Who Makes Anytone Radios? How Good Are They?

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Editorial Team

When it comes to Anytone Radios, you might be wondering who actually makes them and how good they are. Well, look no further, because we have the answers for you. Anytone is the manufacturer and creator of Anytone Radios, including their popular model, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus. So, you can rest assured that these radios are made by the very company that knows them inside and out.

But what sets Anytone Radios apart from the competition? For starters, the AT-D878UVII Plus is widely regarded as the best DMR ham radio handheld transceiver available. It’s specifically designed for ham radio operators, offering a robust build and a range of impressive features.

One of the standout features of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is its physical channel and volume encoder knobs, which make operation a breeze. The color screen provides a clear and vibrant display, and the radio supports a whopping 500,000 DMR contacts. Plus, with Bluetooth capability and a remote Bluetooth PTT button, you have even more convenience and flexibility at your fingertips.

Regular firmware updates ensure that your AnyTone radio stays up to date with the latest features and improvements. And don’t forget, the AT-D878UVII Plus is FCC Part 90 certified and offers encryption capabilities, making it suitable for both commercial and amateur use.

So, whether you’re a seasoned ham radio operator or just starting out, Anytone Radios has you covered with their top-notch AT-D878UVII Plus.

Key Takeaways:

  • Anytone is the manufacturer and creator of Anytone Radios, including the popular AT-D878UVII Plus model.
  • The AT-D878UVII Plus is regarded as the best DMR ham radio handheld transceiver on the market.
  • It features physical channel and volume encoder knobs, a color screen, and support for 500,000 DMR contacts.
  • Bluetooth capability and a remote Bluetooth PTT button provide additional convenience.
  • Regular firmware updates ensure the radio stays up to date, and it is FCC Part 90 certified with encryption capabilities.

Features of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is a top choice among radio enthusiasts due to its impressive features and capabilities. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur user, this radio has you covered. Here’s a closer look at what sets it apart:

1. Physical Channel and Volume Encoder Knobs

With the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus, you can easily navigate and adjust settings using the physical channel and volume encoder knobs. This user-friendly design makes operation a breeze, allowing you to have full control of your radio with just a few simple twists.

2. Color Screen with Customizable Display Options

The radio’s color screen not only enhances the overall appearance but also offers customizable display options. You can personalize the screen layout to suit your preferences, ensuring that you have all the important information at your fingertips.

3. Support for 500,000 DMR Contacts

Stay connected with ease through the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus, which supports an impressive 500,000 DMR contacts. This extensive contact capacity ensures that you can maintain communication and access vital information without limitations.

4. Bluetooth Capability

Experience seamless connectivity with the built-in Bluetooth feature of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus. Pair your radio with compatible devices such as headsets and speakers for a hands-free and enhanced communication experience.

5. Remote Bluetooth PTT Button

Take control of your radio even from a distance with the remote Bluetooth PTT button. This convenient accessory allows you to operate the radio remotely, providing flexibility and convenience in various scenarios.

6. Regular Firmware Updates

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is continuously updated with firmware improvements and new features. Stay at the forefront of technology and enjoy the latest enhancements to ensure optimal performance and functionality.

7. FCC Part 90 Certification and Encryption Support

Rest assured that the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus meets strict standards with its FCC Part 90 certification. This certification ensures its compliance with regulations for commercial use. Additionally, the radio supports encryption, safeguarding your communications and adding an extra layer of security.

8. Straightforward Programming Software

Programming your AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is hassle-free thanks to the easy-to-use programming software. This software simplifies the process, allowing you to customize settings and channels to suit your specific needs quickly.

9. Good Battery Life and Option for Larger Battery

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers reliable battery life, ensuring that you can depend on your radio even during long periods of use. It also provides the option for a larger battery, further extending your radio’s operating time.

10. RX Frequency Range and Scanning Speed

While the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus delivers exceptional performance in many aspects, it is important to note that it has a limited RX frequency range and slower scanning compared to some other radios on the market. However, these limitations are outweighed by the radio’s numerous other impressive features.

Overall, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is a feature-packed radio that offers a combination of functionality, convenience, and security. With customizable options, extensive contact support, and Bluetooth capability, this radio is sure to meet the needs of both amateur and professional users alike.

Performance of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus for Railfanning

Railfanning is a popular hobby among radio enthusiasts, and the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus proves to be a reliable choice for this activity. With its exceptional sensitivity and selectivity, this radio outperforms the Uniden BC-125AT scanner and is comparable to high-end commercial portable radios.

One of the standout features of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is its audio quality. Even at the highest volume setting, the radio delivers clear and crisp sound, ensuring that you won’t miss any important communications while railfanning.

The battery life of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is impressive, allowing you to enjoy extended periods of railfanning without worrying about running out of power. This is particularly beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts who spend long hours in the field.

While the scan speed of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is decent, it may be slightly slower compared to some other radios on the market. Nevertheless, its compact and rugged design makes it a suitable companion for railfanning adventures.

