WRXB215

I second what @WRHS218 said. Once you join Texas GMRS Network you will have access to a lot of repeaters, many of which are not listed here. MyGMRS.com has a much better forum though.

I've been using a UT-72 with an AT778-UV for more than an year now and have not had any problems. I almost always get good reports. When I don't get a good report, there is usually an obvious reason like weather, distance, trees, buildings, etc. This is a very inexpensive setup and I'm quite pleased with it.

Pretty sure he means that he has the frequency and tone correct.

Should work but those HTs are ham not GMRS.

Link?

@jwalsh7107 welcome.

ribbitradio.org

@WSGV572 welcome!

LOL! I could have given a better explanation as well. GMRS is a "channelized" service. As such the frequencies it's allowed to transmit on are hard coded into channels. When in Memory(channel) mode, you are locked down to transmitting on only the approved frequencies and are therefore allowed to transmit. In VFO mode, you have virtually infinite frequency adjustment in the band as Steve indicated. That is why you can only listen in with VFO mode but you can transmit in Memory mode.

It is a GMRS radio so you can't use the VFO to transmit. It will only transmit on the GMRS specific frequencies.

Those rolled eyes look strangely familiar but I don't recognize the hair.

The Baofeng MP31 has audio prompts but it is only 2 watts. If you can find a similar 5 watt radio it might suit your needs. Radios like the MP31 that don't have a display are more likely to have the voice prompts you are looking for.

Chicken Band? Sign me up.

Keep in mind that the ultimate goal is to keep the lightening outside of the living space. And while you are doing that, don't introduce any ground loops.