(Part 3) Reddit mentions: The best portable audio & video products

I work part time as a FEMA/ NRT response unit.

The reports cites this as: https://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/nca/wg02/losses.php

it would be devasastating for the first 48-72 hours on grounds that most folks wouldn't know how to get home.

EMS/ first response will NOT be available for the first 24/48.

Expectation realistically is ~a week out. during that time traige centers will be needed. folks have to get to the centers.

i could really go on doom and gloom all day long but instead lets focus on getting your self prepared.

The basic NERT/ earthquake prep is good but add a tarp and staple guns for the blown out windows. add noise canceling headphones/ or just ear muffs for kids cause there will be alarms and noises. debris filter like painters mask for particulates are crucial as well.

As far mission; to survive for a week.

My estimates as i am responsible for the Southern portion of San Francisco is only as good as the advisor that lets me know how many can really commit to the team.

as far as the 101/280 most portions will be rendered useless via obstruction and or destroyed. Both bridges stand well but a 6.5+ will give it the final exam.

older buildings if up to code should be alright (brick/ tougher foundation) the worrysome for me is the rent-lease/ apartments subletting situations that just added an extra water or tapped into the gas line.

tldr; infrastructure will be there just clogged. will need repairs and a band aid will take ~5 weeks for temp, ~4months perm.

i am on ambien right now and feel sleepy but when im awake i'd more than love to recommend yall some resources and classes and things to get in preparation.

for instance teach you how to shut off water/gas/elec then you teach it back to me. mayve go over non running water sanitations.

anyway dont worry, we are resilent and there exists hundreds of me to make best of what we have to this city.

edit:

Hey all, this is a expanded post in response to earthquakes that have been happening all over the place in the world. Some concerns have been raised and I feel like sometimes we take this for granted, or at least its in the back of our heads.

firstly, here are some official responses and resources from the State/ County/ Feds
http://sfdem.org/resources is also a great resource!

Here is the basic NERT or http://sf-fire.org/neighborhood-emergency-response-team-NERT

Schedule of training: http://sf-fire.org/training-schedule-registration

Red Cross recommended items to have and also basic check list: http://www.redcross.org/images/MEDIA_CustomProductCatalog/m4240216_Earthquake.pdf PRINT THIS OUT, YOU MAY NOT HAVE INTERNET!

Here is the FEMA https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/15092?id=3538 this is what they train reserve FEMA response teams about. The Cd-rom is available but I learned via the booklet.

secondly, instead of bombarding and regurgitating ill get to the point on what things I think are nice additions and why:

• I have no idea how your family or living situation is but of course food (I have some MREs) and water on hand but also a filitration pump.
  
  
• Water bladder that fits in a tub is also good https://www.amazon.com/Reservoir-Emergency-Storage-System-Gallons/dp/B00DOMOCCI like that
  
  
• A heater that runs off of available fuels like a butane hot-pot hot plate. Or a jetfuel systems https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000020951-Butane-Stove/dp/B00FGPXVSM/ref=sr_1_6?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1480011136&sr=1-6&keywords=camp+stove is what I have
  
  
• Fire extinguisher that actually works! So many people don’t have one. Also be wary of the cheap ones that spray everywhere and you may have to live by it for some time.
  
  
• (~$18) Ear muffs/ noise canceling for the kids AND you. Alarms will be going off and its really jarring. Tell them it’s a secret mission and you are all on an adventure. Re-assure them things are ok. Trauma through a natural disaster is horrible.
  
  
• (~$15) Particulate filter – I like the 3m brand, and they are sold in packs. You never know what building material will be opened up when things get shaken. In addition to the fires.
  
  
• (~$X) tarps cut to numerous shapes, sand bags, staple gun, duct tape, weather tape, sealant of some kind. It’ll be a barrier between your home and outside and it’s a +1 to making you feel a little more secure.
  
  
• Safety goggles / good set of working gloves – there will be debris you have to navigate through seeing and using hands is very important
  
  
• (`$20) Headlamp – I like the triple AAA kind for obvious sustainability. Having a light makes things must more easy when navigating and in doors. I also have a light lamp like a lantern.
  
  
• Glow sticks/ chem lights. I use red to mark off bad areas or dangerous areas of the home. White/ purple chem lights for trails in home, and green for rooms occupied
  
  
• A survival radio to get news and updates
  
  
• CASH – there may be gouging or not but we don’t know if the Point of sales will be readily available
  
  
• Medications – have a solid plan on how you will get your prescriptions if necessary, maybe talk to your doctor about an extra script. Or pharmacy personnel. I have an extra for my parents blood pressure medication and it was easy as asking for an extra that we rotate.
  
  
• Two-way cheapo walkie talkies in case my family/ part needs to move around and still communicate to each other (baofeng is the rip off of the motorolla but still works) https://www.amazon.com/Baofeng-Warranty-Dual-Band-Radio-Improved/dp/B00HX03AMA/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1480011051&sr=1-5&keywords=baofeng like this
  
  
• Kitty litter/ sawdust/ wood shavings – good for sucking up any spilled liquids that may be dangerous
  
  
• Water pump. In case you have a floor level/ basement (I know you east coasters don’t think we have basements) but in case it floods and you shut things off you still need to be able to move that water out somewhere else.
  
  
• Wheel barrow/ or mobile hand-stand dolly. You may need to move things like sand bags or debris
  
  
• Learn where the emergency and main shut off for electricity, gas, water. Maybe do some maintenance and make sure its not stuck!
  
  o Water heater – learn if it’s a gas or electric and if you need to turn it off
  o Home heating – maybe learn about the oil reserve and how to clean and sanction off
  
  
• LASTLY BUT EQUALLY IMPORTANT WHERE WILL YOU PUT THESE ITEMS? Do not place them in a danger zone and are in-accessible.
  
  realistic time tables:
  
  
• 1st responders in EMS/ paramedics will be in short supply, the hospitals and clinics will be slammed.
  
  
• Transport will be difficult as most roads in the Bay Area will be congested and people generally will be shocked and confused and attempting to get home..
  
  
• The estimates from FEMA and State of California (http://sfdem.org/sites/default/files/FileCenter/Documents/67-EQ%20Plan%202008.pdf ) is an older copy and has been updated but I can’t find the 2015
  
  
• Realistically, my supplies and plan is to survive in the increments of 48 for life threatening, 2 weeks sustainment, a month before my domicile is secured.
  
  problem #1 – theres a really high chance YOU WILL NOT BE at your domicile/ home as most people commute. I highly recommend you think about a plan to either meet up with family OR some type of emergency plan as a rally-point.
  
  problem #2 – exposure to the elements, your walls might come down, your windows may shatter, your roof may open up, please see the items I recommended on tarps/ staple guns
  
  problem #3 – you are prepared and have all this stuff? Now what? Well be wary – cause what if theres a fire from your neighbors? What if theres a tsunami and flooding? Or some other after effect that can really mess with the plan? I highly recommend a “go-bag/ or bug out bag and a rally point for your family” maybe your community center/ school auditorium, look ahead for designated shelters.
  
  *problem #4 – firearms. This is something to consider. I won’t get into political/ moral/ safety arguments but consider where they are stored and the most safe but useful way you can use this.
  
  re-assurances – last muster from the FEMA, Coast Guard, National Guard, SF/ County resources we mustered in under 24 hours to respond. (please please keep in mind, responders take care of their situation first, that’s a reason to the high response time)**
  
  There are hundreds of us (first responders and personnel dedicated to helping and rebuilding)
  The operation tempo or ideas will be “recovery> stability > rebuilding”
  So I’ve included a lot of information, if anyone wants to question it feel free to open for discussion. Or additional information.
  
  
  

Getting into the hobby for cheap can certainly be done. Asking for 20 miles out of a cheap set up is going to be where it gets tough...

Long story short, your communication abilities can range from <1mile to hundreds of miles, even thousands of miles depending on a ton of variables. It doesn't really matter what radio you use (yes, some are better than others) but in the end, it's environment, conditions and ANTENNA, ANTENNA, ANTENNA! Power (linear amplifiers) certainly helps too, but it mainly comes down to those 3 topics.

Where are you transmitting/receiving? In a city with buildings and lots of RF background noise? On top of mountain with wide open land for miles around? Obviously, you'll perform much better the higher you are and the less obstructions you have.

Now we are on top of mountain, what kind of antenna do we have? Do we have a 6" rubber duck antenna on a handheld? Or are we running a 102" whip or big base antenna? I can assure you that no matter how high this mountain is, that rubber duck ain't getting out of a paper bag. Whereas I've talked barefoot (no amp) on a 4ft Firestik about 50miles as the crow flies when I was on a local mountaintop. With more antenna and/or more power, I could extend that range exponentially.

For an entry level set up, I'd recommend a few things. A good mobile set up could include;

Radio - Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio. Pro-Series, Compact Design. Public Address (PA) Function. Instant Emergency Channel 9, External Speaker Jack, Large Easy to Read Display. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005ZLB0E4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_h7bmDbXMZGZ2J

Antenna - K40 K-30 Automotive Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H2W270/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_N8bmDbSDJ2RW1

This radio and antenna is a cheap, effective mobile combo that you can expect decent performance from. In poor to good conditions, you'll get 1-5 miles of transmit/receive. In optimal "top of the mountain" conditions, you could easily get 10-20+ miles. There's also this phenomenon called "skip". I'll let you research what that's all about, but basically it's using specific atmospheric conditions to bounce or "skip" your communication over vast distances. Plenty of YouTube vids explaining skip, so I won't get into that here.

For a more dedicated, base type set-up, I'd recommend a better radio and more substantial antenna. You can still use mobile radios in base setups, but there are also "base" specific rigs too. Same wattage, just in a desktop version and are generally 110, not 12V. My current base set-up is cheapish, and has proven to be very effective, as I have made contacts to several out of state stations. Again, these are just recommendations from equipment I've personally owned. There is tons of kick ass gear out there, and finding what works for you is all part of the fun.

Base radio - Uniden BEARCAT 980SSB 40- Channel SSB CB Radio with Sideband NOAA WeatherBand,7- Color Digital Display PA/CB Switch and Noise Cancelling Mic, Wireless Mic Compatible https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_alcmDbH8DQMGD

Base antenna - Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017J7NQ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_RlcmDbFSJ9T95

Hope all this info helps. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask. This is a great sub with tons of knowledge! Have fun on the waves!

You can get into this without having to spend a lot of money, just look through here. http://hamexam.org/ this is a free easy way to test for your license. But I would start out with http://www.kb6nu.com/tech-manual/ this will help you to understand what is going on and how things work. Then there is another manual there for general class. This is a copy/past that I typed for someone else, some of the stuff may not be useful as you may already know it from your own research. Intro video; for people that what to get into it, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHd3dZW1SBc This is what I tell them. It can seem a bit overwhelming depending on how far you want to go with this. First I would recommend watch some videos. I will post some that I think are helpful but could be boring. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Qgg_upU_5s This is an old video but, its simple and the military explains things well. Part2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS8xlwyc6G4 I hope that this gives you an understanding of whats going on with radios. This guy kind of gives an overview about ham radio http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kFLxeASa05k If you buy one of these Baofeng radios, this guy has some videos on programming with your pc using the chirp program as well as videos on hand programming. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LXkkaJkVUM I really recommend using chirp over the factory software if you have trouble using it. I bought the UV-82 with all the accessories from amazon, http://www.amazon.com/BaoFeng-UV-82-Two-Way-Radio/dp/B00E4KLY34/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389311738&sr=8-1&keywords=UV-82 and added the programming cable and mic, most up to date radio that I know of.

Repeaters: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJFeY0jZymA basic explanation, there are plenty of videos that show how to get connected to a repeater. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NB4R1pgLG84 website that show you where repeaters are located, you have to do a search from the menu, find the magnifying glass .

Now as far as licenses go. There are three classes of operators, Technician class, General class, and Extra class. Technician class is what most people starting out get, and puts you in the operating range of what these hand held radios can do. http://www.kb6nu.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/2010_Tech_Study_Guide.pdf

General class gets you more frequencies to operate on but, you would have to buy or build more radio equipment that is more capable than these smaller radios. http://kb6nu.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/2011-No-Nonsense-General-Class-License-Study-Guide.pdf

Extra class, well this is for the ham radio junkies, lol. People with this class get a few more frequencies to operate on and have a very in-depth knowledge of diverse technical fields from electronics, radio theories and most likely computers and electrical engineering.

Testing: You have to take a test for each license approved by the FCC, that you would like to get, like I said though a lot just get the Technician Class license. http://www.arrl.org/licensing-education-training search through here to find out where, when, to take test(s) or take classes. There are also websites to practice taking a test. http://www.eham.net/exams/

There are so many things that you can get into, I think this is some of the basics of it, lol. If you just read or watch a little bit at a time the more you will absorb what's going on and it may start to become fun but if it's not something that you would enjoy as a hobby, at least get the tech license and understand how to use a repeater and learn it like putting on pants.

