Recommendations

[Hopper3660]

Just passed my technician test. I’m looking to set up a home base system. 2 questions
1. Is it better to get a separate HF radio and a separate VHF/UHF radio or a combined radio.

2. I can afford a good setup. I don’t want to buy something and 6 months down the road wish I’d bought something better.

So, recommendations - GO

 

[GlobalNorth]

A mediocre/average radio with an excellent antenna is better than a high end radio with a lousy antenna.

Are you going to upgrade? What do you intend to do... SSB? EME? FT-8? AM? SSTV? RTTY? long haul DX? LowFer? POTA? Contesting?

How much land do you have?

Tons of questions to answer and there isn't one radio perfect for all operating modes.

 

[mmckenna]

Just passed my technician test. I’m looking to set up a home base system. 2 questions
1. Is it better to get a separate HF radio and a separate VHF/UHF radio or a combined radio.

Keep them separate, you'll have more flexibility.

2. I can afford a good setup. I don’t want to buy something and 6 months down the road wish I’d bought something better.

So, recommendations - GO

I'm with @GlobalNorth, sink your money into the antenna system. That will always pay off in the long run.
Very common to see new hams that will blow their radio budget on the highest end radio they can afford, and then leave the antenna to some afterthought. I've seen a -L-O-T- of hams buy fancy dual band mobile radios with all the bells and whistles, then buy the cheapest POS mag mount Chinese crap-o-la antenna then can get their mitts on. Then they complain about the radio being junk.

It's almost like the antenna matters, or something.

 

[prcguy]

I have all in one and separates. After many years behind radios I prefer separates because the performance is usually better, if one band breaks you don't loose all your radios sending it out to be fixed and you can monitor more than one frequency at a time with separate radios.

For a first HF radio that can easily be your last I suggest looking at the Icom 7300, either the original at a discounted price or the MKII. There are far too many VHF/UHF radios to comment on but if you give us what interests you like FM only or digital or SSB maybe we can toss out some models to look at.

 

[AK9R]

I'll pile onto the separates band wagon.

Most of the all-in-one radios that include 2m and 70cm are able to operate using CW and SSB on those bands. Unless there is activity on those bands using those modes near you, it's kind of a pointless feature, especially for a new ham.

A capable and affordable HF radio, like the Icom IC-7300, paired with a dual-band (2m, 70cm) FM mobile radio will serve most of your needs until you get into more specialized communications in amateur radio. Tread carefully when it comes to digital voice radios, i.e. D-STAR, DMR, System Fusion. The various digital voice modes are not compatible, so before you buy a DV radio, find out what modes are active in your area.

As mentioned, you'll need to figure out an antenna. You'll also need a 12 volt DC (nominal) power supply to run your radios.

I recommend you shop with the established amateur radio stores, e.g. Ham Radio Outlet, DX Engineering, GigaParts, MTC Radio, R&L Electronics. These stores will support you before and after the sale. Amazon, Alibaba, and Ebay are not amateur radio stores. The sellers on those sites only want your money and generally won't support you after the sale.

Find an amateur radio club near you. Clubs may not be your thing, but clubs are a way for you to meet local hams who may be able to help you.

 

[K9KLC]

Another vote for separate radios for HF and V/U, and as already stated antenna, antenna, antenna...

 

[K4EET]

Well… I might as well say it too:

Separate HF and VHF/UHF rigs is a better choice IMHO. Don’t put all of your eggs in the same basket. As for your antenna systems, that will make or break good transceiver choices to meet your interests. Do it all right the first time and you will be a happy camper for many years to come. Cut corners to save a few bucks; then be prepared to spend more in the long run upgrading things to make the overall systems better.

 

[vagrant]

+1 for separate radios

I own a shack in the box Yaesu 991A as I use SSB on VHF & UHF for the ARRL VHF contests. I use various VHF/UHF mobiles and handhelds as well. I definitely prefer separate even though I own an all-in-one. I do not even have the local repeaters programmed in on that 991A. I enjoy dialing around on an HF radio while my VHF/UHF radio scans repeaters and whatever else, even non amateur frequencies. The audio from two separate radios may be too much for some, but I typically have four transceivers going with several scanners simultaneously. They do not typically overlap the same frequencies and some radios monitor different modes.

When I do work HF phone for a contest, I will turn down the other radios. Working weak HF stations requires me to focus. Actually, I typically just put on headphones for the HF rig during a contest.

Alternatively, a buddy also has a 991A and uses it exclusively at home, even though he has a Kenwood D710 VHF/UHF radio. I have been monitoring multiple radios for decades. My friend is new like you.

