Sunday, February 8, 2015

Radio Log: Mexican CB Chatter

I recorded this February, 2015, around 1750 (late morning, local time). I was headed up to the 10 meter band to listen to the CB channels when I heard these guys on three different frequencies outside of the established frequencies. Often called "freebanders" because they operate outside the edges of established amateur radio bands, the chatter flies loose and there are frequent pile-ups- broadcasters with increasingly outlandish (in the US it would be illegal) power radiating out of their small portable transceivers, trying to drown one another out. There are some peculiar audio effects of pushing it to the limit like this- whistles, tones, echo, feedback just barely under control. All it make for pretty fascinating listening. Since I don't speak Spanish I don't know what they are saying, though even I know enough to realize a guy is saying "where are my friends?" at one point. Still they weave a fascinating sonic tapestry which can be appreciated all on its own.

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