[CW] Straight key vs paddle

[Larry Makoski]

DANNY DOUGLAS wrote:
> I am a bit aghast, at the number of really lousy recordings of cw 
> keying I see on the internet.  Some are indeed well done, quite 
> copyable, and a joy to listen to.  Others, should just stay on the air 
> and get their capabilities up before trying to show "how to".    
> Coming up thru the ranks, I was always told to learn to key with a 
> straight key, before attempting bugs, etc.  I must agree with that. 

The nicest compliment that I have ever been paid in my 30+ year Ham 
career was during a QSO, when I was asked, "WHAT PADDLES ARE YOU 
USING?"  I was using a straight key.  Granted, there are days when 
things are off; and I can send the lousiest code to beat the band.  But 
when everything "clicks" and the Morse coming out of a straight key 
sounds darn near perfect, THAT is sublime.

To all of you out there who are thinking of going to a paddle and 
bypassing a key - that would be kin to lip synching a song.  Yeah, it 
will sound perfect; but you will miss the joy of doing it yourself. 
Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with using paddles; I use them 
myself - a lot!  But being able to send well with a key is a joy you 
will treasure forever.

You know, I like the automatic transmission in my car; but I also know 
how to and enjoy using a stick shift as well.

73 de Larry W2LJ

-- 
73 de Larry W2LJ
QRP - When you care to send the very least!

http://w2lj.blogspot.com/
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