Good morning.
I've been doing a little research on these radioes.
I see that they actually have a "us" version called the "f11" I think.
I see that its about twice the price from import communications.
I read  this on their site.
Baofeng F-11  - New USA Version Exclusive USA Version  -  Firmware # USA349 
EXCLUSIVE FEATURE....  To FULLY comply with FCC Part 90 requirements The VFO/MR button can be locked via software.    (***** see note below before ordering) 
**** RADIOS ARE FACTORY-SET WITH VFO/MR BUTTON IN LOCKED POSITION YOU MUST HAVE A PROGRAMMING CABLE TO UNLOCK THIS BUTTON OR YOU MUST REQUEST IT TO BE UNLOCKED BEFORE SHIPPING 
so I guess my question, is were the "non us" versions of this radio able to transmit out of band perhaps?
and, why is the price almost twice what I've found for the UV5-r non us version.
Just my thoughts.

On Aug 25, 2013, at 10:28 AM, Kelvin Marsh <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

Hi All,

I've added a link to the new Baofeng UV-5R MP3 Tutorial by Joe KA9OPL, from
Active Elements.

The Baofeng UV-5R page can be found at:

http://active-elements.org/2012/12/31/baofeng-uv-5r-accessibility-review/

and the new tutorial is under the Related Downloads Heading.

Best wishes, Kelvin Marsh - M0AID

Working to improve accessibility for radio amateurs with disabilities

www.active-elements.org

For accessibility evaluations of amateur equipment and MP3 manuals