I have owned both radios. I first had the 980ssb but after having the displays fail very quick on 2 I went to the McKinley and have been happy with it. I recently added the RM Italy KL203P to it and it's a game changer. My recommendation is go with the President McKinley.
I have the Bearcat 980 SSB. There is a lot to like about the radio. It looks sharp and sounds great. I had mine installed on the dash on my car and after some hot summer days, the screen started to die. It started in one corner and slowly spread over several days. After doing some research, I found this was not a rare problem for the 980SSB V2. Luckily my radio still had a little over a month on the warranty.
The McKinley has one really big advantage over the Bearcat. It has adjustable RF output power. Makes it real easy to turn the power down so you can add an amp without burning it up.
@jerrypolverino6025 Bearcat does the same thing rf gain snd mic gain both adjustable on it I'm running one in my truck you gota hold the button to get to the power out put toggle.
I run the 980ssb in my dump truck and its peak aligned and tuned 15 watt average dang that thing kills it we use am at work nobody else has side band but with a Wilson 5K I have the best radio of all 40 trucks they're always commenting on how far away they can hear me that being said I think the advantage the president has is the RF power meter now if your radio stock there's no use for that but if it's peaked and turned and putting out something like 15 W that RF power would come in very handy especially if you want to drive an amp I really like that I think I'm going to get one of those President McKinley's as a backup radio great video
Nice comparison, thanks. I came to the same conclusion. Front fire speaker is great for mobile use. Some one else noted Variable RF power out on the McKinley. My 980 is set up as a base. My choice was real easy. I got from Amazon, damaged packaging for $80.
i wish we still had local CB users out there! where you get radio checks like that, test mic's, radios etc. however pretty dead around here, accept for the skip, and it's been bangin' lately (Lk Texoma area). so the 980 is a pretty radio, but i've heard the displays can fail on some of them. i've had a new McKinley for about 2 weeks now and very happy with it! have made quite a few DX contacts the past week on LSB 38. ☮
I bought the 980 a couple of years ago, and after about a year the fading display problem began. In hot weather, the display pretty much goes away, so I use it as a base now indoors. Certain portions fade first, such as the ANL/NB segments, followed by the S/RF display, but otherwise it's a nice talking radio I'm told. Funny thing is, as an experiment I put the radio in the refrigerator for a while to cool it down, the display works as new, at least for a little while. Maybe I need to install a cooling fan...lol
Well, now I want to try a McKinley. I'm running a Bearcat 980 as my base right now. It's definitely better as a base as it's a little more fragile than say a more robust Cobra 29, but all the bells and whistles make it a lot more fun. Other operators have told me it's got a good sound. For the money, it's a great base. That McKinley looks much better for a mobile application. Thanks for the vid!
These CBs go along the conveyor belt so fast, there can be differences between radios of the same model. They do not get much time to work on them, as long as they meet the spec' away they go along the belt to the next stage. A lot of people would pay a bit more for a radio that has spent more time on the tuning station to get the best out of the radio that is allowed.
That goes for a lot of things that are mass-produced one good thing about the McKinley there is a service manual available to any service technician who can repair the radio and that is a big plus when it comes time if your radio ever needs work
@@dobermanguy9437 Service manuals should be with all CB and other radios. It might not mean anything to most, but to me, it saves hours! It is getting stupid these days, it is hard sometimes to even get an owner's manual on how to use some things!
I have the 980 and it had stingy am modulation and ssb swing on the stock mic . I removed the white layer on front of the microphone element and also increased the size of the hole in the rubber element holder and I now get excellent audio reports on am and ssb. I think these were installed to reduce road noise but it really didn’t help anything at all. Now I really like this radio. The display failures I’ve heard about I am watching for that to happen or if it even does. The thin black layer dust screen in the mic I left in to keep dust from getting on the microphone element.
I've had the McKinley for about 3 years or so it works very well on AM as well as SSB I've not had a bad report yet. I did have a problem with my speaker and sent it in for repairs President made the whole process very painless. And the five year warranty if you buy a president antenna is great. I don't know if I'll have another radio without ASC it's awsome not having to play around with the squelch control while driving down the road. Good video 73's
I have both radios. I can't tell a difference. But, I replaced them with an Anytone 6666, and that radio seems to outperform both. I agree that the McKinley is a better mobile whereas the 980SSB makes a good base. Since there is no skip at this time, I installed President Bill II AM FM radios so I can use the FM mode locally. There is essentially no local AM traffic, even on 19, so I use the FM for family talk.
Great video, thank you! I own the uniden 980ssb and use it regularly as a base station connected to an Antron 99 about 50 ft at the tip. I also run a modern Cobra 29LX in my pickup with a 108 whip. I am frustrated not having the ssb in my truck and will be adding a Mckinley to my truck with a 108 whip. cant wait to see how the mckinley performs and i think for me it will be the better choice for the mobile ssb. WIll keep you posted on my results.
I have the McKinley so my opinion is biased. I love it! But I will say that McKinley has RF power option that the Bearcat doesn’t have. Much easier if you’re running a box. Also the McKinley is DIN sized so if can be mounted in a mobile easier than the Bearcat. You’re right about the slight hum in the McKinley. Very faint but it’s there. The Bearcat also has screen issues in a mobile. The screen goes blank in extreme temperatures. Glad I made the right choice for me! That was a good comparison….thanks for the vid!!!👍🏼
Bearcat 980 SSB also has RF Gain output and Mic Gain output settings you must of missed it hold the second button from the top on the right side you'll get ur RF power out setting Mic is the next button 3rd from the top hold that get ur power setting adjust.
Thank you 741! I wish you taught a class in how to review things. An amazing job and I know it wasn't easy. I used to be a CB guy as a kid and then discovered the world of Ham Radio. I am an Extra class radio operator but I still dig CB! All the best from Tod KJ6H. :)
There's a few reasons I like the McKinley better one I love that swr tone feature 2 there is a service manual available for the McKinley in case it ever needs to be repaired that's a plus three I love that front-firing speaker so for me it's the McKinley and also to me the McKinley sounds better with a smoother audio by the way excellent video of these two radios👍
I have the 980 for 4years now and haven't had any of the problems like the other commenters, but I want to say the McKinley sounds a little crisper with the front mounted speaker. I might just have to buy one.. good video.
interesting comparison, however I wonder if the receive test would be better if an external speaker was used, just as you used the same mic for transmission. Thanks 741!
I thought the same thing about the external speaker. I thought maybe the receive audio trouble on the Bearcat was due to the sound firing directly into that hard countertop surface.
I tested out my Bearcat 980 next to my President George using the same external speaker. I got the same results as the video. The Bearcat was more base and easier on the ears, and the President was crisper/sharper.
