Explanation of Features

WEATHER

Receive access to real-time NOAA weather updates right on your CB radio. 

SINGLE SIDE BAND (SSB)

SSB radios transmit at 12 watts instead of the standard 4 watts, allowing your signal to reach 3x as far.  Whoever you're communicating with will also need an SSB equipped radio to understand you properly.  SSB radios also transmit on the standard CB channels at 4 watts, so you'll always be able to talk to "general" CBers as well.  

BACKLIT DISPLAY

Radios that include an illuminated screen, knob panel or both.  Makes operating the radio at night much easier.  

BUILT-IN SWR METER

An SWR meter is an essential tool for installing your CB system and antenna, and ensuring it's working properly.  While you can buy meters separately, some radios have them built-in.  

CHANNEL SCANNING

Instead of manually flipping through channels to discover chatter, radios with channel scanning can be set to constantly scan all 40 channels for activity.  They'll stop on a channel when transmissions are detected so you can listen in.

PUBLIC ADDRESS

Radios with Public Address (PA) accommodate the connection of a PA horn via wire that is mounted outside the vehicle.  With the flip of a switch, the radio can be transformed from a CB to serving as the microphone for your own intercom, broadcasting your voice to those outside the vehicle via the horn.

BLUETOOTH

Bluetooth equipped radios let you connect your phone, allowing you to have cell conversations using your CB.  The callers voice will come out of your CB speaker, and your CB mic will act as the primary microphone for the call.  For most models, you don't need to depress the CB mic to talk so you can converse hands-free.