I've installed all 3 audio panels and i prefer the Garmin GMA 347. I work for an avionics shop in Lincoln, CA and the 347 is my favorite to install. It has a built in voice recorder, easy removable back shells and can be connected to a laptop  to change button usage, customize differnt audio levels, and much more. 347 is the way to go.

Todd
Atkin Air Avionics
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From my visits to avionics shops all around the country, I have been told many times that after their first install of the GMA347, many shops just won't install another one.

Why?

It is exactly the PC programming that limits the flexibility of the audio panel.

For example. The PMA8000B has a front panel push button labeled Mute. This is the button that will turn on and off the muting circuit. (better known as the Karaoke mode).

With the GMA347, you have to program the unit while it is attached to the PC to mute during radio reception or not to mute during radio reception. Once set, it will always perform the same way. Think of it, never being able to turn ON the mute for the aircraft radio until you reconnect it to a PC, and then only an Avionics shop can perform such a change.

We support cellular telephones, there is a list at www.ps-engineering.com/pma8000b.shtml click on Cellular Telephone to see a list of phones that work.

Our IntelliVox works flawlessly. Since 1997, we have shipped over 66,000 systems and everyone just loves our automatic VOX.

Plus, the GMA347 uses 2 77 pin connectors. Filling up the first 77 pin connector first and then using many fewer pins on the second connector. This is awfully tight.

There is a list of comparisons at www.ps-engineering.com/compare.shtml you might want to look at that before making your final decision.

Mark Scheuer
President
PS Engineering, Inc.