One thing I feel important to bring up. Bearcats have a bad habit of the screen failing. I haven't heard of this problem with the McKinley. Also for those asking the President Lincoln 2 is a 10 meter ham radio not a cb radio
My Bearcat is still running great after a year. I’ve gotten great distance running barefoot with a 102” whip. The one thing I’m not a fan of is that your fingernails will scratch the screen to hell if you have a habit of adjusting it while you drive so you are “feeling” around. Hope my screen holds up. If it doesn’t I’ll probably go with a President to get access to FM.
The Bearcat is sold in Germany and Europe as the President Grant 2. FM has prevailed in Europe, but the President company has not yet managed to offer a radio that works satisfactorily out of the box. I don't know what standards regarding CB radio prevail in the USA, but here in Europe - and in my case Germany, certain requirements are self-evident. If you buy a President McKinley in Germany or Europe - mind you for a lot of money (it costs + - 260 € in Germany), then you have to spend another 70-100 € to bring it into shape at a radio specialist. Same game with the Bearcat, known here as President Grant2. All the China cans like Anytone5555 or its derivatives are a lot cheaper, offer a larger range of functions for less money, and don't need to be treated. But this is also the case with approved radio devices, for example from Germany. Here in good old Germany we have the Albrecht AE 5890, AM FM SSB for just under €200, and believe me when I tell you that every President radio can hide from it. But don't be angry with me, the fact is that you Americans can be very nice and nice people, but unfortunately you have no idea about technology- Unfortunately, this is also reflected in your cars. Your cars look absolutely sexy and awesome, but unfortunately they can only go straight. Curves are mumbo-jumbo for your cars. Look to Europe in terms of CB. Maybe you can learn something, or steal knowledge - you've always been good at that.... 🤣🤣🤣Just kidding lol lol
Good, thorough comparison. Liked the on air test with other CBers. Like your approach-you dive right in. I'm leaning toward the bear cat because I'm mainly a " base man " . Plus it looks a little better...more modern.
I have the 980ssb and love the radio. The only criticism I have is the lous chirp when changing channels or settings. I run it as a base. I have a President Bill in the car, and for as small as it is, it hears almost everything, and gets out nicely. Good luck, 0576 Michigan.
Hi there, your video stopped me from going crazy, I bought the McKinley and noticed the whining noise, considering my other radio the President Richard doesn’t make the same noise, I’m surprised President didn’t address the issue, other users were saying it didn’t happen to there McKinley so I was ready to send radio back, maybe other users were not in a quiet room to notice it, overall it’s a great radio other than RF power adjustment, I had to get out instructions to adjust it, great video and so in-depth , thank you
I've had the Mckinley for over a year and am very happy with it. It's been a nice work horse and simple to use. Did you have both radios set with NB and ANL active? Hi-Cut? It does affect how the receiver sounds. Unfortunately, my Uniden had to go back due to a failed display. Funny you selected the same two radios I did. Nice review and comparison. 73
I had the 980ssb ended up installing that in my son's pick up and he loves it.. I've been trying out a bunch of different radios in my big truck since the McKinley was sold out at the time.. I now have it on order and this review helped me think I have made a good choice for the big truck
Quite pleased the George II has just been released. It's bought down the cost of a used Mckinley to a price I can afford. Just bought it & delivery tomorrow 😁. I do like the look of the Bearcat though.
I have gone thru two 980's to my now current Pres. McKinley. Don't know why. Same antenna same power supply same install location. Didn't notice anything stand out stellar of one radio over the other. The bearcats just crapped out after a few months. Have had the McKinley little over a year now and still going strong.
This was a great video. I loved the bandwidth that you had shown. I have both of those radios and I love to experiment with audio. I have multiple rack units for in line processing before the radio. I just hook it up to the front mic jack that most people say not to do and it gets around 5 khz on both sides in am mode that is nice sounding to the ears.
Not sure where the mic gain settings were on both radios during the tests but they both did a fine job. I like these apples 2 apples comparison vids. Keep up the good work 👍🏻
Very nice review and comparison! I do wonder though if an external speaker would have made either rig sound better. I know I usually get better results if I go external. My external speaker has an integrated capacitor to help filter out noise.
Thanks for the review. I'm looking into the Galaxy and these 2 ssb radios so this gives a me a good review as to what I would choose between these 2 (President). Another CZcamsr did a review of the President Lincoln II, yes it's a ham, but he commented the stock microphone was 'garbage' and he wired and uses a Cobra power mic with good success.
Well thanks to your superb review here. I am very pleased to know. Since my younger, 64-year-old brother, dropped dead. A few months back. I inherited his car and his numerous, 2 way radios. Mostly all 2 meter ham stuff. But there is also this, President McKinley, CB Radio. There is a box for another different unit. Also looking very nice. I have not yet located? But the box looks brand-new just like the Pres. McKinley box. And the Icon 705. And numerous walkie-talkies of GMRS variety I think? Though could also be 2 meter units? I have no idea? I haven't been into this stuff for, well over 50 years. When I was a teenager. Playing with Ham and CB Radios. While, on the air, overnights at Baltimore's #1 FM Album Rock Station. Back in 1976. Just a couple of weeks ago. Or so it seems? I think I am now fully senile? And everything is working great. Hi my name is Remy what's yours? What did you say your name was again? What do you mean I've already asked you 50 times? No you didn't I am. Yes I am boning up on my future senility. I want to be able to make the least amount of sense possible. And that is very difficult for me since I am no sense at all. And so in the paper with ice cream there are always pencils to be trapped. When senility takes full hold of your shrinking brain. As it has,, mine. And Donald Trump's. Most definitely. Yes we can see for ourselves. Clear through. From one ear canal to the other. He has nothing left inside his Orange Jesus. Without a care in the world. He adjusts his petticoats and heads out the door. RemyRAD
I have a President Grant 2. I don’t have the McKinley but I do have a Uniden Bearcat 980 with the Grant 2. These two radios look very similar up front with the knobs and buttons. In back and mind you both radios are low power-the Grant 2 has a heat sink whereas the 980 does not. Both are sold as cb radios. The 980 has 3 modes (AM, SSB, and WB). The Grant 2 has AM,FM, and SSB. Yes, the Grant 2 is sold as a cb radio but a simple adjustment under the cover will give you as many channels as a Lincoln 2 plus. I got mine from a UK 🇬🇧 Retailer.
Well I have a McKinley and love it...but in my other car I was gonna get a bearcat just for being able to get the wireless Uniden mic...but now come to find out the 6 pin uniden wireless WILL fit the McKinley without mods...sold..going to get another McKinley and order 2 wireless mics.
I bought the 980 on my fuel points. It's a nice ssb radio and stable. The problem is that you can't see the display in the day time. In your test, I think the McKinley has a warmer tone than the 980. The 980 is tinny. A back lit lcd display would definitely be better in a mobile environment. I have the 980 in my hamshack, and I don't regret owning one. It's a great addition to leave on 38 lsb and use as a propagation beacon for 10 meters. There's hardly any activity on 10 because hams, think the band is not up.
The President McKinley is outright the far better radio, in RX and TX. Plus it doesn’t have screen issues like the 980SSB does. Also you can still buy the McKinley as its replaced the President Grant II.