Other notes: http://www.arrl.org/files/file/Regulatory/Band%20Chart/Hambands_color.pdf

http://www.sm0vpo.com/antennas/anten.htm

hey friend, i recently wrote a "how to" setup APRS with a HT, Direwolf, and YAAC on linux. copy paste is below ...

edit:

If audio is getting from the radio to direwolf, check the volume levels on the radio output, and check the mic gain on your computer. These are really the only two settings that will affect how direwolf can rx and decode. Direwolf logs out when it receives something, and it tells you on a scale of 0-100 the volume level. I try to shoot for 50-60 and I get very consistent decode.


Tutorial: APRS software user interface, with software based audio TNC, and RF gateway

Overview:

APRS is a tool that was designed to convey information about objects, telemetry, and reporting, as well as communicate between individuals and groups with direct, and group messaging. Many people have the experience, or mindset, that APRS is used primarily for location tracking. This is partially due to the limitations on many hardware implementations of APRS that vendors have provided. One way to learn more about APRS as a broader, and more powerful system is to utilize software to visualize, and interact with other stations, and objects. This short tutorial will discuss how to setup a software based user interface (UI) for APRS that will provide you with mapping, messaging, and object manipulation abilities, as well as how to connect that UI through a software based audio modem, or TNC, directly to a radio, so that other users within your immediate range, as well as the range of any digipeaters will be able to interact with the same local APRS data without any reliance on the internet, or internet gateways.

User interface:

There are several different user interfaces available that have been designed for APRS.

UI-View is a popular piece of software which is no longer being maintained as the original author has passed away.

YAAC is a successor/replacement to UI-View which is cross platform (Java) with a intuitive interface, and many capabilites. We will be using YAAC for this tutorial.

Xastir is primarily a Linux application built on the X windows library system. It is quite functional, but is less intuitive and is currently less activly developed than YAAC.


Audio Modem (TNC):

TNC's originally were AX.25 packet assembler/dissasemblers with the addition of a modem to convert baseband digital signals into audio tones. In the case of a software TNC, it has the same capabilites, encoding and decoding both the AX.25 layer, and data layer to and from audio so it can be transmitted or received from a radio.

Direwolf is the premier audio tnc, which is documented to run on Windows, OSX, Linux, and single board computer Linux environments such as Raspberry Pi BeagleBone Black etc.

RF Gateway:

The RF gateway is probably the simplest piece in the equation. You need only a radio that supports audio in, audio out, and VOX. There may be some complexity if you choose to make your own cables, however there are ready made cables for popular and inexpensive radios (Baofeng) which are available for under $20 from amazon, which feature isolation to protect both your computer, and your radio.

Here is a link to a high quality cable available on Amazon, which works for Boafeng radios: https://www.amazon.com/APRS-K2-Connector-BaoFeng-APRSDroid-Compatible/dp/B01LMIBAZW


Supplementary:

It can be very helpful to have a radio that is capable of broadcasting an APRS beacon to test your setup as you go.

Your laptop may have a single plug for both headphone and microphone (TRRS) or it may have two seperate plugs. If you have two seperate plugs, you will need a splitter to seperate the microphone, and headphone connections from the cable linked to in the above RF gateway section. The cable linked below will split the two should you need it.

https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-MUYHSFMM-Headset-Splitter-Adapter/dp/B0058DOWH6/


System setup:

We are going to build the APRS system from the ground up, starting with Direwolf, the audio modem/tnc and the RF gateway. If you are a Linux user, there are packages for direwolf in ubuntu/debian as well as yum based systems:

sudo apt-get install direwolf or sudo yum install direwolf

For Windows and OSX go to https://github.com/wb2osz/direwolf and follow the instructions to download the latest release and run direwolf from a command window.

direwolf does not need any configuration for our initial setup, simply run direwolf, connect the audio and microphone jacks between the computer and your radio, and tune your radio to 144.390.

Be certain that you do not have any rx-CTCSS or DCS tones setup. Set your squelch as low as it will go, and enable vox with the lowest setting possible on your radio. Now is the time when it is handy to have a HT that is capable of beaconing APRS data. If you have one, set it to beacon and you should start see data coming in on the terminal where direwolf is running. You may need to adjust the volume on the output of your radio, the output of your computer, as well as the microphone gain on your computer to get everything decoding properly.

Once you can reliably decode becons from a local HT, or from a digipeater within range, you can move on to setting up the YAAC user interface, and connecting it to direwolf.


YAAC, the APRS user interface software we are using, is a Java program and requires that your system has the Java runtime environment installed. For Linux users, be certain that you install the full JRE, and not a "headless" JRE, as the headless versions do not come with the graphical libraries that YAAC requires to run. Also as of this writing YAAC did not work with Java 9, however I experienced no problems using the OpenJDK Java 8 JRE so be sure to check the version you are installing.

After you have the Java Runtime Environment installed, download the self upacking binary for your operating system from the YAAC website at http://www.ka2ddo.org/ka2ddo/YAAC.html#install

For linux users, the file was not set as an executable, so I had to chmod +x YAAC_linux_x86.bin before running ./YAAC_linux_x86.bin

NOTE: YAAC does not extract itself into a directory - so you likely want to create a directory first, then move the self extracting file into that directory so that you dont end up with a bunch of files all over.

After the package has extracted, simply run the YACC.jar program. You can do this from the command line with: java -jar YACC.jar

YACC will ask you if you want help configuring it, select yes and walk through the steps configuring your call sign, latitude/longitude etc. When you get to the part about adding and configuring interfaces, select the option to "Add AGWPE Port". YACC will create a new window with default information populated - you MUST add your callsign, and change the transmit dropdown from "disabled" to "enabled". Click finish, and on the next screen you can decide whether you want to beacon or not (I chose yes) along with any free form comment you want, then click finish.

That is it - you have a basic APRS software station set up that can transmit, and recieve via RF link. You should see objects start to appear on the YAAC map view, and the direwolf command line output should match up with data YAAC is displaying.

Homework:

From here you can learn how to create message groups, chat directly with stations, place objects on the map so that they are only visible to other local RF stations, or so that they propegate out through the internet via a digipeater I-Gate (if one is in range) so that they show up on the APRS-IS backbone (e.g. aprs.fi).

I wouldn't feel too bad about it. It's not the most personal gift in the world, but you weren't given a ton of information to work with. In the future, maybe send messages to ask about other interests and likes; you can even tell your giftee that you're good at fashion/costume design, and would he be interested in something like an -insert item you're able and willing to make here-?

For this year, the only other thing you might consider is sending a card or a note on redditgifts his way, suggesting some things he might like to buy with the Amazon giftcard, and that you weren't sure which one he'd find most useful in his life.

Here are some things you might suggest:

A waterproof bluetooth speaker

A laptop stand to prevent overheating when pulling long hours producing music

A cool looking USB hub, because he probably needs a lot of USB ports to do all that.

A sound recording pen, so that if he thinks of a good rap on the fly, he can record it and jot it down at the same time.

Or just a nice fountain pen, great for graphic designers.

Then, you've made some suggestions for what you think he'd like, but if he'd rather use it for something else, the ball is in his court.

I don't know what your budget is, or day-to-day use is, but think about modularity.

By this I mean: do you really want to have a dedicated radio permanently mounted in your vehicle, or would you benefit from something that could be easily removed and used as a base station / portable transmitter?

If you've got a lot of money and can have 3 or 4 radios, or if you use a CB as part of your day-to-day routine, then your current plan is fine. But if neither of those are the case, then you may want to look into another radio.

I personally ended up with one of these - https://www.cabelas.com/checkout/add_items_from_product.cmd?form_state=default_state&findingMethodAddedCart=Product&categoryIds=&searchPath=&destination=&productId=1889823&productVariantId=&quantity=1&addTo=1

I like being able to use it as a hand-held radio, or with an external antenna. It's just as powerful as the unit you linked to (4w) because that's the legal power limit and you won't get more unless you illegally modify your radio or use a linear amplifier. External amplifiers are not technically legal, but enforcement is low (and nonexistent if SHTF) and they're easy enough to find online. Either radio would plug in just as well.

Also, especially if you are planning on using the radio on a day-to-day basis, I'd suggest getting one with SSB support. This allows you to legally use more transmit power, and will let you talk to people who are using SSB. This is a relatively small portion of the CB community, but it's also the best way for long distance CB communications which might be useful in an emergency. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007B5ZAES/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521846142&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Cb+ssb&dpPl=1&dpID=41UPjN93-tL&ref=plSrch - they aren't even that much more expensive.

Either way, I personally wouldn't get the radio you linked. Either fixed mounted with SSB, handheld, or both. You may also not want to put it in the dash unless you plan to use it day to day, to allow easy use in your house or another vehicle.

Just some thoughts.

A few more ideas :

I would suggest having a battery-powered FM radio (and extra batteries if it's battery powered, or get one which charges via USB like the one I linked) to listen to the news and get vital information.

Also (if not too late), order a sawyer mini (best) or lifestraw (not as good). If you don't have access to clean water it can help you stay healthy (beware of chemical contamination which cannot be removed by these).

If you have the money, get a Garmin inReach satellite communicator (requires a (relatively cheap) subscription, down to $15ish a month). You can request SOS (much like 911), and send/receive SMS and e-mails, even without cell coverage. Excellent to keep in touch with relatives and in case of emergency. Can be used year-round when hiking, snow-mobile, skiing, ... Don't tell anyone you have this...

Download the offline map of your area on Google Maps on your phone beforehand. Can be priceless to navigate around and doesn't require internet access. Also get the Maps.Me app and download the map of your area too. Google Maps offline maps will expire and disappear from your phone after 30 days (I believe), Maps.Me maps will not.

If the cell service in your area is out of order, use your phone in airplane mode so that it doesn't continuously and desperately looks for a cell to connect to, which will drain the battery VERY quickly. Also use it on the lowest practical brightness setting to save battery power.

If not too late, get big USB power banks (>=10000mAh such as this one) and fully charge them beforehand. It's good as barter items and it can be nice to recharge your things when you have no access to a generator (on the go, or if you don't want to run the generator to avoid attracting attention). You can also get USB lights (this one for instance) and your powerbank doubles as a flashlight with a very long battery life.

Get a first aid kit, and not just one with bandaids... Get a CAT tourniquet, trauma dressing, Celox (preferred) or QuikClot bandage, triangular bandage, SAM splint, ... and know how to use them. Also get the basic medecines (stomach/diarrhea relief, basic painkillers, anti-allergy, and any prescription medecine if you require any). Remember 911 service may be unavailable for some time and you need to be able to take care of injuries. Tourniquets save lives, everyone should have one readily available.

​

I am a radio amateur and in these situations I like to have one or two portable radio for two-way communication but I realize it is not for everybody. Still, a pair of FRS/GMRS radio can be helpful. Please note that GMRS requires a (cheap) license in the USA. I would recommend this model which also allows to be used as a scanner and to program the NOAA weather frequencies (do it beforehand) and some local police/EMS/fire frequencies (if allowed in your juridiction).

Please DO NOT use a radio made for amateur radio use, where you can transmit on any frequency, such as the UV-5R; you may interfere with emergency communications, even if you can't hear them, miles away. Please stick to the FRS/GMRS frequencies. The radio above guarantees safe operation and still allows to be used as a scanner.

​

Take pictures of all your important documents (ID, properties, ...) and store them in a waterproof plastic bag. Try to keep at least your passport and driver license with you during the storm...

If you have a sump pump, try to arrange so that it can be battery powered and/or connected to your generator. If using battery power, get a battery charger and/or a generator connection, if the outage lasts and the battery runs down. Sometimes homes are not affected by the main storm but are flooded due to the lack of power around the storm and are still ruined, and that's totally preventable.

Also, beforehand, depending of the situation you might want to BLOCK your main sewage pipe. This way you might avoid sewage backflow into your home. There are normally valves already installed but in case of serious flooding (high backpressure) they sometimes are not up to the task.

​

Download a few offline movies on the Netflix app (if you have Netflix). I never lived though a hurricane but I assume after a few days/weeks, you might want some entertainment. You can also download e-books. Bonus if it's survival-related e-books.

​

Hope this helps... good luck to those affected


PS: oooo, thank you stranger for the gold, I think I never had one before ! Happy prepping :)

The Kenwood is going to be a higher quality radio but it won't like gain you much as far as distance on the TX. Gotta start with a better antenna.

the Baofeng is a fine enough radio and at such a cheap price it's hard to go wrong. A buddy has the UV 82 and the earlier one, the UV5. The difference is really minimal as far as output and general performance.

If it were me, for my type of use, I'd go with the cheaper UV 5 and a decent Nagoya antenna. Even better, this UV82 is cheaper yet.

If you're going hand held the Nagoya will be best. If you're inside build a copper J-Pole and put it on your home somewhere high for even better performance. If the J-pole is too much a simple ground plane can be soldered together super easily and will get you great performance as well.

Summary, the HT performance for distance is more about ANTENNA!

I hope I'm not too late for this.

I'm looking to get some decent portable audio setup that I could use at college this coming fall. I asked a buddy of mine what he would recommend and he mentioned that the Bose Soundlink Mini would be a possibility.

Budget: I'm looking to spend no more than $300. That is the absolute maximum, but I would prefer to spend about $200

What am I looking for: I want something I can move back and forth from my dorm back home (4 hour drive) fairly easily. Something with Bluetooth would be nice also so I can play music from my phone, but something I could still use with my laptop if I choose to.

