New VHF marine radios from B&G, Lowrance and Simrad

Navico — parent company of B&G, Lowrance and Simrad —has introduced a new VHF marine radio for each of its big three electronics brands and the markets they inhabit.

The new B&G unit is coded the V20 and pitched at the sailing and cruising fraternity; the Simrad iteration is the RS20 and destined for a lot of offshore fishing boats; while the Lowrance Link-6 is a separate product (without NMEA 2000 compatibility) that replaces the Link-5 VHF Radio. It's pitched at freshwater and inshore boaters.

With this roll-out, you can now buy the latest VHF marine radio to match your preferred electronics suite from B&G, Lowrance and Simrad.

Each of the VHF radios is Class D DSC Approved, NMEA 2000 compatible (except the Lowrance), with a dot white matrix LCD screen with inverted light mode, four backlit mic buttons, and a front-mount installation with snap on edge bezels designed for easy installs.

Another feature is the new Startup Wizard for easier radio set up. There are improved scanning features, a favourites shortcut for customising your favourite settings, and a ‘My Channels list’enabling users to only scan desired channels, Navico says.

KEY FEATURES
Along with radio controls designed for left-hand operation, allowing for right-hand control of the helm, are the following key features:
>> High visibility LCD with inverted night mode
>> Intuitive rotary and keypad controls
>> Four-button fist microphone
>> Class D DSC Approved
>> NMEA 2000® compatible
>> Dedicated Channel 16 keys
>> Tri-channel watch function
>> All international channels
>> Multiple scan modes
>> Easy bracket or flush-mount installation
>> IPX7 Waterproof
>> 2-Year Warranty

According to the press information, the B&G V20 and Simrad RS20 VHF units have a RRP of $379 (inc. GST), while the Lowrance Link-6 will retail for $279. Stock is due to arrive mid-2017.

For more information, see the
Navico landing page.