I've been running this radio for 8 months now in my pick up truck with a Wilson 5000 antenna. Love it. Best radio I've owned. On SSB can talk to Canada, Idaho, Arizona and all points in between. No power amp, I run barefoot. Your really going to love this radio.
@@daveaf3023 most police listening is going to happen on FM UHF and VHF CB radio is an AM for amplitude modulation radio awesome most modern police departments will be running digital trunking systems what you're not going to be able to listen to so easily
I ordered one of these today along with a Pyramid PS9KX 5amp / 13.8 power supply…I received a Tram 1498 that I’m going to mount up about 30feet in the air… I’m crossing my fingers buddy that I will be able to reach out there. At the very least it’s going to be a vast improvement over my current base station. Thanks again for the awesome channel and maybe I’ll hear you on my radio from down here in central Alabama ✝️🇺🇸🤙🏻🅰️
Bought one a few days ago. Haven't figured out all the functions yet. Wanted a sideband radio since I had a Cobra 146 back in the 80's when sunspot cycles were hot. Been a CB'er since 1978. A ham since 92'. Had a 25 watt Radio Shack 10 meter radio. You'll be amazed at what a 25 watt sideband radio will do on a dipole or ground plane antenna.
This is by far the BEST CB SSB radio on the market match it with a power amp and Wilson 5000 Mag antenna and you have the best of everything. Transmission and receive will be around 26 - 33 miles . This blows Cobra LX 29 away ,it’s not even close .
The President McKinley has more receive filtering features and VOX. To be fair, the 980 came out before it. The 980 has the voltage meter where the McKinley does not. The 980 also has more display colour options. Both radios use the same mic pin out. So the channel changing wired microphone of the McKinley can be used with the 980, and the wireless microphone of the 980 can be used with the McKinley. Anyways, either radios are great choices.
I love this rig! Been running it for a year now; along with a 5/8 SuperPenatrator groundplane + KL-203 amp; hit 38 out of 50 states so far! Best CB investment I've ever made. Get great audio reports without any mods. Kudos to Uniden.
It was a shock when they came out with it. At the time Cobra still had the 148, but no one else was even making SSB radios. This really kicked the hobby back into life. I love mine as well.
I've run this radio for quite a while now and the two things I did was unlock the clarifier. It'll save you so much time and headaches while skipping. And pop the mic apart and remove the black rubber part with the hole in it. Or cut a bigger hole. Like the size of a quarter, It's for noise canceling. If you're inside there's no need for noise canceling. I cut mine and people say it's crystel clear.
Update purchasing this CB tomorrow for cheap! Still new to CB and this will be my first base station. I have been using the hh35 Cobra. I am so excited to get it tomorrow. Thanks Got my radio! It is awesome! Comes with everything even mod to 45 watts comes with external mic and roadking chrome mic almost brand new in box for $60.00! Best deal ever!!!
This was my first radio of the new millennium...20 years ago. All I had owned were cb radios and older hf rigs made in the mid 90's or older. I use a modified aries power mic with tantalum caps inside and different values. Crystal clear and clean audio! Love it!
I brought my radio back in April 2019. Using original stock mike; contacts always compliment my clear audio - no distortion. Using a 5/8 Super Penetrator; skipped all over the U.S. too. No mods but performance top-notch anyways. Just found a retail outlet that is selling this same radio for under 100.00. I will be purchasing that one too.
Hello Eric, Based on YOUR review and a bit of research I purchased and installed a ‘980 i n my ham shack. Great radio! I live within hailing distance of Interstate 81 Exit 165 here in the Wilkes Barre PA area and often hear drivers requests for information and assistance. So, as a “local yocal” I can direct them to restaurants, service facilities, Kmart, and Walmart... Also, our local Starbucks has parking for tractor-trailers... Yay! Enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work. Hope to work you someday on HF or 38 LSB. Howie WA3MCK Former Radioman/Telegrapher Submarine Service USN PS - I will be celebrating 50 years of Amateur Radio in April!.
Glad to hear your enjoying the 980! It really is a great radio. 50 years!! Wow man, I'm sure you've seen just a few minor changes in the HAM hobby during that time. I can't keep up with it these days. I walked away for about 5 years and now it seems it's all gone digital.
Love this radio so far! Got one a couple months ago. Nice build quality and smooth controls. Price is great for what you get. Even my son - who likes the old school CB look - thinks this unit is sweet. Search is nice and sensitive. Operators tell me my audio is nice and clear. Thanks for the review!
I've been using a 2nd gen 980SSB for a year now. It puts out about 3W straight out of the box which is perfect for driving the RM Italy KL203P to 100W without it getting too hot. The thing Uniden did right with this radio is that it *does not* drift from center frequency on sideband. It is stable as a rock. You'll have to chase everybody else around with the clarifier but you'll stay rock steady.
Cool, that adapter from Uniden for the 6-4 pin may save me some time and internet service. If truck stops have that on hand, then I can avoid going to President Electronics in Spain to get my McKinley USA set up here. The physical size was the reason I went for it rather than the 980, but I'm looking forward to hooking up the Bluetooth adapter too, so once again the Uniden videos are such a great help. Thank you very much Sir.
I remember when I first put my CB radio in my crown victoria. I was (and still use) a cobra night watch. Its a lower end model, but someone asked for a radio check, I responded and asked where they were. They were in Lake Placid. I told him I was in Northern NJ, and was impressed of the range. He told me he was using a Bearcat. Now seeing it on your channel, I may pick one up.
I've got the same radio in my pickup absolutely love it bone stock no Pekin tune no nothing and it works flawless. It receives and transmits as well as I will ever need.
I have not been into cb for awhile. But at the time my base was a cobra 148gtl modified open clarifier, extra channels. A d 104, a 250watt kicker, an a antron 99. I lived on an acreage outside of Winnipeg. Moved to Calgary where I gave it up. Still miss it. Radio Canada 428. International radio Canada 1428.🇨🇦🍁👍
Bought this radio a few months ago, running it mobile in my pickup. Still learning how to use it correctly and your videos are helping me figure it out. My only complaint on it is the display, even set on high, is very dim.