How would I use it: I will be using it to listen to music most, watching movies and tv, and maybe the occasional gaming session. I also want something I can link up with my phone with via Bluetooth but can also use my laptop with. I'll probably put them on or under my desk and I'll be listening to them around my dorm.

What gear do I own: the only gear I own worth mentioning is a pair of Bose OE2's (they're ok. Not really worth the money though. One of the ear pads came off and they're a pain to get back on), and some Sennheiser HD 380 Pros (I absolutely live these, great sound quality, comfortable, and I got a great deal on amazon). Other than those, I have some shitty apple earbuds that are decent for carrying around with me.

Material: as I already mentioned, I'll be using them for music, as well as some movies and games. I listen to a wide range of music, ranging from EDM, to country, to rock, so all around good speakers would be best.

Am I willing to buy used: Not really, unless I am able to somehow find some pristine gear

If anyone has any additional tips I would really appreciate it.

You might like the Fiio X3. It can play just about all music file types, including the ogg file support you want. Loading files on it are as simple as drag and drop and the interface I have seen is clean and simple. It's a bit of an audiophile player; it has the Wolfson DAC that many music listeners rave about and it uses hardware equalization instead of software equalization resulting in better sounding equalization overall with minimum distortion that software equalization is limited by. I haven't gotten one myself, but do own the the Fiio E17 external DAC/headphone amp that it's frequently compared to that would be equivalent in overall sound quality and equalization quality. The E17 sounds cleaner and has more detail than my built-in laptop DAC and iPod Touch's DAC. So I imagine a portable player with the same audio qualities would be just as great, probably better since it's portable.
The build quality has been compared to the iPod classic by some of the people who happen to have both. I know the external DAC I got from Fiio is like that, but lighter. It has 8 GB of built-in memory which you expand by 64 GB with micro SD.
It's only $200 for all those capabilities. It may be over doing it if you aren't looking for an audiophile-grade player and all you want is something to play back your music on the go with ear-buds or inexpensive headphones.


Here is an early review that has good pictures of the X3.

If you wait a little while the Fiio X5 will be out soon and be even better all around audio quality wise. That's the one I plan to get when I get the money for it.

Depends on what country you are in and so on.
I have worked professionally in radio for 20 years, I am an RF Engineer and I have government communications contracts in the US.

Assuming you are in the USA, technically the 888 are not legal to use on GMRS but they dd recently pass part 90 certification and new versions should have an FCC ID on them. GMRS is part 95 but may many people have and are using part 90 radios on GMRS because there is a massive shortage in real GMRS radios, The FCC has acknowledged this and seems to not really car much about it as long as the radios are not creating issues in other band like harmonics, etc.

Hams get triggered when people mention baofengs for other use outside of ham bands because they are cheap and originally part 97 ham radios, some hams feel they have been violated by the FCC because the FCC has started granting part 90 and 95 certification on some of these radios. So most of the banter is just hurt feefee's speaking and that typically results in fear porn stories about how the FCC will track you and your kids down and give you all a huge fine for using a non certified radio here and there unscheduled.
I have my ham license and I do not care what people use for a radio, I assume we are all adult enough to be responsible while using a radio, like not talking over someone else, or interfering with service comms like police and fire services. I;m not going to say "He just get your ham license" because I know what its like to have friends and family, some of them may not want a license or they cannot grasp the concept to pass a test, nothing wrong with that not everyone is tech savvy, so you need an easy way out.

GMRS is your best option but you need a license for it, no test, $80 USD and you and your whole family can use it. I reccomend this over a ham license unless you think EVERYONE that will be using a radio can study and pass a ham radio test and remember to follow the ham radio rules..

MURS is 2 watts and you have to use MURS radios but you run a HUGE risk of being on a channel like what Wal-mart uses and if they catch you they can trespass you from their property... They actually think the own MURS channels..

Ok so here is what I suggest, Get a GMRS license, you can goto your local 2-way radio shop (where the police go to have their stuff serviced, not radio shack XD) and ask them to help you apply for a license. they should have no problem with this. Also you can subscribe to the GMRS subreddit.

Now you will need to get some GMRS part 95 radios, Baofeng makes one - https://www.amazon.com/GMRS-V1-Repeater-Scanning-136-174-99mhz-400-520-99mhz/dp/B01LWOLZ8L

This is good because this one will do repeaters where your blister pack cobras and stuff will not. Also this radio will receive VHF and that means it will receive NOAA weather broadcasts.

There are some surplus part 90 radios that have part 95 certification out there but I cannot list them all off, you will have to do that homework on your own.

I would use CB radio for car to car on the road communications and use GMRS HT's for on the ground activity. CB has its perks on the road, you can get traffic reports, speed trap info or just chat with a trucker if you get bored driving XD. CB channel 19 is the main use road channel BTW

You can get your ham license but that is only as powerful as to the fact if you have anyone to contact and you know repeater info for areas you will be travelling in, as mentioned above Would everyone in your family and group be willing, have time and be able to study and pass a ham radio test?

Seriously guys think before you start spewing crap, the OP may have young kids or friends who may or may not be able to understand radio theory well, not everyone is tech savvy in the world, for $80 a GMRS license will allow everyone in your family and group to communicate wit some simple common sense rules..

I did something else and it works like you won't believe bro I just plugged the tiny mic in my controller and the sound is good I keep my mic level to clicks above good in the adjust settings.
I just switched the settings for the audio I use a headset 95% of the time and I couldn't believe it worked. playing in multiplayer no one hears you pressing buttons or the thumb sticks if you get mad and rage there going to hear it but normal play they won't hear it . The optical Bluetooth transmitter works good no lag at all for me it's just me playing so I don't notice any lag. I got the Sony mdr100 h ear viridian blue there great pair perfect couldn't ask for anything else works perfectly. I was just giving you an update on what I did if you want to try this it works perfectly.


3.5mm microphone
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000MYPPPE/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495724721&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=3.5mm+mic&dpPl=1&dpID=31yteSOONWL&ref=plSrch


Optical audio to Bluetooth
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01N9PI9T6/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1495724954&sr=8-14&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=optical+audio+to+bluetooth+transmitter

Sony mdr100 h ear
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CQXGKWK/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1495725888&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=sony%2Bmdr100%2Bh.ear&dpPl=1&dpID=41-0%2B99q-AL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

Sansa Clip+, it's a little MP3 player, 2.5 inch tall,1.5 inch wide, 1 inch thick... I liked the first one I got so I bought 2 extras at 20 dollars a piece to give as gifts but then phones became popular and they sat in a closet and through a couple of moves, now they're worth 200 each https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B002MAPSC6/ref=dp_olp_all_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=all

Turns out that they're essentially the 'perfect' device for lossless/FLAC enthusiasts, the team that made this particular MP3 player added in: long battery life, microSD card capability, an overbeefed audio driver that delivers something like 10-20% more power through the audio jack than other comparable devices (driving higher quality headphones more better and without hiss during silence), FLAC capability built in, weighs practically nothing, backlit screen, and it's RockBox compatible (open source MP3 player software), also, the team that made this version was let go afterwards apparently because Sansa devices made afterwards lost the extra power. It's been discontinued and MP3 players are a dying breed of devices because of phones so there's no more innovation except at the super high end with blue tooth capability (even those lossless FIIO players are only 150).

I was kinda shocked when I looked up the value. I found the one I used in an old bag, because I finally had enough life/work balance to go back to the gym and my phone is just too big. I sold the 2 and thinking about selling the third because a cheapo player from amazon is like 15 dollars.

Welcome to the sub! Congrats on passing your Tech.

First up pick up an RTLSDR, these are great little receivers that will cover 30MHz-1700MHz which covers a tremendous swathe of spectrum. Definitely check out the different types of antennas you can make over on Antenna-Theory, the RTL-SDR blog and /r/rtlsdr

Then if you want to transmit on the post popular amateur bands for techs (which are local to your area) pick up a VHF/UHF Baofeng radio like a UV-B5, UV-82 or UV-5R. Not a whole lot of difference between any of them; I think the UV-B5 is the better one, since it has a better antenna and a rotary encoder. But it's very much up to you as to what you get (style > substance after all :) ).

Now from there its a question of what where you are. City? Rural? Nearby airport? Ports or ocean?

Edit: I should start linking to the wiki more often: Baofeng radios and Your First Radio are good places to start.

1. 29" hardtail mountainbike. Riding it is one of the best feelings I can have. This is my undisputed number 1
   
2. FiiO X3. Best source of mobile audio I've had yet. Only plays music but does so like a boss.
   
3. Shure Se425. In-Ear headphones with amazing value. They sound so clear and while listening to music you hear almost no background noise
   
4. Backpack. one of this kind, so you can distribute the weight across your torso
   
5. pen and paper. there's always something to write down.
   
6. Aerobie Pro. It's a lot of fun and I almost always have it with me
   
7. My old-school nokia dumbphone. I stepped back from smartphones, because of the simple fact that all that they offer is unnecessary, especially if you have a good audio source
   
8. my shoes. they are eco-friendly, good for the feet, because healthy sole AND contain no toxic chemicals and they feel amazing when worn without socks
   
9. a good book.
   
10. a glass bottle filled with still water

Turntable: Pro-Ject Debut Carbon - $399.00. I don't like the cartridge options on this one so if it were me I'd get the cheapest cartridge option, sell the cheap bundled cart, and buy a new one. The table itself gets really positive reviews though, everyone was pretty stunned when this came out for this price. Carbon fiber tonearms used to be mostly attached to $2000+ tables.

Amp: While it's tempting to recommend vintage gear here, it cost me a nice chunk of time, money, and research to get my all-vintage rig up and running, and there are very nice modern options that will match the modern table better and sound incredible, all with no hassle.

I like the Marantz PM5004 - $449.00. Great brand, great specs, and a built-in phono pre-amp. You can always get a better pre-amp if you want to upgrade to a low output, high end Moving Coil cartridge in the future, but this will sound great and you may feel no need to ever upgrade.

Cartridge: I've heard a handful of $200.00 and below cartridges in my time and this $69.00 cartridge is my favorite so far - Shure m97xe. It's cheap and sounds incredible. It gets brought up a lot, but it's wildly popular for a reason.

That leaves $83 for speakers and wires. You can go a bit low here and get these nice Dayton 6.5 inch bookshelfs for around $30.00, or spend a bit more than your budget and get the $149.00 Pioneer SP-BS41-LR in this price range. They were designed by famed speaker designer Andrew Jones and get great reviews.

I'll link to some stuff I bought that I've found useful.

My office has all mounted routes, so I don't walk door to door but rather I drive mailbox to mailbox. Instead of headphones, I use a bluetooth speaker and I can't imagine going through a workday without it. So headphones or a speaker, depending on whether your fiance primarily walks or drives on his routes, is a great idea.

A nice water-resistant backpack comes in handy, and maybe even an insulated lunch box or waterbottle/thermos.


This may sound stupid, but when I get home aromatherapy helps me relax and sleep. I bought a little InnoGear oil diffuser off of Amazon and I like the Prime Natural oils like Good Night and Anxiety Relief. It's just a chill way to end the day.

>I’m gonna assume you forgot to pad the $4.95 price tag to that for APRSDroid. After all, everyone loves to support developers.

$18 dollars for the cable and $5 for the app. You can donate more if you find it useful, but I wouldn't ask anyone to do that right out or the gate. It would be great if you did though, especially if you get use out of it.

>Wait, what? HT to HT?

Maybe I worded that poorly. That podcast was great that you linked. But I guess I still have a question. You can still go directly from one radio to another with APRS, can't you? It doesn't actually need digipeated, does it? It was pretty clear in the podcast that APRS doesn't have close to the range if FM voice, so maybe the small range makes it a moot point, even if it is possible. I didn't mean to suggest APRS would be digipeating at all if you're going "HT to HT". Maybe I should have said if my APRS packet from my HT is heard directly by your HT.

>Apparently the Kenwood TH-D72A has built in digipeating capabilities. What the hell. That’s somewhat scary.

This little guys looks great for APRS, and I would love it for that. To OP's question though, the price tag might be prohibitive

Agreed BUT the whole reason I purchased the thing was to monitor APRS. This kind of goes to what original is saying, its a nice feature but its not done well for the price you pay.

If I have GPS off, beacon off, and APRS on. What does that use 3-4 times the battery of just listening to 144.390 on audio? Its absurd that the radio's power usage shoots up reading the few bytes of the aprs packet compared to driving a .75w speaker.

Throw that aside, just money wise.

TH-D74A was recently on sale for 479.99. Compare it to a kit to make the baofung comparable functionally. TriBand, wide recieve, aprs even assuming you have no phone.