I would have to invert the display on the President, its one of a few reasons why i bought the Uniden (that and the price). I do believe the updated version of the President also has FM as well.
Also with a small Phillips screw drive, such as used. For cellphone repair there are pots in the radio for alc and dead key! Video are out there ! WR038 aka UDX038 Utah.
I'm getting out of ham and looking for an affordable and decent CB to get back to my root. I think either of these would make me happy. Trick is find them. The President line isn't at commend here in Canada, and the Uniden sold out where I would normal buy from.. But having owned Cobra's in the past (and still have 19M in my car) I'm leaving to the Uniden side. But I'm still considering other option like a class base rig if I can find one. Or maybe an AnyTone... oh I am so confused...
Great review, I'm looking at getting back to the CB after many years away. I think that you've convinced me to get the president. It really seems to be the top of the line. Thanks
Great review I purchased the McKinley yesterday waiting to get it shipped. I read up on it many places I needed something smaller then the spare full sized mobiles I have . I been been in CB's for 50 + years . I am going on a 2600 mi road trip (WA to OH)wanted a smaller CB with weather band will be running it off a old Wilson 5000 mag base . Papa Smurf 109 waving bye bye
Those are both nice radios, but I went with a dual band ham radio and had the 11meter chip added when ordered it and had it aligned and tuned for max performance, best of both worlds.
@@echo-hotel I Got the RCI 2970N4 for a mobile/base. it's now 10, 11, and 12 meters with the 11 meter chip installed. 400+ watts. I also have the IC 7200 that does a Great job on skip land.
I have both radios. The best feature on the 980 is the weather band..........that's about it. The McKinley is decent but lacks the power to really get out. My Lincoln 2 blows both out of the water. On that note they are all menu driven and I don't like that. Id rather have switches and knobs.
I really liked your comparison. I'm an amateur operator (kb7rxp) who still uses CB from time to time. I just bought a slightly used 980 ssb. I haven't had an 11 meter ssb unit for about 20 years, but the atmosphere has been insane lately so I decided to get back into it. I've had my ham ticket for about 30 years, I really should upgrade so I can work more HF, but I'm lazy and haven't gotten around to it 🙂
Loved this comparison! I owned a Bearcat 980. After I heard the 980 displays might be sensitive to temp changes and bright light, I decided to use it inside only as a base. It was awesome in that setting with an external Bearcat speaker. My SSB buddies did say that it sounded a little "tinny' compare to other radios, but that it was completely audible. The weather channels and color options are really nice features, and I love how that mic fits in my hand for sure. Sold my 980 to a friend and he (cough cough) added an amp :) I don't have a McKinley, but now I want one! I have the President Bill FCC in my van - same shape mic and I like that forward-facing speaker; solves all sorts of fit problems in my vehicle. Oh, and the ASC / Automatic Squelch Control on President products is awesome! It is very sensitive to incoming chatter - even on something low dollar like my Bill FCC. Thanks for sharing!
I bought a Uniden radar detector years ago and it false alarmed all across West Texas during a road trip. I'll never buy one of their products again. The President is always my choice. As soon as they make an AM/SSB/FM President radio, I'll buy one.Till then I'll stick with my old Realistic TRC-421A. Thanks for the posting.
I was surprised I liked the receive quality of the McKinley more. The audio on your receiver from the McKinley wasn't as clear to me, because I suspect President is filtering the highs. With all their experience, I thought I'd prefer the Uniden.
I like the McKinley you can turn the RF power down if you have a little kicker i here. I herd one guy say Putnam Ct, that’s funny I live in the same state
I love my McKinley. It looks good and fits better in modern crowded vehicles. Also it's lack of bling makes it less likely to cause a broken window. Of course the 980 kinda looks like a low to mid budget replacement car radio so it also might get passed over as well as opposed to your cobra 29 chromes and export radios.
Great comparison - over here in UK we have FM as well on the McKinley as "standard" CB is FM (but we now have AM and SSB too on some bands) - I still prefer the Lincoln I or Lincoln II. Merry Christmas!
Perfect! Thanks! I just had a Galaxy DX 959B delivered yesterday and it has a fairly loud wine coming from the cabinet. I am returning it and I was considering the two radios in this video and it made my decision much easier! I could not stand the buzzing from the President, so I am going to get the Uniden instead. I will be using it as a base station and also like the better appearance of the Uniden.
For reducing whining, need to likely run the power straight to the battery, with an additional inline fuse for protecting the radio. Then run a ground cable connected to the screw on the radio to some metal on the vehicle. First identify any other vehicle circuits are not causing the problem by pulling fuses where possible, although most circuits are not easily fixed. Inline fuse InstallGear 8/10 Gauge AWG In-Line AGU Fuse Holder with 60 Amp Fuse Bullz Audio (BAGU30P) Platinum 30 Amp AGU Fuse - 5 Piece Think I ran 10 gauge stranded cable for the power (some charts call for 8 AWG for 30A), then maybe box store green 12 or 14 AWG THWN stranded for ground. Whining noise decreased by ~30-50%, significant and at times almost inaudible, but still present at times. Heard this is likely due to the electronics on newer vehicles. I've pulled fuses to isolate, but failed further isolating. On my setup, I also wired in a relay, for having the CB radio turn-off or on with the vehicle key, rather than always remaining turned-on and accidentally draining the battery. The relay is connected to the radio fuse, two wires one hot one ground(?), when the relay senses the vehicle electric turned on (eg. power to radio), the relay opens the direct 30A wire from the battery to CB. Here's the relay parts: Absolute RLS125 12-VCD Automotive Relay SPDT 30/40A SURBLUEXX 5 SET 5 Pin Relay Socket Connector 12V 30Amp 40Amp 6.3mm Car Truck Vehicle Terminal Relay Case Holder Also best to solder the cabling/wiring, for significantly increasing durability. Use a hot soldering iron for these thicker cables, such as the Weller D650PK. (Think I also used silver solder, definitely not going to break easily!) Best to also use shrink tubing, but sure electrical tape will suffice.
Thank you rob, I came to same conclusion two years ago and thankfully I chose Ham vs Cb to equip my station at home and in the mobile. Sounds so thin love my ftdx10 on Am ☺️
that transmitter of the bearcat sounds notably better modulated, clearer and more intelligible. the receiver of the mckinley sounds very slightly better. i think that bearcat is the better cb radio. i wonder how it would sound with a large diaphragm condenser studio mic such as singers use hooked up to it.
I wonder how the President George would measure up. That Bearcat mic looks retro, like an old Astatic or Electro-Voice studio mic or something from Flash Gordon! At this point, being in observer mode, I'm working on a scanning SDR setup. After that, I'll see if I want to transmit anything. Kudos on your collection, especially those two Drakes. I always loved those.
