[50mhz] CALLING OUT THE RIGHT WAY TO GET NOTICED.

[email protected] [email protected]
Fri, 27 Dec 2002 12:28:03 -0500


My turn to follow up, this time on Dan, W8MMQ, and his excellent
response.
> 
> Just a followup to KU4QD's comments, Ranger offers a real nice
> all-mode six meter radio, available in 25-watt or 100-watt models.  It
> is the RCI-5054DX, and can be found new for around $290.00, and less
> if found used.

That is, indeed, probably the cheapest way to get on 6m with a brand new
rig.   I'll also point out that there is a $100 coupon right now on the
Yaesu FT-817, a 5W all mode rig that covers HF, 6m, 2m, and 70cm. 
Street price is around $550 at the moment.  Even if you only have a
technician class license, you have three great VHF/UHF bands to play
with weak signal work, satellites, digital, etc... and an HF rig ready
for you when you upgrade.  Used ones are now in the $400-$450 price
class.
> 
> I have used the 25-watt model with a Mirage 150-watt amplifier and a
> wire-dipole in the trees about 25-ft.  I have used this setup for
> about a year now with much success.  When the band really opens up, it
> is amazing what a little station can do. 

I agree, and you don't even need 150 watts.  I mainly run two rigs:  a
Kenwood TS-660 (10W out) and a Tokyo Hy-Power HT-750 SSB/CW handheld,
with just 2W out.  I've even worked some amazing QSOs with a Mizuho
MX-6Z HT at 250mW out.  My base antenna is a 3 element beam at 35'. 
Before I had the little tower and beam I used an AEA Halo 6 and managed
to work some really nice DX at the peak of the cycle, and all over the
US, Canada, and the Carribbean during the annual Es season in the spring
and summer.  A little rig with a few watts and a halfway decent antenna
won't let you compete with the big guns during a big opening, but you'll
make lots of contacts and have lots of fun.

> Big antennas and hundreds of watts are nice,
> and certainly help when the band isn't cooperating, but it is
> certainly not needed when you get a good opening.

I agree 100%.  I'll also add that I'd work on the antenna before adding
an amp.  Going from a loop to a beam made a huge difference.  In my
experience, operating at 2-3W or 100W doesn't make nearly as much of a
difference.

73,
Caity
KU4QD