[Orion] from a new subscriber

[Jerry K8RA]

I have owned the Orion for about 3 months.  I have been running it through its paces comparing it to a K2, FT1000mp Mk3, an IC756proII and an FT920 sitting on the table.  As everyone knows, it is a really really good radio.  Last week I had a great test.  I have another dxer about 1000 yards from me.  He is strong!  As he transmitted, I went about 2 khz from him on another weak signal (~S3 or 4) and compared all my radios.   The only radio that survived was the Orion.  I could still tell he was there and there were some clicks going on from him but I could continue to hear the intended signal.  Note that I had the BW tight and I do have all the optional roofing filters in the radio.  The other radios, I heard only white noise from the synthesizers as my neighbor transmitted.  Everyone praises the K2 but it too was destroyed.  I am a true believer.  The Orion really is a good radio and I would rather have 3 of them in a rack than an IC-7800.

However, not a perfect radio.....  Weaknesses I think (one person's opinion) 

1.  The band scope (sweep) is not very good.  The 756ProII runs all over the Orion in that respect.
2.  After using the sexy Japanese Radio displays, the Orion looks unsophisticated and cheap
3.  I am not in love with the DSP.  It sounds very hollow when on.  The DSP on every other radio I own sounds better and works better (again ... personal opinion)
4.  The PBT/BW/RIT step size need to be set independently.  I like a faster tune rate on the BW than the other functions.

But.... it is a great rado....  de K8RA  Jerry near Columbus, Ohio.

Jerry    K8RA

www.k8ra.com