Thanks for that comparison! Personally, I'm preparing to buy a much more 'serious CB' than I've ever bought before. I started using CB radios back around 1974 and then, years later, I started driving big-rigs, (OTR/48). I drove professionally for about 6 years, ('86 to '92). I was a hired driver and in those years, worked for several different, well established, companies, (as opposed to being an owner/operator). I almost always owned an affordable Cobra 29 or some variation on that model, (even from way back in the '70s). However, if I had the money, I would have gone with one of the 'Presidents'. Many of the owner/operators (and hired drivers who made some good money), swore by them and I still think they're one of the best. Yet, I want to be sure that I get the kind of strong performance the Presidents radios were known for back when I was a pro driver. I need to try and find which of the President models is the best. Is the McKinley among the top 3? Thanks again for the video. Rich
Not the same quality as the old time Presidents in the past they still sell on eBay for similar money as these new ones! I own a McKinley and have a hard time talking skip on it. Local SsB is fine. It has a weird squelch that goes chuff chuff even when turned all the way back it’s irritating to me to use the squelch. Sounds good on receive
@@desmondsharpe9623 Thanks Desmond. In fact, because the 11 meter modification to the New President Lincoln is so easy to do, I'm probably going to go with that one. As for the quality of the Presidents that you and I new 'back in the day', it doesn't surprise me. It seems almost all the hardware that had a reputation of being the best, (from CB's to stereos and more), are now a much cheaper knock-off of their former self. Rich
Talking skip has nothing to do with the radio it's mainly the conditions propagation you can talk skip pretty much on any radio if you have a halfway decent antenna
@@dobermanguy9437 True. I recall a number of times when I'd make the trip to places like Vermont or Maine and I was sitting in a truck stop in New Mexico or Kansas. All I had was a tuned & peaked Cobra 40 classic back then, (1989 to 1995).
I have both the 980 is easier to handle of you’re a trucker but the display may give out and need to be sent in for repairs 😡 The McKinley is rock solid and has a massive cult following but has a learning curve as far as handling as you drive if you came from the 980. Both modded by my tech and they perform almost equally the McKinley edges out the 980 with variable dead key ability.
While I am a bit late to the party, the 980 with the bottom speaker is muffled. but if he would set it on its side where the speaker was facing him like the McKinley is it would be much different.
Looks like the McKinley is the better rig. I'm not a fan of the orange backlight. I prefer green or blue. I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
I’m glad I am not the only one that hears that president speaker whine, it’s especially bad when connected to my external speaker. I can hear it in my Lincoln 2+ over the highway noise, it drives me nuts.
Just ordered me a new uniden bearcat 980 ssb and. Bearcat 20. Speaker getting back into. Ssb after 15 years. Hope gen 2. Is better then gen one. Bearcat
I have noticed my Mckinley makes that whine too! I realized when I back down the mic gain a bit the noise goes away. I wonder if it's some kind of feed back or over modulation coming from the speaker amplifier? Also I've had complaints my voice was overmodulated on SSB mostly; I turned it down to 50 percent and it seems better to others. I have been regularly chatting with Blueberry Hill on 37; 30 km away on SSB in minor hilly terrain. Blueberry Hill is a base station. I have chatted with a contact in australia "big skip" on SSB 37 USB this past summer. My radio is mobile with a 3 ft. Firestik Firefly. Ontario, Canada.73
I like the more minimalistic design of the McKinley and the front facing speaker. Is the McKinley whining noise from the power supply section? I had a Hallicrafters shortwave and when I used SB I could adjust the tuning and it changed the frequency of the static, that was a nice feature.
I remember back in the late 70's the President brand first came out then in the early 80's they changed their brand name to Uniden. I guess President made a come back.
There’s no comparison in stock form , that McKinley is a Cadillac compared to the 980 which is a Chevy Cavalier lol ,, now , with that being said I’ll take up for the 980 , I bought one brand new from a guy that specializes in enhancing the radio and he’s very good at it . Was it money well spent , absolutely not , hindsight is 2020 , but he did excellent work on the radio , for what it is and the price , I really like it and it’s a great sidebander, and very stable , but then again , a lot of parts were upgraded and overall modified . I’ll tell you the story sometime on the phone or on the band . If I had it to do over knowing what I know now 2 years later , I woulda took that money and put towards something else in my shack . 73’s Rob , great video .
I have owned both radios. I first had the 980ssb but after having the displays fail very quick on 2 I went to the McKinley and have been happy with it. I recently added the RM Italy KL203P to it and it's a game changer. My recommendation is go with the President McKinley.
So it has adjustable RF power so it won’t toast the amp?
@@williamdarico2369 yes
I have a Bearcat in a base station configuration and love it!
I have the Bearcat 980 SSB. There is a lot to like about the radio. It looks sharp and sounds great. I had mine installed on the dash on my car and after some hot summer days, the screen started to die. It started in one corner and slowly spread over several days. After doing some research, I found this was not a rare problem for the 980SSB V2. Luckily my radio still had a little over a month on the warranty.
If you call uniden about this issue they will say they never heard of the problem LOL
The McKinley has one really big advantage over the Bearcat. It has adjustable RF output power. Makes it real easy to turn the power down so you can add an amp without burning it up.
That’s a critical point for a mobile, especially for SSB.
@jerrypolverino6025 Bearcat does the same thing rf gain snd mic gain both adjustable on it I'm running one in my truck you gota hold the button to get to the power out put toggle.
I run the 980ssb in my dump truck and its peak aligned and tuned 15 watt average dang that thing kills it we use am at work nobody else has side band but with a Wilson 5K I have the best radio of all 40 trucks they're always commenting on how far away they can hear me that being said I think the advantage the president has is the RF power meter now if your radio stock there's no use for that but if it's peaked and turned and putting out something like 15 W that RF power would come in very handy especially if you want to drive an amp I really like that I think I'm going to get one of those President McKinley's as a backup radio great video
a great comparison (& I've had a Bearcat 980SSB for yrs now & love it)🇺🇸
Nice comparison, thanks. I came to the same conclusion. Front fire speaker is great for mobile use. Some one else noted Variable RF power out on the McKinley. My 980 is set up as a base. My choice was real easy. I got from Amazon, damaged packaging for $80.
good deal!
@@SevenFortyOne Does The Bearcat Radio do any Meowing? Just kidding I know that it's not A Cat
i wish we still had local CB users out there! where you get radio checks like that, test mic's, radios etc. however pretty dead around here, accept for the skip, and it's been bangin' lately (Lk Texoma area). so the 980 is a pretty radio, but i've heard the displays can fail on some of them. i've had a new McKinley for about 2 weeks now and very happy with it! have made quite a few DX contacts the past week on LSB 38. ☮
In fact, that was a REALLY good video, especially with the scope comparisons at the end👍
I bought the 980 a couple of years ago, and after about a year the fading display problem began. In hot weather, the display pretty much goes away, so I use it as a base now indoors. Certain portions fade first, such as the ANL/NB segments, followed by the S/RF display, but otherwise it's a nice talking radio I'm told. Funny thing is, as an experiment I put the radio in the refrigerator for a while to cool it down, the display works as new, at least for a little while. Maybe I need to install a cooling fan...lol
Well, now I want to try a McKinley. I'm running a Bearcat 980 as my base right now. It's definitely better as a base as it's a little more fragile than say a more robust Cobra 29, but all the bells and whistles make it a lot more fun. Other operators have told me it's got a good sound. For the money, it's a great base. That McKinley looks much better for a mobile application.