 

[AB4BF]

Separate.
I have an Icom 7300 and an AnyTone 578 analog/DMR and I have never wanted anything else since I obtained these. I can hit most local repeaters and most DMR repeaters as well.

I did have at one time a Yaesu FT-991 shack-in-a-box. I despised it especially when I had to update the firmware.

 

[bharvey2]

By all means, Go separate radios. It gives you more latitude. Quite often I have multiple radios on different bands going at once. The only only drawback I've encountered is that since I have a number of radios using the same mics, I accidently put calls out on the wrong radios. (Think ham call sign on GMRS). Yeah dumb, I know.

 

[Hopper3660]

A mediocre/average radio with an excellent antenna is better than a high end radio with a lousy antenna.

Are you going to upgrade? What do you intend to do... SSB? EME? FT-8? AM? SSTV? RTTY? long haul DX? LowFer? POTA? Contesting?

How much land do you have?

Tons of questions to answer and there isn't one radio perfect for all operating modes.

Thank you. Very helpful. I will be sure I have a good quality antenna.

Not sure what all I will do on the radios. I like the idea of HF comms. Id like to be able to reach my kids. (Virginia Beach from the Mountains of NC I’d also love to reach the UK.

I’m a bit of a prepper. Looking for whats best in that area. Mostly local comms in that respect I would think.

I have 2.5 acres surrounded by Christmas tree farms at an elevation of 3000 ft. Direct views to MT Jefferson, Grandfather mountain and Phoinex mountain. I’m in the process of purchasing another 5-6 around me.

Keep them separate, you'll have more flexibility.



I'm with @GlobalNorth, sink your money into the antenna system. That will always pay off in the long run.
Very common to see new hams that will blow their radio budget on the highest end radio they can afford, and then leave the antenna to some afterthought. I've seen a -L-O-T- of hams buy fancy dual band mobile radios with all the bells and whistles, then buy the cheapest POS mag mount Chinese crap-o-la antenna then can get their mitts on. Then they complain about the radio being junk.

It's almost like the antenna matters, or something.

Focusing on the antenna Seems to be the theme from most everyone. Thanks, as most of you suspected I was focused almost solely on the radios. Thank you for the help.

I have all in one and separates. After many years behind radios I prefer separates because the performance is usually better, if one band breaks you don't loose all your radios sending it out to be fixed and you can monitor more than one frequency at a time with separate radios.

For a first HF radio that can easily be your last I suggest looking at the Icom 7300, either the original at a discounted price or the MKII. There are far too many VHF/UHF radios to comment on but if you give us what interests you like FM only or digital or SSB maybe we can toss out some models to look at.

I had read on the Icom 7300 2nd gen. It had pretty good ratings. Heres the question I forgot to ask. If I just plan on using my radios from home with no interest in mobile use, is there a better 120V system or is it just as high a quality to buy a Mobile radio and get a 12V power supply for it.

I have all in one and separates. After many years behind radios I prefer separates because the performance is usually better, if one band breaks you don't loose all your radios sending it out to be fixed and you can monitor more than one frequency at a time with separate radios.

For a first HF radio that can easily be your last I suggest looking at the Icom 7300, either the original at a discounted price or the MKII. There are far too many VHF/UHF radios to comment on but if you give us what interests you like FM only or digital or SSB maybe we can toss out some models to look at.

Thank you. Lots of you mentioned the Icom 7300. I read about the MK2.

I think my plan is HF. NC to Virginia Beach and also interested in talking with people in the UK.

For local comms I’m a but of a prepper and I’m still trying to figure out what would be best for local comms on a grid down type scenario.

Thank you for your reply.

I'll pile onto the separates band wagon.

Most of the all-in-one radios that include 2m and 70cm are able to operate using CW and SSB on those bands. Unless there is activity on those bands using those modes near you, it's kind of a pointless feature, especially for a new ham.

A capable and affordable HF radio, like the Icom IC-7300, paired with a dual-band (2m, 70cm) FM mobile radio will serve most of your needs until you get into more specialized communications in amateur radio. Tread carefully when it comes to digital voice radios, i.e. D-STAR, DMR, System Fusion. The various digital voice modes are not compatible, so before you buy a DV radio, find out what modes are active in your area.

As mentioned, you'll need to figure out an antenna. You'll also need a 12 volt DC (nominal) power supply to run your radios.

I recommend you shop with the established amateur radio stores, e.g. Ham Radio Outlet, DX Engineering, GigaParts, MTC Radio, R&L Electronics. These stores will support you before and after the sale. Amazon, Alibaba, and Ebay are not amateur radio stores. The sellers on those sites only want your money and generally won't support you after the sale.

Find an amateur radio club near you. Clubs may not be your thing, but clubs are a way for you to meet local hams who may be able to help you.

