New Ham has radio question

[WH7LH]

I am a new ham, just got my Tech and General Ticket in Jan 08. I am looking for my first radio.

I thought I wanted the IC746PRO but know see the Kenwood TS-2000.
Which one is better?

I desire to talk on all channels my ticket allows. I am learning CW. I live in Hawaii so range is important but I understand that depends on the antenna and weather more so than the radio.
Any advice is appreciated.

Stacy, WH7LH

[kn4ds]

I am a new ham, just got my Tech and General Ticket in Jan 08. I am looking for my first radio.

I thought I wanted the IC746PRO but know see the Kenwood TS-2000.
Which one is better?

I desire to talk on all channels my ticket allows. I am learning CW. I live in Hawaii so range is important but I understand that depends on the antenna and weather more so than the radio.
Any advice is appreciated.

Stacy, WH7LH

Wow... big question here...

Mostly, it depends on your budget. Any radio that does 100 watts (which would be about all of 'em on the market) will do fine for you... your antenna is going to be the big thing.

Frankly, I'd start out small... maybe a Yaesu FT-450? Or Icom IC-718?

These rigs will serve you well as backups if you should find yourself wanting more bells/whistles in the future...

Time and/or money spent on an antenna system is rarely wasted. I'd focus the available resources there, rather than a rig that does everything but wash the dishes.

Just my opinion, of course.

[W4MAJ]

Personally, I'd vote for a higher end radio within your budget. A radio that you can use as you explore new interests. What good is a rig that only does sideband when you want to try CW for the first time?

[k7mh]

What you will likely find is that those who have the Kenwood will vigorously support it and those with the 746 Pro will support the 746 Pro. Makes it a tough call usually! I have the 746 Pro so you can guess what side of the fence I am on! Either should be a LOT of radio for a new ham!
The Kenwood has the UHF 440 MHz band that the 746 doesn't. There are bands and frequency ranges that make up the different ham bands but we do not use channels for the most part.

What good is a rig that only does sideband when you want to try CW for the first time?
Huh?? What rig is that??
The FT-450 has had a few too many problems so far. Not recommended!

[W4MAJ]

...Huh?? What rig is that??...

The Radio Shack HTX-10 is a 10 meter transceiver that does sideband and FM only. A cheap radio for someone new to HF may buy as a first rig.

By the way... My Kenwood and I say hello from this side of the fence!

[k7mh]

The Radio Shack HTX-10 is a 10 meter transceiver that does sideband and FM only. A cheap radio for someone new to HF may buy as a first rig.

By the way... My Kenwood and I say hello from this side of the fence!

Oooookkkk...One would have thought your reference would have been to a radio that had actually been mentioned somewhere along the way!:confused:
Sorry you fell off the fence on the wrong side. Hope it didn't hurt too much!:D

[kb2vxa]

A General Class Amateur wants to talk on channels? Uh oh.

[aa3re]

...Huh?? What rig is that??...

The Radio Shack HTX-10 is a 10 meter transceiver that does sideband and FM only. A cheap radio for someone new to HF may buy as a first rig.

By the way... My Kenwood and I say hello from this side of the fence!

The HTX-10 does AM also. It actually sounds good there. However my HTX-10 does PSK-31 duty here. Also, hello from the Kenwood side of the fence. TS-480HX, TS-530, TS-700A.
Enough Kenwoods? :)

[ne3r]

Stacy,

You'll probably be happy with either radio. I own neither but I've used both. The Kenwood obviously has the 70 centimeter band, which could be helpful depending on the activity in your area. The Kenwood is also good for working satellites. The Icom seemed to me to perform better on HF. The DSP was easy to use and the visual display feedback made it a little easier to figure out what the radio was doing. The 746Pro also has a CW key jack on the front of the radio! (I have 4 kids, I remove mics and keys and put them in a drawer when I'm not using the radio, so that is real important to me).

Of the two, I'd personally choose the 746Pro (my next radio will be an Elecraft K3), but I often recommend the TS-2000 to folks that just have to run out and buy a radio right away but don't really know what they want do with radio. The Kenwood really is a jack of all trades, and good enough at all of them to get the job done.

