed for ham radio enthusiasts, some users have reported difficulties when using it with ham radio satellites. The minimum volume of the radio is quite loud, making it challenging to use in certain situations. If you plan on using this radio specifically for ham radio satellites, you may want to consider other options.
Q: Is the volume control on this radio adjustable?
A: Yes, the volume control on the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio is adjustable. However, some users have mentioned that the volume control could use a little more work. They have noted that the volume does not have a linear increase or decrease. Instead, the low volume end drops off abruptly instead of gradually decreasing. This may be a slight inconvenience for some users.
Q: Can this handheld radio be programmed easily?
A: Yes, the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio can be programmed using its programming software options. Many users have praised the programming software, stating that it is better than what is offered by other radios in the market. The software allows for easy customization and programming of the radio's features and settings.
Q: What is the output power of this handheld radio?
A: The output power of the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio has been confirmed to be in-spec. However, it is important to note that this radio has been tested in Analog mode only by some users. If you are planning to use this radio primarily in DMR mode, it is recommended to verify the output power and performance for that specific mode as well.
Q: Is the audio volume of this radio improved in the latest firmware update?
A: Yes, according to some users, the latest firmware update for the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio seems to have fixed most of the earlier issues, including the audio volume. However, a few users have mentioned that the audio volume is still a little low and may require users to put the radio in another room to hear it clearly. It is advisable to check the latest firmware updates and user reviews for any further improvements in the audio volume.
Q: Is the radio difficult to use?
A: While the Radioddity GD-88 DMR & Analog Handheld Radio offers a range of features and capabilities, some users have found it difficult to use. It is important to note that this radio is designed for adult use and may require some familiarity with handheld radios and programming. If you are new to handheld radios or prefer a more user-friendly interface, you may want to consider other options that suit your level of expertise and ease of use requirements.
