http://www.livefromthehamshack.tv/2018/02/05/episode-127-tyt-md-9600-dmr-mobile-radio-version-3/ ----------------------------------------- Version 3 of the MD-9600 Dual Band DMR Mobile radio from TYT has fixed most of the issues that were present in the first 2 versions. In this video I show you the radio menu, make a couple of QSOs, and record the first part of the Texas Statewide DMR Net on our local 3148 Talkgroup
You're both correct. The MD9600 doesn't have a remote head, while the CS800D does. Though I am told that the CS800D is deaf on VHF. I have a test model that I will be reviewing soon
Just purchased the TYT MD-2016 (Model 3) and I am very disappointed with the general lack of quality control. Besides having an entire column of dead pixels on the display, my radio is selectively deaf. After running several comparison tests, my MD-380 and 390 consistently decode any transmission, while the 9600 fails to do so and will show zero signal strength. When it does decode (after just turning it ON or sporadically at-will), it will show full signal strength as expected. All three radio receive the same transmissions from my OpenSpot, which is across the room. I will be sending the radio back.
I have a Version 3 9600, been using it for a few weeks now. I also was able to use, and test, a CS-800d for awhile. Simple choice for me................I wouldn't give you a nickle for the CS-800d! The removable head, in no way, makes up for the other short comings of the radio. The screen is horrible and the front panel functionality sucks! The ONLY thing I liked about the CS-800 was the programming software. It was well laid out and easy to use. The MD-9600 has worked flawlessly. The screen is bigger, has more information lines, and is easier to read. Access to radio functions, via the front panel, is easy and intuitive vs the 800d. The owners manual for the 9600 is pretty lame, but there are numerous user groups available for help. I'll stick with the 9600. There may be a few bad radios out there, just like ALL the radio manufacturers, but I've found TYT to be easy to work with.
Great comments, as I was about to order a CS800D. Not any more. I was not happy how CSI completely abandoned owners of the CS800/801. Their latest firmware is still buggy and released in 2016. Completely unacceptable. I may keep my TYT MD-9600. It really has a wonderful receiver. It just appears nobody has been able to successfully use it with an OpenSpot yet. It may just be a matter of time before TYT releases a firmware so their radio works with an OpenSpot, as currently do all of their hand-held radios.
