Gain has an effect on the radiation pattern of the radio waves. "More DBs" isn't what's always needed. If you do some googling you can find some basic charts that give a visual for what I'm about to describe but generally speaking something like a 3dB gain antenna will perform better in rough varied terrain vs a higher gain antenna. If you could visualize the radiation pattern a 3dB would project something resembling a dome if viewed from the side or a donut from the top. This pattern tends to work better when you are in an area with hilly terrain and your group has a difference in altitude. These also tend to be shorter and are far less likely to hang on trees and whatnot. A higher gain antenna like a 6dB makes a radiation pattern that looks more like a cone when viewed from the side. It' tends to "pinch" the signal more towards the horizon which is good when trying to talk over a longer distance on flatter terrain but could result in poor or no signal in really hilly terrain. Antennas take up very little space. I always suggest carrying at least two. A lower gain and a higher gain. Different tools for different jobs. I carry a high gain antenna for commuting and running around my area as we're fairly flat here. But when we go to the mountains or woods we swap to the shorter unity gain or 3db gain antennas.
The biggest thing is an antenna thats resonant and properly tuned. Even GMRS antennas need to be tuned but most find most antennas to be tuned right out of the factory close enough.
I have this radio in my commuter car with the midland 6db gain antenna. The puget sound has many active GMRS repeaters. GMRS repeater land is a great step for people who want to step up the radio game but aren’t ready for ham
I'm a ham as well as a GMRS license holder. The advantage of having GMRS is, your family can talk with you on the air without testing or getting heavily into radio theory when they have no interest in that. The one disadvantage of being a hams is, I can only talk to other licensed hams on the specific ham bands. I can talk to anybody licensed or unlicensed with GMRS and FRS.
Good video! it is my understanding that you generally want to run power to a communications radio directly from the battery, as it can help reduce things like noise from the system. Plus your radio can work without requiring the ignition to be on.
Technically speaking, Ham can communicate with GMRS and CB. Although deemed illegal by the FCC there is another rule that says all the other rules are basically moot in a life or death situation. So, although I do not suggest it, it is theoretically possible.
It is not illegal for a ham to talk to someone on CB provided they use a type accepted CB radio, not modified ham gear. The FCC rules are strange in this area....a ham can buy a CB radio at a garage sale, modify it to operate on 10 meters and legally use it, but he has to make sure it no longer can transmit on the CB band. A ham cannot legally modify an amateur radio and use it on CB although many do. GMRS is licensed and a different service than amateur radio, you still need a license, although a modified ham radio can talk to a GMRS radio. It is still not legal to use a modified ham radio on GMRS even if you have a GMRS license, but many do anyway. A Baofeng is not legal to use on GMRS or FRS but a ham can legally use one on the amateur bands. GMRS radios are not allowed to have a vfo or the ability to transmit out of the band. Just like CB radios, GMRS radios fall under part 95 FCC rules and must be type accepted for use on those bands. If you use a modified ham radio on GMRS properly and follow the rules, chances are the FCC would never bother you. If you started screwing around on there that's a different story.
Amazon is running a bundled deal on the MTX275 for $239.99. Aside from what you get from Midland in the box, you'll get the Ghost antenna, looks like a coaxial cable and mounting bracket for the antenna. Basically you're getting a Ghost antenna, coaxial cable and mounting bracket with this bundle, I figured this was a pretty good deal. I went ahead and ordered it earlier today, should be here tomorrow morning. BTW, really good video, liked your attention to detail on where you mounted it. I'll be mounting mine in a '12 Tundra Crewmax. Thanks for sharing...
I just bought a pair of these radios to add along side of our cb set up. Must say I was disappointed with the range of the 15 watt radios. We barely got 3 miles apart and lost communication all together. Ill now order the 6 db gain antennas and try it again. But I'm not expecting it to be much better. Cb clearly better on ssb. If you want range then cb wins. If you want very close range clear audio. Gmrs wins. Thanks for video. Very helpful for sure.
I have the MXT275 and it’s been a good unit. It’s fairly simple, and seems to work over decent distances. Although, it is repeater capable, I’m not entirely sure it’s compatible with every repeater tone. There is a conversion chart in the manual that lists CTCSS codes, but not all are in the chart. I could be wrong, but if you’re looking for repeater compatibility, do your research.
UHF here in Australia , 477 MHz band , 80 channels . 16 of these are Duplex repeater channels .(1-8) and (41-48) . Two emergency channels on 5 and 35. There are also general contact channels like 29 and 40 .Trucks and bus companies usually use 40 too which allows us no truck crew to know what's happening . Groups usually go to 10 and camper vans /motor homes etc usually switch to 18 . No licences required but breaches of protocols and tampering with coms can result in substantial fines and even gaol especially if it involves accessing emergency stuff . That said these days the police , fire , medical , rail etc use encrypted channels and usually VHF . My own preferred choice in UHF is Uniden and Oricom these days . GME and ICOM are also great but a bit too pricey ..Thanks for the vid . It was great .