Nice, I’ve got the same bearcat 980 in my truck recently... per your ssb radio vids in past. Couldn’t find any older ssb radios at local garage sales/ flea markets, so I broke down and went new. Love it, It gets great receive.
8 months later... my display completely crapped out. Completely unreadable after the unit warms up, it lasted just long enough for the warranty to expire.
I actually upgraded from a little but sturdy PRO520XL I had on a K40 to this on a stryker; I generally like to match the color to my dash lighting color (orange) and it matches and looks sweet! My only thing is I wish it got a little brighter. This is a great video though, a lot of great features that I did not even know how to utilize on this radio!
Great Vids FF. I love my 980. The only thig that I have had done to mine is a tune up and the clarifier unlocked. No mods. I get a lot of flowers and great reviews. 73's my Friend.
That is a nice radio. When I was a teenager back in the late 80's early 90's. I had a Johnson Messenger 4230 (not sure about the model off hand) in my bedroom. The past decade or so I've been using a Galaxy DX 949. Nice to see the radios getting more modern. I am partial to my radio and older ones.
I remember the Johnson radios. I think my buddy has one that looked like a phone in his car. A little funny to use, but it worked well. Of course that Galaxy DX 949 is a great radio!
Farpoint Farms Where I grew was close to two interstates. I had a 16 ft Shakespeare on my parents roof connected to the Johnson Messenger. It was pretty cool to talk with many people. It got out pretty good.
the 980ssb is a nice radio, i have one myself. I have to say if you really like ssb cb radio, look in to an HF rig down the line. Its well worth it. I do love my 980 for what it cost, very good bang for your buck. The stock mic is not good, get a workman super star. The super star is a really good mic and its cheep.
In the right hands they are the loudest damn radio you can buy! Have one love it to death will buy another. Not much swing however it’s got more swing than a jazz band! 😎👍
Say Eric, Just wanted to tell you that 741 Connecticut was giving you some lovr and respect on one of his videos. Thought you should know if you didn't already. Keep up the AWESOME vid's. They're educational and informative. 73's, 107 Scott, Dallas Texas
I would suggest playing with the calibration to match the SWR so it will read the same as the other meter. Then just make a note of where the "needle" is in relation to the CAL mark.
I'm using the same radio along with the IMAX 2000 for my base setup. Great receive/transmit with this setup. I recommend looking at Snake Radio Customs website for what he can do with these 980 Bearcats. These are his specialty. Just had my 980 upgraded and I'm very pleased.
River Ryder I agree! I love my src 980, 7 months now I have talked all over the world on it with my 40 foot tower and sirio gain master and the SRC stinger amp if you can afford the little extra help option installed inside. Nobody can here ya... flip lol now they can!! Also shoots mobile antenna skip across the country to Georgia with my secret antenna setup.
Had mine done by cmh electronics. He had a bunch of vids on this rig. Then poof they were all taken down. He soldered the crystals for vibration, killed the beep, peaked the radio and did few other things. It definitely hits the 155 mile mark. And it's clear coming in and going out. It's paired with a predator 10k in my pickup
I bought this radio a little over a year ago. Still haven’t found the best place to mount it in my F450. Right now I have to round cups screwed to a board and they sit in the cup holders, while the CB bracket is mounted on top of the board.
Nice rig. I've just got back into CB and use a CRT SS9900 10m rig opened to 11m. I'm based in the UK and DX on 27.555. Already receiving contacts from across Europe with just an end fed dipole. Hope to get a Antron99 up on the chimney in a couple of months. Sideband is where its at. Like your videos, very informative, cheers.
Great love your channel I got the wire ordered for antenna antenna you use is on it’s way Gonna pull plug tomorrow on this unit for a home base station newbie here thanks for being so thorough..
Congratulations on your new radio. I have the older board model. The swr meter is pretty close on my radio. No complaints except the beep. It's barefooted too It may be because of the wireless mic/speaker why they made the 6 pin. Keep up the videos. I watch them all the time
Glad you like the radio too! I think there is a way on those old models to get rid of the beep, but it involves opening up the radio. I hate to mod radios myself, but some of the videos I've seen of those beeps make me think I would have to consider it!
Farpoint Farms yes it involves opening the radio. I'm not too worried about that for now. Looking into peaking and tuning it. Waiting for ceramic set of screwdrivers to do it. Maybe take the beep away then.
Thanks for the recommendation in your most recent video. I will have to keep a lookout for this model. Even at $120 that is not too bad of a price. I scanned eBay for this radio and most are asking $120 for the sam radio. Thanks for the tip on 2nd gen and the beeping noise. that would annoy my wife. I annoy my wife, I don't need any help.
I have the first generation 980, had it peaked tuned and modded. They come from the factory doing barely half the legal power. It's a great radio and with a good antenna definitely hits the 155 mile mark on ssb. My meter is dead on. And for the older ones, there is s mod for turning the beep off.
There are still a lot of fokks using both up there in the mountains. CB is almost always going on at least one channel up here and Although local HAM is dead in my area, DX it great up here.
Man I appreciate the information. I've been watching some of your videos and they've helped me understand and figure out how and what I need to get setup.
That is a 6-pin microphone because it is a powermic. The two extra wires are positive and negative instead of having a battery inside the microphone. This was for the trucker's so they didn't have to worry about replacing the battery all the time
Finally got it up and running. Found a few conversations on the first night. One guy was on Sauratan Mountain, which is 290 miles away. Got him on regular AM and he and I were both crystal clear! Later I heard a guy up in Fancy Gap, Va. That's 40 miles away. I could hear him, but he couldn't hear me. So, 20 miles confirmed so far. That aint too shabby! Came back to this video, because I thought I remembered you telling us how to turn the beep off. Hehe...you said it could be done in the beginning, and then didn't say how. Oh well...that gives me something to google tonight. Northstar, if we ever get a skip connection between the mountains and the piedmont, I'm "Shellback 997!"
