Overview

The SBE-25CB, also known as the “Shasta II,” was a handheld citizens band (CB) transceiver produced by Side Band Engineers (SBE) in the late 1960s. It was part of SBE’s early portable CB lineup and was designed for short-range field or mobile use using crystal-controlled channels.

Technical Specifications

Physical Description

The SBE-25CB “Shasta II” is a portable handheld radio housed in a rectangular case designed for field operation. The unit includes an integrated speaker and microphone, allowing standalone use without accessories. Front panel controls include channel selection, volume, and squelch.

A telescoping whip antenna mounts directly to the unit for portable operation, with an external antenna jack available for improved performance when used in a fixed or mobile setup.

History

The SBE-25CB “Shasta II” was introduced in the late 1960s as part of SBE’s Shasta series of handheld CB radios. At the time, handheld CB units were still emerging, with most CB activity centered around mobile and base stations.

The radio used a crystal-controlled design with three channels, reflecting typical portable CB limitations of the period. Its solid-state construction and compact form made it suitable for portable communications where mobility was required.

The Shasta II was part of a broader family that included the Shasta I and Shasta III, and it contributed to SBE’s expansion beyond SSB base and mobile equipment into the handheld CB market.

Legacy

The SBE-25CB represents early handheld CB radio design, combining portability with solid-state electronics and crystal-controlled operation. It remains of interest to collectors due to its association with the SBE Shasta series and its role in the early development of portable CB communications equipment.