Mounted mine under the seat and spliced connector for SPod so I can completely power it off or use it when Jeep is not running. Kept cig lighter end for my truck. Used a cat-6 extension that had an end I could mount to come through the dash under the glovebox. I can unplug the handset and put in the console and you can’t see that there is a radio in the Jeep. I can still unplug the radio and transfer to my truck where I keep a separate antenna and the cig plug for use there.
No matter what mode of radio communication that you use,for optimum proformance the electrical length of the antenna must match the transmitting frequency.
Great video. I have a ham license and love ham radio, but not everyone has it. As a lifelong trucker, I despise CB, and I’m glad there’s other options for off-roading. Before I began looking into overlanding, I’d only heard of GMRS is passing, but I’ll definitely be getting one to add to my ham set up! I do find it interesting that it’s more expensive than a ham license.
Ozark Overland Adventures the test for a ham license isn’t a big deal at all. I think that’s what keeps most from getting it. Not sure if it has changed, but I think my ham license was $25 in 2008. Even at $70 for the GMRS, I think that’s really reasonable, but think it’s great to make them more equal. Anything to phase out CB. 😂😂
@@truckpilotnate2972 right now its $15 for the HAM test, the TECH level test is pretty easy. Absolutely the way to go if you want real comms in an emergency, and GMRS is very limited do to its 70cm nature, I prefer 2m, and MURS. Lot better range than GMRS and no license.
Terry M wow. I thought I remembered $25, but like I said, that was in 2008. What I DO remember is how over prepared I was. I was surprised at just how easy the test was. I listened to some CD’s and took some online practice tests. That was about it. I was expecting it to be a longer test and much more difficult than it was. I love amateur radio. It’s soooo much better than CB in my tractor/trailer.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Ham radio is awesome, but not everyone is a ham. The only problem with being a ham is you can only talk to other licensed hams on the amateur bands, not any band you wish.
I am researching GRMS radios for my truck. I wont be removing my CB but to supplement each other. My CB is peaked, tuned and aligned. The only time i hear the charlie brown sound is on SSB listening to non SSB thays on AM but thats normal.
Mine just arrived today. Ordered 2 handhelds to go with it. Now I have to get the license. Think I want to get the "Ghost Antenna" and mount it to the cargo basket on my camper shell.
I'm sure someone posted this way down below but the GMRS license is now $35.00 for 10 years, for the GMRS license. And, Midland now offers a 50 Watt GMRS.
I am a general class ham. Ham radio is a hobby unto itself, and not a cheap one. I would not consider it good for something like a Jeep club, especially if you are tying up a repeater. If you are using say 2 meter simplex on low power, and not interfering with anyone it is ok. GMRS is a way better option. Ham radio is a world unto itself. It is not generally used in conjunction with other activities. It also requires a fairly high degree of technical knowledge, and there are a lot of rules to follow.
Though your most reliable and effective power source is a direct connection to your vehicle battery, you want to insure your 12 volt outlet shuts off when the ignition is off to prevent unwanted battery drain.
I like being able to use my radio without having to turn the vehicle on. But yes you have to make sure to turn it off or it will run the battery down. I did that this weekend. lol.
GMRS is great. But if you are in an area where everyone is yapping on GMRS, a MURS setup wouldn't be too bad as a secondary. No one really uses MURS. 151 -154, you can key it up on your Boofwang radios.
Good video! Looking into upgrading to gmrs from cb. Cell service is spotty at best where we hunt over in southeastern OH. Cb has served us well and the off road clubs in that area and along the WV boarder use both gmrs and cb.
Looks like the antenna was professional installed.... 😉 Man... run the power directly to the battery. Take the time or take it to an installer...(like the antenna)
absolute amateur to the Radio community but trying to learn here. Can you do a video on how you use it. From basic, sos, etc. Thank you for the content.
If you're talking about GMRS, you literally turn it on and start using it. Find a channel, let others that are close or in your convoy know what channel and start talking..
I have the Midland MXT115 in my Jeep, but I am going to be changing it out to the MXT275 very soon. I like the ghost mount antenna and location that you have chosen. How much better does it perform when compared to the stock magnetic mount antenna (which btw, has a perfect swr meter reading of 1:0 and performs excellent for it's size). My wife and I both carry XD's.
GMRS is just above the UHF or 70 centimeter ham band. With up to 50 watts allowed, you are pretty much operating like a ham. Midland makes 5,15 and 40 watt Mobil radios. The 15 is a pretty good unit generally speaking. With no obstructions, people have gotten 20 plus miles Mobil to Mobil. For every three dB antenna gain , you double your effective radiated power but the FCC doesn’t want you to exceed that 50 watt number regardless of how you get there. So a 15 watt radio with a 6 dB gain antenna is like having 45 watts. Don’t be afraid to run in low power ( you can switch it back) if you don’t need high power. There is no security on any of these radios. ANYONE can hear you. The “ privacy “ codes only prevent you from hearing THEM. Andy N3QZF
Did you make a video on hiding the 275 behind the dash? I have a JK and I just ordered a Stinger Heigh10 and a Midland 275 and since I'll have the dash in pieces I figured I'd try and hide the radio behind the head unit if possible. Any input would be helpful. Love your channel!