Triband uv-5 https://www.amazon.com/Mirkit-Baofeng-Battery-Tri-Band-Operator/dp/B07MWCT2J1/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=baofeng+uv-5rx3&qid=1565973762&s=gateway&sr=8-4 $35

Audio Cable https://www.amazon.com/BTECH-APRS-K1-Interface-APRSDroid-Compatible/dp/B01LMIBAZW/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?keywords=baofeng+pc+audio+cable&qid=1565973835&s=gateway&sr=8-1-fkmr1 $19 complete rip off but whatever

Amazing SSB/AirBand/AM/FM wide reciever to compliment it https://www.amazon.com/SSB-Shortwave-Scannable-Aviation-Operated/dp/B07HXKR479/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=ssb+shortwave+receiver&qid=1565973865&s=gateway&sr=8-3 $170

Cheap android https://www.amazon.com/Total-Wireless-Rebel-Prepaid-Smartphone/dp/B07GBRB3SB/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=prepaid%2Bandroid%2Bphone&qid=1565973981&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1 $40

APRS Droid, Repeaterbook Proximity Search - Free

260 bucks gets you the same functionality, granted in pieces. Is 200 bucks really worth DStar it being bundled into one piece. You would arguably get better AM/FM/SSB reception with this setup and could load a dozen books onto the android phone to use as reference on the go.

Photive Hydra Wireless Bluetooth Speaker. Waterproof Rugged Portable with built in Subwoofer and Long Battery https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K589F8A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_IxsjPLAeIZb9M

I got this thing recently. I had been eyeing speakers for awhile and caught this on sale. Ive had it for around 2 months now. I haven't done anything crazy with it but I've definitely dropped it dozens of times. And it is LOUD. I remember when the beats speakers first came out and being impressed, this thing sounds better.

It doesn't have a place to attach it to anything. So I rigged this up real quick based on a picture I saw in the reviews. It spends most of its time hanging in my garage. I've barely had to take it down to charge, pretty sure the battery life is around 8 hours?

For $30 bucks on sale I'm pretty happy.

This digital voice recorder is [slightly expensive at about fifty bucks] (http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Digital-Flash-Recorder-ICD-PX312/dp/B004M8SSZK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1HSZ4B20C9LPB&coliid=I1B7FKDV2UV3YA). I'm in the process of trying to write a series of novels, and this would be awesome to help keep track of notes. The main reason is that I'm a medium, and this would be awesome to record my readings, and ya know, to go ghost hunting.

So, I just realized you had a greater than sign, and not less, so here is this Canon DSLR, the [most expensive item on my wish list] (http://www.amazon.com/Canon-Processor-Digital-75-300mm-Telephoto/dp/B005Z3DWMK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1HSZ4B20C9LPB&coliid=I3D1ZPEE799ST0).

I think if you saw how I react when something really funny happens, you'd chuckle like mad. First I stare. Then, I can't breathe. Then, I developed a high pitched laugh that ends up in me snorting, and then squealing.

It's quite the experience.

Bose SoundLink Mini

I've had this for 9 months and it is easily the best electronic purchase I've ever made. This thing PUMPS and is super durable. I use it every day and love it. I take it to the beach, bike rides, when I workout (home gym) and it's loud enough to use for the living room.

4.8 stars on Amazon. 2,267 5 star rankings on Amazon. Dope ass beats wherever this thing is. This is WAY better than a Jambox, Beats Pill, etc. Nobody in my house uses any of the other bluetooth speakers any of us own.

I guarantee you'll love this speaker.

OKAY! So, I think this is pretty much everything that makes my setup what it is. If you see anything I’ve missed and are curious about, or want more details as to how everything came together, lemme know!

• Ergodox EZ Original Standalone, Black w/ MX Cherry Blues (No keycaps) - $235 (Doubt anyone needs that link, but y’know.)
  
  
• Ergodox PBT Cherry Profile Keycaps - $23.50
  
  
• 104-set PBT Cherry Profile Keycaps - $39.99
  
  
• Velocifire Blue Switch Wireless Numpad - $15.99 (Currently Unavailable Through Amazon)
  
  
• Logitech Trackman Marble - $23.99
  
  
• Sabrent 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub - $5.99
  (Didn’t trust USB 3.0 with my wireless accessories, and I love the individual button on control on this guy. Plus, you can’t beat that price!)
  
  
• ARKON Heavy-Duty Clamp Mounts - $26.95/ea
  
  Materials and Tools Used, Step By Step:
  
  Base pieces:
  3/4” pine (ply for base, solid for wrist rests)
  Table saw for cutting large pieces
  Jig saw for details and wrist rests
  
  Molding wrist rests/rounding edges:
  Belt sander (Turned upside down, ‘cause I’m not super strong lol)
  
  Wrist Rest Adhesion:
  Wood clamps
  Wood glue
  
  Attaching Hardware:
  Drill with 3/16 and 5/16” bits for cam lock screws
  1/4” Drill bit for threaded inserts
  1/4” Threaded Inserts
  5/8” Forstner bit for cam locks - $8.97
  1/4” Dowel Centers for lining everything up - $5.83/4-pack
  12mm Cam locks/screws
  
  Finishing product:
  Detail sander, 150-grit
  Hand Sanding, 220-grit
  3x Minwax Deep Mahogany Stain
  2x Minwax Fast Drying Gloss Polyurethane
  
  Logitech Trackman Marble Adaption:
  Blade for scoring trackball and cutting cover
  Hacksaw the tail off
  Sand down with 220-grit
  Cardboard (from inside of a binder cover) to create cover piece
  Oil Rubbed Bronze Metallic Spray paint to sorta match
  
  The other two things you’ll see in the pics are more specific to my transcription job, but in case there’s any interest:
  
  
• Senal SMH-1000 Headphones - $74.99
  
  
• Infinity IN-USB2 Footpedal (Purchased for $28 through eBay, $49 through Amazon)

Not sure what OP is using, but I tried a few different models while trainhopping, and I highly recommed Baofeng digital scanners. Excellent range, huge memory bank, kickass battery life, and can take a beating.

Even better, they are really affordable and theres a wide variety if you wanna get fancy.

The 30 dollar model (UV-5r) will work for most hobos, but the BF-FH8P for 60 dollars is a great, great scanner.

How nice :)

1. This beer glass, which is packaged beautifully + a trip to a local brewery.
   
   
2. He might appreciate finding a pocket knife or some toenail clippers in his stocking. Not something that someone would typically think to ask for, but definitely useful.
   
   
3. A wireless bluetooth speaker, which he can bring with him when he goes golfing.
   
   
4. This really beautiful copper flask + a tour of a nearby distillery.
   
   
5. A subscription to Vinyl Me, Please. Each month they'll send him a special-edition vinyl, complete with an album-inspired 12" x 12" art print and custom cocktail pairing recipe.
   

You'll want a dedicated waterproof mp3 player because the Bluetooth in your phone only has a range of about 10m. If you still want your phone poolside, just get one of these.

I don't know what your budget is, but I've used these and they're pretty great. Snug fit, doesn't come off from water resistance, and audio quality is good.

> Preferably uses AA batteries

You are one of us: r/AAMasterRace.

I asked a question about bluetooth devices for linking audio stuff together. The answers I got were mostly about AA battery speakers:

• No AA Bluetooth devices exist? : r/AAMasterRace
  
  The ones designed to work as guitar amplifiers would probably work for your friend. I'm not sure what you mean by this:
  
  > No Bluetooth, or Bluetooth can be completely turned off
  
  Doesn't most Bluetooth turn off when not in use?
  
  I have a Bose portable speaker that I got way before I standardized on AA batteries, but it does have a replaceable lithium battery, so it's not so bad. It supports external power too. It can do Bluetooth, but also takes a standard 3.5 mm audio cable. I assume when the audio cable is in use, Bluetooth would be off. You have to manually push a button on it to turn Bluetooth on, and you push another button to switch to cable. I think the fact it doesn't automatically switch is how you can be reasonable sure Bluetooth is completely off to conserve power.
  
  I bought the first model of it:
  
  
• AmazonSmile: Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker (Discontinued by Manufacturer): Home Audio & Theater
  
  There is a newer model I haven't tried:
  
  
• AmazonSmile: Bose SoundLink Mini Bluetooth Speaker II (Carbon): Home Audio & Theater
  
  My only complaint with mine is it's too aggressive about turning off to save power, even when it's on external power. That isn't a problem in most cases, and other than not supporting AA batteries (it can use AA batteries externally), it's perfect. It's probably the loudest one I could find, but I suspect some of the cheap AA battery guitar amplifiers could compete for loudness, but not audio quality.
  
  There are a lot of AA battery guitar amplifiers on the market, and I'm sure you can find one that doesn't have Bluetooth. Most of them are probably much cheaper than the Bose.
  
  Does your friend already have rechargeable AA batteries?

which of these three speakers would you recommend? I plan on getting a turntable and receiver to hook them up to, and they'd for now be used just in my bedroom and eventually possibly in a smaller apartment living room or such. this will be my first setup, so I want to make sure I get something that will give me good sound and last for awhile before I can upgrade down the road. the options that I've found to seem like the best are:

pioneer bs-22. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008NCD2LG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1395946696&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40

pioneer bs-41.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0045US6DE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1395946696&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40

klipsch kb-15.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AS3X740/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1395947740&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40

if you think there is a better option besides these three let me know, and id there is a better place to ask this question please direct me there!

At under $50, the BaoFeng UV-82 is practically disposable and for the money and it does a fine job. Are there better handhelds on the market? Yes but BaoFeng's quality continues to improve and for the money, they're excellent entry points. They're also insanely common at this point so getting assistance on setup and use is easy to find.

There are plenty of YouTube vids available to walk you through setup and use. Just understand that the FCC doesn't take kindly to your broadcasting without a license. Take some time to get your technician license before you broadcast -- until then, you're more than welcome to listen.

All you need to get that distance is a properly mounted 102 inch steel whip with a heavy duty spring, the mount should be drilled directly into the body of the vehicle and as close to the center as possible. The closer you get to the corners the more directional your range will become (I.e. back left corner of the vehicle will send the signal further off the direction the front right is pointed) this can be a good thing for vehicles falling behind the caravan. Get the antenna as high as possible the lower and closer to the body the less output you will have you want everything you can get for this range. Any other antenna won’t provide you the results your looking for; period, point, blank. That’s the first most important step. Get a clamp down if it’s too tall.

Next use proper coax RG213 it is lossless and 50ohms this is the perfect coax for CB radio; same stuff used by military. This is also important for this range. RG 58 will have loss and could be the difference in a mile or two.

You will also need an amplifier. Just a KL203P will provide you the power to reach 10 miles it will pump out 100 watts. They are very clean using a mosfit and don’t bleed over on other channels and cheap. Also, be sure to get an amp with a preamp this boost your receive to pull fading signals in it will help insure you get the 10 mile range.

If you have done the above steps you can now buy just about any CB you want they all put out 4 watts. However, you can get them peaked and tuned to match your amp for a little extra distance a local shop can do this or online shop like Bells. However, it’s not mandatory with the above amp and you’ll still get 10 miles.

If your installing yourself you’ll need an SWR/Watt meter to ensure proper working condition and you don’t burn up your equipment. Although, you can always have a local cb shop set it up for you and install.

Lastly, you’ll need to stay on off channels when operating so if you start hearing skip or DX turn to another channel that’s quieter. Stay off 6, 11, 19, 26, 28, and 38 these are frequently used and your transmission will be hampered by that. SSB will allow even further transmissions but be sure you amp has SSB capability KL203P does. Also, keep in mind that SSB requires each radio operator to tune in the one being received this is why it fell out of favor case driving and tuning is a pain in the ass. If each vehicle has a passenger this would not be an issue though.

This setup will get you 10 miles city, county, woods, mountains, and 20 on a flat plane. Anyone who says otherwise don’t know what they are talking about. Caravans are popular among over the road truckers who use this method. Also, keep in mind that rear vehicle only needs to reach the middle vehicle as they can relay the message to the front vehicle or vice versa.

I’d get the Uniden 980 SSB as they are matched for the KL203P stock out of the box. Many people run these without the peak and tune with awesome success.


https://www.wearecb.com/102-inch-cb-whip-antenna.html?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8_PfBRC3ARIsAOzJ2urlUI2xj35bZDuIbDSgTzuloWdl1YsfzPv9gfzua0izr2xQp4lJmnUaArQMEALw_wcB

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F112016328205


https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F173658227769

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004ULN610/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ISC.Bb398FYA4

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EUC.BbR4V1S61

Its a hair over $60 but this speaker is great for the money. If you can't budge at all on the price, I have a speaker very similar to this one and its got some great sound for the price. Both are very good speakers, so you really can't go wrong.

I'm curious if your points are out of personal experience, or from watching others recordings. I ask because your points are kind of odd.

1. I've only ever had a problem with loud dice when the sound conducts through the table surface into a mic. And you don't want to entirely eliminate the sound of dice. It's pretty iconic to the hobby.
   
   2 & 3) Do not show the dice. No one cares about seeing what numbers are on the dice. The results of the dice matter. Total non-concern
   
   4?) lapel is indeed great, but way too expensive to start out. Insulate any microphones from the table. Get microphones designed for, or that can be filtered to, only the range of human speech. You don't want musical instrument mics.
   
   5?) totally agree the best way to start out is a good used omnidirectional mic in the middle of the table. I cannot recommend the Sony ICD-PX312 (<$40 used), or similar series enough. Put a piece of foam underneath it.
   
   Embrace some people being louder than others. If you even the sound out entirely, it feels fake. The table should have a very dynamic range of loudness, just like a real table. That said, maybe don't put the mic in the center of the table, but put it closer to the quieter folk, and further away from the louder ones. You know who they are, they know who they are, it won't be a big deal.
   
   edit and I just realized I missed your last sentence. Recording a roleplaying game is indeed quite different than a band, but not necessarily harder. Just takes different equipment and settings.

