Best products from r/cbradio
We found 70 comments on r/cbradio discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 112 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. K40 Antenna, Base Load, 35 in.
Auto & Truck MaintenanceCountry of manufacture: United StatesManufacturer: K40
2. Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna
- SOLARCON A-99 17.5' Omni-Directional Fiberglass Base Station CB Antenna.
- Handles 200 Watts PEP
- For 10M-12M Amateur Use too.
- Requires Optional Mounting mast & Optional coaxial cable.
- Tuneable for lowest SWR reading.
Features:
3. Uniden BEARCAT 980 40- Channel SSB CB Radio with Sideband NOAA WeatherBand,7- Color Digital Display PA/CB Switch and Noise Cancelling Mic, Wireless Mic Compatible
- STAY CONNECTED: The BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio allows you to stay connected while out on the road and is great for people with a long drive ahead of them
- LARGE EASY-TO-READ DISPLAY & CHANNEL: Illuminated control panel with 7 color personalized display options for easy use in all lighting conditions. Also features easy-to-read laser etched keys
- 40 CHANNEL: Full spectrum CB operation & instantly switches to emergency channel 9. Features NOAA weather channels with the push of a button
- NEW NOISE CANCELLING MICROPHONE: Noise Canceling Mic reduces background noise for crystal clear communication
- WIRELESS MICROPHONE COMPATABILE: The integrated SWR gives perfect antenna matching. Working with the Uniden BC906W CB Wireless Microphone the Bearcat 980 has become more adaptable
Features:
4. 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. - Black
- COMPACT & AFFORDABLE; The PRO505XL is ideal for CB users seeking an affordable CB Radio with Public Address, Instant Channel 9 Emergency Button, Channel Up/Down Buttons, and S/RF Meter.
- DURABLE & EASY TO USE; The PRO505XL Compact CB Radio uses advanced microelectronics to pack plenty of power and features into a modern, compact design; Offers full 40-channel operation with dynamic squelch control for crisp, clear sound.
- BACKLIT LCD DISPLAY; With an orange backlit LCD display, this Bearcat CB radio is optimized for day or night viewing, view the current channel, the volume, and other features on the display.
- SQUELCH CONTROL; Dynamic squelch control for optimal sound, turn the squelch knob to adjust the level at which the radio suppresses weak radio signals, this provides you with high-quality sound.
- 40 CHANNEL OPERATION; Enjoy the complete range of 40 CB radio channels to communicate with those around you; The backlit display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX; CB Radio, Microphone and Hook, Mounting Hardware, Knobs, Mounting Bracket, User's Manual; CB Radio antenna required, not included, sold separately.
Features:
5. Uniden PRO401HH Professional Series 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio, 4 Watts Power with Hi/Low Power Switch, Auto noise cancellation, Belt Clip And Strap Included, 2.75in. x 4.33in. x 8.66in.
The Uniden PRO401HH delivers the convenience of a handheld CB radio with the security of knowing you have the longest range possible so you can always stay in touch.Features a low-power setting to conserve battery life and a high-power setting so you can extend your range When needed.Designed for us...
6. Roadpro 12V Fused Replacement Cigarette Lighter Plug with Leads (RPPS-225),Black
- Manufactured with heavy duty 16- gauge copper wire leads
- Includes built-In fused cigarette lighter plug
- Features green LED indicator and finger grip
- Dual spring contacts for maximum conductivity
- Easy installation
- This item was specifically made for CB Radio’s and other low amperage items
- This item includes a 2 amp fuse
Features:
7. WILSON 305-38 300-Watt Little Wil Magnet Mount Antenna
- 300 Watts Power Handling Capability (ICAS)
- Large 10 oz magnet
- Heavy-Duty Coil Uses 14-Gauge Copper Wire
- 36" 17-7 PH Stainless Steel Whip Base Load Antenna
- Made with High Impact Thermoplastic. Low Loss Coil Design
Features:
8. Astatic PDC1 100 Watt SWR Meter
- 3 function analog meter
- Indicates the condition of a 50 ohm antenna and coax used for CB operation
- Tests for SWR or relative power
- 10 watt and 100 watt switches
- Forward and reverse switches
- Made to use with CB Radio's
Features:
9. Astatic (302-PDC2) SWR/RF/Field Strength Test Meter
- 3 functions: tests for SWR, RF power and field strength
- Designed to test any 50 ohm antenna and antenna coax used for CB operation
- Mounting bracket and hardware included
- Manufacturer: ASTATIC
Features:
10. Procomm 3 feet Coaxial Cable Jumper with PL259 Connectors
* Genuine Procomm Brand Cable in Procomm Branded Package!* 3Ft With Pl-259 Connectors Installed!* Black RG-58 Cable, 50 Ohm.* Great For Amateur Radio, CB and Two Way Antenna interconnections.