Thank you so much for this video. I'm new to Jeepin' and didn't even know about GMRS. It took a local crew to tell me about it. YOUR video was the decision maker between the 115 and 275. I love how you explained about both the handheld AND box has a speaker (275) as well as showed the best solution I've seen for install. My question to you is this... what kind of screws did you use for the mounting bracket on the side of your shifter? Sounds dumb, but I don't wanna mess up and use the wrong ones. Thanks again from Interior Alaska!
You know, with the MXT 275, you could have actually installed under the seat or behind the glovebox, which is a reason people like this particular radio. All you would need is an RJ45 cable to extend it.
Nice video and review. My only concern is the mounting location on your wife's jeep. It will get in the way if she is driving on the trail and needs to draw her handgun. The cables and connections could get in the way.
I'm headed to the Rendezvous this weekend and probably going to take your class on Friday. Any chance your doing a trail ride on Saturday? I'd like to run some trails, but I've never been on anything in the Ozark National Forest.
New sub after watching. A very pragmatic approach to sharing radio comms info!!! Can you share your experience with the real world range of the ghost antenna setup? Thank you for sharing!
Thanks!! Out on the trails in the Ozarks with dense forests and hilly terrain we can get a few miles out of them. Out west where the terrain is more open we can get 10 miles or more out of them.
The group I run with most of us are HAM's but we do have a few that run GMRS. Great video. I do have a question, I have noticed in your videos on your Jeep you have the antenna mounted driver side, on the lightbar. Is that a special antenna mount? If so can you provide a link for it. Thank You!!
Does the mic (or any other part) for this radio need separate batteries? I saw an Amazon seller state “6 AAA batteries required”. I don’t see it anywhere else that states it. If so, then I’ll go for the MXT115. Great video. Thank you.
@@ferdinandtorres3930 just got mine today, definitely no batteries needed. I saw an add also listing it. I think it's a result of Chinese sellers translating incorrect literature and they don't know what they are posting in English
Great vid on the MXT275, I'm close to pulling the trigger and just trying to figure out what to do for antenna. I usually run soft top or topless, and I like the ghost antenna for its low profile. Will it mount on one of the body holes at the top lip of the rear cargo area, like just inside where the bottom of the soft top meets the body? I know the ground plane isn't there but I just want to know if the ghost antenna can physically be mounted there in your opinion? Thanks again for the solid video. ✌🏼
Now after watching this I wished I got the 275 over the 115 as I could prob had run the Antenna through the back hatch and keep the unit behind my seat....it will be coming in this week but I got a good ideal where I plan to put it. How long is the Antenna cable?
I just purchased two mxt275’s, and we have crystal clear comm at 17 miles when both vehicles are parked. Under motion we get horrible static, changed antennas (ghost now), wired direct to battery, simply cannot communicate if either vehicle is in motion. Even directly next to each other, under motion is almost unusable. Midland trying to help but they are baffled.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Tried different antennas (Midland sent two ghost antennas to try) in many different positions front to back in both vehicles. Same results - perfect clear comm while parked (engine on or off), terrible under any motion.
so if you have someone in your group with frs radio they will be able to communicate with you on this in real time or do you need to switch frequency back and forth from frs to gmrs?
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures I ordered a couple for me and my nephew yesterday, along with the MXTA26 antenna. We have a couple of hand held GMRS radios, but really wanted the range 15 watts would provide and I love that all of the controls are on the microphone, just like the HAM I have in my Xterra. HAM radios are great, but completely useless if no one else in your group has one and I don't know many people on the trails who use HAM, so I like having the GMRS as well. Thanks for the reply ...
I’m looking at swapping out my bc radio and upgrading to midland. I have a firestik antenna now.. can I use that with a midland mxt115? Stupid question?
For now, I stuck that kit antennae on the cross bar under the third tail light on my Jeep Wrangler. How do you think that will do for a temporary placement?
Here is that mount... www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=a5244fa8-925c-467f-9be2-485d671598dc&website_id=c5ad904d-0739-4e23-b7e7-32045dd76dec&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmidlandusa.com%2Fproduct%2Fmicromobile-mxta27-universal-lip-mount%2F
I had a question. I know your supposed to broadcast your callsign on GRMS and such and the license is for yourself and your family. What do you do if you are talking to your family on the radios? I mean do you both just say the same callsign when talking to each other?
You're supposed to broadcast your callsign for identification purposes on the airwaves, if youre just talking to your family if one person says the callsign every 15 minutes or so that would meet the requirement so that if anyone was listening they would know the callsign of the party that is communicating. Obviously you don't have to say the callsign to each other when speaking with your family because you both know it. This callsign transmitting is much more important in HAM radio, but it is still technically required with GMRS.
Midland MXT 275 is $149.99 USD, GMRS license is $70, for 10 years. The GMRS license covers your immediate family, and I believe relatives. No test is required.
Do any of my buddies need a gmrs as well in order to get the best out of these? If I have a gmrs and my buddies have frs can I hear them clearly ? Can they hear me clearly ?
@@dvgayle1 You could consider using the external speaker output and connecting it to something called audio interrupter. It will then use the radio for incoming transmissions and play it over the speakers while muting the radio.
