'Echo'  GMRS Handheld   General Description 

The Echo is BridgeCom's newest entry into the GMRS line of handheld radios. It comes pre-programmed with all 30 GMRS channels that are ready to use right out of the box.
 
 
Each Box Contains

-  Echo  GMRS handheld
-  7.4V  2200 mAh  Li-ion Battery
-  Wall Charger - AC to USB
-  USB Charging Cradle
-  4.75" GMRS Antenna
-  Belt clip
-  Hand Strap
-  User Guide
-  Programming Cable
-  * BCE-300 Earpiece w/Microphone
          when purchased as a pair

  
Certification    Part 95
 
FCC Part 95 certification SK4-E30 (9-29-2021)  fccid.io
 
 
Enclosure

The Echo's case measures  5.0 x 2.25 x 1.5"  (12.7 x 5.7 x 3.8cm) and weighs in at 9.1oz (258g) with battery installed.
 
There are two rotary knobs on the top. One for volume, the other as a channel switch. 
The Red button is an alarm button. When held for approximately 2 seconds, a continuous siren is activated which is transmitted over the air as well as through the speaker. Pressing the PTT will deactivate the alarm.
 
The alarm function can be set to either Local Alarm or Remote using the Echo's software.
  

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The left side of the Echo has PTT button as well as a monitor button that opens the squelch for verifying the channel is clear before transmitting. This can also be changed to Scan via the software.
 

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The right side supports the K1 accessory connection as well as accessories such as a remote speaker/microphone or earpiece.
 

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Transmitter
 
The frequency range is preprogrammed to all 30 GMRS channels, both simplex and repeater.
 
As own below, channels 1-14 are initially set to CTCSS tone 67.0 which is the default tones for those channels shared with the FRS service. Channels 15-30 are set to 141.3, better known as the Travel Tone. These tones can easily be changed with the software if desired.
 
While channels 8-14 are preset to 0.5W, all other channels are set to 3.0W.
   

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Transmit Audio
 
The audio is very clean with good frequency response. Holding the radio about an inch away and speaking across the front of the radio produced to best audio. Any further and the audio started dropping off.
 
 
Receiver & Audio
 
The receiver sensitivity is very good and the audio quality was loud, clear and undistorted. There's plenty of volume for use in a noisy environment.
 
 
Software / Programming
 
The Echo has no keypad, but options such as CTCSS tones, Power levels, VOX, Busy Channel Lockout and Squelch level can be adjusted using software. The software is straight forward and easy to use.
 
 
Programming Cable
 
The included programming cable uses a standard a 2 pin Kenwood K1 style connector. The BridgeCom cable loaded the driver directly from the internet with no issues.
 

 
Battery and Charger
 
The battery is an 2200 mAh Li-ion. A fully charged battery can easily last an entire day.
 
The charging cradle is USB powered allowing you to charge the radio using a USB computer port or vehicle accessory jack. There is also an AC to USB charging module included with the radio.
 
While charging, the cradle's front light is red and changes to green when fully charged.
 
 

Accessories
 
The K1 style connector on the side will accommodate the programming cable as well as accessories. I also tried my external Speaker/Microphone with success.
 
 
Distance
 
The average distance achieved by these radios is dependant on the terrain, environment and obstructions. In a city with tall buildings, expect a simplex range of about 1/2 to 3/4 miles. In the open country, 1 1/2 miles is obtainable. Using a repeater will greater increase the coverage area. Here is a chart that describes the varying range limits. How_Far.
 
 
Conclusion
 
The Echo is a durable handheld with plenty of power and good audio. I successfully used mine through local repeaters and received excellent reports. They are well constructed, have all the features needed for easy operation and are ready to use right out of the box.
 
 
 
Available from BridgeCom: 
 
          Echo E30 Handheld
 
          Echo E30 Bundle
 
          Extra Batteries
 

Note 1:  This equipment was received for the purpose of a fair and unbiased review. All findings are factual based on the equipment I received. Any issues found have been reported both here and back to the seller or manufacturer.
Note 2:  I found absolutely no issues or concerns with these radios.