Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Posting-Version: version B 2.10.1 6/24/83; site laidbak.UUCP Path: utzoo!linus!philabs!cmcl2!seismo!lll-crg!dual!qantel!ihnp4!laidbak!jeq From: jeq@laidbak.UUCP (Jonathan E. Quist) Newsgroups: net.aviation Subject: Re: Sony Air-8 Message-ID: <154@laidbak.UUCP> Date: Mon, 12-Aug-85 21:36:40 EDT Article-I.D.: laidbak.154 Posted: Mon Aug 12 21:36:40 1985 Date-Received: Sun, 18-Aug-85 22:26:40 EDT References: <748@infopro.UUCP> Reply-To: jeq@laidbak.UUCP (Jonathan E. Quist) Distribution: net Organization: LAI Chicago Lines: 62 >While I haven't gotten a chance to use or see it personally, Satellite >Technology Services recently introduced a scanner that, on specs alone, >should obsolete not only the Air-8 but also the Terra, TR-720, etc. >It scans a full 720 channels, storing 10 frequencies, has a rubber-ducky >antenna, cigarette lighter adapter, nicad battery pack, 90 day money back >guarantee, 3 year warantee, and 24-hour service, and costs just $299.50. > >Oh yes, it also *transmits*. I purchased one of these shortly after they were introduced, and have very few regrets. The STS 7600 has proven quite reliable, and the only problems so far are that accessories such as headsets (it does not use standard jacks, and the headset connector pinout doesn't match that of other handhelds) are not yet available. STS claims the end of August... There were quite a few of these radios on the Oshkosh flight line this year. I have to admit that having mine produced a strong temptation to ask Concorde to execute a snap roll during a fly by. (Yes, in fact, I must give the SST at least honorable mention as the most beautiful aircraft. If you had seen it doing touch and goes at Wittman field, you might agree.... but, I digress.) CFI's take note: A few months ago I returned to flying after a 2 year layoff with only 16 hours logged. The first time my instructor stepped out of the plane, I pulled my radio from the back seat and handed it to him. Knowing that we could converse, and getting advice for improvements each time around the pattern gave me loads of extra confidence. He immediately recommended that his flight school purchase at least one to solo new students with. My one regret: Narco introduced a handheld (the HT830) at Oshkosh this year with a nav receiver that also displays your bearing from the VOR. It's twice the price of the STS (list for the HT830 is $695), but if I were flying a homebuilt or classic with no electrical system, it would be my first choice. (It would also make a more suitable backup for IFR flight.) Alternate subject: Re: Trainers My first 16 hours were in C-152's. Since then I've logged 4 hours in a C-140 and 40 in C-172's. The 172 seems to be, in general, the most docile of the 3. I think this makes the 152 more suitable for learning general flight proficiency. The 140 is pretty easy to fly, but will tell you in no uncertain terms if you are doing something wrong. It took a lot of concentration to get my turns coordinated. As most of my time left before my checkride will be working on proficiency maneuvers, I plan to do it in the 140. (I have to admit, I am one of those who beleives that the very existence of tail tie-down ropes proves that airplanes should not sit on their respective noses. Flame on.) "P-40's may be ugly, but they're beautiful." Jonathan E. Quist ihnp4!laidbak!jeq ``I deny that this is a disclaimer.''