Matt get your HAM license and enjoy real emergency comms ability... GMRS is good for only limited Range, no infrastructure, great for Jeep comms about it.... Its just above 70cm UHF, and suffers the same short coming as interference from even foliage... Thanks for the video... GMRS only works with FRS if its got the same PL tone....
Gain has an effect on the radiation pattern of the radio waves. "More DBs" isn't what's always needed. If you do some googling you can find some basic charts that give a visual for what I'm about to describe but generally speaking something like a 3dB gain antenna will perform better in rough varied terrain vs a higher gain antenna.
If you could visualize the radiation pattern a 3dB would project something resembling a dome if viewed from the side or a donut from the top. This pattern tends to work better when you are in an area with hilly terrain and your group has a difference in altitude. These also tend to be shorter and are far less likely to hang on trees and whatnot.
A higher gain antenna like a 6dB makes a radiation pattern that looks more like a cone when viewed from the side. It' tends to "pinch" the signal more towards the horizon which is good when trying to talk over a longer distance on flatter terrain but could result in poor or no signal in really hilly terrain.
Antennas take up very little space. I always suggest carrying at least two. A lower gain and a higher gain. Different tools for different jobs. I carry a high gain antenna for commuting and running around my area as we're fairly flat here. But when we go to the mountains or woods we swap to the shorter unity gain or 3db gain antennas.
Thanks for explaining that!!! Great job!
The biggest thing is an antenna thats resonant and properly tuned. Even GMRS antennas need to be tuned but most find most antennas to be tuned right out of the factory close enough.
@@jeepinbanditrider I assume you can not install both antennas and run them at the same time?
@@caliguy1500 it would be far easier to just swap the antenna as needed.
They make coax splitters with switches so you can mount two antennae and switch between them!
GMRS fees with the FCC have been reduced to $35.00 for 10 years.
AND that fee is for your whole extended family for ten years. nice.
family living in one house hold
I have this radio in my commuter car with the midland 6db gain antenna.
The puget sound has many active GMRS repeaters.
GMRS repeater land is a great step for people who want to step up the radio game but aren’t ready for ham
I'm a ham as well as a GMRS license holder. The advantage of having GMRS is, your family can talk with you on the air without testing or getting heavily into radio theory when they have no interest in that. The one disadvantage of being a hams is, I can only talk to other licensed hams on the specific ham bands. I can talk to anybody licensed or unlicensed with GMRS and FRS.
I can talk to Chicago ILL on the G M R S radio tower link from Minnesota
That’s the exact same unit I am running all of the way down to the 3.5 dB antenna! You even mounted yours where I mounted mine. lol I love it!
Matthew Baker it’s a good combo.
Good video! it is my understanding that you generally want to run power to a communications radio directly from the battery, as it can help reduce things like noise from the system. Plus your radio can work without requiring the ignition to be on.
Videos I have mine run directly to the battery and will do that to my wife’s too. I just didn’t do it for the video.
Well shoot, your 15% off pushed me over the edge. Ordered.
Technically speaking, Ham can communicate with GMRS and CB. Although deemed illegal by the FCC there is another rule that says all the other rules are basically moot in a life or death situation. So, although I do not suggest it, it is theoretically possible.
It is not illegal for a ham to talk to someone on CB provided they use a type accepted CB radio, not modified ham gear. The FCC rules are strange in this area....a ham can buy a CB radio at a garage sale, modify it to operate on 10 meters and legally use it, but he has to make sure it no longer can transmit on the CB band. A ham cannot legally modify an amateur radio and use it on CB although many do. GMRS is licensed and a different service than amateur radio, you still need a license, although a modified ham radio can talk to a GMRS radio. It is still not legal to use a modified ham radio on GMRS even if you have a GMRS license, but many do anyway. A Baofeng is not legal to use on GMRS or FRS but a ham can legally use one on the amateur bands. GMRS radios are not allowed to have a vfo or the ability to transmit out of the band. Just like CB radios, GMRS radios fall under part 95 FCC rules and must be type accepted for use on those bands. If you use a modified ham radio on GMRS properly and follow the rules, chances are the FCC would never bother you. If you started screwing around on there that's a different story.
most ham radio guy's also have a G M R S license also
Amazon is running a bundled deal on the MTX275 for $239.99. Aside from what you get from Midland in the box, you'll get the Ghost antenna, looks like a coaxial cable and mounting bracket for the antenna.
Basically you're getting a Ghost antenna, coaxial cable and mounting bracket with this bundle, I figured this was a pretty good deal.
I went ahead and ordered it earlier today, should be here tomorrow morning.
BTW, really good video, liked your attention to detail on where you mounted it. I'll be mounting mine in a '12 Tundra Crewmax.
Thanks for sharing...
Like that radio. I have been thinking of taking out the CB also. nice XD also. 👍👍
I have a G M R S radio and will add a 10 meter and 2 meter too round out the
shake
I just bought a pair of these radios to add along side of our cb set up. Must say I was disappointed with the range of the 15 watt radios. We barely got 3 miles apart and lost communication all together. Ill now order the 6 db gain antennas and try it again. But I'm not expecting it to be much better. Cb clearly better on ssb. If you want range then cb wins. If you want very close range clear audio. Gmrs wins. Thanks for video. Very helpful for sure.