11. Cb Radio K30 35 Inch Magnet Mount Antenna
300 Watts AM Power Handling Capability15' Pre-Wired RG-58AU Shielded Coax Cable Stranded to Prevent BreakageCable Includes PL259 Connector35 Inch, 17-7 Stainless Steel Whip AntennaHeavy Duty 4" 10oz. Magnet
12. Trunk Lip CB Antenna Mount 3/8-24 NO Holes & 17FT RG58 Coax Cable Assembly
- TRUNK LID ANTENNA MOUNT
- EASY INSTALL - NO DRILLING HOLES IN VEHICLE
- UNIVERSAL FOR ALL CB ANTENNA'S
- AFFORDABLE AND EASY TO DIY
Features:
13. Uniden PRO520XL Pro Series 40-Channel CB Radio. Compact Design. ANL Switch and PA/CB Switch. 7 Watts of Audio Output and Instant Emergency Channel 9. - Black
- Uniden’s Professional Series PRO520XL Heavy-Duty CB radio offers a full 4 watts transmit power, with RF gain control, and 40-Channel operation in a compact rugged construction CB radio.
- The PRO520XL has a front mount 4-pin electret microphone with extra-long coiled cord, S/RF LED meter, instant emergency channel 9, transmit indicator lights, Automatic Noise Limiter switch, Public Address switch, Volume control, Squelch control, and more.
- Extremely popular for Industrial, Commercial, and Off-Road use. Easily fits in most any vehicle because of its compact size.
- Built-in External Speaker Jack allows connecting to an optional external speaker, and you can use the Public Address function to be heard outside your vehicle with an optional PA speaker.
- A superheterodyne circuit with phase locked loop technology assures precise frequency control. Included in the box: CB Radio, Microphone and Hook, Mounting Hardware, Knobs, Mounting Bracket, User's Manual. CB Radio antenna required, not included, sold separately.
- 40-channel mobile CB radio with superheterodyne circuit/phase locked loop for precise control
- Built-in automatic noise limiter and auto-squelch to eliminate noise and improve communication
- Signal/RF meter and LED indicators to monitor activity; instant channel 9 access for emergency situations
- Connect external speakers and use PA/CB switch for use as a Public Address system
- Front-positioned microphone with extra-long, coiled cord for convenient use
Features:
14. JEFA Tech RG-213/U MILSPEC - 60 Feet Long - UHF Male - PL-259 - for Ham and CB
- JEFA Tech Premium RG-213/U MILSPEC MIL-C-17D
- PVC Jacket - provides full waterproofing and UV Protection
- Ideal for HAM and CB Radio Use
- Lightweight, Flexible, Low Loss
- Connectors Feature Gold Center Pin and Teflon Dielectric
Features:
15. MFJ-347 HAMSTICK/DIPOLE Mount KIT (for Any 2 HAMSTICKS AS A Base)
Hamstick/Dipole Mount KitBuild Your own Mini Dipole using 2 HamsticksMounts on Mast up to 1-1/4" ODDouble T Pipe Mount3/8 x 24 Thread
16. Uniden CMX760 Bearcat Off Road Series Compact Mobile CB Radio, 40-Channel Operation, Ultra-Compact for Easy Mounting, Large 7-Color Backlit LCD Display on Mic with Built-in Speaker Mic, Black
The CMX760 is an Ultra-Compact CB Radio w/ Mic Display and controls. Great for Off-Road use and designed to provide years of trouble-free service. Ultra-Compact for Easy Mounting Just 4 x 4 x 1 Inches.Use in Jeeps, trucks, cars or anywhere space is limited or a small CB is desired. If using in a noi...
