Retevis RT97L 25W GMRS Waterproof Repeater with Speaker Mic

Its been on air about a week. So far, about a 15 mile radius in the hilly, tree filled terrain of Western PA. Getting great reports from those I've talked with. Using the MA09 antenna around 25'. It will go up another 15 feet soon, which should drastically improve coverage.

This repeater Retevis RT97L — and any type (UHF, VHF, GMRS, DMR) — would be great for my city, Bucharest, Romania. Unfortunately, there aren’t many active radio clubs here, and most old users focus only on HF because of the lack of repeaters, chasing DX and collecting trophies. That doesn't really reflect the true spirit of amateur radio, which should be about community and shared learning — not just individualism.

I just received the RT97L repeater today and can't wait to try this. It's much smaller than I thought it would be, which is a good thing!

I initially had the first generation RT97 that worked flawlessly for years but went with the RT97S when it came out so I could link it nationwide. I have had great results with almost all of the Retevis products I have owned over the years. This being a new product, there was an issue with the programming software that Retevis has fixed. Retevis may be a bit difficult to deal with due to the time difference and language, but they have always solved any of the minor issues I have had with their new products.

I have in located at the top of a hill, in a fence line at the highest point on my property. It is powered by a marine deep cycle battery that is charged by solar panels.

This repeater replaced an RT97S that has been in service for a few years. No issues with it, other than the output power after the duplexer was about 4 watts. The new RT97L transmits at 21 watts (verified) after the duplexer. It has added about 10 miles onto my range and works in low spots or valleys that it didn't before.

Wonderful repeater. Getting 22 watts to the antenna feed line. Got A+ Tech support!

I first had the transmit delay issue which it wouldn't transmit after keying a radio a couple of times, sent an email to Retevis and the next morning I had the instructions on how to download the firmware update and software for the update. To be fair my repeater's output is 30.1 Watts with the power supply which is more than advertised and it's working great after the update.

So far so good . Haven't updated firmware,but no issues. Huge improvement in range from the 10 watt version.

After sale customer service was FANTASTIC. Two thumbs up to the Retevis after purchase service and support. I am impressed!!!!

I live in a valley about 20 miles wide surrounded by high cliffs. By placing my antenna high in the valley floor I can clearly make and receive messages 20 miles away. Current draw in standby is amazingly low which easy works with a small 20 aH liFpo4 battery and 100 watt solar collector.

I am enjoying my new RT97L very much. I had some problems with updating the firmware and programming but it was my fault. I am a Mac Book user and had to use a Windows base computer for accomplish these tasks. My problem with Windows. I had to learn a little about the Windows system. All in all it was a fun exercise, just took a little time. Now that I know how it is a easy and quick process.

Seems to have clearer audio than the earlier model....nice GMRS repeaters

Just unboxed it, connected it to a KB9VBR copper J-Pole 35' above ground with a 1.01:1 SWR on 75' of LMR 400 coax. The SWR/Power meter shows it transmitting at 20.3 watts. It will replace a fully operational linked RT97S that has been in service for a few years and has worked flawlessly. The RT97S replaced a first generation RT97 that also worked flawlessly for years. This is a solar powered remote setup so my main concern is how the additional transmit power will impact battery life during the winter months when the solar charging at its minimum. The RT97S transmitted at 4 watts. Retevis said this RT97L draws 6 amps DC with a 100% duty cycle while transmitting on high power. If that is true, I should not have a problem. This one is larger and heavier than the first two generations. All are well built and rugged. So far, the only issue is that I need to change the privacy tones, but the software has a password that was not provided. If anyone knows what that is, I would greatly appreciate you sharing it. I will do another review after I have this placed in the remote location. It is on a hilltop and with the 4 watts the RT97S transmits at, has a 30 mile range, unless you are in a valley.

We have access to grain elevators with about 150 feet of elevation, which should help maximize the range of our repeater. The RT97S’s performance in both rural and elevated locations makes it an ideal candidate for our setup.

Our goal is to create a reliable communication network for locals, and the RT97L’s GMRS capabilities, combined with its ease of use and installation, make it a strong contender for the job. Looking forward to seeing how it performs!

Utterly fantastic! Long range and clear! If I ever need more, I will get these ones again.

We're planning to set up a community GMRS repeater in South Central Kansas, with the potential to expand later. The goal is to provide reliable communication in case of grid, cellular, or internet outages. The Retevis RT97L seems like a promising option for this project, given its 25W power output and durability.