@Rusty Rails, have you been able to test the 6DB antenna? what were your results?
You should be able to get much further than that.
I run 45 watts and realy blast out but like my friends I am in a apartment
200 ft up.
I have the MXT275 and it’s been a good unit. It’s fairly simple, and seems to work over decent distances. Although, it is repeater capable, I’m not entirely sure it’s compatible with every repeater tone. There is a conversion chart in the manual that lists CTCSS codes, but not all are in the chart. I could be wrong, but if you’re looking for repeater compatibility, do your research.
UHF here in Australia , 477 MHz band , 80 channels . 16 of these are Duplex repeater channels .(1-8) and (41-48) . Two emergency channels on 5 and 35. There are also general contact channels like 29 and 40 .Trucks and bus companies usually use 40 too which allows us no truck crew to know what's happening . Groups usually go to 10 and camper vans /motor homes etc usually switch to 18 . No licences required but breaches of protocols and tampering with coms can result in substantial fines and even gaol especially if it involves accessing emergency stuff . That said these days the police , fire , medical , rail etc use encrypted channels and usually VHF . My own preferred choice in UHF is Uniden and Oricom these days . GME and ICOM are also great but a bit too pricey ..Thanks for the vid . It was great .
Good no nonsense description of the 275 - you answered the question I had (I need an audio out jack). Thanx!
Thanks!!!
Mounted mine under the seat and spliced connector for SPod so I can completely power it off or use it when Jeep is not running. Kept cig lighter end for my truck. Used a cat-6 extension that had an end I could mount to come through the dash under the glovebox. I can unplug the handset and put in the console and you can’t see that there is a radio in the Jeep. I can still unplug the radio and transfer to my truck where I keep a separate antenna and the cig plug for use there.
David Haymon very nice!!! I have mine wired to the battery and will do that for my wife’s Jeep too.
No matter what mode of radio communication that you use,for optimum proformance the electrical length of the antenna must match the transmitting frequency.
Good point about ham being all or nothing, I also have a gmrs and call
Great video. I have a ham license and love ham radio, but not everyone has it. As a lifelong trucker, I despise CB, and I’m glad there’s other options for off-roading. Before I began looking into overlanding, I’d only heard of GMRS is passing, but I’ll definitely be getting one to add to my ham set up! I do find it interesting that it’s more expensive than a ham license.
It won't be if the feds raise ham and lower gmrs. I wish ham wasn't such a niche product but GMRS is awesome!
Ozark Overland Adventures the test for a ham license isn’t a big deal at all. I think that’s what keeps most from getting it. Not sure if it has changed, but I think my ham license was $25 in 2008. Even at $70 for the GMRS, I think that’s really reasonable, but think it’s great to make them more equal. Anything to phase out CB. 😂😂
@@truckpilotnate2972 right now its $15 for the HAM test, the TECH level test is pretty easy.
Absolutely the way to go if you want real comms in an emergency, and GMRS is very limited do to its 70cm nature,
I prefer 2m, and MURS.
Lot better range than GMRS and no license.
Terry M wow. I thought I remembered $25, but like I said, that was in 2008. What I DO remember is how over prepared I was. I was surprised at just how easy the test was. I listened to some CD’s and took some online practice tests. That was about it. I was expecting it to be a longer test and much more difficult than it was. I love amateur radio. It’s soooo much better than CB in my tractor/trailer.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Ham radio is awesome, but not everyone is a ham. The only problem with being a ham is you can only talk to other licensed hams on the amateur bands, not any band you wish.
Excellent video, it's exactly what I was looking for in regards to choosing my next radio, will be installing one on my RAM Rebel! Thanks for posting!
I am researching GRMS radios for my truck. I wont be removing my CB but to supplement each other. My CB is peaked, tuned and aligned. The only time i hear the charlie brown sound is on SSB listening to non SSB thays on AM but thats normal.
Mine just arrived today. Ordered 2 handhelds to go with it. Now I have to get the license. Think I want to get the "Ghost Antenna" and mount it to the cargo basket on my camper shell.
I'm sure someone posted this way down below but the GMRS license is now $35.00 for 10 years, for the GMRS license.
And, Midland now offers a 50 Watt GMRS.
I came for the radio review because I just ordered one for my XJ, but like the content and channel, so I subbed. Thanks again!
That’s awesome. Thanks so much for that!!
Love the famous cut sign. Still sporting mine.
Awesome!!!
I am a general class ham. Ham radio is a hobby unto itself, and not a cheap one. I would not consider it good for something like a Jeep club, especially if you are tying up a repeater. If you are using say 2 meter simplex on low power, and not interfering with anyone it is ok. GMRS is a way better option. Ham radio is a world unto itself. It is not generally used in conjunction with other activities. It also requires a fairly high degree of technical knowledge, and there are a lot of rules to follow.
Though your most reliable and effective power source is a direct connection to your vehicle battery, you want to insure your 12 volt outlet shuts off when the ignition is off to prevent unwanted battery drain.