I bought 3 of these a while ago for like $30, for general use. They work pretty well, but I'm usually pretty quiet and so I have some issues being heard. Gave one to my brother and he's never had a problem with volume.

The AntLion ModMic is also pretty cool. It's good, but I don't particularly like having another cable wrapping around in front of me. I usually attach the clip-on mic I linked above to the USB plug coming from my keyboard.

I went with the very affordable Baofeng option that was brought up in a thread a couple weeks ago. You can manually program it or program it from a computer using free software (/u/theman00 has been posting .csv files for all drivers/broadcast channels that you can upload directly, all at once). This radio IS a transceiver, but you can disable the transmission capabilities. 127 programmable channels that you can assign the driver or broadcaster names to. I used mine at the Indy 500 and it was great.

CHIRP is freeware that works really well for programming this and many other radios.

Amazon links below:

radio

headphone adapter

USB Cable

Note: Programming it with the USB can be finicky because Windows will continually try to update the driver to a newer version that isn't compatible with the chip. Its an easy fix, but you'll have to go into the device manager and roll back the driver to the older one. Instructions Here

Edit: added link to CHIRP software

If you care about audio quality and already have great headphones, an Android device isn't going to cut it for sound. Something like the Fiio X5 (or anything in that same line really) is better for good sounding music. But you're right...for portability and if you want something cheap, an Android device might work better.

I’ve had one of these for a good 4 years or so and it’s been working great. Obviously the quality isn’t going to be phenomenal but it’s better than the speakers in your phone and definitely better than the watch would be. I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a cheap way to get their music in the shower

I can personally vouch for this mic:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MYPPPE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've had it for almost three years and it has worked perfectly, but, this mic:

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ECMCS3-Omnidirectional-Stereo-Microphone/dp/B0058MJX4O/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1525679912&sr=8-13&keywords=lapel+microphone

is right around the same price and has really great reviews, if I were buying a new lapel mic I would probably try out the Sony. Or you could probably hunt around and find a decent mic for cheaper, neither of the two I listed seem to be on sale.

As for earbuds, I know for sure you will never find a better price to performance than these:
https://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-Drivers-Earbuds-Headphones-line/dp/B019Q88ZSA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525680245&sr=8-1&keywords=monoprice+dual+driver+earbuds

Great sound for very cheap.

Congrats on the new license! It sounds like you might be interested in APRS. Some links:

• Baofeng APRS cable — cheapest way to get started with APRS on your smartphone
  
• Mobilinkd TNC3
  
• Arduino APRS TNC on a breadboard
  
• MicroAPRS
  
• APRS on Raspberry Pi with Direwolf
  
  Building antennas is good fun too. I highly suggest making a tape measure Yagi for 2m. Have fun!

My Name is Ian, or CMF Metalworks, and I am a full time Knife maker. I do carry everything pictured every day.


Item 1: UE Boom 2
https://www.amazon.com/Phantom-Wireless-Bluetooth-Waterproof-Shockproof/dp/B014M8ZO8S/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1487348943&sr=1-2&keywords=ue+boom+2

Item 2:Sony a6000 camera
https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Mirrorless-Digital-Camera-16-50mm/dp/B00I8BICB2/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1487348994&sr=1-3&keywords=sony+a6000

Item 3:Blue Loctite 242

Item 4:Leatherman Sidekick- Easily my most useful tool. https://www.amazon.com/Leatherman-Sidekick-Multi-Tool-Black-Sheath/dp/B0058EJ2ZM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487349131&sr=8-3&keywords=leatherman+sidekick

Item 4:Spyderco Rubicon in S30v https://www.amazon.com/Spyderco-C187CFP-Rubicon-Folding-3-04-Inch/dp/B00KQ493TO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487349175&sr=8-1&keywords=spyderco+rubicon

Item 5: Spyderco Nirvana with a custom Mokuti clip i made. http://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Rassenti-Nirvana-Integral--30367

Item 6: Ares tool kit, its okay for the price, but it has some bits i use a lot so it makes the cut. https://www.amazon.com/61-Piece-Security-Extension-70010-Resistant/dp/B0192FI1Q8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1487349385&sr=8-1&keywords=61-Piece+Security+Bit+Set+with+Magnetic+Extension+Bit+Holder%7C+ARES+70010%7C+Includes+Tamper+Resistant+Metric+Hex+and+Star+Bits%7C+Slotted%2C+Pozi%2C+Philips%2C+Square%2C+Spanner%2C+Metric+Hex+and+Star+Bits

Item 7: WIha Driver set. Best you can buy. https://www.amazon.com/Wiha-36291-Screwdriver-Torx-Piece/dp/B002C582AQ/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1487349443&sr=8-9&keywords=wiha+torx

Item 8: 10 weight nano oil

item 9:Krazy glue

Item 10:GO PRO hero 4 silver

Item 11: Wiha 65 piece tool kit. Its like a container of magic. https://www.amazon.com/Wiha-75965-Precision-Ratchet-65-Piece/dp/B00JQ753W8/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1487349443&sr=8-14&keywords=wiha+torx

Item 12: Godspeedtactical Hanky Godspeedtactical.com

Item 13: Macbook pro Early 2016

Item 14:GDOK EX10 inlay version Midtech Balisong

Item 15: Maxpedition Backpack http://www.bladehq.com/item--Maxpedition-Falcon-III-Backpack--32877

These Sony speakers are rubbish. I'd recommend these Pioneer instead.

Turntable: it's not that bad, but I'd still not recommend it. Except for the SL-1200 (which this table tries to imitate), belt drive is much better than direct drive. Could you save a little more money and get a ProJect Debut or Rega RP1?

Amp: I don't know if the Pyle is good. I'd recommend vintage, but since you don't want to hear it, I wouldn't recommend anything under the Yamaha AS500 ($400, phono preamp integrated).

Edit: removed references to vintage... I think that these days, when it comes to new electronics, you get much less than you pay for under a certain price. That's why people here over and over tell you to go vintage.

The Sony ICF-S10MK2 pocket radio. It's a cheap $10 Sony radio, but I've been so impressed with it that several of my friends have purchased it. It's loud enough to listen while showering. The battery life has been amazing. Two AA batteries will last a few months of daily use.

This little radio was a lifesaver during Hurricane Sandy due to the incredible battery life. Here is the product on amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-S10MK2-Pocket-Radio-Silver/dp/B00020S7XK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380684513&sr=8-1&keywords=sony+radio

Sounds like an HT would be a good first addition.

• Baofeng UB-82 - Dual band HT, great for local communication, repeater access, etc etc. You can also monitor other public service frequencies/weather band. $37.50
  
• Handheld mic for the Baofeng - Nice if you keep it on your desk in a charger, or if the radio is clipped to a bag or something, you can still access the mic (it's also a speaker). $6.37
  
• USB Programming Cable - Easily program memory channels with your computer. $20.46
  
• Upgraded antenna for the HT - This one is pretty big, plenty on Amazon of various size which will vary in performance, but anything should be better than the stock antenna. $16.99
  
  Well that's $81.32. Remaining could be spent on an extra battery, a power cable for the car etc etc.

If you don't already have a foot pedal, get one. They make it possible to rewind / play / pause without ceasing to type.

What software are you using for playback? NCH ExpressScribe is free and designed for use with a foot pedal.

It takes about twice the length of the recording to accurately transcribe. Your speed and accuracy will go up over time. You can practice by transcribing YouTube videos / television. In fact, closed-captioning companies often hire people to do live transcription, which has a much broader margin of error.

Some clients want tags, others don't. Tags are only really useful in cases where there are multiple speakers or a question-and-answer format. Ask the client first.

Your comfort is important for endurance, so make your chair and desk as ergonomic as possible. There is a very real risk of developing tendonitis in the wrist due to consistent typing; use of a wrist pad is ideal. Take regular breaks for stretching.

My advice: Listen through once, typing everything you can understand as quickly as possible. Listen through at a higher speed a second time, correcting mistakes and adding tags. Listen through a third time at an even higher speed to ensure you've done the best you can.

I can definitely recommend the Sansa Clip Zip. Great sound quality, twice the battery life of any smartphone, cheap, and a max of 128+8GB with a 128GB microSD card. Put Rockbox on it and you'll love it. Don't get the Sport version, you can't rockbox it and the software is still a little buggy.

There's an Mp3 player out there with 2 microSD slots, supporting 2x128GB cards right now, and they promised support for 256GB and 512GB cards when they become available. It's an expensive device but it's an "audiophile" product with amazing sound quality.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/FiiO-X5-MP3-Player-DAC-Black/dp/B00I4Q9S32

Also, this exists:

http://www.amazon.com/Manufacture-Sdhc-micro-Reader-Extension-Cable/dp/B0085GGO92/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1407656580&sr=1-2&keywords=sd+to+microsd+adapter

Hard with your budget, I'd recommend a Zoom (I have the H4n and love it for similar purposes as what you're looking for)

I think for your budget, you'd be best buying a microphone that attaches to your iPhone (or even just using the iPhone mic, you'd be pleasantly surprised)

Something like this: http://www.amazon.com/Olympus-ME-52W-Noise-Canceling-Microphone/dp/B000MYPPPE/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1410120508&sr=1-1&keywords=iphone+microphone

or this: http://www.amazon.com/iM2-Channel-Portable-Digital-Recorder/dp/B006BLEZD0/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1410120508&sr=1-3&keywords=iphone+microphone

It's compressed digital music. It's never going to sound "good," but you can do "okay" quite easily. The simplest method would be to buy a powered, stereo speaker (even a good Bluetooth portable would work) and simply connect it directly with a cable. The second easiest would be to connect that same cable to a small amplifier (try a $25 T-amp) and a pair of bookshelf speakers.

I have my Dot wired to a powered Bluetooth speaker on my nighstand. It actually sounded better than my full-sized Echo, for less than half the price.

The one I have is really quite old - Sony ICD-P320

If I were to buy a new digital recorder then I would probably go with something like the Sony ICD-PX312

The built-in MIC is fine if you're just using it to record your ideas, but if you want better quality then you'll want a good MIC, but you can always save for that later. I use an Audix i5 with mine.

I have the UE Boom 2, great speaker with excellent sound and pretty good battery. I mostly use it in my garage and it's held up well.

Ultimate Ears Boom 2 Phantom Wireless Mobile Bluetooth Speaker (Waterproof and Shockproof) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014M8ZO8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_L15MBb8THXCEQ

A Sony Walkman MP3 player that is basically only earbuds.

This is the newer version. I bought a pair but sent them back b/c Sony changed the connecting strap and the newer set wouldn't stay in my ears.

I bought a pair of the older ones on eBay and they're still kicking. Got two years of 4-5/week use out of the first pair; I'm about a year into the second.

MP3 interface works with Windows Media Player & is basically drag-and-drop. I put the music on shuffle so I don't build playlists but I think that can be done.

I hate having anything in my hands or pockets when I'm working out, so these are perfect. I use them to run as well.

Perfection for me would be an updated version of the MotoACTV watch - something with GPS, heart rate monitoring, and about 2GB of storage + bluetooth so I can strap it on my wrist, put in some BT headphones, and go.

> but I still can't find the motivation for proper exercise like going to the swimmingpool.

Have you thought about buying a water proof mp3 player? I use this one: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Walkman-NWZW273S-Waterproof-Swimming/dp/B00I05EFO4/ref=sr_1_4?s=mp3&ie=UTF8&qid=1453907199&sr=1-4&keywords=waterproof+mp3

Also try getting other people into going swimming. If you are with people it's much easier to find the motiviation to do sports.

Also playing Alternative Reality games like Ingress, Recources or the mother of all those games: GeoCaching helps a lot to get out and move your body.

The Sansa Clip devices are pretty popular.
The storage is accessed in the same way as a USB drive. With Rockbox it can play pretty much any format, log plays to a scrobble file. It's cheap, sturdy and reliable with good battery life.

Here are helpful links direct to the products I own.

About antennas: The antenna is important... as important (or more so) than the radio. My antenna choice (dipole) may not be the best choice for your needs. So, the ANTENNA link below goes to an AMAZON search for CB antennas for apartments, balcony, patio, etc. which may be a better fit to your needs.

Hope these are helpful! Big Bux, Bucks County PA 19047

UNIDEN 980SSB Radio & Mic https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BEARCAT-Sideband-WeatherBand-980SSB/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=sr_1_3

MegaWatt S-400-12 36 Amp Power Supply https://www.amazon.com/MegaWatt%C2%AE-S-400-12x-Adjustable-Supply-MegaWatt/dp/B00LIBRKQM

Driver's Product DPSWR2 External SWR Meter; https://www.amazon.com/Drivers-Product-Antennas-SO-239-Output/dp/B06VW7N5Q5/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1

Midland 21-406 External Speaker https://www.amazon.com/Midland-21-406-Amateur-Extension-Speaker/dp/B000246VPM/ref=sr_1_2

CB Antenna for Apartment, Patio, Balcony, or Indoors https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Delectronics&field-keywords=cb+antenna+apartment&rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3Acb+antenna+apartment

Bad move for them but it could be beneficial for consumers like myself who don't want to deal with Itunes and other compatibility issues. The Ipod classic has been the go-to music palyer for high capacity storage. Hopefully things like the Fiio x3 and x5 or Sandisk Sansa clip+ see their opening and take advantage.

