Product Review

Transceiver Transmit: 137-174 , 222-230 , 420-469 The Yaesu VX-6R is a triple band (2M, 220 & 440 MHz) HT with extensive receive coverage, and leading-edge features. It is submersible (JIS7: 30 minutes of submersion at depth of 3 feet) and extremely rugged. The VX-6R provides wide receiver coverage at 504 kHz ~ 998.99 MHz (cellular blocked), and puts out 5 Watts of power on the 144 and 430 MHz bands (1.5 W on 222 MHz). The standard memory has 900 channels with 6-digit alpha numeric tag, and 24 memory banks for channel allocation. Supplied with an incredibly compact FNB-80LI 1500 mAh Lithium-Ion battery pack, the VX-6R includes a number of new and innovative features, including the new "Emergency Automatic ID" (EAI) system, which automatically causes the VX-6R to transmit your call sign and engage your rig's microphone, even if you are disabled and unable to press the PTT switch; Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS), that allows you to page a particular station and only receive calls from that station, if desired. A new "Wake-Up" battery saver system extends battery life even more than the previous battery saver circuits. A new security password feature allows you to turn on and operate your transceiver only after you enter your password. There is a direct memory recall (DMR) feature (one-touch memory access system, like on a car stereo), and they have even included a CW trainer for those working on increasing their code speed! And of course CTCSS and DCS are built in. The VX-6R packs all these features and performance into a compact package measuring just 2.3 x 3.5 x 1.1 inches WHD and weighs only 9.45 oz (with battery and antenna). The Volume and Squelch knobs are oversized, for easy operation even when wearing gloves. There is even an optional submersible speaker mic.