[RTTY] ARRL attack on current RTTY users

[w1hkj]

I don't usually jump into this type of a discussion, but I think that 
another point of view is in order.

I do not operate RTTY contests.  I enjoy an occasional RTTY QSO at low 
power, usually less than 20 watts, for the joy of being able to do so.  
I do, however, create digital mode software (fldigi), of which RTTY is 
but one of many modes, including some of those wide band modes that some 
of you you find so oppressive.

To be honest I find any operator who claims ownership to a frequency to 
be oppressive, whether he or she be using SSB voice, AM voice, Pactor, 
MT63-2000, MFSK-128, and yes even RTTY.  In my 56 years of amateur radio 
I can attest to having many a CW QRP QSO disrupted by an overly avid 
RTTY contester.  My 5 watt CW signal just cannot compete with the player 
who is filling the RF with a legal limit amplifier.  Sure plays hell 
with my receivers AGC.  So I've simply learned to watch TV during the 
RTTY contests, unless I am testing a new decoder for fldigi.  Y'all 
usually go away after the contest is over.  Don't discount my interest 
in your favorite aspect of the hobby.  I've worked many many hours to 
improve fldigi's RTTY contesting capability.

Nuff said.

Dave, W1HKJ
The New Jersey redneck living in North Alabama!