I like being able to use my radio without having to turn the vehicle on. But yes you have to make sure to turn it off or it will run the battery down. I did that this weekend. lol.
GMRS is great. But if you are in an area where everyone is yapping on GMRS, a MURS setup wouldn't be too bad as a secondary. No one really uses MURS. 151 -154, you can key it up on your Boofwang radios.
Good comms, thanks for the rundown!
Thanks!
Just bought the GMRS license in 2022 and it's now $35 for 10 years.
Good video! Looking into upgrading to gmrs from cb. Cell service is spotty at best where we hunt over in southeastern OH. Cb has served us well and the off road clubs in that area and along the WV boarder use both gmrs and cb.
Looks like the antenna was professional installed.... 😉
Man... run the power directly to the battery. Take the time or take it to an installer...(like the antenna)
Alpha6Tango thanks. I did the antenna myself. And I will run it directly to the battery like mine is on my Jeep. I just didn’t do it for the video.
absolute amateur to the Radio community but trying to learn here. Can you do a video on how you use it. From basic, sos, etc. Thank you for the content.
If you're talking about GMRS, you literally turn it on and start using it. Find a channel, let others that are close or in your convoy know what channel and start talking..
I have the Midland MXT115 in my Jeep, but I am going to be changing it out to the MXT275 very soon. I like the ghost mount antenna and location that you have chosen. How much better does it perform when compared to the stock magnetic mount antenna (which btw, has a perfect swr meter reading of 1:0 and performs excellent for it's size). My wife and I both carry XD's.
There is definitely a difference with the Ghost mount. I really like it.
3 dB gives you twice the “power”… I learned that studying for my Ham license. 😂
GMRS is just above the UHF or 70 centimeter ham band. With up to 50 watts allowed, you are pretty much operating like a ham. Midland makes 5,15 and 40 watt Mobil radios. The 15 is a pretty good unit generally speaking. With no obstructions, people have gotten 20 plus miles Mobil to Mobil. For every three dB antenna gain , you double your effective radiated power but the FCC doesn’t want you to exceed that 50 watt number regardless of how you get there. So a 15 watt radio with a 6 dB gain antenna is like having 45 watts. Don’t be afraid to run in low power ( you can switch it back) if you don’t need high power. There is no security on any of these radios. ANYONE can hear you. The “ privacy “ codes only prevent you from hearing THEM. Andy N3QZF
Did you make a video on hiding the 275 behind the dash? I have a JK and I just ordered a Stinger Heigh10 and a Midland 275 and since I'll have the dash in pieces I figured I'd try and hide the radio behind the head unit if possible. Any input would be helpful. Love your channel!
There’s not enough room behind the head unit. Gotta go behind the knee panel.
Great video. As always. LOL Cant wait to get one. Hopefully ill get it on order soon. Thanks for the recommendation.
Thank you so much for this video. I'm new to Jeepin' and didn't even know about GMRS.
It took a local crew to tell me about it. YOUR video was the decision maker between the 115 and 275. I love how you explained about both the handheld AND box has a speaker (275) as well as showed the best solution I've seen for install.
My question to you is this... what kind of screws did you use for the mounting bracket on the side of your shifter? Sounds dumb, but I don't wanna mess up and use the wrong ones.
Thanks again from Interior Alaska!
Thank you. So glad it was helpful. I just used a couple screws I had laying around in the toolbox. They are just basic screws. Nothing special.
Good info, don’t mess with Cara! She can reach out and hit you if needed🙀
Steven Boyd 😂
Helpful thanks
You know, with the MXT 275, you could have actually installed under the seat or behind the glovebox, which is a reason people like this particular radio. All you would need is an RJ45 cable to extend it.
I know. Just didn’t want to do that.
FRS limited to 2 watts no license, cB is am modulation most natural noise is AM
Just bought one of these GMRS radios for my Gladiator!! Thanks. #jtrspartacus
You’ll love it!!!
Maybe I missed it but why is this better than CB, I see it's alot smaller than a CB
Monte Murray yeah it’s in the video. CB is much harder to dial in. GMRS is super simple and better range and sound quality and works with FRS radios.
Looks good!
Just applied for my gmrs today, 35$ as of now
Nice video and review. My only concern is the mounting location on your wife's jeep. It will get in the way if she is driving on the trail and needs to draw her handgun. The cables and connections could get in the way.
Can you switch mics between the two? and still gain the functions on the mic and the base? Thanks
Incase anyone is interested… as of yesterday GMRS license dropped to $35 and HAM raised to $35
I'm headed to the Rendezvous this weekend and probably going to take your class on Friday. Any chance your doing a trail ride on Saturday? I'd like to run some trails, but I've never been on anything in the Ozark National Forest.
Awesome!!! I’m leading one of the moderate trail runs Saturday morning at 8am.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Those were all full when I registered. If someone doesn't show, maybe we can hookup with your group.
@@2rkh sounds good. Just ask when you Check in.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Cool. Will do.
Just ordered my MXT275, thanks for the help with the code!
Any word on Midland making a proper JL/JT Ghost mounting bracket?
