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Introduction
Midland have been in the CB radio game for many years now, and most people have heard the name. This particular Midland 48 Excel radio has been around quite a while too(as a 12v UK Only version). It is the most expensive mobile rig Midland offer, but it has many features including ESP(although personally I dont think Midlands ESP is much to shout about). The latest version of this rig has the ability to work on 12 or 24 volts and can access the European channels (MultiStandard), so it is legal to use it across Europe(with appropriate licence).
Specifications
Channels: 10 Bands including UK and EU. AM and FM.
Features: (from left to right)Rotary channel changer, Analogue signal meter, CB/PA Switch, Emergency Button, Dual Watch, Scan, AM/FM, Lock, N.K.(Noise Killer), 5 Memory buttons, Volume and Squelch rotary controls, RF and Mic gain rotary controls. The display is a Large LCD Screen with orange backlight.
The back of the rig has the 12 Volt detachable DC power lead, Extension/PA speaker socket and SO239 antenna socket.
The set comes with a rather dissapointing mic, it is very small and I have trouble holding it(I do have particularly large hands but other people I have spoken to have trouble too!). It plugs into a 6 pin socket(P6 wired) on the front panel. Also included is an Operator's Manual, power lead, mounting bracket and side screws.
Performance
Receive: There is plenty of volume from the in-built speaker. Squelch works well but is slightly slack, needs to be turned nearly half way to cut out any noise.
Transmit: Plenty of volume on transmit, deviation hits 2khz and microphone is quite sensitive without being over the top. Power is set to exactly 4 watts.
Build Quality: The Midland 48 Excel CB Radio feels solid, the only thing that lets it down is the tiny mic that comes with it. It seems rather plasticy and feels like it could break quite easily.
Recommendations
The Mildand 48 Excel Multi 12/24 is a top end rig with quite a few features. The only thing that lets it down is the mic that comes in the box.
If you're looking for a 12/24v Multi channel radio with plenty of features and dont mind spending a little bit more on a better microphone then the Midland 48 Excel Multi could be the radio for you.
