Always more often I think that radios in shack are like human beings: if you leave them alone for a long time, they can feel that, and get sick. I wouldn’t ever confront them to such a risk, and that’s why – when possible, when the opportunity is given – I try to increase especially the “portable patrol” on the shelf. Last entry is a Motorola GP68, UHF version (the VHF is out there too). I have to admit that after some picks from the extreme east (i.e. Wouxun, Baofeng, and Baojie), for pleasant that they proved, I felt the need for something more known and reputed. I hit the target only partially, as this is the Moto product that, likely, is conceived for the east markets, meaning some flaws. Forget the performance of a GP300 or a GP680. This is another pair of shoes, which has its main weakness on the inexistent battery (less than an hour, when transmitting full power – around 4.5 W). On the other hand, you have probably the simplest operation and programming for a Motorola. No cable needed: all can be done via the front keyboard. Then, if you’re ready to be really surprised, I’ll tell you GP68 works in VFO mode, with direct frequency entry and display. Am I satisfied? Receiving and transmitting performance is really fine (what you would expect from a Motorola). Other details are less responding to their usual standard. Considering the low price it has nowadays, and given that some users claim it’s not a “real” Moto, I can’t complain, but I wouldn’t go for it as the first operating choice from my shack.

73 de Chris.