Just picked one of these up brand new for a total "cost to me" = $60. Looking to have some fun with it. Not sure if I am going to do a mobile install or a bas station with it. Love how your channel highlights CB radio. Peace.
I’m surprised by the meter on this, as everything I’ve read on this radio indicated the SWR meter was pretty accurate on this. If you’ll remove the noise canceling element inside the mic - a little black rubber and white cloth piece - I’ve read the mic gets worlds better. I really wanted to pick up the full features the 980 offers, but this just wasn’t going to fit in my Jeep unless I used a far bulkier mount than I care for. I figure I’ll pick one up later to set up in the house. I haven’t had a base station set up in a good 20 years, so it might be fun to have one again. Enjoy the new radio!
Farpoint Farms I got out of the CB game for a number of years, but addressing a recent issue with my trail radio has inspired me to get back into it. I may or may not be a little obsessive about a radio hobby right now, LOL.
Smokey what jeep do you have i have the jk unlimited model quadratec has nice mounts i have the full size for the passenger side with this radio and love it
There is a black plastic cap inside the mic, remove that and chuck it for better transmit audio. Some guys also remove the foam but I leave it in. That plastic cap is the real culprit. I’ve had my 980 for over two years now and love the modern features. Unfortunately I must have the older version because that beep is there and drives me nuts sometimes. Same SWR meter problem as you but mine is worse, it says something different every time I key up, usually somewhere between 2.5 & 3.67. But my antenna analyzer says 1.19 so I added a external SWR meter to keep an eye on things. All in all, good radio. Great receive audio and no complaints about the transmit audio once I removed that plastic cap inside the mic.
I saw on one of your video that you have talked to Ontario, I am in Ontario as well so maybe I will put out a DX and we might make the trip, so if you hear ont 747 that would be me. I was heavy into CB in the 70's with base and mobile. Had a Plymouth station wagon and Midland mobile. With co phased Shakespeare 4 ft tuneable tips and on some nights I could talk to the US don't remember who they were but that was fun. Have watched as far as I know, all of them, 👍👍 thank you for the info
Thank you for the information. I came across your channel about a month and a half ago. I wasn't looking or thinking of cb at all just happened to see one of your videos. Well that started a month and a half of research.. Intense research. What is ssb,ham,antenna options,brands,tune or don't tune and if you do,who can you trust. Well I started with a basic setup to try Uniden 505 and a k30 mag antenna....and off to the races! Love it. I drive all over Tennessee fixing heating and air and use the radio for company. Long story short, I just picked up a 980 ssb today on sale for 120. At a truck shop and will be updating antenna. ITS YOUR FAULT LOL ! Not it's time for a base station ! Anyways I just want to say thank you for explaining a lot about cb. Here In mid tennessee that little 505 is usually pretty busy. Will find out how the 980 does later after install.
I got that Radio new about 3 months ago and love my self.i must got an older one mine has the beep when changing the channels loud to.I started talking on the CB in off and on 1974 until 1980,s then stop then return back talking on them 1985 until 96 here where i live it CB died out
I myself have been looking at that radio as well. Would you be so kind to do a follow-up video and a few months let us know how the radio is holding up and performing?
I have two of them, and the only "faults" I can find with it are these: The measured receiver threshold, the signal level at which audio begins being heard, is 1 microvolt. This makes for a "quiet" receiver as compared to a "noisy" receiver with 0.5 microvolt or less sensitivity. I'm running an Olson Sidebander with less than 0.1 microvolt sensitivity that gives me a S4-5 noise level. It's a given that the 980 is designed for an environment that has antennas less than 100 feet apart. The second issue is the S-meter sensitivity. If you calibrate it for S9 at 100 microvolts it doesn't respond much with lower signals and goes full-scale with far less than +30 dB over 100 microvolts. Minor issues for 99.999 percent of its intended audience. Functionally, it puts out 4 and 12 watts just as advertised, and the audio is adequate. No faults with the transmit side. The weather scan is a nice plus when you're in motion. It will grab on to whatever weather station is in range and will alert you if an alert has been issued. I bought it to compare with a TRC-459 that's in my collection and the lone difference is that the 459 runs everything through the crystal filter to increase selectivity. Selectivity isn't as important when the guy you're talking to is less than 1000 feet away. AM receiver audio on the 980 is fuller than most AM/SSB rigs.
I purchased two of these in April, 2019, one for my Jeep and the other for a base station and was infatuated! I advised my son to get one for a cross-country Jeep trip, the first display failing and then a replacement display blowing out in short order with no help from Uniden. I fired mine up in the Jeep today and the bottom display is blown out, but the radio still works... there is something not right and I am going to move on to President SSB. I have Uniden marine radios that I am pleased with, but I am so very dissapointed with the CBs!
Interesting info. Were these early 980s with the beep function when you change channels or later models with out the beep? I have a later style and haven't had any issues, but maybe it's because its set in a stationary place instead of the car.
you need to look in to the uniden bearcat wireless mic.. i have one on my 980ssb and love it.. its so convenient.. i like this radio.. the only thing i dont like is the low power it has. not a big talking radio for sure.. but over all its a good radio..
The display is not bright enough for mobile operation in many vehicles, also picks up noise from heater fans and other noise sources in mobile operation. Most seem to think a microphone upgrade is useful as well.
An interesting and great video Rick, I myself have upgraded my cab radio from a Midland unit to a Thundrepole unit aT2000 I believe and also I purchased a midland handheld unit as well, however I have just received an email from Thunderpole radios and I am going to purchase from them a CB Homebase kit at a very reasonable price and I was wondering if I would need to upgrade to a HAM radio set up so that I could talk to you in real-time. I would be very interested to hear your thoughts on this very subject as I find it an excellent form of back up communication,weather it be mobile or home based and if the cell networks are overloaded in an emergency. I am in the United Kingdom watching your videos on you tube.
