A few operators have expressed their displeasure of having an SO2R
discussion at Dayton. It seems appropriate that this should take place
this year since last year it caused such a ruckus before Dayton.
The discussion will NOT be about SO1R vs. SO2R. It's about "how to"
operate SO2R or "how to" get started, etc.
Let's face the facts.
SO2R on RTTY is SO much easier than CW or SSB. It really doesn't
cost an arm or a leg. And it's fun.
Although I'm not into CW or SSB contesting, I can venture to say that
this SO1R vs. SO2R discussion doesn't take place there. Correct me
if I'm wrong.
I respect everyone's opinion on this. But it is possible to still win with
SO1R.
Look at K4GMH in the 2001 WAE - 1st place non-Europe. I was SO2R,
he was SO1R. He was not using a tribander. I was. So SO1R using a
tribander, more than likely, is not going to win. Would you expect it to?
There is no conspiracy going on here either. BARTG has changed it's
rules to include a Single-Op Expert class tailored to SO2R. SO1R ops
requests to have a separate category has placed band change restrictions on
them. I don't agree with those rules, but then again, I didn't ask for them,
SO1R ops did. But these band change rules can be expected for SO1R ops
if we expect those folks to play by the rules.
If you want to compete using just one radio that is fine. But don't expect
to win. If you were running SSB or CW would you expect to win with just
one radio? I don't think so. Sure, RTTY is not CW or SSB, but as far
as rules are concerned, why shouldn't it be? The rules are already different
as far as multipliers are concerned with many contests allowing call area
mults and CQWW allowing not only CQ Zones, but U.S. States as well.
Put me on the record as saying that if the RTTY community wants a separate
class for SO2R, then I am for it too. But don't complain about the restrictions
that are put on you SO1R operators in order to enforce the rules.
Let's go to Dayton with an open mind. I truly believe we can find common
ground. If you want a separate class for SO2R, then express your feelings to
the contest manager. Don't single out SO2R ops as bad guys. And don't say
that SO2R ops don't want to compete with other SO2R ops - because we already
are.
Look how good our mode is. I've been watching VP6DI for the past 3 hours
and there have been NO JAMMERS! Some calling on Kan's frequency, but
I don't think that's been intentional.
RTTY is the best mode on HF. Let's KEEP IT THAT WAY!
See you in Dayton.
73, Don AA5AU
http://www.aa5au.com
http://www.geocities.com/writelog
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