The VR-120 is good, but it doesn't have SSB reception. Just mentioning it
in case you use that mode.

For either the 120 or the 500, you will DEFINITELY need a better antenna for
SW (telescopic whip, reel wire, etc.)! The stock antennas are only good for
VHF/UHF.

(sorry for the e-mail, Tom...meant to reply to the group...)

- Doug


"Tom Welch" wrote in message
om...
You did say backpacking, RIGHT?

I would suggest you buy a Grundig
Mini World 100 PE pocket radio and
leave the ATS-808 at home. Here's
a link http://www.universal-radio.com/catal...able/4040.html
BTW, you can pick up this radio at
REI for $30.

Another alternative, is the Yaesu VR-120D.
Ham Radio Outlet had this radio for $120
last time I looked, a lot cheaper than
the Yaesu VR-500.

Tom Welch