Just bought one of these, now I just need a whip for the truck. I'm currently using a base station 5/8 wave antenna, seems to work great, just need to get it mobile.
Thank you for the instructions Eric. I got one of these radios new from a friend. I'm looking for a new sideband radio to use just setting my station up over here in Cleveland County County I know your video has been a few years old but I enjoyed it it'll help me learn this radio. I don't know how to contact you but I would like to talk to you and visit with you sometime on the phone or maybe at the next Shelby hamfest. I live in polkville. I moved here 20 years ago just now going to set a station up I used to run some pretty big stuff years ago I've had Jesus and brownies and a bunch of stuff that I probably should have kept again I thank you for your video and info and it'll help me help me. Adios. 73's. Cowpuncher . Aka. T e x x
I Just ordered one.i was looking at a few, looking at used , finally bit the bullet.The few used ones I find with SSb were in bad shape at almost new prices.
I got this radio a trick to seeing the LCD screen is to look at it from the side instead of head on. BUt yeah the LCD screen sucks on this radio. Did make a few local contacts like 40 miles away. It does seem to work better on LSB than AM. Since, local contacts are very difficult to make at times in my area on 4w. As there are few nearby stations.
Greg------I need to know how to know whether on my Uniden 980 antenna needs to be shortened or made longer to get a SWR of 1.5 or so. As a fellow NC person ( Asheville) I would like meet you some day. I have used the 213 coax cable you mentioned in an early video, while setting up my new base station.i bought a 1/2 wave Italian antenna,putting it up vertically as I want to try the LSB sometime.
Wondering if CB is the primary mode of comms at your farm? Hearing the SSB brings back memories. Used to run an import mobile back in the day and I made some great contacts on SSB
Very nice video. Thank you for posting it. I use a bearcat 880 in my Kenworth. I've been very happy with it. I've been thinking about getting sideband or getting into Ham. I would love to see an update video after you have used it for a while.
One thing I would check out is that the radio is putting out full power. Not sure with this radio, but I believe on HF radios the fold back circuit is tied to the internal SWR meter. If it is off calibration it might be throttling back your wattage.
They come neutered from the factory. When the tech got mine to do the mods, it was only doing about 1 3/4 watts. All the radios that the tech was doing were the same way and he did a bunch of 980s
I've been running this radio for 8 months now in my pick up truck with a Wilson 5000 antenna. Love it. Best radio I've owned. On SSB can talk to Canada, Idaho, Arizona and all points in between. No power amp, I run barefoot. Your really going to love this radio.
@@daveaf3023 most police listening is going to happen on FM UHF and VHF CB radio is an AM for amplitude modulation radio awesome most modern police departments will be running digital trunking systems what you're not going to be able to listen to so easily
can you adjust the power output on the 980?
@@somejackball I just got one, nope on the power adj.
I ordered one of these today along with a Pyramid PS9KX 5amp / 13.8 power supply…I received a Tram 1498 that I’m going to mount up about 30feet in the air… I’m crossing my fingers buddy that I will be able to reach out there. At the very least it’s going to be a vast improvement over my current base station. Thanks again for the awesome channel and maybe I’ll hear you on my radio from down here in central Alabama ✝️🇺🇸🤙🏻🅰️
Bought one a few days ago. Haven't figured out all the functions yet. Wanted a sideband radio since I had a Cobra 146 back in the 80's when sunspot cycles were hot. Been a CB'er since 1978. A ham since 92'. Had a 25 watt Radio Shack 10 meter radio. You'll be amazed at what a 25 watt sideband radio will do on a dipole or ground plane antenna.
This is by far the BEST CB SSB radio on the market match it with a power amp and Wilson 5000 Mag antenna and you have the best of everything. Transmission and receive will be around 26 - 33 miles .
This blows Cobra LX 29 away ,it’s not even close .
The President McKinley has more receive filtering features and VOX. To be fair, the 980 came out before it. The 980 has the voltage meter where the McKinley does not.
The 980 also has more display colour options.
Both radios use the same mic pin out. So the channel changing wired microphone of the McKinley can be used with the 980, and the wireless microphone of the 980 can be used with the McKinley.
Anyways, either radios are great choices.
I love this rig! Been running it for a year now; along with a 5/8 SuperPenatrator groundplane + KL-203 amp; hit 38 out of 50 states so far! Best CB investment I've ever made. Get great audio reports without any mods. Kudos to Uniden.
It was a shock when they came out with it. At the time Cobra still had the 148, but no one else was even making SSB radios. This really kicked the hobby back into life. I love mine as well.
Is this your home setup?
@@cnance1972 Yes!
have you had any issues with the amp overheating ? i was told i needed to adjust the deadkey
@@bobbyt3451 1.5 WATTS IN. NO NEED TO GO HIGHER!
I've run this radio for quite a while now and the two things I did was unlock the clarifier. It'll save you so much time and headaches while skipping. And pop the mic apart and remove the black rubber part with the hole in it. Or cut a bigger hole. Like the size of a quarter, It's for noise canceling. If you're inside there's no need for noise canceling. I cut mine and people say it's crystel clear.
Thanks for the info!
Thanks!! took mine out today, others can here me nice & clear, they was always saying i sounded muffeld or like far away.
After taking the rubber part out you might have to put us a little bit of foam in there
Yeah, your right some people do that.
Cotten doesn't cut the sound like foam does. Foam acts like a filter.
Update purchasing this CB tomorrow for cheap! Still new to CB and this will be my first base station. I have been using the hh35 Cobra. I am so excited to get it tomorrow. Thanks
Got my radio! It is awesome! Comes with everything even mod to 45 watts comes with external mic and roadking chrome mic almost brand new in box for $60.00! Best deal ever!!!