17. Cobra HH 38 WX ST 4-Watt 40-Channel CB Radio
- SoundTracker System - Cuts noise up to 90% for clearer communications
- NOAA Weather and Emergency Radio - Be prepared for storms and emergencies with built-in NOAA radio receiver
- Channel Scan - Scan all 40 CB channels
- Dual Watch - Monitors two pre-selected channels simultaneously
- 4 Watts Power Output - Maximum power allowed for extended range of communications
- 40 CB channels
- 10 weather channels
- Sound tracker system cuts noise up to 90 percent
- Range of up to 4 miles
- High/low power switch reduces power consumption
Features:
18. Rugged Ridge 13551.09 Black CB Radio Dash Mount
BlackUses factory hardwareNo drillingMounts a compact CBLimited 5 Year Warranty
19. TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit
Covers all CB frequenciesIncludes 3.5" magnet mount, shock spring, stainless steel whip & 17ft RG58 cable with PL-259Great for all your needs2 Feet TallCovers All Cb FrequenciesIncludes 3.5" Magnet Mount, Shock Spring, Stainless Steel Whip & 17- Feet Rg58 Cable Pl-259
20. SPARKING 1FT Heavy Duty Car Cigarette Lighter Extension Cord - Replacement Male Plug Adapter to Battery Eyelet Ring Terminal Harness Assembly 12V-24V 16AWG Extension Cable with 15A Fuse
- Auto male cigarette lighter plug to O ring terminal style extension cable; Design for working with a low wattage power converter in your truck AS a replacement for power inverter's cord.
- Cable: SPT-2 16AWG/2C; Length: 1FT(12”); Max Current: 15A; Suitable for Voltage: dc 12v to 24v; Built-in Fuse: 15A, for safety.
- Male Cigarette Lighter Plug With led indicator: The indicator light which lets you know that power is coming through.
- Cigarette Lighter Eyelet Terminal Power Supply Cord apply to almost all models of cigarette lighter socket, use for the 12v DC application with ring terminal connector, LIKE power inverter, air compressor, CB radio, tire pump, 12v motor and other 12v applications. Widely used in car, ATV, sprayer, boat, RV, truck, UTV.
- 30days return and exchange freely, If for any reasons you are not satisfied with our product or service, please contact us first, we will REPLY YOU WITHIN 24 HOURS.
Features:
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!
I will try to address all of your questions:
For help on tuning there are many good videos on youtube. Additionally if you need to order things take a look at Right Channel Radios. They have all of this (antennas, meters, radios, mounts, etc.) and they have nice instructions on how to tune your antenna.
Let me know if you have any other questions. Always happy to hear people are getting into CB. Would love to see it grow again.
Sure thing. This sub doesn't seem to be overly active so if you have any more questions or run into trouble, you might want to ask them over in /r/amateurradio. It's really the only place on the internet where hams hang out that don't seem to mind answering CB radio questions.
I'm not sure what your budget is but you may want to look at this meter instead. The one you linked is just fine but this one also shows power output and not just reflected power like the one you linked. If you really want to get into it, you could also purchase a dummy load for accurately testing power. There are several out there for CB use. I think Workman also makes one along with a company called Opek that also makes CB-related gear. Since your average, off-the-shelf 100% legal radio puts out 4 watts on AM and 12 watts on SSB, you'd need one that can handle that amount of power. Ideally, you'd want one that will handle more than you can put into it, so something like a 25-50w+ load would work just fine. That being said, I've used one of these before with a CB radio and it worked well. I just wouldn't throw a bunch of power into it for a long time, which isn't something you'd likely be doing anyways unless you crank the power up in the radio (don't do that) or purchase an amplifier (ditto). You don't necessarily need a dummy load but it might be nice to have just for testing purposes in case you're not 100% sure that radio actually works.
