For motorsport enthusiasts and race teams, staying informed about track communications is crucial. A Car Frequency Scanner is an essential piece of kit, allowing you to monitor transmissions from race control, team radios, and marshals. The standard motorsport frequency often used is 169.3375MHz FM, although it’s important to note that different circuits may operate on alternative frequencies. Airband scanners are well-suited for this purpose, covering the necessary frequency ranges to keep you in the loop.
We’ve put two popular scanners to the test: the Icom IC-R2 and the Maycom AR-108, to help you decide which is the best car frequency scanner for your needs.
Icom IC-R2: Addressing Reception Issues
Initially, we encountered significant challenges with the Icom IC-R2. This scanner struggled to pick up broadcasts with weaker signal strengths, often resulting in only catching one side of a conversation. After returning the unit to the supplier twice, detailing the specific locations and frequencies we intended to use it for, a revised antenna was provided. This upgrade, part number FA-S57V, completely resolved the problem. A side-by-side comparison with another identical Icom IC-R2 using the standard antenna demonstrated a remarkable improvement – the signal strength with the new antenna was up to five times greater. For Icom IC-R2 users experiencing similar reception issues with the standard antenna, the FA-S57V is highly recommended as a solution.
Maycom AR-108: Reliable Performance Out of the Box
In contrast, the Maycom AR-108 has presented no such issues. This car frequency scanner has consistently delivered reliable performance from the start, without requiring any modifications or antenna upgrades.
Ignoring many advanced features that are unnecessary for basic motorsport monitoring, the primary functional difference between these two scanners lies in their squelch settings. The Icom IC-R2 features an auto squelch function, while the Maycom AR-108 is equipped with manual squelch only. While auto squelch can be convenient, the manual squelch on the Maycom is perfectly adequate and easy to manage. For those unfamiliar, squelch is a crucial setting that sets a signal level threshold, effectively eliminating the distracting white noise heard when no genuine signal is being received.
Value Comparison: Maycom AR-108 Emerges as the Winner
Considering a price difference of approximately £90, the Icom IC-R2’s primary advantage, auto squelch, hardly justifies the extra cost, especially when compounded by its initial poor performance with the standard antenna. In terms of value for money, the Maycom AR-108 presents a much more compelling option as a reliable car frequency scanner.
The only minor drawback we found with the Maycom is the concentric design of its volume and squelch controls. These can be a little fiddly, making it somewhat easy to inadvertently adjust the squelch setting when intending to change the volume. However, this is a small niggle and doesn’t detract significantly from the overall positive experience.
Conclusion: For Motorsport Scanning, Choose the Maycom AR-108
In conclusion, while the Icom IC-R2 can be made to perform adequately with an antenna upgrade, the Maycom AR-108 offers superior out-of-the-box reliability and represents significantly better value. If you’re looking for a dependable car frequency scanner for motorsport use, the Maycom AR-108 comes highly recommended. Its straightforward operation, reliable performance, and competitive price make it the smarter choice for monitoring race frequencies at the track.