Thanks for the vid!
Been leaning towards a McKinley for a while and this video kind of solidified it for me. Thanks for this Rob.
Cool - enjoy the radio if you get one!
These CBs go along the conveyor belt so fast, there can be differences between radios of the same model.
They do not get much time to work on them, as long as they meet the spec' away they go along the belt to the next stage. A lot of people would pay a bit more for a radio that has spent more time on the tuning station to get the best out of the radio that is allowed.
That goes for a lot of things that are mass-produced one good thing about the McKinley there is a service manual available to any service technician who can repair the radio and that is a big plus when it comes time if your radio ever needs work
@@dobermanguy9437 Service manuals should be with all CB and other radios.
It might not mean anything to most, but to me, it saves hours!
It is getting stupid these days, it is hard sometimes to even get an owner's manual on how to use some things!
I have the 980 and it had stingy am modulation and ssb swing on the stock mic . I removed the white layer on front of the microphone element and also increased the size of the hole in the rubber element holder and I now get excellent audio reports on am and ssb. I think these were installed to reduce road noise but it really didn’t help anything at all. Now I really like this radio. The display failures I’ve heard about I am watching for that to happen or if it even does. The thin black layer dust screen in the mic I left in to keep dust from getting on the microphone element.
A correction for you, they both use LCD displays, the Uniden is blackout except for the data displayed, the President display is exactly opposite.
I've had the McKinley for about 3 years or so it works very well on AM as well as SSB I've not had a bad report yet. I did have a problem with my speaker and sent it in for repairs President made the whole process very painless. And the five year warranty if you buy a president antenna is great. I don't know if I'll have another radio without ASC it's awsome not having to play around with the squelch control while driving down the road.
Good video 73's
I have both radios. I can't tell a difference. But, I replaced them with an Anytone 6666, and that radio seems to outperform both. I agree that the McKinley is a better mobile whereas the 980SSB makes a good base. Since there is no skip at this time, I installed President Bill II AM FM radios so I can use the FM mode locally. There is essentially no local AM traffic, even on 19, so I use the FM for family talk.
Great video, thank you! I own the uniden 980ssb and use it regularly as a base station connected to an Antron 99 about 50 ft at the tip. I also run a modern Cobra 29LX in my pickup with a 108 whip. I am frustrated not having the ssb in my truck and will be adding a Mckinley to my truck with a 108 whip. cant wait to see how the mckinley performs and i think for me it will be the better choice for the mobile ssb. WIll keep you posted on my results.
I prefer ssb myself. Better range and more people to talk to.
Hearing-wise I would say that the McKinley has better ears especially on sideband and that's like comparing a Kenwood HF radio to a ft 991 a
I have the McKinley so my opinion is biased. I love it!
But I will say that McKinley has RF power option that the Bearcat doesn’t have. Much easier if you’re running a box. Also the McKinley is DIN sized so if can be mounted in a mobile easier than the Bearcat. You’re right about the slight hum in the McKinley. Very faint but it’s there. The Bearcat also has screen issues in a mobile. The screen goes blank in extreme temperatures.
Glad I made the right choice for me! That was a good comparison….thanks for the vid!!!👍🏼
glad you enjoyed this!
Bearcat 980 SSB also has RF Gain output and Mic Gain output settings you must of missed it hold the second button from the top on the right side you'll get ur RF power out setting Mic is the next button 3rd from the top hold that get ur power setting adjust.
Thank you 741! I wish you taught a class in how to review things. An amazing job and I know it wasn't easy. I used to be a CB guy as a kid and then discovered the world of Ham Radio. I am an Extra class radio operator but I still dig CB! All the best from Tod KJ6H. :)
Hmmm...that gives me an idea! I'm glad you found this helpful
Well made video sir. Thumbs up!
Leaning towards that uniden 980ssb myself. Need something for a base station next to my 2 meter.
Definitely the McKinley.
Thank you for the in-depth demonstration!
There's a few reasons I like the McKinley better one I love that swr tone feature 2 there is a service manual available for the McKinley in case it ever needs to be repaired that's a plus three I love that front-firing speaker so for me it's the McKinley and also to me the McKinley sounds better with a smoother audio by the way excellent video of these two radios👍
I have the 980 for 4years now and
haven't had any of the problems like the other commenters, but I want to
say the McKinley sounds a little crisper with the front mounted speaker. I might just have to buy
one.. good video.
interesting comparison, however I wonder if the receive test would be better if an external speaker was used, just as you used the same mic for transmission. Thanks 741!
I thought the same thing about the external speaker. I thought maybe the receive audio trouble on the Bearcat was due to the sound firing directly into that hard countertop surface.
I tested out my Bearcat 980 next to my President George using the same external speaker. I got the same results as the video. The Bearcat was more base and easier on the ears, and the President was crisper/sharper.
One thing I feel important to bring up. Bearcats have a bad habit of the screen failing. I haven't heard of this problem with the McKinley. Also for those asking the President Lincoln 2 is a 10 meter ham radio not a cb radio
Its a 10 meter radio until you open the top and clip very conspicuous white wire.
My Bearcat is still running great after a year. I’ve gotten great distance running barefoot with a 102” whip. The one thing I’m not a fan of is that your fingernails will scratch the screen to hell if you have a habit of adjusting it while you drive so you are “feeling” around. Hope my screen holds up. If it doesn’t I’ll probably go with a President to get access to FM.
The Bearcat is sold in Germany and Europe as the President Grant 2. FM has prevailed in Europe, but the President company has not yet managed to offer a radio that works satisfactorily out of the box.
I don't know what standards regarding CB radio prevail in the USA, but here in Europe - and in my case Germany, certain requirements are self-evident.
If you buy a President McKinley in Germany or Europe - mind you for a lot of money (it costs + - 260 € in Germany), then you have to spend another 70-100 € to bring it into shape at a radio specialist.
Same game with the Bearcat, known here as President Grant2.
All the China cans like Anytone5555 or its derivatives are a lot cheaper, offer a larger range of functions for less money, and don't need to be treated.
But this is also the case with approved radio devices, for example from Germany.
Here in good old Germany we have the Albrecht AE 5890, AM FM SSB for just under €200, and believe me when I tell you that every President radio can hide from it.
But don't be angry with me, the fact is that you Americans can be very nice and nice people, but unfortunately you have no idea about technology-
Unfortunately, this is also reflected in your cars. Your cars look absolutely sexy and awesome, but unfortunately they can only go straight. Curves are mumbo-jumbo for your cars.