Also, don't forget to purchase a short (3-6ft) jumper to hook the meter to the radio. There are several on Amazon and some folks may sell a package deal made up of a meter and a jumper. Here's an example, although the shipping for it as more than the item itself. Either way, you'll need to get one that has PL-259 connectors on each end.
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
I have the K30 on top of my Camry now.
It's a 35" antenna: Shorter than the Firestiks, K40, and the same-ish length as the "Lil Wil."
Even that is pushing the height, as I have to stop and take my antenna off before going into many parking garages now (I just unscrew the antenna from the mount and stash it inside the car). If you don't want to have to do that, figure out what your maximum height is going to be for the places you're likely to go, and then stay under that when choosing an antenna. You won't get as good performance as if you had a full-length antenna... but you'll probably get good enough and you've already decided you're not mounting an 8.5 foot antenna so it's moot.
You could have a slightly longer antenna if you mounted it to your trunk, than to your roof. Different people will tell you differently about whether that's going to help at all and I'm not a radio engineer so I can't help you there. With that in mind, most of the antennae suggested so far would probably work for your form factor (amazon links chosen at random, for illustrative purposes only):
With my 35" antenna around 7 feet in the air, powered by my 4-watt car radio, the longest I've skipped a clear conversation is ~1,348 miles (and I receive from all of the US, southern Canada, and Hawaii). I don't have a decent measure of the line-of-sight range yet as there seem to be precious few locals around where I live.
I note that it looks like the Firestiks are often sold separately from their mounts, whereas the Lil' Wil and K30/40 come with everything you need (antenna, mount, coax).
The Uniden 520 is a great choice for a basic radio. I've been using one for years with excellent results. It's really hard to beat for the size/money.
Consider the K30 magnet mount antenna for an alternative in that size.
I've used both it and the Little Wil and found the K30 to perform noticeably better. It's also less expensive:
http://www.amazon.com/K40-K-30-Stainless-Magnet-Antenna/dp/B000H2W270/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417900765&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=K30
The other commenter that suggested getting an SWR meter is also correct. These antennas all require some degree of adjustment for optimal performance. Just a basic meter will work fine.
http://www.amazon.com/Astatic-PDC1-100-Watt-Meter/dp/B004ULN610/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417900872&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=SWR+meter
And the jumper:
http://www.amazon.com/Procomm-Coaxial-Cable-Jumper-Connectors/dp/B003DRJ738/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_y
The meter and jumper is something you'll very rarely need (just when moving the setup to a different vehicle, for the most part) so if you husband has a friend into CB or HAM operation, he may be able to borrow one for a few minutes rather than buying.
Finally, you'll need some way to power the radio. The easiest way is with a lighter plug:
http://www.amazon.com/Roadpro-Fused-Replacement-Cigarette-Lighter/dp/B0016LG0CY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1417901045&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=lighter+plug
Just cut the connectors off the ends of the wires and splice it with the ones on the radio.
Alternatively, you can connect to the fuse box with an Add-A-Circuit. These come in different sizes depending on the fuses in your car. You can get one of these for less than $10 at any auto parts store.
I think a trunk lip would be best.
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https://www.amazon.com/TRUNK-ANTENNA-MOUNT-HOLES-ASSEMBLY/dp/B01BPHYU5C/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=cb+trunk+lip+mount&qid=1556553531&s=gateway&sr=8-2
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Get a steel whip of some sort to make it look more vintage appropriate as well. in my opinion.
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BTW cool car and best of luck with the project!
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&amp;field-keywords=cb+antenna+apartment&amp;rh=n%3A172282%2Ck%3Acb+antenna+apartment
The first one is a nice unit--probably overkill if you want something cheap. As for the second one, I'd spend a few more bucks and look at this one instead: https://www.amazon.ca/Uniden-PRO520XL-40-Channel-CB-Radio/dp/B00004VXNI/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1551057210&sr=8-9&keywords=cb+radio especially if you are going mobile with it. That ANL filter makes a huge difference on the road.