Thanks Erik! Just picked one of these up. SSB CB is the first layer of preparedness communications.
Couldn't agree more. These things will be gold when other comms go down.
I just bought one thru Amazon $142, LOVE IT!! Using it as a Base Station radio. Now I need some optimized antenna help!
This was my first radio of the new millennium...20 years ago. All I had owned were cb radios and older hf rigs made in the mid 90's or older. I use a modified aries power mic with tantalum caps inside and different values. Crystal clear and clean audio! Love it!
Mine is still working strong. I just talked to Kansas the other day.
@@FarpointFarms that's awesome! I love the airwaves!
I brought my radio back in April 2019. Using original stock mike; contacts always compliment my clear audio - no distortion. Using a 5/8 Super Penetrator; skipped all over the U.S. too. No mods but performance top-notch anyways. Just found a retail outlet that is selling this same radio for under 100.00. I will be purchasing that one too.
Hello Eric,
Based on YOUR review and a bit of research I purchased and installed a ‘980 i n my ham shack.
Great radio!
I live within hailing distance of Interstate 81 Exit 165 here in the Wilkes Barre PA area and often hear drivers requests for information and assistance.
So, as a “local yocal” I can direct them to restaurants, service facilities, Kmart, and Walmart...
Also, our local Starbucks has parking for tractor-trailers... Yay!
Enjoy your videos. Keep up the good work. Hope to work you someday on HF or 38 LSB.
Howie WA3MCK
Former Radioman/Telegrapher Submarine Service USN
PS - I will be celebrating 50 years of Amateur Radio in April!.
Glad to hear your enjoying the 980! It really is a great radio. 50 years!! Wow man, I'm sure you've seen just a few minor changes in the HAM hobby during that time. I can't keep up with it these days. I walked away for about 5 years and now it seems it's all gone digital.
I'm from pa also. Close to Dubois if ya know where that is?
i have the 1st version,and love this radio.I opened up clarifier for +/-3 khz @ 8 volts.only mod done.
Love this radio so far! Got one a couple months ago. Nice build quality and smooth controls. Price is great for what you get. Even my son - who likes the old school CB look - thinks this unit is sweet. Search is nice and sensitive. Operators tell me my audio is nice and clear. Thanks for the review!
I've been using a 2nd gen 980SSB for a year now.
It puts out about 3W straight out of the box which is perfect for driving the RM Italy KL203P to 100W without it getting too hot.
The thing Uniden did right with this radio is that it *does not* drift from center frequency on sideband. It is stable as a rock.
You'll have to chase everybody else around with the clarifier but you'll stay rock steady.
I was looking at the 980 to use with a RM Italy KL203p. I was worried that I can't turn the RF power down. How is yours holding up?
Cool, that adapter from Uniden for the 6-4 pin may save me some time and internet service. If truck stops have that on hand, then I can avoid going to President Electronics in Spain to get my McKinley USA set up here. The physical size was the reason I went for it rather than the 980, but I'm looking forward to hooking up the Bluetooth adapter too, so once again the Uniden videos are such a great help. Thank you very much Sir.
Glad I could help!
I remember when I first put my CB radio in my crown victoria. I was (and still use) a cobra night watch. Its a lower end model, but someone asked for a radio check, I responded and asked where they were. They were in Lake Placid. I told him I was in Northern NJ, and was impressed of the range. He told me he was using a Bearcat. Now seeing it on your channel, I may pick one up.
Great old school radio. I've had mine since 99 or so.
I've got the same radio in my pickup absolutely love it bone stock no Pekin tune no nothing and it works flawless. It receives and transmits as well as I will ever need.
I have not been into cb for awhile.
But at the time my base was a cobra 148gtl modified open clarifier, extra channels. A d 104, a 250watt kicker, an a antron 99. I lived on an acreage outside of Winnipeg. Moved to Calgary where I gave it up. Still miss it. Radio Canada 428. International radio Canada 1428.🇨🇦🍁👍
Sounds like you had one heck of a setup back in the day.
Bought this radio a few months ago, running it mobile in my pickup. Still learning how to use it correctly and your videos are helping me figure it out. My only complaint on it is the display, even set on high, is very dim.
I've heard that a few times over the years. Since this is setup to be a base, I've never had an issue. Still a great radio!
I love these Unidens. I have two. Also an 880 and even an 885 from the same family which work well.
Nice, I’ve got the same bearcat 980 in my truck recently... per your ssb radio vids in past. Couldn’t find any older ssb radios at local garage sales/ flea markets, so I broke down and went new. Love it, It gets great receive.
8 months later... my display completely crapped out. Completely unreadable after the unit warms up, it lasted just long enough for the warranty to expire.
@@mr.somewhere2678 yep same here. Sold it and got an anytone and never looked back
I actually upgraded from a little but sturdy PRO520XL I had on a K40 to this on a stryker; I generally like to match the color to my dash lighting color (orange) and it matches and looks sweet! My only thing is I wish it got a little brighter. This is a great video though, a lot of great features that I did not even know how to utilize on this radio!
Those are very underrated rigs !! The receive on those is just as good or better on radios twice or 3 times the price !
It really is a great radio for picking up the faintest of signals.
I got one too in my freightliner truck with a double coil antenna it scans all channels very good radio like it a lot
I would have never thought about that radio. It has a lot of really cool features.
Great Vids FF. I love my 980. The only thig that I have had done to mine is a tune up and the clarifier unlocked. No mods. I get a lot of flowers and great reviews. 73's my Friend.
Great radio! I just bought one and installed it in my wifes vehicles. Works amazing with a Tram 300 antenna and RM 203 P 200 watt linear
That is a nice radio. When I was a teenager back in the late 80's early 90's. I had a Johnson Messenger 4230 (not sure about the model off hand) in my bedroom. The past decade or so I've been using a Galaxy DX 949. Nice to see the radios getting more modern. I am partial to my radio and older ones.
