[Yaesu] model recommendations

[Dr. Gerald N. Johnson]

I like the FT-857D. its versatile, stable and sensitive. Works three 
VHF/UHF bands, receives from VLF to VHF has room for mechanical filters 
for SSB and CW that can be selected independent of mode. It transmits CW 
while on SSB if desired and even if the mode is changed the receive 
frequency isn't so cross mode contacts are easy on VHF/UHF. It has line 
in and out for sound card digital modes so you don't need a rig blaster, 
just a cable to the computer and works better without a rig blaster. It 
can be adjusted down to 2 watts (by some software alignment or the 
transceiver mode) for use with microwave transverters, and its compact. 
The FT897 appears to be identical except its case has room for a battery 
for mid power portable. The FT817 appears to be more compact with QRP 
power and all the other features of the 857. The DSP of the 857D mostly 
works, though I've never detected it improving the S/N of a signal below 
the noise level, while the CW mechanical filter does.

I bought one 857D new and liked it so well I bought another used one at 
a hamfest. I have both filters in the first one and right now the second 
one is use with a transverter for 10 GHz. I have another IF rig in the 
works and the second 857 may be moved to camper duty or mobile duty or both.

The many menu items can be a bother but the modern rig has so many 
operating options there's either a dozen buttons and 100 menu 
possibilities or 109 buttons on the front panel.

I have FT-726 and 826 for VHF/UHF and if the 826 worked (broken modules) 
its only purpose would be for 220 and 1296 if those modules weren't 
broken. The 857 doesn't have their stupid frequency shift going to CW 
and has more power out on 6 and 2 and I think hears better.

73, Jerry, K0CQ

On 1/18/2012 1:59 PM, Paul Kraemer wrote:
> Hello all
> I am a real affecionado of the older BA gear. The newest technology I have
> currently is a FT-901and a TS-820S, both of which I enjoy but wonder what I
> am missing by not moving up to all solid state radio with more features like
> better stability, more accurate readout, better selectivity, better noise
> blanker, no tune operation. Only problem is, although I have been licensed
> since 1958 there was a long dry spell in there where I got completely out of
> touch with ham gear and don't know the current technology.
> I am budgeted to what I can or will spend and I would say I am limited to
> used transceiver that costs less than $1000.
> Shopping ebay and other venues, looking at reviews on QRZ,  is mind boggling
> to say the least.
> So, I am very interested in any personal recommendation what to look for and
> what models to avoid.
> I get plenty of digital electronics at work. I think at home I just want a
> reliable radio I can enjoy operating without a lot of menus and programmable
> features.
> So, what say you  all?  Perhaps you have older model you want to sell?
> Thanks for any help on this
> Paul K0UYA
>
> _