WorldwideDX Amateur Radio Forums

Cotton Mouth · #1 07-26-2009, 06:47 AM

Brand New Reproduction Cobra 2000GTL Due Out This Fall !!!

NOT.

But I would guess that seeing the thread title got some people's attention. But, what if Cobra would remake a classic, do you think anyone would buy it ?

A couple of days ago, I exchanged emails with someone at Cobra Electronics in their marketing dept. No big deal, but I wasn't quickly dismissed either. My initial attempt was to convince or even influence someone---anyone---at Cobra to consider or explore the possibility of remanufacturing a classic collector radio from their company's past lineup.

I know, I know---the economy isn't so good right now. But like all things developed---the idea is implemented with a concept and a period of time then before realization. Hope someone listens.

Do YOU think there would be some real interest in the possibility of a brand-new, Cobra 2000GTL and/or Cobra 1000GTL and matching accessories such as the speakers and desk mic ? Would anyone like to see it or buy one if they did have the chance ? A special factory made reproduction "Cobra 2000GTL Anniversary Edition" ?

Has anyone noticed what a following these radios have had through the years ? And how crazy/carried away the prices get on Ebay and other such sites, for one in decent condition. Try getting one in unmodified condition, or mint NOS in-the-box! Crazy crazy prices. Way way too much.

I think IMHO that there are alot of guys who would love to own a bone-stock, unmodified virgin Cobra 2000GTL. From there, they could do what they wanted to it. But atleast they wouldn't be starting out with a heavily modded-out (or sadly hacked) radio----with a completely unknown history. Worn parts. And the original 2000's are all getting up there in age too. After a decade or two it seems the domino effect sets in, with one component after another failing.

Anyway, I have to hear back from Cobra again and it's only been 2 days. Hoped to plant a seed of an idea at least with them. What do you guys think ? Do you think there would be enough/any interest ? Would you consider buying one ?

While growing up, I used to say that "someday", Detroit would again begin reproducing some of the older musclecar designs in "retro" versions. And indeed they've begun to do it, over the last couple of years! Well---what about some of the best all-time classic radios ??? Anyone ?

Cotton Mouth.

DIRTYWHITEBOY · #2 07-26-2009, 07:00 AM

I doubt very seriously Uniden will ever build chassis for Cobra again so if Cobra brings back the 2000,the quality will probably fall into the 150/200 gtl category(junk).

Highlander_821 · #3 07-26-2009, 07:19 AM

I'd love to have a brand new, unmolested 2000.

Maybe you should talk to RCI about this. It wasn't that long ago they were making the TR-296, which was an almost exact clone of the 8719 PLL dual conversion chassis used in the 2000. And they also were selling the TR-193, or something like that which was a clone of a previous Cobra base radio.

If they put out an updated version of the Cobra with blue leds, I think it could sell.

ron103067 · #4 07-26-2009, 07:42 AM

I can't remember where I seen it but cobra is coming out with a 29 with blue leds and backlit

Cotton Mouth · #5 07-26-2009, 07:53 AM

There is a real nice kit out now that will convert your old red lights on the 2000GTL over to Blue and you would never notice a difference as it appears to have that factory look still. They go for around $59.99 or $69.99 I can't remember for sure. Maybe you already knew that but just thought I would throw it out there for others in case.

Cotton mouth.

Wire Weasel · #6 07-26-2009, 08:38 AM

I don't think it could garner ENOUGH interest to make it profitable.

I don't get it myself. Not with the universe-Galaxy

of exports available and the ever present ability to use a straight up ham rig on 11 meters.

The exports and ham rigs offer the the extra frequencies, bells & whistles and more power that you're not gonna get with 4-12 watt straight CB.

Absolutely none...zero...of the locals in my area or the truck drivers in my area are running stock CB's nor do they want one.

Small straight CB guts inside an oversize purdy box ?? ...... nah

But that's just me. Just one opinion. I realize that folks like what they like and want what they want.....it's all good.

Just like a cold beer on a hot summer day

Stay thirsty my friends

Chop · #7 07-26-2009, 11:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cotton Mouth

There is a real nice kit out now that will convert your old red lights on the 2000GTL over to Blue and you would never notice a difference as it appears to have that factory look still. They go for around $59.99 or $69.99 I can't remember for sure. Maybe you already knew that but just thought I would throw it out there for others in case.

Cotton mouth.

check out my 2000 done up by sparky's. really like the blue lights. i think i'm gonna take the sticker off, though.

Robb · #8 07-26-2009, 12:56 PM

It's not a bad idea - if that company wants to make money. Just so long as they keep the original design as close as possible. Some carefully chosen upgrades to the original design may be needed - like a better power supply - or other immediate and well known defects.

Sure they coulds sell more radios if they were to re-issue them . Just so long as they don't make the cost so high as to keep people from buying them. That is key; as many export radios have more power and other features for less money. That is what Cobra will need to compete with - in this somewhat limited CB radio market. Will the cost of production outweigh the conservative spending public? It is an interesting thought - and Cobra can pull it off - if they play their cards right...