Just got my license today wanted to mention to everyone that the fee is back to 35 bucks
New sub after watching. A very pragmatic approach to sharing radio comms info!!! Can you share your experience with the real world range of the ghost antenna setup? Thank you for sharing!
Thanks!! Out on the trails in the Ozarks with dense forests and hilly terrain we can get a few miles out of them. Out west where the terrain is more open we can get 10 miles or more out of them.
The group I run with most of us are HAM's but we do have a few that run GMRS. Great video. I do have a question, I have noticed in your videos on your Jeep you have the antenna mounted driver side, on the lightbar. Is that a special antenna mount? If so can you provide a link for it. Thank You!!
So I went to the FCC licensing site and wow! So many license types. May I ask what everyone actually needs in order to operate the midland?
GMRS license.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Got it! Thanks again
Does the mic (or any other part) for this radio need separate batteries? I saw an Amazon seller state “6 AAA batteries required”. I don’t see it anywhere else that states it. If so, then I’ll go for the MXT115. Great video. Thank you.
No batteries required on any of the Midland MicroMobile Radios. I've owned all of them except the 105. LOL.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures thanks for the quick reply. Keep up the great vids.
@@ferdinandtorres3930 just got mine today, definitely no batteries needed. I saw an add also listing it. I think it's a result of Chinese sellers translating incorrect literature and they don't know what they are posting in English
Great vid on the MXT275, I'm close to pulling the trigger and just trying to figure out what to do for antenna. I usually run soft top or topless, and I like the ghost antenna for its low profile. Will it mount on one of the body holes at the top lip of the rear cargo area, like just inside where the bottom of the soft top meets the body? I know the ground plane isn't there but I just want to know if the ghost antenna can physically be mounted there in your opinion? Thanks again for the solid video. ✌🏼
What state are you in ? I didn't know its possible to have your gun visible like that wow lol . . . CA is different
😂😂 we are in Arkansas.
That's the difference between living in a free state and a commie cesspool.
Consider getting a lockbox with a combination lock.
You can still buy guns in CA?
@@davenov15 surprisingly yes
Does that Mic have a way to connect their 2 prong helmet kit to? What about the one for the 115?
Make sure you don't pick gun by mistake and key the mike!
Brilliant!! 🖒😄
could you let me know the outside dimensions of the MTX115 and do think it would over heat if I slid it in a factory slot in my dash.
Lol...so it be out of the way of wifeys gun....lol...thanks for the install
Now after watching this I wished I got the 275 over the 115 as I could prob had run the Antenna through the back hatch and keep the unit behind my seat....it will be coming in this week but I got a good ideal where I plan to put it. How long is the Antenna cable?
isnt that a 18 foot cable where is the rest of the cable mounted
I just purchased two mxt275’s, and we have crystal clear comm at 17 miles when both vehicles are parked. Under motion we get horrible static, changed antennas (ghost now), wired direct to battery, simply cannot communicate if either vehicle is in motion. Even directly next to each other, under motion is almost unusable. Midland trying to help but they are baffled.
Where is your antenna mounted?
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Tried different antennas (Midland sent two ghost antennas to try) in many different positions front to back in both vehicles. Same results - perfect clear comm while parked (engine on or off), terrible under any motion.
Tried the coupon on 10/20 and it says it's not working. Tried using it to order a pair of GXT1000 handhelds.
Hmmm. Let me check with Midland and I’ll let you know ASAP.
Would this be programmable with all my fire department operations channels? For an in car radio for my 14 Forester
The channels on these aren't programmable.
so if you have someone in your group with frs radio they will be able to communicate with you on this in real time or do you need to switch frequency back and forth from frs to gmrs?
for your Gladiator, what mount are you using for the Antenna and which antenna did you go with. Love the vids.,
Iv'e got the Ghost antenna on a custom mount I rigged up on the light bar.
How does the MXTA25 perform with the MXT275? Have you tested the range? Have you compared it to any other antennas, like the MXTA26? Thanks, Matt!
We haven’t done any official range tests with them but know we can get several miles and still have good communication.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures I ordered a couple for me and my nephew yesterday, along with the MXTA26 antenna. We have a couple of hand held GMRS radios, but really wanted the range 15 watts would provide and I love that all of the controls are on the microphone, just like the HAM I have in my Xterra. HAM radios are great, but completely useless if no one else in your group has one and I don't know many people on the trails who use HAM, so I like having the GMRS as well. Thanks for the reply ...
The FCC ganked the FRS/gmrs radios, even the baofeng wont do it check specs before you buy
I have this radio, I just don't like that you cannot leave it on so it turns on with the ignition.
I wire mine direct to the battery for this reason.
Thank you for the code. Where is the best first place to go overlanding near Conway Arkansas? Any suggestions for a novice?
For a novice the Ouachitas are great around Lake Sylvia and Lake Winnona. Lots of mild forest roads with great views and streams to camp by.
Oh the old days of simplicity…….your gun rack went in the back window and you didn’t have to compete for space…..
Does that heatsink mean it can't be in a dead air zone like the center console in a 13th generation F150 with bucket seats in the front?
