After having an Oricom UHF base unit in our vehicle, we chose the Ultra550 x 5 watt as a handheld unit for the times we were away from our vehicle. The unit feels good to hold and isn’t heavy and has a strong outer casing. It’s also small enough to slip in your pocket and clips nicely on a belt or backpack strap.
We find it’s easy to view channels and settings even in bright harsh sunlight. The audio is clear and loud enough to be heard even while riding our quad bike, and the reception has been great and signal strength fine even when climbing in and around gorges.
We occasionally use an external microphone which screws into place so it can’t work loose – this way the unit can be tucked away safely in a pocket and the hand piece clips nicely to your shirt.
While we’re yet to use it with our tinnie, it’s nice to know it will survive being dropped in water with its IP67 rating. The battery life typically lasts 3 to 4 days on the tracks before needing a recharge, and the docking station meant it was easy to recharge while travelling in our vehicle. We were after a unit that could withstand the harsh and dusty conditions, and something that was robust should it get dropped when rock climbing or tracking about in sand, mud and water. Our Ultra550 hasn’t missed a beat and we’re more than happy with it.
For more info, visit www.oricom.com.au
Catch you next time.
Grant & Linda