73 de Joe NE3R

[KD8CEE]

I have a FT-100 mobile that does all bands and all modes. I suppose you can find one on e-bay or on the for sale forums here. I purchased mine from a ham for 1/2 what it was worth. Works well on 2m & 6m SSB. Haven't got my general yet but do listen around the bands. Does 100w you the back. Haven't had any experience with the radios you mentioned. Good Luck!!:rolleyes:

[WA9SVD]

As a "newbie," (not meant to be derogatory, just descriptive) I'd recommend you find a local club to join, or at least a local Amateur who can help you "learn the ropes." That may also put in touch with someone with a radio for sale; some Amateurs just HAVE to buy a new radio every year or two (same with autos) and you can deal directly to see what you are getting instead of dealing "sight unseen" on ePay or other sites. That shouls also det you some operating tips and hands-on experience operating the radio itself.

I haven't operated a TS-2000 yet, so I can't comment on THAT particular model, but the 746 is a nice radio, and quite capable for a "first" radio. (I suspect the TS-2000 is just as nice.) It's better to buy a radio with a bit more capability than you think you need, so you can grow into it, rather than looking for a radio with more features in a year or two.

As said, the TS-2000 has all-mode capability up through 70 cm, which you may well find at least as interesting as FM only on that band.
SO the two radios have different features, but either one should be quite a nice radio.
Good lucj, and welcome to Amateur Radio.

[KB2FCV]

Stacy,

Welcome to HF! I have used both the IC-746Pro and the TS-2000 and both are equally nice. As others said, the TS-2000 has the 440mhz band and the 746 doesnt. If that is unimportant to you, then it's not a big deal to worry about. If your budget can afford either rig, I would not get something smaller like the IC-518 or other rigs. I have nothing against them but having the VHF capabilities is actually kind of nice. Even after 20 years of being a ham I recently discovered how much fun 6 meters and 2 meters ssb/cw can be.

As others have said, yes... the antenna makes a huge difference in the performance you'll get out of your station so make sure to put plenty of thought and design into it.

I don't think you can go wrong with either the Kenwood or the Icom. If you can, I would see if you can play around with both radios and make some QSO's. See which one you like better. It's hard to tell which is better without actually sitting down with each radio and playing with the controls. You may find that one is easier to operate than the other or you may find a feature you can't live without. I'm sure it won't be that hard to track someone down with either radio or perhaps there is a ham radio store over there. Id ask around your club first if you belong to a club. Best of luck!

[K7UF]

As others have suggested, a decent antenna will get much better results than sinking a lot of money into a high-end radio.

Being in Hawaii, you have some disadvantage in that there won't be much interesting to work in the local area (unless you are going to count island to island as dx :) ). This limits the potential of VHF/UHF a little too. Except under very exceptional circumstances you are not going to get out of the islands - unless you are interested in satellite work, which again really needs good antennas (although I have worked 2m/70cm satellite with a GP9).

Of course, being in HI also has its advantages, such as being closer to Japan, Australia, New Zealand etc. Making contacts with those somewhat easier than for those of us on the mainland.

So, HF is what you need, and enough antenna to develop a reasonable signal.

What I would suggest considering as a start would be something like an Icom IC-7000 which has as much power as the rig you are looking at, a very good receiver, and almost as many bells and whistles.

Combine this with the AH-4 antenna tuner and something like a 100' long (long wire) antenna, as high as you can get it, and you will be able to work quite a few interesting stations. With a similar setup I have worked into HI from here (Oregon).

The next step would be to replace (or supplement) the AH-4 and long-wire with higher gain directional antennas specific to those bands which you find most interesting.

You will find that money invested in antennas brings better results than being invested in the radio once you are at the level of something like the IC-7000.
The higher end features are nice to have, but generally won't help you make that many more contacts.

[w7act]

Welcome to HF, my first HF radio was a Icom 706 MK II with a MFJ-969 roller tuner. It served me well and I still use it today as a mobile. Today knowing what I know today I would go with the following package:

Alinco DJ 330 Power Supply (It's 30Amp - Lite exellent for use away from home, use it in my Travel Trailer and other remote ops) I also have an Astron RS-20M (it's a Boat Anchor weightwise, but I use it on my base). You'll need a power supply no matter which radio you select

Icom IC-706 MK IIG (It gives you full cover age of all bands and modes) I have a soft spot for the 706 as it was my first HF Radio. Ideal for both Base and Mobile Ops. I also have a IC-746 on Base, IC-718 in TT, a IC-7000 in P/U and the 706. Of the four radios mentioned here the 746 is the only one wirh a built in Antenna Tuner.

