GME TX6150 UHF CB Radios: Product test

HANDHELD UHF CB radios have a tonne of handy uses – having a yarn with fellow travellers, spotting on tough 4x4 tracks, getting directions while reversing the camper trailer – and once you’ve used them, you’ll never go back to yelling at the top of your lungs.

GME’s TX6150 unit is a rugged five-watt, 80-channel UHF radio that’ll outperform many others at twice the size. Plus they can survive a knock and a dip in the drink as they are rated to IP67 (water and dustproof).

Included in the sealed, blow-moulded carry case is a desktop 240V fast charger, a 12V trickle charger with a ciggie lighter plug, two handsfree earpiece mics and two handheld speaker mics.

I haven’t used the earpiece mics, but I’ve found the handheld mics can be securely clipped to your collar via the swivelling clip, making for easy hearing given it’s right up next to your ear. The mic will also easily pick up your voice.

Each radio is packed with a removable lithium-ion 2200mAh battery, which easily lasts a whole day’s work. The specs even suggest a full 24 hours’ use on low power settings, given the built-in intelligent battery management system. The great thing with these removable batteries is that extra batteries can be purchased and charged ready for use, if you should need communications over extra-long periods without the ability to recharge.

These tiny diecast radios ‘feel’ solid, unlike cheap plastic junk. And, given they’re small enough to slip into your pocket, there really is no reason why you shouldn’t cart them everywhere you go.

Since we reviewed these units, the TX6150 has been replaced by the TX6155, which has a longer battery life. They retail for $329.95 as a single unit, or $599.95 if you opt for the kit, like this one.

RATED

Available from: www.gme.net.au
RRP: $599.95 (TX6155)
We say: Invaluable for short and medium distance communication.