I remember the Johnson radios. I think my buddy has one that looked like a phone in his car. A little funny to use, but it worked well. Of course that Galaxy DX 949 is a great radio!
Farpoint Farms Where I grew was close to two interstates. I had a 16 ft Shakespeare on my parents roof connected to the Johnson Messenger. It was pretty cool to talk with many people. It got out pretty good.
I wish I never would have gotten rid of my galaxy 949
Is there a way to unlock thr clarifier
I have the 880 and love it. I want get the 980. The unidens are super simple and the sound clarity is amazing.
I just took delivery of my Uniden Bearcat 980! Thanks again for this video, it helped me decide which CB radio to buy.
@@somejackball Sorry, I don't know.
the 980ssb is a nice radio, i have one myself. I have to say if you really like ssb cb radio, look in to an HF rig down the line. Its well worth it. I do love my 980 for what it cost, very good bang for your buck. The stock mic is not good, get a workman super star. The super star is a really good mic and its cheep.
Thanks for the tip!
I've had this radio for about a year. I like it a lot.
Always appreciate your videos. Thank you for doing them!
In the right hands they are the loudest damn radio you can buy! Have one love it to death will buy another.
Not much swing however it’s got more swing than a jazz band! 😎👍
Great vid. I have the same radio for a month and doing well in my SUV.
Say Eric, Just wanted to tell you that 741 Connecticut was giving you some lovr and respect on one of his videos. Thought you should know if you didn't already.
Keep up the AWESOME vid's. They're educational and informative.
73's, 107 Scott, Dallas Texas
I have the first gen and the fix for the beep is really easy, even for a novas like me. Its a great radio for sure.
I would suggest playing with the calibration to match the SWR so it will read the same as the other meter. Then just make a note of where the "needle" is in relation to the CAL mark.
Love the CB videos. Keep making more. 👍👍👍
Very nice radio! thanks for the detailed review/demo.
I'm using the same radio along with the IMAX 2000 for my base setup. Great receive/transmit with this setup. I recommend looking at Snake Radio Customs website for what he can do with these 980 Bearcats. These are his specialty. Just had my 980 upgraded and I'm very pleased.
River Ryder I agree! I love my src 980, 7 months now I have talked all over the world on it with my 40 foot tower and sirio gain master and the SRC stinger amp if you can afford the little extra help option installed inside. Nobody can here ya... flip lol now they can!! Also shoots mobile antenna skip across the country to Georgia with my secret antenna setup.
Had mine done by cmh electronics. He had a bunch of vids on this rig. Then poof they were all taken down. He soldered the crystals for vibration, killed the beep, peaked the radio and did few other things. It definitely hits the 155 mile mark. And it's clear coming in and going out. It's paired with a predator 10k in my pickup
I bought this radio a little over a year ago. Still haven’t found the best place to mount it in my F450. Right now I have to round cups screwed to a board and they sit in the cup holders, while the CB bracket is mounted on top of the board.
Nice rig. I've just got back into CB and use a CRT SS9900 10m rig opened to 11m. I'm based in the UK and DX on 27.555. Already receiving contacts from across Europe with just an end fed dipole. Hope to get a Antron99 up on the chimney in a couple of months. Sideband is where its at. Like your videos, very informative, cheers.
I have this radio, it's awesome! I also purchased the wireless microphone and love it. Thanks for sharing all video's with us.
That's a killer setup. Congrats on the new unit. Use it in good health !
Thanks!
Great love your channel I got the wire ordered for antenna antenna you use is on it’s way
Gonna pull plug tomorrow on this unit for a home base station newbie here thanks for being so thorough..
Good luck!
Congratulations on your new radio. I have the older board model. The swr meter is pretty close on my radio. No complaints except the beep. It's barefooted too It may be because of the wireless mic/speaker why they made the 6 pin. Keep up the videos. I watch them all the time
Glad you like the radio too! I think there is a way on those old models to get rid of the beep, but it involves opening up the radio. I hate to mod radios myself, but some of the videos I've seen of those beeps make me think I would have to consider it!
Farpoint Farms yes it involves opening the radio. I'm not too worried about that for now. Looking into peaking and tuning it. Waiting for ceramic set of screwdrivers to do it. Maybe take the beep away then.
Thanks for the recommendation in your most recent video. I will have to keep a lookout for this model. Even at $120 that is not too bad of a price. I scanned eBay for this radio and most are asking $120 for the sam radio. Thanks for the tip on 2nd gen and the beeping noise. that would annoy my wife. I annoy my wife, I don't need any help.
Ha!
Check pilot and ta truck stops. I bought mine when it first hit the shelves for 109
@@chrispierce2942 Thanks!
FOUND IT! thanks I have been thinking of picking up this radio
Glad I could help!
I have the first generation 980, had it peaked tuned and modded. They come from the factory doing barely half the legal power. It's a great radio and with a good antenna definitely hits the 155 mile mark on ssb. My meter is dead on. And for the older ones, there is s mod for turning the beep off.
Did you know that it's legal to talk skip on CB. The FCC did away with that rule.
Thanks for the review. Just ordered one to try out as my base station.
I have the same radio it's a great Radio you're going to love it
Your review has made me go for this radio. The rig arrive this morning and I´m very happy. Greetings from Colombia.
I bought one yesterday also for 60 bucks. Free shipping!
++++++++++++++Hi 2 you from Adelaide+++++++SOUTH AUSTRALIA_______MY FIRST DX BY COMPUTER+++++++
Hey man, I live in the mountains in NC. I.never owned a CB but I want to get into it and HAM also.
There are still a lot of fokks using both up there in the mountains. CB is almost always going on at least one channel up here and Although local HAM is dead in my area, DX it great up here.
Dope! I ordered one the other day, can't wait for it to come in. I'm gonna pair it with a firestik 2 fs5
Man I appreciate the information. I've been watching some of your videos and they've helped me understand and figure out how and what I need to get setup.
Glad to hear it!