LDG AT-7000 Auto Tuner When I purchased the Icom IC-7000 I also bought a LDG AT-7000 Auto Tuner as a companion to the IC-7000 and have been very pleased with it. In my application it beats both the Icom AH-4 Random Wire and AT-180 Coaxial Tuners hands down as I'm a MARS Operater. Plus the price of the LDG is about half the price if the Icom Tuners.

But like others have said here it's like comparing a Chevrolet to a Ford when comparing radio makes, any one of three makes are comparable and should serve you well.

[K0RGR]

I doubt that you have a real need for the VHF capabilities of either of those radios, in Hawaii, so you may want to focus on an HF-only rig.

The IC-718 seems to be a very decent beginner's radio. However, being in Hawaii, during contests, you ARE DX, and you will need to be able to sort through pileups of stations calling you. A receiver capable of handling lots of strong signals close to you might be in order. This brings us into the realm of 'competition grade' radios. My first instinct would be Ten Tec Omni. You might look for a used Omni VI if the new Omni VII is too pricey.

[ronflyfisherman]

I myself am an aspiring new ham, and will take the text next month..I was advised by a Friend and experienced Ham, that for a "beginner's Radio" either a icom 718 or a Yaesu 840 would be good choices..Any comments on those choices?
Ron...

[KI6NNO]

I myself am an aspiring new ham, and will take the text next month..I was advised by a Friend and experienced Ham, that for a "beginner's Radio" either a icom 718 or a Yaesu 840 would be good choices..Any comments on those choices?
Ron...

The thing about a "beginner's Radio" (imo) is outgrowing it too fast and wishing you'd spent the money on a "better" rig to start with.

For me, the 718 didn't come with enough features, although it's a fine entry-level radio. I can't speak for the 840 as I've never used one. I liked the functionality and improved performance of the IC-746 Pro and Yaesu FT-950 (especially the 2nd VFO knob on the 950, while the 746 audio sounded better, seemed more selective, but the menus were less accessible than the 950's buttons), although those two are in the next pricing tier up.

[k0dxc]

I am a new ham, just got my Tech and General Ticket in Jan 08. I am looking for my first radio.

I thought I wanted the IC746PRO but know see the Kenwood TS-2000.
Which one is better?

I desire to talk on all channels my ticket allows. I am learning CW. I live in Hawaii so range is important but I understand that depends on the antenna and weather more so than the radio.
Any advice is appreciated.

Stacy, WH7LH



Look into the K3, it may not look nice but it has receive qualities the same as some 10,000 dollar rigs




K0DXC

[n8ncc]

The Icom 746 is a much better choice because of the extra features. It has the capability you're looking for. Kenwood makes a inferior product to the Icom.

[kf6rdn]

Some really good advice I will second:
Join a club/find other hams to mentor (known as elmer) you.
If you have the real estate, look to your antenna setup.
The radio will end up being personal preference. Asking this question will give you everyone ELSES'S personal preference.

Think about a used radio, if you outgrow it, within a few months you can usually sell it for what you paid for it, if you were careful and didnt get overcharged on ebay.

[KB5FSV]

I own the Kenwood TS-2000, also the TS-450sat, a Yaesu FT-100D, and the Collins S-Line. I have operated the IC-746PRO, and IC-756PROIII on visits to club member shacks.

If you're looking for HF capability 1st, my advice would be to find you a YAESU FT-1000MP

That radio can probably be found used in good condition for less than 1600 dollars, and well worth it too! The FT-1000 series radio is still considered a top of the line elite HF radio. I would have one but had a need for the HF to have VHF/UHF as well so I got the TS-2000 for my satellite work, as well as HF and the control of that HF via an HT. However for pure HF only operation, the FT-1000MP can't be beat.

[k9kjm]

Wow, The dates on the posts of this forum jump all over the place!

Anyhow, There is NO QUESTION which radio to get, IC 746 vs Kenwood TS 2000. The TS 2000 wins this contest hands down!

The TS 2000 can "cross band repeat" between not only VHF to UHF, But HF bands to VHF or UHF!!! A REALLY neat feature that NO OTHER radio can do.

It is really nice to be able to monitor 6 meters on your little shirt pocket hand held while out doing yard work, OR listen in to the 75 meter round table net on that same little shirt pocket radio while walking the dog around the neighborhood! INSTEAD of being "stuck" sitting in front of a radio on a nice summer day!
That feature alone makes the TS 2000 worth the effort.

AND the TS 2000 can be remote controlled if you want........
Along with all of the other features that many talk about that make the TS 2000 one of the best buys in ham radio today.

