If It doesn't have ssb, meaning, lsb (lower side band) and usb (upper side band), then no you can't talk on sideband. You have frequency bands on the radio I take it? These are different frequencies and some if not most are 10 or 12 meter, minus the 11 meter band. If you want a side band radio, the optima mk3, stryker 955hp, rci 2950, or the magnum 257hp all have side band and are all good radios. Some have had issues with all of them, it's part of the hobby. Most of the time they are fine. Just don't buy from a truck stop shop. JMO.