That is a 6-pin microphone because it is a powermic. The two extra wires are positive and negative instead of having a battery inside the microphone. This was for the trucker's so they didn't have to worry about replacing the battery all the time
Finally got it up and running. Found a few conversations on the first night. One guy was on Sauratan Mountain, which is 290 miles away. Got him on regular AM and he and I were both crystal clear! Later I heard a guy up in Fancy Gap, Va. That's 40 miles away. I could hear him, but he couldn't hear me.
So, 20 miles confirmed so far. That aint too shabby!
Came back to this video, because I thought I remembered you telling us how to turn the beep off. Hehe...you said it could be done in the beginning, and then didn't say how. Oh well...that gives me something to google tonight.
Northstar, if we ever get a skip connection between the mountains and the piedmont, I'm "Shellback 997!"
Easy enough. It's in the manal. Hold down the "ANL/NB" button until the display says "beep off."
Done...and done.
bells and whistles. the old radio will talk and receive just as good. the scan is nice.
Led's just went out on mine really liked this radio, going to try and go with a dxd4hp next
I bought this for my truck not realizing how big it was as a CB noob. I like it so much though I want to make it work somehow.
I have seen people do a little trim work and get them to fit in the DIN slot below their radio.
Just picked one of these up brand new for a total "cost to me" = $60. Looking to have some fun with it. Not sure if I am going to do a mobile install or a bas station with it. Love how your channel highlights CB radio. Peace.
I’m surprised by the meter on this, as everything I’ve read on this radio indicated the SWR meter was pretty accurate on this.
If you’ll remove the noise canceling element inside the mic - a little black rubber and white cloth piece - I’ve read the mic gets worlds better.
I really wanted to pick up the full features the 980 offers, but this just wasn’t going to fit in my Jeep unless I used a far bulkier mount than I care for. I figure I’ll pick one up later to set up in the house. I haven’t had a base station set up in a good 20 years, so it might be fun to have one again.
Enjoy the new radio!
I find myself using my base station WAY more than any of my mobile installs. there is still a lot of fun out there on sideband!
Farpoint Farms I got out of the CB game for a number of years, but addressing a recent issue with my trail radio has inspired me to get back into it. I may or may not be a little obsessive about a radio hobby right now, LOL.
Smokey what jeep do you have i have the jk unlimited model quadratec has nice mounts i have the full size for the passenger side with this radio and love it
i just bought one off amazon for 98 bucks said used but it was just reboxed looks great
That is a GREAT deal!
Finding our tribes for these modern times.
I hope to have this by Labor Day 2018
I’ll check you on skip. Fluffeh Bunneh from Derby City
There is a black plastic cap inside the mic, remove that and chuck it for better transmit audio. Some guys also remove the foam but I leave it in. That plastic cap is the real culprit. I’ve had my 980 for over two years now and love the modern features. Unfortunately I must have the older version because that beep is there and drives me nuts sometimes. Same SWR meter problem as you but mine is worse, it says something different every time I key up, usually somewhere between 2.5 & 3.67. But my antenna analyzer says 1.19 so I added a external SWR meter to keep an eye on things. All in all, good radio. Great receive audio and no complaints about the transmit audio once I removed that plastic cap inside the mic.
I just bought 2 of them, 1 for me 1 for my wife love it so far
his and hers- too cool
I saw on one of your video that you have talked to Ontario, I am in Ontario as well so maybe I will put out a DX and we might make the trip, so if you hear ont 747 that would be me. I was heavy into CB in the 70's with base and mobile. Had a Plymouth station wagon and Midland mobile. With co phased Shakespeare 4 ft tuneable tips and on some nights I could talk to the US don't remember who they were but that was fun. Have watched as far as I know, all of them, 👍👍 thank you for the info
Thank you for the information. I came across your channel about a month and a half ago. I wasn't looking or thinking of cb at all just happened to see one of your videos. Well that started a month and a half of research..
Intense research. What is ssb,ham,antenna options,brands,tune or don't tune and if you do,who can you trust. Well I started with a basic setup to try Uniden 505 and a k30 mag antenna....and off to the races! Love it. I drive all over Tennessee fixing heating and air and use the radio for company. Long story short, I just picked up a 980 ssb today on sale for 120. At a truck shop and will be updating antenna. ITS YOUR FAULT LOL ! Not it's time for a base station ! Anyways I just want to say thank you for explaining a lot about cb. Here In mid tennessee that little 505 is usually pretty busy. Will find out how the 980 does later after install.
The 6 pin connector is for the Uniden bluetooth mic that everyone loves so much.
Love this bluetooth mic i use it when i trail guide it great for moven people through trails
I got that Radio new about 3 months ago and love my self.i must got an older one mine has the beep when changing the channels loud to.I started talking on the CB in off and on 1974 until 1980,s then stop then return back talking on them 1985 until 96 here where i live it CB died out
I have two of them one in my truck and one in the house thy work good.
I myself have been looking at that radio as well. Would you be so kind to do a follow-up video and a few months let us know how the radio is holding up and performing?
Will do!
@@FarpointFarms did you ever have a chance to make an update on this radio? thinking about picking one up.
AFTER YRS OF DIFFERENT RADIO'S. MY FAVORITE RADIO IS THE 148 COBRA..THE RECEIVE POWER CAN'T BE BEAT..REALLY LARRY IN INDIANAPOLIS INDIANA..
True Classic!
I have two of them, and the only "faults" I can find with it are these:
The measured receiver threshold, the signal level at which audio begins being heard, is 1 microvolt. This makes for a "quiet" receiver as compared to a "noisy" receiver with 0.5 microvolt or less sensitivity. I'm running an Olson Sidebander with less than 0.1 microvolt sensitivity that gives me a S4-5 noise level. It's a given that the 980 is designed for an environment that has antennas less than 100 feet apart.
The second issue is the S-meter sensitivity. If you calibrate it for S9 at 100 microvolts it doesn't respond much with lower signals and goes full-scale with far less than +30 dB over 100 microvolts.
