ICOM M71 or Standard Horizon HX750E

ColinR · 03 February 2009, 18:38

I about to get a waterproof handheld but I want one that takes a fist-mic. I'm looking at either the ICOM M71 or Standard Horizon HX750E. The ICOM is somewhat more expensive but is smaller. Other than the size they both seem very similar.

Does anyone have any experience of either of these models? Is the extra money worth it for the more compact size? Finally, where's the best price!?

Thanks in advance for helpful input ...

Colin

C2 RIBS · 03 February 2009, 18:52

Colin I use the Icom and it is great but have no experience of standard horizon use, the Icom battery life is amazing. I also note JSP on this forum has one for sale at a good price

Chris · 03 February 2009, 20:14

JSP is selling an Icom M71 for very good money see here.

http://rib.net/forum/showthread.php?t=28231

ColinR · 03 February 2009, 20:29

Thanks for the pointers to JSP ... that may well sway the balance on favour of the ICOM

Colin

MikeCC · 04 February 2009, 19:20

The big difference between the two is that the HX750 floats - the M35 and M33 are the ICOM floating models.

The HX500E is a non-floating model that will take a speaker mic @ £89.95 for the NiMH version and £110 for the Li-Ion battery type.

Rogue Wave · 04 February 2009, 19:35

I use Standard Horizons everyday for months when I work and have no problems with them. I don't like Icom anyway but I particularly don't like the way the battery contacts are made. Over the years they loose tension and can't be accessed that easily.

Jon Brooks · 05 February 2009, 19:54

Having used both I would go for the HX-750 everytime.
I have had one since September and can't fault it.
It does all the M71 does and it floats and for less money.
Even with the spk mic the HX-750 floats.
IMHO the audio on the HX-750 is better as well.

Build standard on both is the same and both have a 3 year warranty.

Cheers