You can hide it anywhere. I've got friends that have put there up under the dash, in the glove box, and center consoles. They work great!
I’m looking at swapping out my bc radio and upgrading to midland. I have a firestik antenna now.. can I use that with a midland mxt115? Stupid question?
A CB antenna and a GMRS antenna are not compatible.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures thanks dude! Did some digging around last night and got my heart broken before you could haha. Love content.
Great information. Question for you. I am going to convert to GMRS. What do you recommend for a GMRS hand held for hunting applications?
Wouxun KG-935G.. Can't go wrong with choice.
Maybe i missed the REVIEW??
For now, I stuck that kit antennae on the cross bar under the third tail light on my Jeep Wrangler. How do you think that will do for a temporary placement?
that should work ok.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Tested with someone tonight. It was raining be we were able to hear each other a few miles away.
@@Wrangler4XEFans Awesome!!
funny i never seen you run the power
recently moved to Arkansas. Are those magnetic weapons mounts legal here? Some states, they are not legal
Yes they are!
Do you have a link for the ghost antenna mount? Just got mine in the mail finally and like that install location.
Here is that mount... www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=a5244fa8-925c-467f-9be2-485d671598dc&website_id=c5ad904d-0739-4e23-b7e7-32045dd76dec&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmidlandusa.com%2Fproduct%2Fmicromobile-mxta27-universal-lip-mount%2F
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Thanks!
Great video! Very informative! What gun mount is that and how well does it hold onto the gun when going over rough obstacles?
Thanks!! It’s just a cheap holster that I screwed under the steering wheel. It works well.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures No, I was talking about the holster in your wifes jeep.
@@yzfr1owner ooooh. Yeah it’s awesome!!! Super strong. No issues. We got it on Amazon.
Link to this?
I had a question. I know your supposed to broadcast your callsign on GRMS and such and the license is for yourself and your family. What do you do if you are talking to your family on the radios? I mean do you both just say the same callsign when talking to each other?
I honestly have no idea. I rarely broadcast my callsign because I'm always in the woods.
You're supposed to broadcast your callsign for identification purposes on the airwaves, if youre just talking to your family if one person says the callsign every 15 minutes or so that would meet the requirement so that if anyone was listening they would know the callsign of the party that is communicating. Obviously you don't have to say the callsign to each other when speaking with your family because you both know it. This callsign transmitting is much more important in HAM radio, but it is still technically required with GMRS.
I NEED one of those mic mounting brackets! 😧
It super handy. Just search Amazon for Jeep JK Mic holder. Lots of options.
Great video. Also, open carry is ultrasound for the Second Amendment so thanks to your wife for that, too.
Thanks!!
My Midland GMRS arrived today. Can I connect it my CB antenna?
No. They are not compatible. The antenna that comes with it is surprisingly good.
Love the videos, how can I get a sticker?
Thanks!! There is a link in the video description to our store to get stickers and shirts.
what do these radios cost and do you need a license?
Midland MXT 275 is $149.99 USD, GMRS license is $70, for 10 years. The GMRS license covers your immediate family, and I believe relatives. No test is required.
There is a discount code in the video description.
Is your midland discount code still active?
Yes. It's Ozark10. I think it still shows Ozark15 in places.
which handheld do you use?
Midland Xtalker T290
275 won’t do FRS manual page 27
It can communicate with FRS radios
@Ozark Overland Adventures ok just not on channels 8-14
@@bhamptonkc7 yes they can.
1/13/21 - Tried to use your coupon code but it’s “expired”
Thanks for letting me know. I just emailed Midland and will let you know what's up.
Casually walks up to an unlocked car, opens the door, and grabs a gun left unattended.
I can assure you there is no gun left unattended. Not sure what you’re talking about.
Likely he mounted the pistol in order to make sure he had the room needed to install the radio. I doubt they leave a pistol sitting in their jeep.
Do you have link to that mount?
Not sure if this is the exact one but it's just like it... amzn.to/3aFo0Um
Matt where can we get one of those hats??
Jake Shaw shoot me a message on Facebook.
Do any of my buddies need a gmrs as well in order to get the best out of these? If I have a gmrs and my buddies have frs can I hear them clearly ? Can they hear me clearly ?
You can communicate to each other just fine as long as you’re close enough. You’ll get much better range with everyone having GMRS.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures
Is the gmrs to frs at least any better then frs to frs ??
@@samdequina3386 yes.
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures
Thank you so much.
@@samdequina3386 you’re very welcome.
Bluetooth?
Bluetooth what?
@@OzarkOverlandAdventures Is the radio available with a bluetooth system that will connect with the stereo system in the vehicle?
@@dvgayle1 Ahhhh. No it does not.
@@dvgayle1 You could consider using the external speaker output and connecting it to something called audio interrupter. It will then use the radio for incoming transmissions and play it over the speakers while muting the radio.
Matt get your HAM license and enjoy real emergency comms ability...
GMRS is good for only limited Range, no infrastructure, great for Jeep comms about it....
Its just above 70cm UHF, and suffers the same short coming as interference from even foliage...
Thanks for the video...
GMRS only works with FRS if its got the same PL tone....
Maybe one day I will.