[Tracker33]

I have both the United Star AN/PRC-148 (Deluxe version) and the Tac Workshop I reviewed above.

Toy soldier (Tactical Workshop) AN/PRC-148 (mfg in early 2013-purchased new):
Pros:
-Worked with my Sordins as discussed above using a real steal PTT voice clearly heard by receiver
-No impedance issues: Invisio 5-pin bone mic using real Davies PTT; Invisio via PRC-343 to PRC 148; Bowman headset to PRC-343 to PRC 148
-Voice transmitted loud & clear but receive is only via the radio speaker using: Nacre Quietpro Urban; Atlantic signal Lo-Vis headset via real U94 PTT (haven't tried shorting the A&E pins yet)
-Lightweight
-Clear display
-No need to switch a jumper inside the radio to get it to work with the real steel equip above (had to do this with some older Toy Soldier/Tac Workshop radios)
-Runs off "AA" batteries (not dependent on rechargeable battery)
-Cheaper than the United Star and no need hunting down/paying for an amplified PTT to resolve the impedance issue (TCI Kenwood PTT is about $250 on top of the cost of the United Star)

Other: CTCSS options are 0, 01-38/10 call tones/3 VOX levels/real 5-pin U283 on radio/Scan function/monitoring function/lock keypad/transmit & receiving display indicator

Cons:
-Shell is not as sturdy as the United Star PRC-148/it's sturdy enough but probably could not take a heavy hit like the United Star
-Programing only via keypad (appears to be limited to FRS and GMRS frequencies 462.5625 through 467.7125 & CTCSS codes)
-You'll need a screw driver to change the batteries

I like both. I found the United Star frustrating mostly due to the impedance issues and my stubborn desire to use real steel headsets & real mil PTTs without changing the headset mics. Programming the United Star PRC-148 is a bit buggy at times but the United Star has a great deal of programming/transmit/receive capabilities as discussed in the review started by Conker.