[VHFcontesting] Best integrated package for VHF

[DAVID C. OLEAN]

Hi Gene,

I have some experience with a Yaesu FT-847 on six meters in a multi multi
operation with a big six meter antenna....The FT-847 was not up to the task in
contest conditions. It was definitely not as good as some higher dynamic range
(and non integrated radios) I have used here. The FT-920, on the other end,
seems to be quite good in strong signal handling, but the stock filters are a
problem with that radio. If you can cascade some multi pole filters in an
FT-920, that would be a winner for 50 MHz. I have not had the pleasure to try
other modern "integrated" or multi band radios of late.  My past experience with
the older  Japanese multi mode radios has not been good for strong signal
contesting.
    Just my two cents worth.

73
Dave Olean K1WHS

Eugene Zimmerman wrote:

> Scott N3RA recently asked a very useful question on this reflector -- what
> radios do people use on VHF.  I would like to go one further and ask which
> integrated radio - one that covers on 6 meters and/or above - works the
> best.  Initially I do not want to discuss transceiver/transverter
> combinations - we should talk about them separately next.
>
> So I would like to know how this group would compare Yaesus like the FT920,
> FT847 to ICOMs like the IC756/746 in their various iterations [Pro, non-Pro,
> etc], FT736 with Mutec mods [without the mods I think these would not
> qualify] and the Kenwood TS2000.  I would also like to hear about their
> noise blankers - in many locations 6 meters is unusable without a decent
> noise blanker.  Price should not be a deciding factor - I am looking for the
> best radio at any cost.
>
> What I am looking for is the equivalent of a discussion of FT1000MP/D vs
> IC781/775/756ProIII vs Omni whatever vs the high power Elecraft K2 on HF
> with an emphasis on features YOU think are important to VHF and VHF
> contesting.
>
> Let me start by start by giving a plug to the lowly FT847.  IF and ONLY if
> you add IRC filters [2.1 and 400 ~] it is a surprisingly good radio and its
> transmitter power is ideal for driving amplifiers.  The noise blanker can be
> rated only fair.  Without the IRC filters it is mediocre at best.  This is a
> clear case where the extremely cheap Yaesu ceramic filters greatly
> debilitate the radio and Art Collins no doubt is turning over in his grave
> when he thinks about the "Collins" mechanical filter they sell as an option.
> But I don't know how this "souped up" 847 compares to a TS920 with the
> cascaded IRC filter mod [2 filters in each IF] or the 756/746.  It is better
> than the stock 920 but I have never listened to any version of the 756 or
> 746.
>
> What say you all?
>
> 73  Gene  W3ZZ
> Director, CQWW VHF Contest
> FM19jd  MD
> 50 => 10 GHz
> Grid Pirates VHF Group K8GP
> Member, CQWW Contest Advisory Group
>
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