It depends on the 'yardstick' you use to measure the differences to a large extent, and just exactly what those 'differences' are. To me, it seems the biggest differences between the 'high end' and 'low end' of radios is in the 'extras'. They tend to have the same basic abilities. If you think those 'extras' are worth the difference in price, then get them. If you don't, then why bother?
A few of all those 'extras' can certainly make a difference in what you can hear (the biggy), and the rest are sort of just for convenience, or for occasional use, or for specific/special purposes.
Personally, I think if there's really a huge difference between the bottom of the line and the top of the line as far as 'hearing' ability goes, I'm gonna wonder why those people don't 'fix' their el'cheapo stuff to start with! I am certainly cheap, but I hate 'cheap' stuff, you know? It may only be in my imagination, but there's a big difference between inexpensive and 'cheap'.
And then there's always the 'brag factor'. I have found that in most cases, the particular piece of equipment I'm using is determined entirely by what I say it is. Not that I would ever lie about it, perish the thought
! Unless 'they' come look to see what's sitting on my desk, how the @#$$ would 'they' ever really know? And if 'they' ever do come to see, why, they were just a little too late, I just sold it, got an offer I couldn't refuse. Right?? The "brag factor" is very subjective, sort of, I don't care much.
So are there really differences between the top and bottom end stuff? Of course there is. The question is if that difference is worth it to you.
- 'Doc
Not exactly the answer you may have been looking for, but, look who'z answering...