[50mhz] Radio dilemma-advice needed

[John Geiger]

I recently picked up a Yaesu FT817, which is a neat
little radio.  I have been using it to monitor the
local repeater, and to work on the satellites so I can
do full duplex, using the 817 to transmit on 2, and
receiving on 436mhz using my FT100D.

Anyway, I now have the chance to trade it for a
FT8900R, which is really tempting.  There would be
some cash included to to make up the difference.  I am
thinking that the FT8900R would be nice for
crossbanding to 10 and 6 meter FM, so I can use my 2
meter HT to get on those bands to and from work, at
work in the office, while I am taking walks with or
watching the 10 month old daughter.  I realize that 6
meter FM is not as popular as 6 meter SSB (I have 3
different VUCCs on 6 meters, and over 300 grids worked
from this QTH), but it is better than nothing.  

The FT817 would be great to use portable, but its
limited power and antenna limitations are one
drawback.  Trying to run 6 or 10 meter SSB with 5
watts and a compromise antenna still doesn't seem like
it will be very easy while walking, bicycling, or
sitting in the living room.  I used to do some 70cm to
10 meter FM crossband when I had a TS2000 and that
seemed to work pretty well.

However, the FT817 seems like it will be alot of fun
to take different places and operate while camping,
for quick mobile trips to other cities, for the trip
to Iowa twice a year to visit families.

So, I really can't decide which way to go.  Anyone
have any advice as to which is the better setup?

73s John NE0P


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