HX
- Thread starter pumpkinpie
- Start date
This looks like a next generation version of the HX870. I have had an 870 for about 3 years and it serves me well. Other than the regular caveats about buying a first off the line model I would probably buy one if I needed one. Price is definitely right.
Well, like everything else one can buy for boat use, this product has pluses and minuses. Like the other responders, I have the HX870: the precursor of your unit. I don’t like the digital, scrolling menu features, but how else could all the features be presented?, I don’t know. Compared to older models with fewer features it consumes battery power quickly, similar to iPhones, etc., if left on. So, mine stays turned off on me belt until I need to use it. Or, I keep it on the charger cradle; charging on. But then it’s below next to the big unit
. It's my only one of three VHFs that I use in the dink. It’s waterproof, floats, and gives nav information (compass, position, and SOG). For that it is good. Otherwise, it’s more trouble and much less intuitively operated than older models. (Owner’s manual is over 120 pages!!) I’ve not used the DSC feature even after 3 yr of having one. I certainly would not have two of ‘em at once. Get a more basic model for the cockpit hand-held.
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The 400 looks like it is for industrial applications. The "intrinsically safe" feature is for explosive atmospheres. It has fewer "features" than the 890 for sailing.
