The Talkabout T5720 is similar to the
T5620. So this review will read very similar to the T5620.
The biggest difference is that the T5720 adds the ability to transmit up to 5 miles (using GMRS frequencies) at 1 watt, while the T5620 only transmit at 0.5 watts, allowing it to only go up to 2 miles).
Strangely enough, this "better model" actually lacks the "channel scan" mode, which allows you to scan all the channels for activity. For if you are just bored, or if your party accidently changed the channel.
It also adds a mode that requires you to "call" using the ringer button before you can talk, otherwise no one will hear you (if they have that feature on as well). This will surpress unwanted "visitors".
Then, there is the voice activated transmission, which only works with a handsfree set. You can set the sensitivity in the menu.
But the rest is the same. Therefore, the rest of the review is very similar to my T5620 review.
Indepth
Now that FRS (Family Radio Service) frequencies are set, anyone can use them for personal communication purposes. Before then, we had toy-like walkie-talkies that only work on 49 MHz and 27 MHz. They don't go too far, and there is no "channels". That's no good because there may be someone who is also using those frequencies. Toy radio remote controlled cars, cordless phones, etc. With the popularity of uncorded communications, radio controlled devices have moved on. We have 900 MHz and even GHz cordless phones with sub frequencies (channels), removable crystal clocks for RC cars/boats/planes hobbiest, and FRS 2-way radios with 14 channels and 38 security codes.
I have used Motorola's Talkabouts for a while now. My first time using one was for camping, and when the FRS frequencies were implimented for FRS use. Motorola jumped in with the first equipment for sale, often times very expensive at $100 each (not sold in pairs). The biggest thing about these devices is that they can be used 2 miles apart. A huge difference from the old "walkie-talkies".
Times have changed, and even the cheapo no-name brands are making FRS 2-way radios. You can get a pair for as low as $30. A GMRS license is required for some frequencies, and certain models can transmit to 5 miles (which are GMRS frequencies that require a license).
I have been using the Motorola T5620 and the T5720 for a long time now at my place of work. We use it to communicate between managers, co-workers, and others who work on the sales floor instead of using the not-so-private PA system. Only when we do not get a response over the walkie do we use the PA. The store is huge, but definately not over 2 miles, and we are able to get all transmissions perfectly. The only time no one can hear you is if your batteries are dying, only transmitting your requests in mere feet.
The T5720 can transmits to 5 miles using GMRS frequencies, and have 22 channels. It is fairly easy to use once you read the manual. With few featues, it is easy to use the minimal buttons to navigate between different modes and to set different settings. In fact, the manual covers both the
T5620 and the T5720 being reviewed here.
Besides changing channels and security codes (codes that will block out other transmissions using the same channel, but different security codes - designed to allow more people if the FRS becomes popular and channels become crowded), the T5720 have 10 call tones (5 more than the T5620), allowing you to transmit what sounds like a phone ringing to catch the attention from people who you are trying to reach. Otherwise, you may be speaking to people who just simply wasn't listening.
The backlight is great for checking your LCD display during setting changes. The red LED that stays on while you transmit bleeds onto the LCD screen so you can see (somewhat) during a transmission as well. Though not it's intent, it works nonetheless.
The swivel belt-clip is a nice addition to keep the unit by your side. It is easy to push the button to engage or disengage the T5260. Since most of the Motorola Talkabout lines are similar, the belt-clip can be used with any other Talkabouts.
There is also a port that will work with handsfree headsets. And as an added bonus (a very ingenious idea, if you ask me), you will activate the automatic voice activation with it connected. You can also set the sensitivity, so if you are a low talker, or work in a place where there is a lot of background noise, rejoice! If you do not want to miss a single transmission, or just do not like to look like a dork holding a walkie everywhere you go, a handsfree set will make it more acceptable, disgusing itself as a (more acceptable) cell phone.
As far as sound quality goes, it sounds like a microcassette recording. The mic sensitivity is omnidirectional, and picks up background sound pretty good. The speakers were of the garden variety walkie-talkie/electronics enthusiest kind, so the "cheap radio sound" is expected. It can be hard to understand what someone is saying sometimes, but this is true with all devices of this kind. This is sad that we accept it this way, as better speakers could be used to facilitate better sound so we would not have to guess what the other person said.
Battery life is awesome! The Talkabouts last a good day (about 8 hours) on stand by with a reasonable amount of recieving and transmitting. After a day of use, the battery indicator will go down by one tick, and is still ready to go for the next person in the next shift. It takes 3 AA batteries, and works best with the Alkaline variety.
Overall, a very useful device, which (fortunately) has come down in price for mass acceptance. Your cell phone bill is too high because you are calling your friends to find out where they are in the mall? Caravaning in several vehicles? Camping? This is the solution!