If I understand it correctly, in Canada GMRS does not require a license. You cannot use the F8HP because it is not type-accepted for
GMRS, but Baofeng does make a GMRS type-accepted radio that I believe is legal for use in Canada: the GMRS-V1. You'll need to double check Canadian regulations on GMRS, but that is probably the safer legal option. It's 2W to be compliant with limits on GMRS outputs, but that will still get you pretty good range.

Edit: fines for business caught doing illegal stuff are usually harsher, so I'd make sure you double and triple check Canadian law to make sure you are in the clear for anything you decide on, not just rely on what people tell you.

Get this and thank me later. I have owned about (not exaggerating) 20 different bluetooth speakers including bose, jbl, beats, sony, and Logitech. Hands down the best speaker for the money in my opinion is the UE Boom, or UE Megaboom if you can afford it. It's indestructible (we literally played football with the speaker in a pool and with drops and all it was fine), completely waterproof, has an incredible battery life, and can easily be paired with a second UE boom for stereo if you so desire. There really is not a better designed bluetooth speaker around at the moment and it sounds pretty damn good.

For greatest quality, start with a stereo setup powered by a 5.1+ receiver, and just add a center channel and 2 rear channels.

Your best bet would probably be to find a fairly recent name-brand surround receiver used, such as on Craigslist. Yamaha, Denon, Onkyo... all decent. They'll do.

Then look for the best front channel speakers you can find. First, try to find a used pair, even a vintage set, for $100-$150 max. Look up "good vintage speaker brands" and do some research, then hit craigslist. Look for anything from ADS or KEF or Acoustic Research.

If you don't want to go used or vintage, there are a lot of great bookshelf speakers priced at about $200/pair that will beat the socks off of any speakers in your OP. Check out Paradigm Atoms, PSB Alpha B1's, Monitor Audio BR-2's, and believe it or not these new Pioneer SP-BS41's. With speakers such as this a subwoofer should not be very necessary.

After that, just pick up pretty much any small rear channel speakers, and a center channel that seems to match the fronts acoustically (or even the same brand).

If you're not into doing that much work or possibly overstepping your budget, get the Yamaha set (best reviews, and I really like the amps/interface of Yamaha HTR's) and try to upgrade the 2 front channel speakers ASAP with one of the recommendations above. You know, if you're not happy with it out of box :) All up to you of course, but that would be your first upgrade.

Yeah, a lot of people use something like this one, since it's got a USB connector, decent battery life, and is in the $50-ish range.

Also, it's quite small, which is important. Because of confidentiality restrictions, you often need to be able to store a recorder at work, so it should be able to easily fit inside a folder in a filing cabinet. Of course, being able to upload the recordings to a computer via USB and delete them from the recorder itself is also a good solution.

We swear by our UE BOOM blue tooth speaker. It's portable and the sound quality is amazing. This tiny thing gets loud! It's also water resistant so can withstand some splashing from our grown up cannon balls. My parents also use one when golfing. They have had theirs for a few years and it has really held up. Also the battery life is amazing. I am buying us a second one because we saw a call blue one with a wave pattern that is much cooler than our blue one. The range is great to. We'll leave our phone by our kitchen window and the speaker will still work outside about 50-60 feet away. We got ours on Amazon.

UE BOOM 2 Phantom Wireless Mobile Bluetooth Speaker (Waterproof and Shockproof) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014M8ZO8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vJyxzbS7HBX9K

I'd take the money you'd spend on an 8w HT and go with a 4 or 5w HT and a better antenna.
It'll get much better results.
Something like a roll up slim jim J pole is a great antenna for portable and even base use.
A simple Baofeng like this one is decent.
Jus know that more than half of Baofengs don't meet FCC spurious emissions regulations compliance. Buy at your own risk.

Gonna go a different route and suggest the Walkman earbuds. I have the older, larger version and they are seriously awesome. Weather resist (now actually waterproof), no wires dangling, light weight. Downside is it's shuffle play only, but I've had mine for years and absolutely love them. So much easier than dangling wires, armbands, whatever.

well not sure if its considered the "Best" however it should fulfill your needs. The SanDisk Sansa Clip+ holds a internal storage of up to 8gb plus has a SDHC slot which can add up to 32gb of more storage plus supports MP3, WMA, secure WMA, Ogg Vorbis, FLAC, plus audio books and podcasts. and for a little less than $50 it seems like it could fit the bill for you.

> Is this the best build I can go for?

Depends on what you define as "best". What's your exact budget, use case, do you want to overclock, and do you care about aesthetics, do you care about size? What I've got up there is certainly a solid build, but I can probably optimize it a bit better according to your needs.


> But doesn't modmic's cable get in the way? What do you own yourself?

I don't own a modmic proper, but I've got a little clip on mic on a 3.5mm extension cable plus a set of AT m50x's (these, but the headphone cable can disconnect from the cans). The cable from the mic doesn't get in the way any more than the cable to the cans do. Mic clips right onto the headphone cable.

> What about SD's etc etc? is there anything I've missed?

There's an SSD in the above build. Not much else besides peripherals.

Get one of those portable radios and listen to the game while enjoying some beer at beer fest. Beer Festivals are a lot of fun, I've gone to the Winter Beer Fest in Michigan and have a ton of fun.

The Bose SoundLink Mini is a bit over your price range butI have one and I love it, definitely worth the extra $50 if you can manage it.

If you want something cheaper there's the less expensive color version which I've never owned but I've heard them and they sound really great too.

If you have about 200$ the Bose mini soundlink is pretty nice. Bluetooth and wired inputs. It's rechargeable and sounds pretty great if you aren't super picky.

Reviewers on Amazon seem to like it. I like Canon equipment and the image stabilization in their Vixia line of camcorders is sweet. I don't think this would be a bad starter camera at all.

Take the $200 you save by not getting a T3i and buy an audio recorder, and lav mics.lower budget recorder

I see that there is a firmware project for the SX50 which features RAW mode, scripting for time lapse, cool stuff. It's being actively developed. CHDK - Canon Hack Development Kit

I just got a high end Bluetooth speaker called the Demerbox DB2. It's basically a super rigged indestructible Bluetooth speaker in the form of a real Pelican box. You can use it with Bluetooth or via an aux cable. The Demerbox support suggested that if I wanted to use a radio with it, I should get this small portable Sony radio. The Sony ICF-P26.

I don't know anything about radios. The one issue I think I might have is that I work inside a very large building. I think I might have trouble getting a radio signal inside there.

So I'm wondering if I need some kind of more powerful radio that can pick up radio signals better? Ideally, it would still be small enough to fit inside the Demerbox itself.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012F0DGYE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hello. I am looking to purchase a bluetooth speaker for my father for xmas. He is interested in the Bose Soundlink Mini because one of the guys at his work uses it, and he likes how loud it can get, and the quality of the sound. He wants to use one to listen to music when hes out on the pontoon boat in the summer. I'm sure he would use it when hes doing work in the garage or something as well.

I am willing to spend upto the $200 pricetag of that bose speaker, but.. Its bose, and I generally hear bad about Bose from folks who know sound. So I figure I might be able to get something with better sound quality, and higher volume for the same price.

It will be used only for playing music from his or my moms cell phone.
I would also prefer to buy new as this is a xmas gift.

I've only had it about a year, but Photive HYDRA. Works great for for a few days between charges (leaving it on for a few days.) Sounds great even outside. I take it to the beach with me all summer.

Welcome, fellow codeless extra!

Me and two of my friends did zero to extra in the same session. Can only imagine what the VEs thought.

youtube channels, david casler's is a good one to cover the basics of what you've already been tested on. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaBtYooQdmNzq63eID8RaLQ

Read the Gordon West books, they're a pretty light and simple introduction to the various concepts. Find an elmer to help guide you. And don't be afraid to make mistakes.

low cost beginner radio, the UV-5R V2+ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HX03AMA/ and /r/Baofeng to ask questions about your potato.

You can get a pretty nice one for $200. You can get a decent one in the $40 range that will suite your needs. I've had the Oontz angle and it's plenty loud and works fine. But you could spring for the JBL Flip which is really quite nice.

By UE Boom 2, do you mean the UE MEGABOOM? If you paid $270 for the Boom 2, then you got ripped pretty hard.

I use the MEGABOOM at work in a warehouse, and that baby pumps out sound for it's size. It blows the BOOM/BOOM 2 clear out of the water. Easily the best effortlessly portable bluetooth speaker I've owned, and I've went through 4 different brands at work. It has the best sound quality:volume ratio of all four. It doesn't distort at max volume, and lasts a solid 3 hours at max volume in 35 degrees Fahrenheit (I work in a giant refrigerator. The cold nukes battery life.). I can still make out the music it's playing over the Tailgator that coworkers have.

If you can spare the space, go with the Tailgater. It lasts me all day at work (8 to 10 hours) at 75% volume and it will only lose 1 bar of battery out of 4, and it's surprisingly cheap for what it is. It will distort if you max out both your bluetooth device and the speaker itself, though. However, if you're looking for something portable with some low end, this will satisfy your needs. Oh, and it comes with a microphone. Never used it, but just pointing it out.

I havent browsed it much myself, but there is a sub (/r/gmrs) for GMRS stuff. The GMRS certified one is called the GMRS V-1 and is like 55 bucks on amazon with prime shipping. I just recently started getting into the GMRS stuff myself for camping/hunting stuff as I like the range and ease of getting a license vs ham radio. GMRS is just apply and pay the fee vs having to test for ham.

Well people with £1,000, $1,000 or €1,000 headphones aren't usually using their phone for their audio source at all. Most people who spend that much on headphones get dedicated mp3 players with high quality DAC's such as this.

Unless their filthy rich, anyone spending $1000 on headphones has probably already invested in a high quality DAC and Mp3 player that can play lossless file types. I can't imagine anyone drops $1000 on headphones just to use their phone as their source.

I've tried a few different types:

1. Megafeis
   
2. Sony
   
   I no longer recommend the Sony because they have a "proprietary charger" instead of just using a damn micro-usb charger which of course would make too much sense. I've gone through two of the Sony's with the charger breaking but I'm pretty happy with the Megafeis currently.

This is also much easier and cheaper to do than most people realize.

• Amateur Radio License. Fee is about $5-$15, depending on club administering the test, I got mine after about 5 hours of studying. There's a ton of free online resources, or fairly cheap online tools.
  
• Transmitter. Big Red Bee is $60
  
• Transceiver. Baofang sells one on Amazon for $28
  
• Build a yagi antenna for around $20
  
  All in, you're looking at well under $150 for something that will work really well, last a long time, and will give you a license into another potential hobby.

Fiio X1. Actually made for sound quality as opposed to many players I have seen. They have a whole line of DAP's (Digital Audio Payers) ranging from the entry X1 to the more audiophile grade X5. Great reviews, hands down the best company to go with, imho. Solid aluminum with a warranty and 2 micro sd cards.

X1 $105
X5 $350 ish

Yeah, I might ask if a friend has an old iPhone or iPod i can hide whenever. Also I posted this on the megathread in /r/gadgets, but I was hoping you would know.

Would it be possible to connect this into something like this and plug it into my iPod to record sound? Or is the jack on the Olympus mic not compatible to the TRRS adapter?

There are bluetooth waterproof speakers! I love mine and listen to comedy and music while I'm getting ready - it seriously changed my whole routine and all for 15 bucks on amazon!

EDIT: the aforementioned speakers

I would say 1.25m or 70cm. If one or both of you can put an antenna up in the air a bit (just TV antenna height, nothing fancy) you should be able to talk to each other easily.

For maximum communications you could go for directional antennas pointed at each other.

VHF, UHF, and above only requires a Technician level license (lowest tier) in the US, which is very easy to study for and get. Hamstudy.org is bloody great for getting you to memorize all the answers and pass the test.

----

as for the economic side of things, a Baofeng UV-5R V2+ should be more than good enough, and you can pick one up for $34 off Amazon. The UV-5R does 2m and 70cm,

Radio
Antenna

Have fun.

You can look for a good 1/4 wave for the car if you want some entertainment on your next road trip.

I have one of the JBL splashproof ones. Best seller on Amazon and about $75

It is not as nice as some of the other ones(I have a sonos too) but it works great for listening to music on the deck or by the pool.

I have [this one](JBL Flip 3 Splashproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0145EOFDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7wlJzbG3HK57Y and it bumps. Only complaint I have is the on/off noises are a little loud, but it's a small price to pay for this much high quality sound. Very well balanced. Also you can get two, pair them and have surround sound and more volume. Really great for the uses you describe. Will fill the room or outdoor space fully.

I would suggest the JBL Flip 3 - $80 on Amazon right now. Decently powerful, portable, and warm. I've been happy with it.

I have many, many hours on this. It's great to not have to fuck around with a cord, especially while wearing a pack. I think it's 2.5 oz. Comfortable. For some reason it's been super tough. I keep expecting it to break, but it's been years now and it just keeps going, including the battery. Use for hiking, gym, biking, everything. No annoying software, just drag and drop mp3s.

