Like most electronics, VHF radiotelephones have come a long way since the days they offered only voice communications across short distances. Today, look for features including DSC (Digital Selective Calling), AIS (Automatic Identification System), MOB (Man Overboard), GPS and other safety-related and operational functions. Below are eight VHFs considered to be the best you can buy.
Whether you’re outfitting a new boat or refitting an existing vessel, selecting the right electronics can make your head spin because of the dizzying variety of brands and models, each touted as the one to buy. We’re here to help you narrow down the choices.
Every year at Marine Electronics Journal, we ask manufacturers to name the one model or series of electronics that they consider their best based on factors such as innovation, popularity or utility, or maybe it has proved itself over time. There are 20 product categories in all, from AIS to wireless devices. We call the results the Best & Brightest Boating Electronics.
For the next several weeks The Mic will report on the winners. Last week we rolled out the second round of best marine radars. This time, it’s five fixed-mount and three handheld VHFs.
Icom’s M510 family of radios redefines VHF comms on the water and provides flexible, seamless operation wherever you need it. The M510 EVO fixed mount (AIS version available) is based on an award-winning design for today’s modern glass helms. The M510BB black box installs out of sight, keeping your helm clutter free. With the ability to connect up to three CommandMics, this radio is ideal for the cockpit, flybridge, tower and more. Both radios carry in-demand features and functions such as an intercom, a Class D DSC distress button, an internal GPS receiver, active noise cancelling, NMEA 2000 and others. Icom’s marine radios are built to last and ready to handle anything the water throws your way.
B&G’s V60-B VHF radios are Class B AIS transceivers that not only receive AIS targets, but also transmit your position to nearby AIS-equipped vessels. This helps other sailors spot your boat through conditions, day or night. AIS information can be viewed on the radio’s built-in screen or overlaid on the chart or radar screen through a compatible chartplotter. The V60-B’s removable fist mic can be connected to the front or rear of the radio, and optional extension cables allow the mic and radio to be mounted separately. This offers a simple and cost-effective solution for any mounting location, with no cable clutter.
Delivering complete communication anywhere on the water, the Link-9 fixed-mount VHF radio provides reliable performance and critical safety features including built-in GPS, internal dual-channel AIS receiver with AIS plot functionality, NMEA 2000 and 0183 connectivity, PA/Hailer/Horn output with listen-back feature, Track Your Buddy technology and a dedicated MOB button. AIS information can be viewed on the Link-9’s built-in screen or overlaid on the chart or radar screen through a compatible multifunction display. The Link-9’s removable fist mic can be connected to the front or rear of the radio; optional extension cable allows the radio and mic to be mounted separately. This offers a simple and cost-effective solution for any mounting locations, with no cable clutter.
Navigate safely with the Simrad RS100-B VHF marine radio, integrated with Class B AIS transceiver and GPS. The RS100-B is a modular VHF system that is expandable and customizable to suit any boat and any on-water communication needs. The standard package includes one wired handset and one external speaker. This setup is expandable up to eight handsets (four wired and four wireless) and four external speakers, ideal for use as an onboard intercom with Simrad HS40 wireless or HS100 wired handsets. All primary functions are accessible from the handset with channel scan and favorites, alphanumeric keypad, clear audio, handset station naming, and 60-second audio rewind.
Standard Horizon Matrix GX2400
Power, performance, reliability—the Standard Horizon Matrix GX2400 has it all. Featuring a 25-watt fixed-mount VHF with built-in 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver, built-in Class A and Class B AIS receiver, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 compatibility. Additional features include a built-in 30W PA with preprogrammed fog signals. Control all the features with the wired RAM4 or wireless RAM4X second station microphones. Other features include integrated voice scrambler, noise cancelling functions, full DSC capabilities (including position sharing, and group mode), waypoint navigation, E2O (easy-to-operate menu system), MOB function, and selectable Day and Night Mode operation. The GX2400 is backed by Standard Horizon’s three-year waterproof warranty.
HANDHELD
A revolution in marine communication technology, the Cortex V1 features an intuitive touchscreen handset, integrated AIS transponder and remote vessel monitoring. For more peace of mind and situational awareness while on the water, boaters can quickly and easily initiate calls (Digital Selective Calling) with other vessels by tapping the vessel on the touchscreen handset. Thanks to wireless connection via the Cortex Hub, a tethered handset can be mounted wherever power is convenient, and boaters can add a portable handset to use while roaming around the boat. Receive alerts such as Anchor Watch on and off the boat via the smartphone app. The Cortex V1 is IPX8 rated and ergonomically designed for one-handed operation with a unique click-wheel and touchscreen that continue to perform well with gloves, wet hands and in bright sunlight.
Icom’s M94D handheld VHF incorporates AIS. This radio has built-in Class H DSC, integrated GPS and AIS, providing location, bearing and speed. The large interface with a simplified navigation function is user-friendly and easy to read. A flat-sheet keypad provides a positive click-feeling, all while slimming the radio’s profile. Higher audio output power (1500mW) pushes any message through in maritime environments. The M94D also includes Icom’s Float’n Flash, AquaQuake, active noise cancelling and MOB.
