nascar scanners?

Question

Have you ever used one at a race and if so what is the best mfg., model ? Would you go to a race without?

Answer 1

the headsets are the best too many of them block out alot of the drivers conversations with the crew chefs like the sprint ones 4 instance i never leave home with out my Stewart headset i can hear things the TV views cant its like I'm part of the home depot team

Answer 2

I have been to one race and I rented a scanner at the track. There are two kinds, Fanview- which gives you a little tv to watch the race on and Trac-Scan, you can just listen to the drivers radio's and the radio and tv broadcasts on it.

I rented Trac Scan- I liked it because it was so loud that I could not hear the anouncers- I could listen to them on their radio broadcast or I would listen to the Fox broadcast. Fox was great because you could hear them cutting up during the commercial breaks. The TV braodcast is different on Tracscan though.- What I liked is that I could hear the TV chatter, what they were saying behind the scenes. Then you can hear about problems before it is shown on TV or announced. They would say that someone was having car troubles or some crew chief was mad about something, so I would switch to that team's radio and listen in on what they were saying. You can also listen to the NASCAR officials. I would tell you to get one that allows you to scan multiple teams, because there is not constant talking on the radio during a race.

It cost $65 for the entire weekend, and then $15 for each additional headset that you hook to the main one, so that several of you can listen at the same time. I got it on practice and qualifying day, that was pretty cool to hear them talking about how the car was.(I kept it until the Cup race was over) Next time I go to a race I will definetely get TracScan or FanView- it is totally worth it. Being at a race in person is much different than on TV, so this helps you keep track of what is going on.

Plus it was like 40 degrees, so it kept my ears warm.

Answer 3

Whatever brand you choose, be sure to get a good quality set of headphones. A set if iPod earbuds won't cut it at a NASCAR event. I like to tune in to the MRN or PRN (whichever network is broadcasting the event) audio feed. It's entertaining to listen to them "practice" during hotlaps. I also program the channels with the corresponding car#. ex. Dale Earnhart Jr. is on channel 8. If a car has trouble or is involved in a wreck, you can quickly change over to that frequency and get a better insight as to what is going on. Be warned, if you have sensative ears, the language can get very crude. NASCAR has asked the teams to tone it down a bit, but boys will be boys. Dale Sr. hardly said anything, Rusty used to curse like a sailor, and Ward Burton, well, I don't really know WHAT he said.

Enjoy the races!
Jeff M

Answer 4

I have used one at every race that I've been to. I got one of the ones that they sell on nascar.com as a birthday present this year before my first race and I am glad I have it. I took it to Chicago and to Michigan and it's great because it is small and light. I wouldn't go to the race without one because I love listening to the drivers while I watch the race. Plus the headset is great because it protects your hearing. If you don't get one (buy or rent), make sure to take some ear plugs of some kind with you.

Answer 5

I rented from the trailer on-site (Racing Radios, I think it was). LOVED it.

If you're going to a race, consider renting one to see if you like it first. They're not that expensive, and they not only provide ear protection from the noise, but also driver communications and MRN coverage.

Speaking of salty language, I've discovered there's a *reason* that you don't hear Robby Gordon's radio communications on the TV broadcast... ::grin::

Answer 6

I would go nuts at the track without my scanner. I have a Uniden SC230, it is by far the best one, imo. Here is a picture with information: http://www.disneycampers.com/Nascar/Scanners.htm

The drivers you will have the most fun listening to are: J. Johnson, K. Harvick & Dale Jr. I also LOVE listening to Bootie Barker!!

Answer 7

I don't know that i would survive a race without one, I had rented on at chicago this year and then bought one before went to Talladega, I listened to Elliott Sadler, and got a lot of good out of it, I think it's neat to hear them communicating back and fourth, and it's easier to understand what's going on with our driver's car that way.

Answer 8

I rented one at the track this year. I am thinking of buying one now...
But as someone mentioned...if you don't have a chatty driver there isn't much to hear. All the same, it was cool to listen to my driver communicate with his crew chief and spotter:)

Answer 9

My husband and I rented them at the track. They are definately helpful when you're at the race. Not to mention it helps your ears. You can also program your favorite drivers and listen to them communicate with their crew chief.

Answer 10

I rented one at the track...fir the Daytona 500 a few years back...I personally didnt feel it was worth it..all we heard for 95% of the time was..."clear all around" no biggie...I didnt see a real need for it..but I was listening to Bill Elliots pit..but if you have a chatty driver it may be fun. you may want to try renting one at the track first and see if you like it.