Look to Europe in terms of CB.
Maybe you can learn something, or steal knowledge - you've always been good at that.... 🤣🤣🤣Just kidding lol lol
Good, thorough comparison. Liked the on air test with other CBers. Like your approach-you dive right in. I'm leaning toward the bear cat because I'm mainly a " base man " . Plus it looks a little better...more modern.
I have the 980ssb and love the radio. The only criticism I have is the lous chirp when changing channels or settings. I run it as a base. I have a President Bill in the car, and for as small as it is, it hears almost everything, and gets out nicely.
Good luck,
0576 Michigan.
you can turn off the chirp sound!
I have both radio’s. The one thing that is consistent, is that people can’t hear me as well on the bearcat. I sold it and stuck with the McKinley
Would like to see the McKinley with am/fm/ssb and it would definitely be the winner
It already exists with the President McKinley EU Export model.
2 years later, your wish had been granted!
Hi there, your video stopped me from going crazy, I bought the McKinley and noticed the whining noise, considering my other radio the President Richard doesn’t make the same noise, I’m surprised President didn’t address the issue, other users were saying it didn’t happen to there McKinley so I was ready to send radio back, maybe other users were not in a quiet room to notice it, overall it’s a great radio other than RF power adjustment, I had to get out instructions to adjust it, great video and so in-depth , thank you
Glad you liked this!
I've had the Mckinley for over a year and am very happy with it. It's been a nice work horse and simple to use. Did you have both radios set with NB and ANL active? Hi-Cut? It does affect how the receiver sounds. Unfortunately, my Uniden had to go back due to a failed display. Funny you selected the same two radios I did. Nice review and comparison. 73
NO NOONE AROUND HERE KNOWS HOW TO SET ALL DIALS ON MY REALISTIC TRC 450
I had the 980ssb ended up installing that in my son's pick up and he loves it.. I've been trying out a bunch of different radios in my big truck since the McKinley was sold out at the time.. I now have it on order and this review helped me think I have made a good choice for the big truck
Quite pleased the George II has just been released. It's bought down the cost of a used Mckinley to a price I can afford. Just bought it & delivery tomorrow 😁. I do like the look of the Bearcat though.
I have used them both, I prefer the mckinly. Simpler to use and has automatic squelch
I have gone thru two 980's to my now current Pres. McKinley. Don't know why. Same antenna same power supply same install location. Didn't notice anything stand out stellar of one radio over the other. The bearcats just crapped out after a few months. Have had the McKinley little over a year now and still going strong.
I have the 980ssb like every one else for a base station radio. In the car I run the uniden beartracker 885 because I love the digital scanner option.
This was a great video. I loved the bandwidth that you had shown. I have both of those radios and I love to experiment with audio. I have multiple rack units for in line processing before the radio. I just hook it up to the front mic jack that most people say not to do and it gets around 5 khz on both sides in am mode that is nice sounding to the ears.
This video definitely helped me make my mind. Looks like I am going with the McKinley. Thank you for your time brother.
Not sure where the mic gain settings were on both radios during the tests but they both did a fine job. I like these apples 2 apples comparison vids. Keep up the good work 👍🏻
I agree with you McKinley...not much in it.
This has helped me make a decision...thank you.
Also thank you for your honesty.
Very nice review and comparison! I do wonder though if an external speaker would have made either rig sound better. I know I usually get better results if I go external. My external speaker has an integrated capacitor to help filter out noise.
It would but I wanted to compare the radios as they come with no accessories
@@SevenFortyOne oh your review is perfect the way it is! I'm just thinking out loud!
I have both. And use both just as you described!
Thanks for the review. I'm looking into the Galaxy and these 2 ssb radios so this gives a me a good review as to what I would choose between these 2 (President). Another CZcamsr did a review of the President Lincoln II, yes it's a ham, but he commented the stock microphone was 'garbage' and he wired and uses a Cobra power mic with good success.
Well thanks to your superb review here. I am very pleased to know. Since my younger, 64-year-old brother, dropped dead. A few months back. I inherited his car and his numerous, 2 way radios. Mostly all 2 meter ham stuff. But there is also this, President McKinley, CB Radio. There is a box for another different unit. Also looking very nice. I have not yet located? But the box looks brand-new just like the Pres. McKinley box. And the Icon 705. And numerous walkie-talkies of GMRS variety I think? Though could also be 2 meter units? I have no idea? I haven't been into this stuff for, well over 50 years. When I was a teenager. Playing with Ham and CB Radios. While, on the air, overnights at Baltimore's #1 FM Album Rock Station. Back in 1976. Just a couple of weeks ago. Or so it seems? I think I am now fully senile? And everything is working great. Hi my name is Remy what's yours? What did you say your name was again? What do you mean I've already asked you 50 times? No you didn't I am.
Yes I am boning up on my future senility. I want to be able to make the least amount of sense possible. And that is very difficult for me since I am no sense at all. And so in the paper with ice cream there are always pencils to be trapped. When senility takes full hold of your shrinking brain. As it has,, mine. And Donald Trump's. Most definitely. Yes we can see for ourselves. Clear through. From one ear canal to the other. He has nothing left inside his Orange Jesus.
Without a care in the world. He adjusts his petticoats and heads out the door.
RemyRAD
Glad you liked the video?
I have a President Grant 2. I don’t have the McKinley but I do have a Uniden Bearcat 980 with the Grant 2. These two radios look very similar up front with the knobs and buttons. In back and mind you both radios are low power-the Grant 2 has a heat sink whereas the 980 does not. Both are sold as cb radios. The 980 has 3 modes (AM, SSB, and WB). The Grant 2 has AM,FM, and SSB. Yes, the Grant 2 is sold as a cb radio but a simple adjustment under the cover will give you as many channels as a Lincoln 2 plus. I got mine from a UK 🇬🇧 Retailer.
Nice. My grandma was part of a CB club back in the 80s.
Well I have a McKinley and love it...but in my other car I was gonna get a bearcat just for being able to get the wireless Uniden mic...but now come to find out the 6 pin uniden wireless WILL fit the McKinley without mods...sold..going to get another McKinley and order 2 wireless mics.
Double check that before you order...I may have mis spoken in the video
I bought the 980 on my fuel points. It's a nice ssb radio and stable. The problem is that you can't see the display in the day time. In your test, I think the McKinley has a warmer tone than the 980. The 980 is tinny. A back lit lcd display would definitely be better in a mobile environment. I have the 980 in my hamshack, and I don't regret owning one. It's a great addition to leave on 38 lsb and use as a propagation beacon for 10 meters. There's hardly any activity on 10 because hams, think the band is not up.
McKinley 👍👍👍
The President McKinley is outright the far better radio, in RX and TX. Plus it doesn’t have screen issues like the 980SSB does. Also you can still buy the McKinley as its replaced the President Grant II.
I would have to invert the display on the President, its one of a few reasons why i bought the Uniden (that and the price). I do believe the updated version of the President also has FM as well.
