The CS-700 by CSI is a very capable radio and at a price point of $180 is perfect for someone looking to explore DMR. The $180 price is only available directly from CSI and only to licensed amateurs.
Another bonus of the CS-700, the USB guts of the programming mechanism are in the radio, not the cable. So while you fabricate your own cable, I would highly recommend buying one when you order your radio for the whopping price of $5. Programming software is freely available on the CSI website. There is a YouTube video on the programming process. It is quite well done. You can find it here. I purchased my radio while on vacation, and downloaded the software from their website. Following the directions in the video, I had my code plug ready before my radio ever arrived. My radio was waiting for me when I got home, and I dropped my code plug into it and I was on the air. This is a bit different because Motorola requires you to read a radio before programming it. You can’t just create a new file. This was a welcome change.
For those familiar with the Motorola XPR6500 series, you’ll notice a lot of similarities. From the startup and power down messages to the tones played for each of those actions. The menu is practically identical to the 6500 as well. The radio is not a Motorola, however.
Battery life is good and the radio comes with a drop-in, rapid charger.
The best thing about this radio, is you can get support from a Yahoo Group or directly from CSI. When I ordered my radio, I spoke directly to Jerry Wanger, CEO.