For a visual representation of the performance of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus for railfanning, refer to the table below:

Performance Rating
Sensitivity ★★★★☆
Selectivity ★★★★☆
Audio Quality ★★★★☆
Battery Life ★★★★★
Scan Speed ★★★☆☆

As depicted in the table, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus delivers excellent performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, audio quality, and battery life. While it may not be the fastest scanner available, its other features and reliability make it a top choice for railfanning enthusiasts.

Comparison with Other Radios in a Similar Price Range

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers a compelling balance of performance and affordability within its price range. While it may be pricier than entry-level options like Baofeng radios, it is significantly more affordable compared to higher-end models such as the Hytera HP series or Motorola units. Let’s compare the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus with two other radios in a similar price range: the Ailunce HD1 and TYT MD-380.

Ailunce HD1: While the Ailunce HD1 may have a rugged appearance, it has received mixed reviews regarding its quality control and analog performance. This suggests that it may not consistently deliver the desired level of performance and reliability. In terms of features, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers dual band capability, APRS support, and more compared to the Ailunce HD1.

TYT MD-380: In contrast, the TYT MD-380 offers a better receiver than the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus but is limited to a single band operation. This means that the TYT MD-380 may excel in terms of receiving signals but lacks the versatility of dual band capability.

When considering the price, performance, and features, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus stands out as a solid choice in its price range. It offers a good combination of features, including dual band capability and APRS. The Ailunce HD1 may have a rugged appearance, but it falls short in terms of quality control and analog performance. On the other hand, while the TYT MD-380 has a better receiver, it is limited to a single band operation.

The following table compares the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus, Ailunce HD1, and TYT MD-380 based on key features and performance:

Radio Key Features Performance Price
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus Dual band capability, APRS support Good performance Competitive
Ailunce HD1 Rugged design, poor quality control Inconsistent performance Comparable
TYT MD-380 Single band operation Better receiver performance Similar

Benefits and Drawbacks of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus handheld DMR radio offers users a range of benefits that make it a versatile and reliable choice for communication needs. However, it also has a few drawbacks to consider. Let’s take a closer look at both the benefits and drawbacks of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus:

Benefits of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus comes with several notable advantages:

  • Versatility: The radio is designed to be a handheld DMR (Digital Mobile Radio), making it compatible with various amateur radio features.
  • Rugged Build: With an IP57 rating for water and dust resistance, the AT-D878UVII Plus can withstand challenging environments.
  • Good Transmit Power and Audio Quality: It offers reliable transmit power and clear audio quality for effective communication.
  • Large Memory Capacity: The radio has ample storage space, allowing users to store a vast number of contacts and channels.
  • Zone Feature: The AT-D878UVII Plus enables users to monitor different communication systems or nets by organizing channels into zones.

Drawbacks of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus

While the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus has many benefits, there are a couple of drawbacks to keep in mind:

  • Dual Watch Limitation: The radio supports dual watch, which allows users to monitor two different frequencies simultaneously. However, it lacks the ability to receive on both frequencies simultaneously, a feature found in radios equipped with two independent receivers.
  • Antenna Stability: Some users have reported that the antenna may not fasten securely, requiring extra attention to ensure its stability during use.

Despite these drawbacks, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus remains a popular choice for its versatility, durability, and reliable performance in various communication scenarios.

AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus antenna

Comparison: AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus vs. Competitors

Here’s a comparison table showcasing the unique features and specifications of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus alongside two of its competitors:

Features/Specifications AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus Ailunce HD1 TYT MD-380
Dual Band Capability
APRS Support
Receiver Performance Good Spotty quality control, poor analog performance Better receiver but limited to a single band
Price Range Affordable Similar Similar

*Table based on available information and user reviews.

Conclusion

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is a highly recommended option for radio enthusiasts looking for a handheld DMR radio. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities that make it a versatile and reliable choice. Despite not having all the advanced features of more expensive radios, it strikes a perfect balance between performance and affordability.

With commendable performance in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, audio quality, and battery life, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus delivers on its promises. Whether you’re an amateur operator or a railfan, this radio provides excellent value for your money.

In conclusion, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is a feature-rich and dependable handheld DMR radio that meets the needs of radio enthusiasts. Its strong performance, versatile capabilities, and affordable price make it a top contender in the market. If you’re looking for a high-quality radio that offers exceptional functionality and reliability, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus should be at the top of your list.

FAQ

Who makes Anytone Radios?

Anytone is the manufacturer of Anytone Radios.

What are the features of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus?

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers physical channel and volume encoder knobs, a color screen, support for 500,000 DMR contacts, Bluetooth capability, a remote Bluetooth PTT button, regular firmware updates, and more.

How does the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus perform for railfanning?

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers excellent sensitivity and selectivity, good audio quality, long battery life, and is compact and rugged, making it suitable for outdoor use.

How does the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus compare to other radios in a similar price range?

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers a good combination of features and affordability compared to radios like the Ailunce HD1 and TYT MD-380.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus?

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus offers versatility, compatibility with various amateur radio features, a rugged build, good transmit power and audio quality, a large memory capacity, and the ability to monitor different nets. However, it only supports dual watch and may require extra attention to ensure antenna stability.

What is the conclusion about the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus?

The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is a popular choice for radio enthusiasts, offering a good balance of performance and affordability, with reliable sensitivity, selectivity, audio quality, and battery life.