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View Full Version : I'm going crazy!


02-19-2003, 11:03 PM
Opinions are like...well, you know - everyone has one.

In this case, however, I want yours. #I'm in the market for my first HF radio, and I am going nuts trying to decide on one.

- It has to be mobile
- It must have 100Watts HF, and at least 50Watts 2m
- It's probably either the Icom 706MKIIG or the FT-857

I like the 706 well enough, I guess, but it's based on rather old technology. #It seems to have a loyal following, but that's not enough. #It's rather large when compared to the 857, and, so far at least, people who own both seem to prefer the 857 over the 706.

The 857 looks like a good radio, but it hasn't really been around long enough for anyone to tell yet. #Though it has all the bells and whistles, it is also more expensive, has a much smaller display, and Yaesu doesn't exactly have a glowing reputation when it comes to newly-released radios. #You also must purchase the DSP unit seperately, making it even more expensive.

I also like the TS-B2000, but it is MUCH more expensive AND that thing is huge when compared to the above radios. #It definitely has ALL the features anyone could possibly want, but is that enough to overcome both size and cost?

I have ruled out the 100D for my own reasons.

I welcome all comments, especially from anyone that happens to own or has used both radios.

wb6bcn
02-19-2003, 11:55 PM
You may want to get as many of comments as you can, so here is where you can get just that from real users:

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

In the upper right type in the rig you want reviews for. Once you select one from the list, then select Show all reviews.

wk4ds
02-20-2003, 12:03 AM
You should look at the Alinco DX70TH. I bought the DX70T used and I love this little radio. It works great but it is only about 95 watts out even thougth it states 100 in the book. It comes with filters in it for SSB and CW but I don't think it has a DSP unit in it.(I don't know) But for the money I like it just fine. A little later, I might move up to a nicer base rig with a bigger display but for now, I will be using my little Alinco.

73
David Saylors
KG4WBH

02-22-2003, 05:53 AM
Thanks, everyone! #I ordered my IC-706MKIIG today for delivery tomorrow. #I also ordered a Larsen dual-band (2M/440) antenna, and three Hamsticks - 15, 20, & 40 - listen for me on Sunday! #(I'll need Saturday to get it installed and go through the manual.)

w3sy
02-27-2003, 04:32 PM
Will you operate a home station too, or just mobile?

In any case, welcome to the fun world of HF! Happy hamming....

Steve W3SY

02-27-2003, 04:56 PM
Mobile-Only. You can see installation pictures at http://dirtroad.com/ka7lzf/706.html.

N2NKW
03-02-2003, 03:14 AM
Hey congrats on the mobile install. looks real nice and clean. I hope mine will look as good. I ordered the 706 a few days ago and am anxiously awaiting it in the mail. When i get it installed I will see about getting some pics online as well. Good luck with it

wb6bcn--thanks for that review site you posted. That helped me with deciding which mobile antenna I will be using. Just bought a HS1800dx to go with the 706. I would still be hemming and hawing if i hadn't caught that link and checked it out.

guess thats it see you on the bands 73 de n2nkw-Brian