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This is a good starter DMR H/T. Once programmed, it is easy to operate and change locations or talk groups. I was lucky as other operators in our club were already using this radio, so a 'code plug' was already available for our area. The code plug is a programmed file that is transferred to the radio from a computer. This file includes all of the necessary frequency, tone, talk group and other information required for operation. The software to create this file is usually shipped with the radio and if not, readily available on-line
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
The concept and design of the radio are great. Programming is a little more in depth than the analog (chirp friendly) radios. I live in North texas and we are limited on frequencies (talkgroups) due to repeater admin restricting access. Audio is clear, but your always guessing if your in range of a repeater. Signal indicator is useless. If your out of range, the radio beeps. There are hardly any upgrades available (antennas, spare batteries, mics, cases, ect...) unless you order direct from overseas from Retevis/tytera and pay more than what the radio cost just in shipping.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
I think the MD 380 is a great value if you look what Motorola cost or some other brands that do DMR. I am still learning it as I do not know how to program a repeater for it as there are non around here. I am using a DV4mini to create a hotspot and works great. I hear there are lots of kinds of open spots that it will work with. So far I am having a lot of fun and can talk great distances without a general or greater ham license.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
When they ask if it's easy to use, my initial answer was NO! But it's not the radio's fault, it's because DMR is confusing to those new to the mode. The radio itself has a good menu system that is easy to understand (if you've programmed radios before) and operation is simple, so in that way, it's easy to use. The free factory software is a bit of a pain as there is no way to import repeater lists from other software. I'm hoping that Chirp or RT Systems will take on this radio to make transitioning easier. Transmit and receive audio is very good. The receiver is sensitive both in digital and analog modes. Once you get used to the increased range, battery life, and clarity of DMR, it's hard to go back to analog FM. My one complaint about the radio package is that it seems to take a long time to charge the battery. If I use the radio for only an hour with limited transmitting, it seems to take a couple of hours to recharge. My other walkies usually charge in less than half the time. I should note that the radio from Let's Get Ready came with two antennas. The stubby one for convenience and a longer one for improved range. The MD380 I got from another vendor had a very long antenna which really improved range, but it was so long that I rarely used it. The longer antenna from LGR is the same length as the standard dual-band duckie, so it's more convenient to carry, but not as effective. There are extra long duckie and whips that will really improve performance, if that's your need. One thing to note is that the keypad will not allow you to fully program a new digital channel. You can program an analog channel from scratch, but some features are not available for digital programming from the keyboard, you need to use the manufacturer's software. DMR is different than analog in that unless you have everything perfect, you won't hear a thing and no one will hear you, even if you are on the right repeater frequency. If you're new to DMR, do yourself a favor and join the local DMR repeater group. You should be able to get assistance with color codes, talk groups, timeslots, etc. and assistance programming your radio for the first time. You might even be able to get a codeplug (programming file) for your local area. Otherwise, go to youtube and look for videos on programming the MD380. It will save you a lot of time and possibly your sanity!Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
If your looking for a radio that is easy to program, and usable to other radios so a network can be set up. I use these a lot and they are life savers. Digital built in emergency system makes calling out to others a very nice feature for a radio like this. It has very nice range with a clear display, nice crisp buttons, Mic and Speaker are nice and loud while maintaining clarity nicely.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New