Looking for good satcom (and HF) rig

[DaveNF2G]

This year's tax refund is play money. So, I'm looking for a new transceiver. I want HF through UHF all-mode with good satellite capabilities and easy digital (packet, etc.) connections.

Here are the models I've discovered so far that might fall within my price range. I'm not allergic to buying used, either.

IC-706 MkIIG
FT-847
FT-100D
FT-736R (I think)

Any recommendations, reviews, caveats? Thanks!

[edit - list corrected - the 736 is a Yeasu, not an Icom]

 

[jhooten]

FT-847 hands down best. It was designed from the start as a Satellite station.

 

[eorange]

The IC-706 is a fun transceiver with lots of versatility (I set mine up the other day to receive on 75m and transmit on 2m, albeit by mistake), but has nowhere near the dedicated satellite features of the FT-847.

I've had it for <1 month and never used it for satellite, but so far so good on HF.

 

[ab3ai]

I have the 847 and I think it's a great rig. One thing that's nice about it is with the proper program that can calculate and control the rig for doppler shift. The conections in the back are not complicated too. I think Yaesu discontinued the 847 and you may only be able to get a used one.

 

[jonny290]

FT-847, IC-910, IC-970 all hot satellite rigs. 910 should run about 1000 bucks, 970 about 12-1300, more if options installed.

Personally I am wanting to do it with a multiple radio setup so I'm going with an icom 706mkiig - it has the 440 all mode that I want at a good price and I already have a superior 2m all mode transciever so that's no problem.

One thing that's nice about it is with the proper program that can calculate and control the rig for doppler shift.

Any rig with a PC interface and DDE link can do this with Orbitron/Satscape/whatever. Granted, you can _link_ the two bands properly and use one knob to tune both on the nice rigs, but even a 706 can be computer controlled, no problem.

 

[k9rzz]

The 736R is 50mhz and up. A nice rig though! (I have one).

John K9RZZ

 

[DaveNF2G]

I guess my "dream rig" is going to be the Yeasu FT-847 "Earth Station" - and it will remain a dream for a while. Just saw one go on eBay for $1,100.