Also with a small Phillips screw drive, such as used. For cellphone repair there are pots in the radio for alc and dead key! Video are out there ! WR038 aka UDX038 Utah.
The point of test was to compare the radios out of the box as they come
Maybe it is time to do all the signal processing in C++ on a DSP Processor like radios like the latest ICOM SDR range of transceivers.
I'm getting out of ham and looking for an affordable and decent CB to get back to my root. I think either of these would make me happy. Trick is find them. The President line isn't at commend here in Canada, and the Uniden sold out where I would normal buy from.. But having owned Cobra's in the past (and still have 19M in my car) I'm leaving to the Uniden side. But I'm still considering other option like a class base rig if I can find one. Or maybe an AnyTone... oh I am so confused...
What a great in-depth video , thank you so much for doing , I would go with the Bearcat as it looks so cool , all the best 🍷
Glad you enjoyed!
Great review, I'm looking at getting back to the CB after many years away. I think that you've convinced me to get the president. It really seems to be the top of the line. Thanks
I think it's a good choice if you are just getting back in to the hobby. Good value for the money.
Great review I purchased the McKinley yesterday waiting to get it shipped. I read up on it many places I needed something smaller then the spare full sized mobiles I have . I been been in CB's for 50 + years . I am going on a 2600 mi road trip (WA to OH)wanted a smaller CB with weather band will be running it off a old Wilson 5000 mag base . Papa Smurf 109 waving bye bye
I have the 980 and have made some DX contacts on it o0n SSB. Looking back, I wish I would have bought the McKinley instead though.
Those are both nice radios, but I went with a dual band ham radio and had the 11meter chip added when ordered it and had it aligned and tuned for max performance, best of both worlds.
What did you get? I’ve been thinking of modding my ic705.
@@echo-hotel I Got the RCI 2970N4 for a mobile/base. it's now 10, 11, and 12 meters with the 11 meter chip installed. 400+ watts. I also have the IC 7200 that does a Great job on skip land.
I have both radios. The best feature on the 980 is the weather band..........that's about it. The McKinley is decent but lacks the power to really get out. My Lincoln 2 blows both out of the water. On that note they are all menu driven and I don't like that. Id rather have switches and knobs.
I really liked your comparison. I'm an amateur operator (kb7rxp) who still uses CB from time to time. I just bought a slightly used 980 ssb. I haven't had an 11 meter ssb unit for about 20 years, but the atmosphere has been insane lately so I decided to get back into it. I've had my ham ticket for about 30 years, I really should upgrade so I can work more HF, but I'm lazy and haven't gotten around to it 🙂
Loved this comparison! I owned a Bearcat 980. After I heard the 980 displays might be sensitive to temp changes and bright light, I decided to use it inside only as a base. It was awesome in that setting with an external Bearcat speaker. My SSB buddies did say that it sounded a little "tinny' compare to other radios, but that it was completely audible. The weather channels and color options are really nice features, and I love how that mic fits in my hand for sure. Sold my 980 to a friend and he (cough cough) added an amp :)
I don't have a McKinley, but now I want one! I have the President Bill FCC in my van - same shape mic and I like that forward-facing speaker; solves all sorts of fit problems in my vehicle. Oh, and the ASC / Automatic Squelch Control on President products is awesome! It is very sensitive to incoming chatter - even on something low dollar like my Bill FCC. Thanks for sharing!
I like the ASC too...it works well for me.
I really REALLY miss my old "PRESIDENT 2510" ..... great comparison video bro, thanks for posting.
Back in the 70s i had 3 president cb raidos ar7 jfk and grant. All very good raidos. I regret getting rid of them.
Dec 2021: I picked up the 980 two years ago. Great vid. Thanks. Inspired to get it back out. Michigan Pete. Out!
Awesome!
I bought a Uniden radar detector years ago and it false alarmed all across West Texas during a road trip. I'll never buy one of their products again. The President is always my choice. As soon as they make an AM/SSB/FM President radio, I'll buy one.Till then I'll stick with my old Realistic TRC-421A. Thanks for the posting.
I was surprised I liked the receive quality of the McKinley more. The audio on your receiver from the McKinley wasn't as clear to me, because I suspect President is filtering the highs. With all their experience, I thought I'd prefer the Uniden.
That recieve audio on the President is a beautiful crisp sound
I like the McKinley you can turn the RF power down if you have a little kicker i here. I herd one guy say Putnam Ct, that’s funny I live in the same state
I love my McKinley. It looks good and fits better in modern crowded vehicles. Also it's lack of bling makes it less likely to cause a broken window. Of course the 980 kinda looks like a low to mid budget replacement car radio so it also might get passed over as well as opposed to your cobra 29 chromes and export radios.
Good points
I like the look of the 980 better, but I’m thinking the McKinley is a better radio.
Great comparison - over here in UK we have FM as well on the McKinley as "standard" CB is FM (but we now have AM and SSB too on some bands) - I still prefer the Lincoln I or Lincoln II. Merry Christmas!
I haven't tried the modern Lincoln radios yet but I've heard good things
Perfect! Thanks! I just had a Galaxy DX 959B delivered yesterday and it has a fairly loud wine coming from the cabinet. I am returning it and I was considering the two radios in this video and it made my decision much easier! I could not stand the buzzing from the President, so I am going to get the Uniden instead. I will be using it as a base station and also like the better appearance of the Uniden.
For reducing whining, need to likely run the power straight to the battery, with an additional inline fuse for protecting the radio. Then run a ground cable connected to the screw on the radio to some metal on the vehicle. First identify any other vehicle circuits are not causing the problem by pulling fuses where possible, although most circuits are not easily fixed.
Inline fuse
InstallGear 8/10 Gauge AWG In-Line AGU Fuse Holder with 60 Amp Fuse
Bullz Audio (BAGU30P) Platinum 30 Amp AGU Fuse - 5 Piece
Think I ran 10 gauge stranded cable for the power (some charts call for 8 AWG for 30A), then maybe box store green 12 or 14 AWG THWN stranded for ground.
Whining noise decreased by ~30-50%, significant and at times almost inaudible, but still present at times. Heard this is likely due to the electronics on newer vehicles. I've pulled fuses to isolate, but failed further isolating.
On my setup, I also wired in a relay, for having the CB radio turn-off or on with the vehicle key, rather than always remaining turned-on and accidentally draining the battery. The relay is connected to the radio fuse, two wires one hot one ground(?), when the relay senses the vehicle electric turned on (eg. power to radio), the relay opens the direct 30A wire from the battery to CB.
Here's the relay parts:
Absolute RLS125 12-VCD Automotive Relay SPDT 30/40A
SURBLUEXX 5 SET 5 Pin Relay Socket Connector 12V 30Amp 40Amp 6.3mm Car Truck Vehicle Terminal Relay Case Holder
Also best to solder the cabling/wiring, for significantly increasing durability. Use a hot soldering iron for these thicker cables, such as the Weller D650PK. (Think I also used silver solder, definitely not going to break easily!) Best to also use shrink tubing, but sure electrical tape will suffice.