EDIT: Lost for two days. Just now found outside in the snow next to my truck. Survived deep snow and subzero temperatures for two nights. Dried off and started up. Works great. :)

BTW, you can use the nearly worldwide APRS network to track position and other data wirelessly, for free. You will need an Amateur Radio license to use it, though, a VHF radio like this, and some sort of modem to encode and/or decode the data like this, or an Arduino set up to do so. Also, being Amateur Radio, you are limited to non-commercial use and everything is in the clear.

What radio are you using? I have this one and the reception is amazing I can pull stations from Upper PA/NJ here in VA with this lil thing. The batteries last forever too in this thing. It's the best cheapest gadget I've ever bought.

No problem. There appears to be a slightly newer, "improved" version here for $34. Or you can get the same version I have, here for $26.

Either way, basically the same radio, may as well just go with the cheaper of the two. Both are the same unit internally; but if things like a multi color backlight for the screen are important, the $34 dollar one is better.

With either, you'll also need a headphone adapter plug, 2.5mm to 3.5mm, here for around $5.

My favorite is the Sandisk Sansa clip. It's super tiny, you can add up to a 32gb Micro SD card, and it plays virtually every file type including FLAC.

It's so tiny and the clip is handy to attach to your clothes.

http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Sansa-Clip-Player-Blue/dp/B002MAPSC6

Best bet on a GMRS portable right now is this, imho. Otherwise, "Walmart bubble-pack" radios work well too.

But ya GOTTA BUY THE LICENSE.

BTECH GMRS-V1 GMRS Two-Way Radio, GMRS Repeater Capable, with Dual Band Scanning Receiver (136-174.99mhz (VHF) 400-520.99mhz (UHF)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LWOLZ8L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_H7TpDb2GF0WRX

Not OP, but probably these things. I'd never heard of them either, but they look pretty interesting.

He's probably talking about this: http://www.amazon.com/X5-Resolution-Lossless-Music-Player/dp/B00I4Q9S32

There's also this one: http://www.amazon.com/Fiio-X3-Mastering-Quality-Wolfson/dp/B00E9O6C96

I don't think it comes with any onboard memory, but it can hold up to two 128GB SD cards, supports all kind of file formats, and has a much, much better DAC and amp than the iPod. The downside is almost definitely going to be its UI, which has been historically abysmal in the DAP market.

ha ha! Listen to every podcast...the more people listen to internet radio, the better for all of us.

By the way, I bought a shower speaker so I can listen to O&J in the morning while I clean my nuts and glans.

I think it was this one: http://www.amazon.com/SoundBot®-SB510-Resistant-Bluetooth-Speakerphone/dp/B00IGUUYTI/ref=sr_1_2?s=mp3&ie=UTF8&qid=1411346379&sr=1-2&keywords=bluetooth+shower+speaker

anyway, without listening to this whole thing, is there a link, or can you summarize what he said?

Depending on her preferences of form factor I'd recommend the Fiio X1, Fiio X3 iBasso dx50, and Sony Walkman High-Res.

They are all comparable in audio quality and it all comes down to form factor and buttons really. The Fiio X3 can work as a standalone DAC for your PC as well. The iBasso dx50 has a touchscreen, and replaceable Galaxy S3 battery while the others all just use buttons. The battery life of the iBasso and Fiio are all around 10-15 hours while the Sony claims 30-50 hours depending on Hi-Res audio or MP3s. The Sony comes with 64GB of built in storage while the X3 has 8GB and the X1 and DX50 have no built in memory but all have micro SD slots you could expand storage easily using these. Also the Sony has Bluetooth for connecting to speakers if your sister needs that.

The UIs:

Fiio X1, Fiio X3, and upgraded ui, iBasso DX50, Sony.

Let me guess, you’re replacing one due to a broken charging port?

You’re better off ordering a new one. Even if you find one at an electronics store, Amazon has better prices. If you must look, Office Depot and Best Buy have had JBL speakers in the past.

JBL Flip 3 Splashproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0145EOFDO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_GyVXAbZ5R2RS5

I got a Sansa Clip+, it's $35 on amazon or woot has them for ~$18 every once in a while. 4GB, but you can put a microSD card in it to make it 36GB player for ~$70.

Not as pretty, but way better value!

http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-Sansa-Clip-Player-Blue/dp/B002MAPSC6

that Sony ICF-S10MK2 is pretty much the best radio i've ever owned.

You should check out the FiiO X5. Amazing sound quality (audiophile DAP), and fantastic storage (up to 256gb).

In all honesty all factors considered, the Photive Hydra is the best bluetooth speaker...
http://www.amazon.com/Photive-Resistant-Shockproof-Waterproof-Technology/dp/B00K589F8A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413019013&sr=8-1&keywords=photive+hydra

I mentioned what I would recommend, i was just vague with 2 of them.

it's more expensive, but it actually works, and can be used for other things.
(i have an all-in-one unit like you listed, its better with a lithium battery, but useless for anything but a low powered radio).

https://www.amazon.com/SOKOO-Portable-Efficiency-Reinforced-Waterproof/dp/B01HJKJVG2/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1505954608&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=solar+charger+usb&psc=1

this charges anything usb....

its better to charge a battery so you're not tethered to it.
any powerbank will work; https://www.amazon.com/Bonai-Portable-External-Flashlight-Smartphones/dp/B06Y58CXFZ/ref=sr_1_9?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505954885&sr=1-9&keywords=usb+battery

This is the only one I specifically recommend, the rest "any" will do.
https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Solutions-T480-Rechargeable-Preparedness/dp/B00W75BLTU/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505954944&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=moto+480+talkabout

this is a bit pricey.. buts its a 2 way radio, plus FM, weatherband, flashlight, water-resistant. lacks AM though.

but these are very nice, and can use rechargable batteries,, which could be charged with a USB AA battery charger. https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505955010&sr=1-3&keywords=sony+am%2Ffm+radio

if you want to argue price... actually charge your phone with that Eton product, and then if you still want to depend upon it, ill concede.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00020S7XK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1410610220&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40 have one of these in every bob. Great radios and pretty solidly built.

I always advocate heavily for the FiiO X5 over the iPod Classic. It has a very similar interface, it's cheaper (now), and it supports lossless audio formats (FLAC etc). Produces much better sound and is in general a better buy.

So OP said no Bluetooth speakers, however I believe this specific item qualifies.

I bought a Bluetooth wireless water resistant speaker for the shower, it's Chinese made and there are many different ones available on Amazon or AliExpress, all are virtually the same product.

Here it is:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IGUUYTI/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1415055755&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

I got mine for around $10, and since bought 5 more which turned for gifts which everyone loves! Music in the shower is something I'm not sure how I lived without, and answering the occasional call is hilarious.

I own so many gadgets, this and this has been my favorite in the last couple of months.

You're both kind of right, but if you think interviews will be part of your research toolkit in the long-run, go ahead and pick up a device. Also, a practical matters: Are you always going to be recording in controllable, quiet environments? If not, you'll need a dedicated device that can record more clearly and may even have background noise filtering. Also, battery life: Don't risk the battery dying on your phone during an interview -- that's unprofessional! Also, don't underestimate how much better the quality needs to be when you're transcribing for research purposes.

tl;dr: Unless you're absolutely strapped for cash get something like this higher-end device or this budget device.

Uniden Bearcat 980 SSB "The little engine that could" inexpensive, and one of the best CB Radio's that I own. https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BEARCAT-Sideband-WeatherBand-980SSB/dp/B007B5ZAES

https://youtu.be/Esatm-X88B8

Get on 38 LSB and talk skip when solar conditions are good.

http://www.bellscb.com/products/antennas/wilson/Wilson_Little_Wil.htm *Lil' Wil 38 Inches.

I've got this radio last season listening to games while I'm working. http://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-S10MK2-Pocket-Radio-Silver/dp/B00020S7XK

It's slightly bigger that most pockets but a great radio.

I use the Sony Walkman Wireless MP3. It's a great product, never fallen out, super comfortable. Also noise-cancelling and water-proof, so it's immune to those who sweat lots or even for a post-workout shower.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Walkman-NWZW273S-Waterproof-Swimming/dp/B00I05EFO4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1417379555&sr=8-3&keywords=sony+walkman

http://www.amazon.com/Bose-SoundLink-Mini-Bluetooth-Speaker/dp/B00D5Q75RC

Only 5 star reviewed speaker on Amazon, and it's the #1 Best Seller? I mean, you can hate Bose all you want but the Mini is an amazing speaker.

Edit: Obligatory /r/hailcorporate

A buddy of mine has has one of these
Uniden BEARCAT CB Radio With Sideband And WeatherBand (980SSB) http://www.amazon.com/dp/B007B5ZAES/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_awdm_zibHwb1Z7SC1T and is quite happy with it (I keep suggesting he study for his tech)

SSB is usually more active than AM, at least in my experience.

I bought this one for camping / outdoors, I think it sounds decently better than my alarm clock...
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K589F8A/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I haven't put it through any paces looking for specific albums and comparing it to my regular home stereo, but for the size, the power and quality seem great in a regular sized room.

save up, buy this, be happy

Why don't you get one of these for $19. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01LMIBAZW/

It also prevents the ptt button from being pressed constantly from the grounds for the mic/speaker grounds being bridged.

I've used it with good success for aprs from my phone and transmitting other digital modes from my computer.

I use this one everywhere. Its small so you can't like.... blast it in a huge camp or anything but if you are just talking about a smaller camp of like 20 people. this will get the job done. At any rate you should for sure read the reviews of this one.

Whenever I am at the park, I bring This with me. My gf also has one, its cheap and very good. Only problem with the AtBat app is how delayed the plays are. With the radio I can hear KNBR on every play. Its great.

I like stuff by Photive from Amazon. It's pretty cheap and does everything I want it to do. https://www.amazon.com/Photive-Waterproof-Wireless-Bluetooth-Shockproof/dp/B00K589F8A/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1475076277&sr=8-4&keywords=photive

I recently purchased a btech cable that I can directly connect to an android using aprsdroid into a spare baofeng I have. It works but not as full featured as my D74. It sure is cost efficient, though. And I have two baofengs that are just sitting here. I was able to put one into service again.

BTECH APRS-K1 Cable (Audio Interface Cable) for BaoFeng, BTECH BF-F8HP, UV-82HP, UV-5X3 (APRSpro, APRSDroid, Compatible - Android, iOS) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LMIBAZW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qJ-KBbH87CRHS

my setup is pretty easy:

• I have a Y-Jack that connects to my headset & plugs into the comms port. One wire goes to the headset, the other gets plugged into my audio recorder.
  
  
• I have a 1/4 to 1/8 inch cable that allows the headset to be plugged into my audio recorder.
  
  
• Finally, the audio recorder itself.
  
  I then match the audio to the video in post-production.
  
  

Get a pair of bookshelf speakers and a powered subwoofer.

Pioneer SP-BS41-LR
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS41-LR-Watt-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B0045US6DE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344833156&sr=8-1&keywords=pioneer+sp-bs41

Pioneer SW-8
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SW-8-Watt-Subwoofer-System/dp/B004MF2ZG6/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_c

And you may need speaker stands. I have a pair of these:
http://www.amazon.com/Sanus-Systems-Natural-Foundations-Black/dp/B00005USAY/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1344833222&sr=8-13&keywords=sanus+speaker+stands

Should be more than enough to get you started, assuming you have a receiver already. I have just the bookshelf speakers, and while I find the bass perfect for rock, I'd recommend the powered subwoofer for house.

Yes. Here in Korea I use a Sony PX312 to capture native speaker dialogue out and about. Sound quality's amazing and it was very cheap.

I tried with the At Bat app, but the significant lag was maddening. I went to PC Richards and picked up a portable Sony AM/FM tuner for $20, specifically to bring to solo Citi Field outings.

Edit: This one

It's also available at Amazon for 2 dollars cheaper, but I'd rather try to give some of my money to a local company. Plus, I was buying it the day of a game, and wanted it right then and there, rather than waiting for it to ship.

You can find other options as well, if you just search for portable radio, but I figured the Sony would have a better chance of holding up and performing, over the long term, than some no-name version that I saved $5 on

As /u/dewdue said, Canada uses the same VHF frequencies for weather radio as their NOAA counterpart in the US.

Most better CB radios will have a weather band feature...

http://www.amazon.com/Uniden-BEARCAT-Sideband-WeatherBand-980SSB/dp/B007B5ZAES

http://www.amazon.com/Cobra-29-LX-40-Channel-Selectable/dp/B004RO3RBE

As for how active CB is in Canada, I have no idea. This being /r/amateurradio, we'll probably all going to tell you to get your license and buy a nice dual band ham radio for your car.

If you're looking for a great bluetooth speaker, check this one out. Shock Proof, Water Resistant, the perfect shower speaker for $50.

If you're looking to upgrade on the cheap, I'd recommend either of the Pioneer bookshelf speakers designed by Andrew Jones (the 80 watt version; the 130 watt version) or the floorstanding version of that line. I have the floorstanding version, and I must say that the sound is fantastic for around $200.