No, I did not say the TS 2000 is the "top" radio for any band. It IS a jack of all trades and does it all. IF you want a "better" HF radio than the TS 2000, Step right up to an Icom 756PRO series radio, Which is a better rig than the 746, And is now selling good used in the 900-1100 dollar range.

The TS 2000 is now selling for 1100 good used, And around 1500 Brand new with warranty!

[KG4RUL]

When I got my Technician ticket, I purchased a TS2000X (the "X" model has a 1.2GHz transceiver module that I used for Amateur satellites) for a base station and an FT-100D for a mobile. Much more radio than I could use at that time but, I got into 6M and MARS operation so the capabilities were utilized. Now I am an Extra and this radio is really being used.

Anyone who has used my TS2000 at Field Day and JOTA, has had nothing but good things to say about it.

Yes, there are better "contest" grade rigs around but, none with the versatility of this rig.

[W0LPQ]

Interesting comments. But, one has to stop and think ... you just got your drivers license ... do you go out and buy a Caddy or Merdedes? Probably not.

Start with a good entry level radio, such as the IC-718 or FT-740 or maybe even a good used 570SG (gives you 6M).

Learn the capabilities of the rig you bought. Then, as time and money permit, upgrade to a better radio. You can sell the one you have to assist in the new radio purchase.

The more you learn about your radio, the more you appreciate the things that will come later.

[K1VSR]

A General Class Amateur wants to talk on channels? Uh oh.

That was completely unnecessary and uncalled for. She's a new ham. Lay off.

[wz0o]

That was completely unnecessary and uncalled for. She's a new ham. Lay off.

Yes it was and we wonder why some folks look down on us shame, shame.
As for the question I love the ts2000 it is mp back up and also my pks31 rig. It has duel receivers and will mon. 6m or the 2m repeater while I am doing somthing else. The 746 pro is nice for a HF rig but won't do as much as the TS2000. (both need a power supply).
Down load the manuals and check out both. Better yet find someone who has one and see if they will let you use it (a locak ham club comes to mind.)
Whatever your choice hope to hear you on the air soon.
73
Brad

[W4XKE]

The Icom 746 is a much better choice because of the extra features. It has the capability you're looking for. Kenwood makes a inferior product to the Icom.

Personally, I wouldn’t buy a 746 Pro. If you do buy one, keep the display brilliance control turned all the way up (full bright) or you’re asking for problems that could cost around $400 for a service repair.

Before you spend good money on a YaeComWood, take a look at the (made in USA) Ten Tec Jupiter:

http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/998

Icom has denied they have a problem but so many 746 owners have complained of burnt out displays that they now have several web sites devoted to homebrew repairs. It seems that one particular transistor is overdriven when the brilliance control is dimmed. Here is the latest repair suggestion.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPXaW-IAEbU

[ne3r]

Personally, I wouldn’t buy a 746 Pro. If you do buy one, keep the display brilliance control turned all the way up (full bright) or you’re asking for problems that could cost around $400 for a service repair.

Before you spend good money on a YaeComWood, take a look at the (made in USA) Ten Tec Jupiter:

http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/998

Icom has denied they have a problem but so many 746 owners have complained of burnt out displays that they now have several web sites devoted to homebrew repairs. It seems that one particular transistor is overdriven when the brilliance control is dimmed. Here is the latest repair suggestion.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPXaW-IAEbU

I own a Ten-Tec Jupiter and it is great, one of the best I've ever used (I really liked the Elecraft K2 too). It doesn't have VHF - but if you are really looking for a quality HF rig, the Jupiter is one of the best out there. Since I can't really do VHF or UHF weak signal from home (antenna restrictions) I really had no need for that in a rig, so the Jupiter for HF, and a basic dual band mobile for FM/Packet make up the shack. The Jupiter will be for sale in the spring as I plan to replace it with an Elecraft K3.

73 de Joseph Durnal NE3R

[ae5bn]

I had bad luck with a Kenwood once and am hesitant to buy another. Having said that, between those two choices I would pick the TS-2000 Kenwood.

[K7KBN]

Stacy - lots of good information here. How much room do you have for an antenna? As you said right up front, that is the main component of a good HF station.

I know there are lots of other hams in Honolulu, and clubs. Join forces with some of the locals and get a chance to operate their equipment to see what "feels" right. Just about any transceiver, new or used, will have an output of 100 watts - sometimes more - and that's plenty when coupled with a good antenna.

And by the way, except for 60 meters, hams don't have "channels". ;)