Wayne.B wrote:

On Tue, 12 Oct 2004 03:50:14 GMT, Moose wrote:

So even if made by the same manufacturer, there may be differences. When
choosing between the M502, FM3000, and M602, are the differences merely
features? ...or is one or more of these units a "commercial duty" one that
will withstand abuse/elements better than the others?

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My experience with ICOM equipment is that all of it seems to be well
built and very reliable, regardless of model. My advice is to not pay
for features that you are unlikely to use.

I've looked into this situation further, and have found that the Furuno
FM3000 and Icom M502 are EXACTLY the same radio - same circuit board,
electronics, microphone, and display. You pay about a $65 premium for the
Furuno face plate.

Now the Icom M602 is a different radio. Different internals, slightly better
signal to noise ratio, etc. i.e. It's a better radio. Not just more
features, but higher end specs, too.

Whether or not it's worth the extra $250 will be up to the individual
buyer...

Still, I think these are the best quality radios one can buy. If anyone
knows of something better, let me know.

Moose