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I'm looking too, Tim!

I liked the features of the Vertex VXA-700 (no longer available new) but only for it's Ham radio capability. They had a series of good and bad PIREPS. Then I liked the Sporty's (when it was on sale) but no longer consider it competitive when you purchase the additional accessories (I want the capability of using dry cells, among other options). I still don't own a handheld, but if Icom's aviation radios are as good as their Ham radios (I own HF and VHF) they are top of the line in dependability! I recommend your new radio has the capability of full power operation on dry cells (quick backup when the rechargeable fails, and available anywhere). Some radios offer only reduced output on dry cell operation! Dont forget to factor into the total cost any needed optional accessories. A bargain radio can become a money pit when options aren't included.

Thanks for all the Information! Looking at sporty's and Aicraft spruce at the Icom Transceivers. Now to talk nice to the other half and to raid the piggy bank!! Thanks again to everyone for thier input!!! ---TIM

Check the price at www.marvgolden.com [marvgolden.com] too. Their prices are usually quite competitive. They include a FREE akaline battery pack on most ICOM handhelds.

Your correct Hung! They seem to be a bit cheaper, thanks---TIM

I just bought a SP200 from sporty's, hooked it up to out side antenna and I couldn't believe how clear it was.

Ditto ... I have an Icom A23 and all the assesories that Gary mentions except for the lapel mic, and I'll be looking for one of those.

One thing I'll add, is to hook everything up in the comfort of your home and test it, then leave the headset adapter and PTT plugged in, in your flight bag. I had to connect everything once on short notice (not short final thankfully) and it is a bit cumbersome. The way I store mine now I can pull it out of the bag, hook in my headset plugs and its good to go.

I also recommend the alkaline battery pack that Gary recommended because once the recharagable battery is dead, you're toast. You can bring along the battery pack and spare batteries. I flew a J3 cub for a few years with this radio as my only communication and it worked like a charm, but I am also very familar with the recharagble batteries and strongly recommend the pack with spares.

Terry [/quote]