I don't know about nowadays, but uniden used to make really good radios. I have one that's over 30 years old and still works great!
Cobra makes a decent handheld cb, but I wouldn't expect the same performance as a vehicle mounted or base station cb. I would recommend replacing the "rubber duck" antenna with a telescoping one. I have a cobra HH 38 WX ST on a good day I get between 2 and 3 miles. Not a bad idea for hiking if you know someone in that area is monitoring ch9 or you have friends out there with CB's
A hood channel mount like this firestik or this procomm with an antenna like this Tram or this firestik should work well and not look terribly out of place on a small car. A small mag mount like a K30 or lil will would be another good, non-permanent option.
Honestly just Ebay and amazon. Here is some really good quality coax (RG-213) : https://www.amazon.com/JEFA-Tech-RG-213-MILSPEC-PL-259/dp/B00GWKL0R4/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=rg213%2Bcoaxial%2Bcable&qid=1571013598&sr=8-8&th=1
And finally an swr meter: https://www.ebay.com/itm/WORKMAN-SWR-2T-CB-RADIO-ANTENNA-SWR-METER-3-FOOT-JUMPER-COAX/192914212024?hash=item2cea9544b8:g:dGQAAOSwBOlagJoY
Don't be shy about getting a used swr meter, I purchased a used one through ebay for $15 and works great.
If you are mostly listening, you should be fine. Most cigarette outlets are rated for 8 amps at 13.8v. My Cobra 19 DX III only uses 1.2 amp on transmit so it is safe for me do what you are suggesting. Some vans and trucks have "power outlets" that are rated for 18-20 amps that would be perfect even for a long talker.
The power post you are suggesting scares me since leaves things so exposed. I ended up using the following that you can buy in almost any store with basic automotive electrical parts.
Terminals and Spades and a Replacement Cigarette Adapter. The Cigarette adapter in stores is usually rated for 3 amps. For CB's that should be plenty, but if the fuse pops after some long TX you may need to figure out running a Positive wire to the battery and the black to bolt to the car frame.
If you're looking for an affordable setup, I have a [Uniden 505] (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ZLB0E4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1) and a [Little Wil] (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000I5NQA8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&amp;psc=1). The magnetic mount is quick and easy if you don't mind scratching your paint a little. I've gotten about 10 miles range on a good clear night with a good tune. You guys can get one [meter] (https://smile.amazon.com/METER-Radio-Antennas-Jumper-cable/dp/B002KRME3C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1493344815&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=cb+radio+tuner) amongst yourselves to tune the antennas.
Thanks for the tips. I'm kicking myself because I just donated a box of old wall transformers that I would've saved had I known. I know I have a couple of 12v/5amp wall transformers from old HDDs that I might try for home use. I was thinking about this adapter for car use.
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I was also wondering if you knew what sort of antenna I should look for. The radio came with a small one, however the wiring on the antenna doesn't connect to the radio correctly. The radio has a screw type mount I'm not familiar with, but was hoping it might be a cb standard and easy to find a replacement for.
Recommendations will depend on your budget. The little unidens that have already been recommended are good. For an antenna, this here is sort of the king of base station cb antennas. We're talking 50 miles instead of 5.
Solarcon A-99 CB Base Station Antenna https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0017J7NQ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_e-qXCb5Q4M2MB
Just check Amazon for base station cb antennas, to find one in budget and if you're not wanting it on your car. They'll be easier to mess with than adapting a mobile, IMO.
First rule of CB, ANTENNAS!! You can have a 1000$ radio hooked to a bad antenna and never hear anyone, and kill your fancy radio. Hook a 30$ uniden to a good, properly set up antenna and you'll hear for miles.
Learn what SWR is before you ever use your radio to transmit. Listen all you want without transmitting, but you'll need to tune your antenna before transmitting. Keeping asking questions and googling. Good luck!
