r/NASCAR • u/trev270 • 2d ago

At track radio options and experience

This is just a question as to what most people's experience has been with radios at the track. I have an old radio that I normally use at races, but I think it's giving up the ghost. So, until I feel like paying for a new handheld, I was wondering what is the best way to stream the radio from your smart phone for the at track experience? I have used the nascar app before when I either forgot my radio or was loaning it out, but it was always a lap or so behind the action. Is it better to get a 3rd party app like tunein or is the Nascar app truly the best option? I know a handheld is best, busy curious what everyone else thinks it has experienced.

2 Upvotes

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3

u/Texas1971 2d ago

I tried the app and just had problems. I was in the same boat too, but just bit the bullet and bought a new scanner from RE. Best decision ever. Just take it to the track and they scan all the newest crews for free.

1

u/trev270 2d ago

Yeah, I need to just shell out for a new scanner. I eventually will, but I am just being cheap now. I shelled out for tickets to multiple races this year, so I know I will get one eventually. Mainly just seeing what my best option is just for a race or 2 since I never tried a 3rd party app. And since I'm going to darlington this weekend, doubt i will have time to get one in anyways. At least if I order online and I don't know a local place to buy one and I'm betting getting one at the track is more expensive. But yeah, if you go to races with any regularity it's worth the money to get a scanner. Just seeing what I can do to save some money for now. 🤣

3

u/Tee_s Chastain 2d ago

NASCAR app works depending on the track and connection quality.

I've just gone the route of getting a cheap Baofeng, a programming cable, and being sure I disable its ability to transmit works great!

2

u/PLang4 Erik Jones 2d ago

Just bite the bullet and get an RE. I paid 600-700 for the intercom set so if someone new goes with me, I can talk to them and answer their questions. I was renting each time I went so it’s more than paid for its self. I bought it in probably 2012-2013 and I’ve had 0 issues. Highly suggest getting the RE. Especially with customer service at the track

2

u/mcmustang51 1d ago

Depending on your requirements, you could buy a cheap $25 Baofeng radio and have a better experience than trying to use the app at the track. At a minimum it will be delayed, and I always worry about cutting in and out, and battery drain

2

u/AgeMundane6632 1d ago

I just have iHeart radio and listen the radio station play by play