[RTTY] SO2R

[aa5au at bellsouth.net]

> Bill Turner wrote:
> 
> >  Don, AA5AU, has been quoted as saying SO2R has a score advantage of
> >  about 40% or so. Don't you think that is significant? I do.

Since my name was brought into this, I'd thought I'd make a comment.  I'm not sure where I came up with this 40% figure but I think Bill is accurate in that I did a study of my logs before and after going SO2R, but I don't think that figure is an accurate indication of what can be expected for everyone.

I think the first year I did the ARRL RTTY Roundup SO2R, my score increased around 40%.  I wouldn't know how to accurately figure it now.  It would be impossible I think.

The one comment on this SO2R subject I wanted to make is that I started SO2R in an attempt to compete with stations with bigger and better antennas, amplifiers, etc.  At the time I was using a vertical and 20M coaxial dipole stapled to the ridge in the attic of a one story house.  It worked.  Using two radios, I could compete and actually win.

Now winning doesn't mean that much to me any more.  I've won just about everything there is to win.  I SO2R contest now just for the enjoyment.  The original posting of this SO2R subject stated that contests should change their rules and implement band change restrictions.  Band change restrictions are the dumbest thing that could ever happen in a contest (especially NAQP).

Several contests have listened to the SO1R vs. SO2R argument and implemented changes.  BARTG has the Expert class, for instance.  The Slovenian RTTY Contest has band change restrictions for Single Ops I think.  Someone along this discussion (might have been Bill) mentioned there should be an "unlimited" class for contests.  I agree!  I've love to be able to transmit on three or more radios at the same time!!!

And maybe there should be a separate category for Hurricane victims...

73, Don AA5AU