[AMRadio] Slopbucket audio has given ham radio a reputation

[Donald Chester]

An article appeared today in our local newspaper on the subject of free and 
reduced price telephone calls via the internet. The writer is Paul Davidson 
of USA TODAY. This is the part I found interesting:

"There was initial concern... noting the dubious quality and reliability of 
Net calling in the late 1990's. But, (now) quality is phenomenal, and it's 
very cost effective.

"Until about 18 months ago, Internet calls meant tinny, HAM-RADIO LIKE 
connections over PC microphones and speakers (emphasis mine). Calling on the 
Net largely was the province of hobbyists who gladly put up with the jittery 
voice quality for the chance to beat the system, make free calls and 
cultiviate a pioneering spirit.

"But technological advances and broadband's growth have made calls on the 
Net, or Internet-like private networks, roughly equivalent to traditional 
phone service..."

Interestingly, the author implies that typical ham radio voice quality does 
not even approach that of the standard landline telephone.

Could this have something to do with the developping interest in high 
quality SSB?

Don K4KYV

_________________________________________________________________
Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE*  
http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail