InterceptRadio.com Forums

I placed an order for one today. HRO just got them in stock. I'll post a mini-review next week.

I found the manual online: http://images.kenwood.eu/files/prod/238 ... nglish.pdf

Brief Update. I'll post a formal review in a few days.

I received the TM-281 the other day and so far it's quite a bit better than the Icom V8000. I would almost give it a 5.0 except for a couple of important nitpicks with the Kenwood.

Highlights
Audio output sounds amazing; quite a bit better than the Icom
Small footprint (thin and sleek... good looks)
A functional squelch -- yay!
Programming is fast and easy; software works great; no bugs - yay!
**Obtained Prolific USB controller/programming cable for $30
Menu/Radio is SUPER easy to use, especially while driving!
Incredibly nice microphone/handset; feels great; audio reports are good
Only 2-screws to remove cover; solid design

Lowlights
None!

Nitpicks
Squelch is a bit sensitive at times; signal meter says 100% signal yet squelch is barely breaking??? (from distant repeater)
Limited to only 100 channels! WTF?? in 2011??
Scan timer is only 5 secs - way too short; fortunately, there's a CO (carrier-operated) mode which works amost as good; ideally, would rather have 15/20 sec timer
Internal PCB quite a bit differnet than 271; no idea how to modify (I'm 95% sure that it's R768 but I'm awaiting confirmation on that!)
Global power output (not channel specific like Icom V8000) 25/65w only (Low/High)

Pictures

Here's a quick picture of the internal PCB: (271A on top, 281A on bottom)

Here's an install-view of the Kenwood TM-281A -- looks very nice!

Wow...split loom anyone?

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President-in-Exile, Seattle Area Radio Communications And Scanner Traffic Intercept Crew (SARCASTIC)
Don't feel bad if you can't use your STD100/200; there are still people using Digital Frequency Search!
Bunnery definition for the under-fives

no worky

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Interoperability is an attitude, not a technology.

Nice looking radio and it looks like no problem to fit under the dash.

Thanks Rich. Yep, I can actually use my drink holders now. :)

Now, if only Uniden will come out with a P25 mobile scanner that size..? (Yeah right...)

FYI, someone confirmed that R768 is correct for the MARS/CAP modification.