I bought 2 of the Bearcats 980s and both of the screens went out on both of them.
You deserve a thumbs up after the effort you put 👍🏻
Thanks!
i own both i use the Mckinley in the car easyer to fit in dash with front firing speaker and bearcat on base station in house both great radio's
Thank you rob, I came to same conclusion two years ago and thankfully I chose Ham vs Cb to equip my station at home and in the mobile. Sounds so thin love my ftdx10 on Am ☺️
There is a time and place for all types of radios. I like having options...
that transmitter of the bearcat sounds notably better modulated, clearer and more intelligible. the receiver of the mckinley sounds very slightly better. i think that bearcat is the better cb radio. i wonder how it would sound with a large diaphragm condenser studio mic such as singers use hooked up to it.
I'm an old cb'er from the 70's and to me, I like the McKinley, sounds better to me.
The fact that the power can be turned down is also a seller to me.
I wonder how the President George would measure up.
That Bearcat mic looks retro, like an old Astatic or Electro-Voice studio mic or something from Flash Gordon!
At this point, being in observer mode, I'm working on a scanning SDR setup. After that, I'll see if I want to transmit anything.
Kudos on your collection, especially those two Drakes. I always loved those.
Someday I'll get the drakes going..I'm waiting for a break iñ my work schedule...
Thanks for that comparison! Personally, I'm preparing to buy a much more 'serious CB' than I've ever bought before. I started using CB radios back around 1974 and then, years later, I started driving big-rigs, (OTR/48). I drove professionally for about 6 years, ('86 to '92). I was a hired driver and in those years, worked for several different, well established, companies, (as opposed to being an owner/operator).
I almost always owned an affordable Cobra 29 or some variation on that model, (even from way back in the '70s). However, if I had the money, I would have gone with one of the 'Presidents'. Many of the owner/operators (and hired drivers who made some good money), swore by them and I still think they're one of the best. Yet, I want to be sure that I get the kind of strong performance the Presidents radios were known for back when I was a pro driver.
I need to try and find which of the President models is the best. Is the McKinley among the top 3?
Thanks again for the video.
Rich
Not the same quality as the old time Presidents in the past they still sell on eBay for similar money as these new ones! I own a McKinley and have a hard time talking skip on it. Local SsB is fine. It has a weird squelch that goes chuff chuff even when turned all the way back it’s irritating to me to use the squelch. Sounds good on receive
@@desmondsharpe9623 Thanks Desmond. In fact, because the 11 meter modification to the New President Lincoln is so easy to do, I'm probably going to go with that one.
As for the quality of the Presidents that you and I new 'back in the day', it doesn't surprise me. It seems almost all the hardware that had a reputation of being the best, (from CB's to stereos and more), are now a much cheaper knock-off of their former self.
Rich
Talking skip has nothing to do with the radio it's mainly the conditions propagation you can talk skip pretty much on any radio if you have a halfway decent antenna
@@dobermanguy9437 True. I recall a number of times when I'd make the trip to places like Vermont or Maine and I was sitting in a truck stop in New Mexico or Kansas. All I had was a tuned & peaked Cobra 40 classic back then, (1989 to 1995).
I have both the 980 is easier to handle of you’re a trucker but the display may give out and need to be sent in for repairs 😡
The McKinley is rock solid and has a massive cult following but has a learning curve as far as handling as you drive if you came from the 980.
Both modded by my tech and they perform almost equally the McKinley edges out the 980 with variable dead key ability.
Great Job. You were fair in your observation. Price goes to the Uniden.
While I am a bit late to the party, the 980 with the bottom speaker is muffled. but if he would set it on its side where the speaker was facing him like the McKinley is it would be much different.
Looks like the McKinley is the better rig. I'm not a fan of the orange backlight. I prefer green or blue. I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Merry Christmas to yo too! The backlight color can change. My crappy eyes see orange the best so I leave it there
Hello! For me, the choice (between these two) is definitely the MC Kinley....
I’m glad I am not the only one that hears that president speaker whine, it’s especially bad when connected to my external speaker. I can hear it in my Lincoln 2+ over the highway noise, it drives me nuts.
The Bearcat sounds a bit better, but I would like the McKinley better.
I think the McKinley receiver is slightly better so I agree
I prefer the Bearcat but they're both cheap pieces of crap.
Need to adjust AMC on both, no not wide open just set for 100% Mod I did and people loved the sound of my Mckinley
Just ordered me a new uniden bearcat 980 ssb and. Bearcat 20. Speaker getting back into. Ssb after 15 years. Hope gen 2. Is better then gen one. Bearcat
I have noticed my Mckinley makes that whine too! I realized when I back down the mic gain a bit the noise goes away. I wonder if it's some kind of feed back or over modulation coming from the speaker amplifier? Also I've had complaints my voice was overmodulated on SSB mostly; I turned it down to 50 percent and it seems better to others.
I have been regularly chatting with Blueberry Hill on 37; 30 km away on SSB in minor hilly terrain. Blueberry Hill is a base station.
I have chatted with a contact in australia "big skip" on SSB 37 USB this past summer. My radio is mobile with a 3 ft. Firestik Firefly. Ontario, Canada.73
Interesting about the noise...maybe a qc issue. Sounds like you are having fun with it though!
Lots of fun. Currently upgrading my coax to RG8U . Its tough stuff but has a efficiency ratio of 0.85.
I like the more minimalistic design of the McKinley and the front facing speaker. Is the McKinley whining noise from the power supply section? I had a Hallicrafters shortwave and when I used SB I could adjust the tuning and it changed the frequency of the static, that was a nice feature.
I think the noise is from a poorly shielded circuit inside the radio. It happens sometimes.
I would take either radio giving a slight edge to the McKinley. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 73 Joe
I remember back in the late 70's the President brand first came out then in the early 80's they changed their brand name to Uniden. I guess President made a come back.
They were very nice in the way they said " Your piss weak " LOL!!!
Yeah - they cut me some slack
There’s no comparison in stock form , that McKinley is a Cadillac compared to the 980 which is a Chevy Cavalier lol ,, now , with that being said I’ll take up for the 980 , I bought one brand new from a guy that specializes in enhancing the radio and he’s very good at it . Was it money well spent , absolutely not , hindsight is 2020 , but he did excellent work on the radio , for what it is and the price , I really like it and it’s a great sidebander, and very stable , but then again , a lot of parts were upgraded and overall modified . I’ll tell you the story sometime on the phone or on the band . If I had it to do over knowing what I know now 2 years later , I woulda took that money and put towards something else in my shack . 73’s Rob , great video .
I like having "legal" CBs around just in case but any ham rig that's been opened up will blow these out of the water.
Peak both those radios and they are the same! Also get the bearcat up off the desktop because of the bottom speaker!