Thank you for your reply.
Very good info.
I am thinking HF long distance comms. Possibly to the UK.

Also prepper local comms. I’m assuming VHF/UHF there.

You mention 12DC power supply. I believe I will exclusively be operating from my house. Is it better to get. 120v system or are mobile radios just as good but run from a home 12v lower supply?

Well… I might as well say it too:

Separate HF and VHF/UHF rigs is a better choice IMHO. Don’t put all of your eggs in the same basket. As for your antenna systems, that will make or break good transceiver choices to meet your interests. Do it all right the first time and you will be a happy camper for many years to come. Cut corners to save a few bucks; then be prepared to spend more in the long run upgrading things to make the overall systems better.

Thank you!
I am a “do it right the first time and you wont have to do it again” kind of guy.
And another vote for focusing on the antenna.

I have all in one and separates. After many years behind radios I prefer separates because the performance is usually better, if one band breaks you don't loose all your radios sending it out to be fixed and you can monitor more than one frequency at a time with separate radios.

For a first HF radio that can easily be your last I suggest looking at the Icom 7300, either the original at a discounted price or the MKII. There are far too many VHF/UHF radios to comment on but if you give us what interests you like FM only or digital or SSB maybe we can toss out some models to look at.

Thank you for your reply. You make some very good points. You also back up the 7300 MK2 which I read some reviews on.

My use, I think, will mainly be HF for fun. Would love to reach places like the UK etc.

Secondary to the HF would be local comma if SHTF. A bit of prepper in me.

By all means, Go separate radios. It gives you more latitude. Quite often I have multiple radios on different bands going at once. The only only drawback I've encountered is that since I have a number of radios using the same mics, I accidently put calls out on the wrong radios. (Think ham call sign on GMRS). Yeah dumb, I know.

Thanks for the reply you make some great points. Especially with the mics. With all the replies. I’m definitely going separate radios.

Separate.
I have an Icom 7300 and an AnyTone 578 analog/DMR and I have never wanted anything else since I obtained these. I can hit most local repeaters and most DMR repeaters as well.

I did have at one time a Yaesu FT-991 shack-in-a-box. I despised it especially when I had to update the firmware.

Thank you for the reply. Everyone seems to point to the Icomm 7300MK2

 

[mmckenna]

Focusing on the antenna Seems to be the theme from most everyone. Thanks, as most of you suspected I was focused almost solely on the radios. Thank you for the help.

Often overlooked by new hams. Antennas make all the difference. I'd rather have a $100 radio and a $500 antenna than a $100 antenna and a $500 radio….

Many of us do this as a career, and it is very common for the antenna system to cost more than the radios or repeaters themselves.

For local comms I’m a but of a prepper and I’m still trying to figure out what would be best for local comms on a grid down type scenario.

This gets complex.

It really depends on who you want to talk to, and what their capabilities are. Remember that it's two way radio and what's on the far end matters just as much as what you have.

Repeaters are a good resource for extending your VHF/UHF range, hand held radios, small mobile radios, etc.
But not all repeaters are created equal. Any event that will take down other commercial services risks also taking down amateur radio and GMRS repeaters. Building survivable repeaters takes a lot of money. Not all hobbyists have the funds to do that.
So, what works on a sunny day may not during a storm.

If you really want to communicate without relying on infrastructure, then HF is what you want. You'll need to consider antennas, as in more than one. Different antennas for different jobs make it work. There is no one antenna that solves all problems.

On HF, you really want to understand Near Vertical Incidence Skywave for any local/intrastate/nearby state communications.
For the long range/UK stuff, you'll want a different antenna...

Budget is only part of the challenge.
You've got location and land on your side, so putting up an excellent antenna system is going to be much easier.

Learning how to properly use it all is the biggest challenge. The amateur radio test only covers the basics. Listening, learning and lots of practice make the difference.

Also prepper local comms. I’m assuming VHF/UHF there.

A lot of preppers buy the cheap Chinese $20 VHF/UHF radios and call it good. Reliable communications with those is going to be iffy.

VHF/UHF is usually where you'll find them. Just make sure you understand what frequency allocations your license covers. Some of the prepper community miss this part.

You mention 12DC power supply. I believe I will exclusively be operating from my house. Is it better to get. 120v system or are mobile radios just as good but run from a home 12v lower supply?

If you are looking at this for preparedness, you need to consider that utility power is one of the first things to go. Having some form of back up power for your home station is important.
For some, that's a portable generator and a bunch of fuel cans.
For others, it's a big bank of 12 volt batteries and solar panels to keep them charged.

Even at home, 12 volts should be part of your system. Many use mobile radios at home and need, at minimum, a 12 volt power supply to run them.

