REVIEW: United Star AN/PRC-148 MBITR

The first thought is simple: "WOW, this thing is great!" It's a radio, the build quality is very solid and the device is also quite heavy at 665g (excluding antenna). For comparison: the Toy Soldier MBITR weighs only 225g (without batteries). The first major difference to all other replicas available so far is probably the battery, which can be slid out on the side just like the real one. The transmission power is a fantastic and illegal 5 watts, but can be limited. Anyone who wants a cool MBITR that closely resembles the original will be pleased with this review. Today we present to you the AN/PRC-148 from United Star. Note in advance: The owner - thank you for your help, Lucky - has given the device a "Used Look" using paint.

On the top there is a 6-pin connector, onto which the plug of a real headset only fits if the small O-ring inside is removed. A general drawback is that with original military headsets, the impedance of the microphone does not match the circuitry in the device. This means that people can't hear you talk. The solution is to install a microphone from a clone headset or solder in a transistor somewhere. In plain language: you have real Comtacs and can then install parts from Element, for example. That's uncool ... The channel selection knob on the MBITR is functional. The buttons are also of very good quality and correspond in appearance and labeling to those of the original.

Shown here from all sides: All buttons and keys are functional and the high quality of workmanship continues. The cover at the dataport (second image from the center, with the golden contacts) can be unscrewed. Underneath is a Kenwood connector for headsets and for the programming cable. Not shown in the picture is the CD that comes with the software for the United Star MBITR.

Programming is somewhat complicated. The software is not always easy to install and requires a crack. It only runs smoothly under Windows XP, once it is installed. In this forum article (English) and HERE (German) on the 6mm forum, you should find all the answers to questions about the software and the various quirks of the device. Suffice it to say, it is not easy to program the device correctly.

Here are two pictures of the battery. On the right side of the image, you can see the connection for the charger (small hole). Although the manufacturer advertises that the device is waterproof/sealed, this can be doubted solely because of the charging port. Another very big disadvantage is that replacement batteries are currently not available for purchase. In plain language: if the battery part fails, that's it.

Here is a picture of the beautifully glowing green display. It is very clear and provides all the important information. Some functions, such as "Dualwatch," do not seem to work, and some tinkerers are trying to fix these issues through software updates. At the moment, with moderate success.

In the picture, you can see the two antenna feet. In terms of quality, the antennas are hardly distinguishable from the originals, in stark contrast to the cheap-looking flex antennas from other manufacturers.

Finally, a comparison picture with the Toy Soldier MBITR. The subtle differences are clearly noticeable. However, since the radio is usually in a pouch, these differences are unlikely to be noticed on the playing field.

CONCLUSION: The United Star AN/PRC-148 is the highest quality and visually most appealing replica of an MBITR that we have come across so far. At first glance, you might think you're holding a real MBITR in your hand, even though the case is made of plastic and unfortunately not aluminum. But every coin has two sides: with this functional radio, the lack of replacement batteries (so far), the complicated and likely faulty software, and ultimately the need to modify a real headset just to be heard over the airwaves are unfortunate. Those who appreciate the authentic feel and are technically inclined will be happy. Those who prefer to connect their real headset unmodified to a PMR-MBITR are certainly better off with Toy Soldier, both in terms of quality and price.

The United Star MBITR is available at various shops, including RSOV for $269.99 excluding shipping.

HERE is the link to the Photo File MBITR (original device)

HERE is the link to the review of the Toy Soldier MBITR (5 Pin)

HERE is the link to the review of the Toy Soldier MBITR (normal jack)

HERE you can find the common dummy housings (Toy Soldier & Spartan Airsoft) compared - where nothing actually works.