That app looks pretty good, would it be compatible with the Baofeng cable: https://www.amazon.com/APRS-K2-Connector-BaoFeng-APRSDroid-Compatible/dp/B01LMIBAZW

Not ham, just a regular FM radio like this. You can pocket-sized portable ones for use with headphones or larger ones for at home. Then the broadcast is free!

I have a buddy who rides with this in a coozy in his bottle cage: good battery life, if you're riding with him you can hear it well enough to jam along:

JBL splashproof speaker something something

Another buddy uses one of these, no report on battery life, good sound for rider only.

small handlebar thingy

I got this one for Christmas and LOVE it. Total (shower) game changer.

I have The UV-82 and I love it. It's currently <$30 on amazon right now

I'm stuck between buying theBose soundlink mini. And the Sony SRSX5 HELP PLEASE.

Check out Sony Walkman waterproof mp3 play works awesome for me no need to bring along phone plus it has external mics that can incorporate outside sounds into your ear buds should be just what your looking for. Just have to tie a short line as a leash to them so you don't loose them on a big Wipeout. https://www.amazon.com/Sony-Walkman-NWZW273S-Waterproof-Swimming/dp/B00I05EFO4

Something like this is probably what you are looking for: https://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Digital-Control-Computer-USB2/dp/B002MY6I7G/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1542695761&sr=8-3&keywords=infinity+usb+foot+pedal


A bit pricey though. I just split by hand.

It is a little overpriced in Romania. It is actually 200$

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E9O6C96/ref=s9_simh_gw_p23_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1QHN8BHNWVAJ8JSX3W2V&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1630083502&pf_rd_i=507846

E17 is good also and kind of on the same level as x3 on sound quality. X3 is nice if you need a portable player too.

Is there a waterproof version of the button? This would be awesome in the shower...

Edit: would this work with this?
https://www.amazon.com/SoundBot-Bluetooth-Resistant-Handsfree-Speakerphone/dp/B00IGUUYTI/ref=sr_1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1504807323&sr=1-4&keywords=waterproof+bluetooth+button

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LMIBAZW

VOX to 1 on the radio.

Make sure phone volumes are all set to zip, make sure APRSdroid is set to use AFSK, VOX delay to 800ms-1s (some trial and error required), and it's using Call for the media source. Hit Start Tracking, then adjust handset volume (it should show as "In Call" on the volume screen).

A few phones sometimes won't work properly like this, and have to be set to use Ringtone mode, but the Galaxy S6 was happy as a clam in this configuration.

I'm confused, but I want to help. First, if it isn't already known, optical connections can support DD 5.1. Second, Ditch the speakers and get something, anything else (except a soundbar). For the money, it's very hard to fault the Pioneer BS41 (designed by the famous Andrew Jones, who normally designs $20,000 speakers but was tasked to bring penthouse sound to basement pricing):

http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-SP-BS41-LR-Watt-2-Way-Speakers/dp/B0045US6DE

Try used on eBay for an exceptional deal and piece together a nice surround setup for cheap.

Yep, I do this. Get a transcription pedal so it's durable and will hold up. Buy used/second hand on the cheap if you're not weird about something that someone else's foot once touched.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002MY6I7G

Your phone might have an FM tuner. If not check this one out. Looks like it belongs to museum, but works good according to the reviews.

Instead of getting an audio adapter for GoPro (which doesn't let you record cockpit sound), I recommend buying a digital voice recorder with LINE IN (I have this one) and a simple 1/8in to 1/4in audio adapter cable. You plug the recorder into the headset jack and let it record your intercom, while your camera records the ambient noise. You can mix the two and tune audio levels in post-production. It costs about the same as the GoPro cable you linked to but gives you better results.

(I basically stole the idea from here.

as long as it records digitally, that's what you need. Something like this maybe?
http://www.amazon.com/Sony-Digital-Flash-Recorder-ICD-PX312/dp/B004M8SSZK/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1370384214&sr=8-11&keywords=digital+stereo+microphone
On the more expensive side of things, there are stereo mics like this one here, which are dreamy:
http://www.amazon.com/Zoom-ZH4N-Portable-Digital-Recorder/dp/B001QWBM62/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1370384214&sr=8-5&keywords=digital+stereo+microphone

I personally use these headphones

with this microphone

Not only did people say my sound quality increased over my 80$ gaming headphones but my headphone sound quality skyrocketed as well. Maybe no directly comparable but it was still a jarringly nice switch.

This one is $11: https://smile.amazon.com/SoundBot-Bluetooth-Resistant-Handsfree-Speakerphone/dp/B00IGUUYTI/

But I recommend going with something a little nicer, I have this one which was $27: https://smile.amazon.com/Omaker-M4-Portable-Bluetooth-Playtime/dp/B00RBIC1IS/

I like the battery life on it. If I'm just using it for my shower I only need to charge it like once a month or less.

Also if I forget to turn it off after the shower on accident, the battery survives 24+ hours on standby till the next days shower.

Can't go wrong with this. Are you in the UK? Here is a nearly identical Sony model on Amazon UK. They are cheap, hopefully not too bulky.

I got one of these Anker speakers for someone recently and it bumps! Plus it has a 24 hour battery!

I'll be replacing my current Photive speaker very soon probably...doesn't have as much low end as the Anker and the battery only lasts about 7 to 8 hours max. It is waterproof though and sounds great in the shower!

I bought one of these puppies when I can't stream or it's blacked out. Works like a charm, 12 bucks.

http://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-S10MK2-Pocket-Radio-Silver/dp/B00020S7XK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396643975&sr=8-1&keywords=radio

UE Boom 2 seems to be the best in that range.

Maybe just pick up a cheap radio? Do they still sell those?

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491591981&sr=1-7

But I think the audio-only MLB at-bat is pretty cheap. $20?

I highly recommend the clip. It's only $30 on amazon. It probably won't be compatable with your car radios controls for skipping tracks and such, but it will definitely work with just an "aux" jack, a male-male 3.5mm cord will do the trick for under $5.

Check this badboy out, great reviews

This guy is what I use. It is cheap, works off of a file system so I can make different folders for playlists, and has physical buttons which are so much easier when running. I don't have to look at the screen. Also, it accepts a micro SD card which is nice.

Logitech makes something called UE BOOM or UE MEGABOOM.

the regular boom sounds awesome and can be found for 199 or less.

http://www.amazon.com/UE-BOOM-Wireless-Bluetooth-Speaker/dp/B014M8ZO8S/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1450175585&sr=1-2&keywords=ue+boom

Yeah. Baofeng made it easy now. https://www.amazon.com/APRS-K2-Connector-BaoFeng-APRSDroid-Compatible/dp/B01LMIBAZW/

They make for pedals for pc for transcription and the like. I bet you could find one and repurpose it for your needs.

Something like this usb foot pedal Amazon

I have one of these and I like it because I can record lectures and go back and review them if I need to. It even has separate "folders" to organize several subjects until you can get to them/ download them. If you do use something like this, it's helpful to add little timestamps in your notes that correspond to the time in the digital recorder every once in a while so you can fast forward to what you need without having to re-listen to the whole lecture all over again

I bought these ones. Remember that they do require a license to broadcast, but it's well worth the time.

My son got this one and is very happy with it: https://www.amazon.com/Phantom-Wireless-Bluetooth-Waterproof-Shockproof/dp/B014M8ZO8S/ref=dp_ob_title_ce

In my experience 15 mile line of sight (LOS) communications in remote (low interference) locations is easy and consistent with a cheap chinese 8w radio with stock rubber ducky antenna on both VHF and UHF bands. LOS is the key.

If your trips have you staying in the same area for several days, you could easily setup a repeater (probably crossband) at a basecamp or nearby peak and greatly extend your range.

​

Of course licensing is a big question with all these things. With HAM bands every user must be licensed. If that's going to be a barrier, GMRS license has no test and licenses families. The radio options for GMRS are more limited that HAM, but there are many options like Midland and this Baofeng.

Some audio products are timeless, and if you build modular (avoid all in one) you can keep them current to whatever connection technology is in vogue by swapping a transmitter.

A cheap example: Bookshelf speakers , cheap amplifier, bluetooth receiver.

Aside from the speakers, I haven't done too much research on the components. I'm trying to illustrate the example. By buying modular, you're able to upgrade, keep up with new technologies, etc. All this without throwing away an entire all-in-one system and having far superior quality in the process.

Most likely not - many of the Motorola Talkabout walkie talkie are not capable of operating on repeaters. A repeater works by transmitting on one frequency (usually also transmitting a sub-audible analog or digital tone), and receiving on a different frequency (also using a sub-audible analog or digital tone, and often different than the transmit tone). This is known as "duplex" mode (or really, half-duplex because you cannot listen and talk at the same time like a telephone). With the exception of one or two models, I believe the Motorola Talkabout radios are for simplex use only. This radio is an example of a radio that is capable of operating on GMRS repeaters, using split tones (different transmit and receive tones), including the AZ GMRS Repeater Club's White Tanks repeater.

This is one I saw. Its $350, and takes two SD cards. 128 GB Sd cards are about $100, so all told its about $550. I think its possible to find 128 GB SD cards at $70 so it could be as low $490. A bit out of my price range.

EDIT: plays FLAC. yay!

This is the one I was thinking of. Fits in your bottle cage, and the sound is very impressive. Of course this costs much more than a free apple earbud, but it does carry more utility.

> Disappointing to hear that I won't be able to join the hobby for a while, since it won't be worthwhile.

That's not quite what u/xradionut said. Look into your local clubs. An inexpensive Baofeng will work very well to get you into the hobby if you can hit a local repeater and chat with people (like on a weekly net meeting with a local club). Look into your local clubs and ask them, do some research on the location of the repeaters in your area, and if you do get a Baofeng, at least get a better antenna (like the one listed on Amazon under frequently bought together).

Forgot I had this, but now this is my only stream.

Edit: For anyone interested in this contingency plan, it's only 11 bucks on Amazon.

I ordered up this funky piece for forward movement and strafing:
http://www.amazon.com/INFINITY-FOOT-PEDAL-INSUB2-IN-USB2/dp/B002MY6I7G/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1333584503&sr=1-1

I'll still have Nostromo D-pad, but hopefully not nearly as much thumb cramping

I would skip the pairing with a blue tooth and buy a standalone AM/FM radio instead. Radios like this come to mind, depending on sound you need/ price.

[Radio 1] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FK0AEG0/ref=sxbs_sxwds-rbp3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2898770402&pd_rd_wg=JY2Jq&pf_rd_r=DDAS85NN2EA5HEXTQTNW&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-bottom-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B00FK0AEG0&pd_rd_w=1QDtl&pf_rd_i=sony+am+fm+radio&pd_rd_r=ZMRGZZP3NDZRRKF9CBM0&ie=UTF8&qid=1491362907&sr=3)
[Radio 2] (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-F10-Portable-Battery-Transistor/dp/B0081IKTN6/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-6&keywords=am+fm)
[Radio 3] (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-4&keywords=am+fm)
[Radio 3] (https://www.amazon.com/RadioShack-AM-FM-Pocket-Radio/dp/B005MUXNPM/ref=sr_1_21?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-21&keywords=am+fm)

I would go that route rather than having to haul a radio, a transmitter and Bluetooth speaker. Just my thoughts Though.

On the go, to work, or to the gym I wear these, one charge normally lasts me like 2 and half days of regular use.

I have the same family of speaker you pictured but the second generation in black. Got it for like a blue bill on a christmas sale. I take that to friends houses just in case they got some extra weak set up shit.

I game and "designated dj" with these turtle beach x01s

On my new PC i have these old logitech speakers and subwoofer combo that still boom, got them a few years back for like $20ish

On my main TV i just have the stock built in speaker.

I've been doing transcription for a number of years. You definitely need a footpedal to make any decent money. This is the standard foot pedal used. https://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Digital-Control-Computer-USB2/dp/B002MY6I7G/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=infinity+foot+pedal&qid=1572022737&sr=8-3

However, before making any foot pedal investment, if you haven't been trained or had any practice in transcription before, I'd suggest you listen to some transcription audio files (which you can get on the Internet, I'm sure) and practice typing what you hear.

I just picked these up and they are absolutely fantastic. I would recommend them to anyone looking for a mid-range set up, not cheap by any means but they wont break the bank either

You definitely need a bluetooth speaker for your shower!!

http://www.amazon.com/X5-Resolution-Lossless-Music-Player/dp/B00I4Q9S32

Buy the X5 plus two SD cards and enjoy. Or buy an X3 and one SD card.

My friend is recommending either of these players with the FiiO Q1 isntead:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I4Q9S32/ref=olp_product_details?ie=UTF8&me=

or

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017I5NONY/ref=s9_dcbhz_bw_g422_i2_sh

Save the TNC money. https://www.amazon.com/APRS-K2-Connector-BaoFeng-APRSDroid-Compatible/dp/B01LMIBAZW

It's a "waterproof" bluetooth speaker that has a suction cup on it...strangely enough it has a microphone and call button but idk who you'd call in the shower lol

Instead of a cheap headset, buy [a nice mic instead](
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Olympus-145055-OLYMPUS-REDUCT-Microphone-ME-52W/dp/B000MYPPPE/ref=sr_1_1?s=computers&ie=UTF8&qid=1422133813&sr=1-1&keywords=me52w)!