 

[AK9R]

You mention 12DC power supply. I believe I will exclusively be operating from my house. Is it better to get. 120v system or are mobile radios just as good but run from a home 12v lower supply?

There are very few HF radios with built-in 120 VAC power supplies and they are generally high-end models. Most HF radios are designed to be powered from a nominal 12 volt DC supply (actually 13.6-13.8 volts DC).

Most 2m/70cm radios designed for mobile use also require a nominal 12 VDC supply.

You can use a power supply that converts from 120 VAC to 13.6-13.8 VDC. Just make sure you get one that has enough current capacity for whichever radio draws the most current. Most HF radios that output 100 watts of RF power require 20-22 amps.

 

[Hopper3660]

There are very few HF radios with built-in 120 VAC power supplies and they are generally high-end models. Most HF radios are designed to be powered from a nominal 12 volt DC supply (actually 13.6-13.8 volts DC).

Most 2m/70cm radios designed for mobile use also require a nominal 12 VDC supply.

You can use a power supply that converts from 120 VAC to 13.6-13.8 VDC. Just make sure you get one that has enough current capacity for whichever radio draws the most current. Most HF radios that output 100 watts of RF power require 20-22 amps.

Great info. Thanks. I was just assuming 120VAC. 12VDC is no problem and looks like the best bet now with y'all's input and a little research. I’ve got inverters and generators. 13.6-13.8vdc / 100 watts 20-22 Amps / multiple antennas is the kind of info I was looking for here. I appreciate all the help from everyone. Good info.
Back to studying for the General now.
Someone mention learning all this is like drinking from a fire hose. They nailed it.

 

[D31245]

All good advice above: Recommend studying for your General when you are ready. It will open up more HF options for you and you'll enjoy your radio more.

Right now, HF privileges are a bit limited for Technician level.

I'm assuming you don't do CW. Technicians have a bit of RTTY & data, and SSB phone privileges on 10-meters. That band has been pretty good lately* so:

I think my plan is HF. NC to Virginia Beach and also interested in talking with people in the UK.

...is possible. General will open that up for you - especially for use on the 40-meter and 20-meter bands.


*Recent 10-meter activity on FT8 from Central Massachusetts - Tx @10W using indoor Mag-Loop antenna:

 

[Hopper3660]

I’m hoping to test for general in another week. I’ve been studying fairly regularly over the last week. The log you posted looks interesting. I would have never thought you could reach that far with an indoor antenna. Clearly a lot to learn.
Thank you for the reply and info.

 

[ladn]

I'll pile onto the separates band wagon.

+1.
I might consider an all in one for mobile use if space is an issue, otherwise, separates are the best option.

Since the OP is a newly hatched Tech, I'd recommend getting a VHF/UHF (maybe with 10M) first. They're a lot easier to set up and get on the air plus antennas are less cumbersome. As a Tech, the OP has very limited privileges in HF anyway and will need to upgrade to General or above to get any practical use on HF below 10M.

 

[Hopper3660]

+1.
I might consider an all in one for mobile use if space is an issue, otherwise, separates are the best option.

Since the OP is a newly hatched Tech, I'd recommend getting a VHF/UHF (maybe with 10M) first. They're a lot easier to set up and get on the air plus antennas are less cumbersome. As a Tech, the OP has very limited privileges in HF anyway and will need to upgrade to General or above to get any practical use on HF below 10M.

Thank you for the reply. I am cramming for the general exam. I hope to take the general test in a week or two. That should open up the HF for me. When I get saturated with study data I step aside and watch those boring 1950’s radio training videos 4F1EBD posts. They are very good if you if you stay focused. LOL

 

[ladn]

Thank you for the reply. I am cramming for the general exam. I hope to take the general test in a week or two. That should open up the HF for me. When I get saturated with study data I step aside and watch those boring 1950’s radio training videos 4F1EBD posts. They are very good if you if you stay focused. LOL

Good deal and good luck. Don't forget to try the online practice tests. When you can regularly hit 90% and above, you're ready for the real thing.

I think you'd do well to gain some operating experience on VHF/UHF first. Many new hams experience "mic fright" their first few times transmitting. The voice protocols on VHF/UHF tend to be less formal than on HF, and the equipment is far easier to operate. Gain a little experience here. Maybe ask about HF operation/equipment on some of your QSOs.

If you haven't found him already, check out Dave Casler's (KE0OV) YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaBtYooQdmNzq63eID8RaLQ). He has a truly vast array of videos on ham radio, licensing and equipment. He also has a live "Ask Dave" podcast on Saturdays. Unlike a lot of the YouTubers who self-righteously (scream) claim expertise, Dave is the real deal and is low key and respectful of his audience.