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 was looking into this one I found on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Astatic-302-PDC2-Field-Strength-Meter/dp/B000KEUFME/ref=sr_1_4?crid=WL7U0B4DUP5R&keywords=cb+swr+meter&qid=1556484543&s=gateway&sprefix=cb+swr+%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-4
Is this a good meter, or is there a better one you would recommend?
There is one CB (and only one) that's headless, the Uniden CMX760. Just installed one in my '14 Focus Glove Box. It was the only one I could find that didn't get in the way. I don't like the Cobra version because it's not technically headless as the remote box just shoots everything to the Mic, including RF. The Uniden model the Mic is literally a remote control - and looks way nicer too...
There really needs to be more options in the CB market for small/compact/headless units; with these newer cars, most (all?) of the existing gear just doesn't fit or looks super out of place...
https://www.amazon.com/Uniden-CMX760-40-Channel-Operation-Ultra-Compact/dp/B06XJG6NYB/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=uniden+cmx760&qid=1563278789&s=gateway&sr=8-1
before you spend $300, remember you can mount them for free or for a minimal amount.
Personally, I just used heavy duty velcro and have had 0 problems. If that isn't permanent or just isn't for you there are things like this or even something like this. Check amazon out before you drop 300
I have had good luck with this Tram 703-HC. Absolutely no issue with stability of mag mount and antenna itself is sturdy.
Warmer. Im looking for platforms kinda like this one:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004IA5BQQ/ref=s9_psimh_gw_p263_d0_i3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&amp;pf_rd_s=desktop-1&amp;pf_rd_r=03JXDWF2M1Q4S93FA0XQ&amp;pf_rd_t=36701&amp;pf_rd_p=1970559082&amp;pf_rd_i=desktop
TRAM 703-HC Center Load CB Antenna Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002IP3WV4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.IaKDbCBM2M2P
MIC / Microphone for 4 pin Cobra / Uniden CB Radio - Workman DM507-4 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004T4180O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_PKaKDb08KJJ5B
TruckSpec TSPSCBH-3CP Platinum Series 3-Pin Plug and 12-Volt Plug Fused Replacement CB Power Cord (3 Wire) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0169LNN7K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_sNaKDb6DG1TZB
This will get ya started. You can upgrade later if you enjoy it.
So I can purchase a portable radio like this and have it it mounted in my glovebox or elsewhere, and wire it to a magnetics antenna on the back of my car? Will I have to do any electrical work or tweaking of the cars electronics/radio?
Not necessarily at night, just whenever you're done driving for the day and getting ready to sleep.
If you want something small, look at the Midland 75-822 and a Wilson Little Wil antenna. That Midland CB comes with a car adapter that basically makes the whole unit a CB mic with all the controls on it.
Edit: and you'll need separate co-ax cable to connect the CB and the antenna.
So would something like this work? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004TKVD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WH7RBbMK4PBGF
Same exact one that /u/ImALittleCrackpot posted!
But when I purchased mine, I didn't need to buy a separate co-ax like they mentioned. My Little Wil antenna has one permanently attached to it. About 18' long.
Here it is
the only other thing I see that you should consider getting is a swr meter
http://www.amazon.com/Astatic-PDC1-100-Watt-Meter/dp/B004ULN610/
when your dealing with low watts system like a CB matching your antenna to the CB can make a major difference on your transmit and receive, as much as a few miles.
https://www.amazon.ca/Uniden-BEARCAT-Bearcat-Display-Backlighting/dp/B006TA2F1M/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8
What do you think of that?
https://www.amazon.ca/Uniden-40-Channel-CB-Radio-PRO505XL/dp/B005ZLB0E4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=cb+radio&amp;qid=1551053985&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-2
cobra 75 with a little will antenna.
https://www.amazon.com/Cobra-75WXST-40-Channel-CB-Radio/dp/B00005N5WW/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1473807855&amp;sr=8-1-fkmr2&amp;keywords=cobra+76+cb
https://www.amazon.com/WILSON-305-38-300-Watt-Little-Antenna/dp/B001AAT94W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1473807954&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=lil+will+cb+antenna