Minor issues for 99.999 percent of its intended audience.
Functionally, it puts out 4 and 12 watts just as advertised, and the audio is adequate. No faults with the transmit side.
The weather scan is a nice plus when you're in motion. It will grab on to whatever weather station is in range and will alert you if an alert has been issued.
I bought it to compare with a TRC-459 that's in my collection and the lone difference is that the 459 runs everything through the crystal filter to increase selectivity. Selectivity isn't as important when the guy you're talking to is less than 1000 feet away. AM receiver audio on the 980 is fuller than most AM/SSB rigs.
I purchased two of these in April, 2019, one for my Jeep and the other for a base station and was infatuated! I advised my son to get one for a cross-country Jeep trip, the first display failing and then a replacement display blowing out in short order with no help from Uniden. I fired mine up in the Jeep today and the bottom display is blown out, but the radio still works... there is something not right and I am going to move on to President SSB. I have Uniden marine radios that I am pleased with, but I am so very dissapointed with the CBs!
Interesting info. Were these early 980s with the beep function when you change channels or later models with out the beep? I have a later style and haven't had any issues, but maybe it's because its set in a stationary place instead of the car.
I just bought one i think is has 6 pin mic because it has a wireless mic option you can be up to 100meters from the radio with it
I have a chief gladiator with uper & lower ssb 23 channel it also has a switch that gets me up to 40 . Just found u ,good show
Nice Radio, I like all the things it does, a LDG Z-100 Autotuner would good to tune your SWR with this radio.
Oh no... Making a purchasing decision just got harder. Now I think I want this one !!
Ha! I really do love this radio so far. I really wish I had bought it sooner. Very sensitive on receive.
you need to look in to the uniden bearcat wireless mic.. i have one on my 980ssb and love it.. its so convenient.. i like this radio.. the only thing i dont like is the low power it has. not a big talking radio for sure.. but over all its a good radio..
Great video 👍 Got to get me one of them 😊
My Uniden Madison stopped transmitting so I bought one of these, got it yesterday. Will unbox it this coming weekend.
I got 980ssb my came from amazon 112 back in 2016 still work on going
The display is not bright enough for mobile operation in many vehicles, also picks up noise from heater fans and other noise sources in mobile operation. Most seem to think a microphone upgrade is useful as well.
An interesting and great video Rick, I myself have upgraded my cab radio from a Midland unit to a Thundrepole unit aT2000 I believe and also I purchased a midland handheld unit as well, however I have just received an email from Thunderpole radios and I am going to purchase from them a CB Homebase kit at a very reasonable price and I was wondering if I would need to upgrade to a HAM radio set up so that I could talk to you in real-time.
I would be very interested to hear your thoughts on this very subject as I find it an excellent form of back up communication,weather it be mobile or home based and if the cell networks are overloaded in an emergency.
I am in the United Kingdom watching your videos on you tube.
Just bought one of these, now I just need a whip for the truck. I'm currently using a base station 5/8 wave antenna, seems to work great, just need to get it mobile.
This is a beautiful looking radio
Thank you for the instructions Eric. I got one of these radios new from a friend. I'm looking for a new sideband radio to use just setting my station up over here in Cleveland County County I know your video has been a few years old but I enjoyed it it'll help me learn this radio. I don't know how to contact you but I would like to talk to you and visit with you sometime on the phone or maybe at the next Shelby hamfest. I live in polkville. I moved here 20 years ago just now going to set a station up I used to run some pretty big stuff years ago I've had Jesus and brownies and a bunch of stuff that I probably should have kept again I thank you for your video and info and it'll help me help me. Adios. 73's. Cowpuncher . Aka. T e x x
Maybe at Shelby- I have met a few people there over the years
I Just ordered one.i was looking at a few, looking at used , finally bit the bullet.The few used ones I find with SSb were in bad shape at almost new prices.
I just scored a used 980 on eBay and hope it's as good as it should be. It's going in the truck under the 102" whip.
I got this radio a trick to seeing the LCD screen is to look at it from the side instead of head on. BUt yeah the LCD screen sucks on this radio. Did make a few local contacts like 40 miles away. It does seem to work better on LSB than AM. Since, local contacts are very difficult to make at times in my area on 4w. As there are few nearby stations.
Greg------I need to know how to know whether on my Uniden 980 antenna needs to be shortened or made longer to get a SWR of 1.5 or so.
As a fellow NC person ( Asheville) I would like meet you some day.
I have used the 213 coax cable you mentioned in an early video, while setting up my new base station.i bought a 1/2 wave Italian antenna,putting it up vertically as I want to try the LSB sometime.
Check channel one, then check channel 40. If 40 is higher that 1, trim the antenna. I have a video on adjusting antennas. Check it out!
I love that radio same one i got to replace my cobra classic 29 ltd
When i first got my 980 i was getting weather with a coathanger before I got an antenna
Wondering if CB is the primary mode of comms at your farm? Hearing the SSB brings back memories. Used to run an import mobile back in the day and I made some great contacts on SSB
I own one with a Stinger board installed!
Very nice video. Thank you for posting it. I use a bearcat 880 in my Kenworth. I've been very happy with it. I've been thinking about getting sideband or getting into Ham. I would love to see an update video after you have used it for a while.
Will do!
One thing I would check out is that the radio is putting out full power. Not sure with this radio, but I believe on HF radios the fold back circuit is tied to the internal SWR meter. If it is off calibration it might be throttling back your wattage.
I'll have to check it. I know these radios are not known to be power houses, but I hope to have at least 3 watts out on AM.
They come neutered from the factory. When the tech got mine to do the mods, it was only doing about 1 3/4 watts. All the radios that the tech was doing were the same way and he did a bunch of 980s
@@chrispierce2942 who did it and where is he? No one around here wants to mess with these
Love mine but I had it tuned and the beep turned off