20 Watts Versus 100 Watts - How much HF Ham Radio Power Do You Need?

[@silicosick]

Passed my General last week and got a G90 based on all your great videos. Got a piece of Menards speaker wire chucked in a tree outside my apartment office window and IM TALKING TO THE WHOLE WORLD. You were right dude…. 20Watts is all you need. Thanks for the great info on your channel, you got me up and running QUICK.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

That’s awesome! Hope to catch you on the bands! 73, Walt

[@revbikerbigd8664]

I got 2 g90 radios, 1 with 100 watts and just use the other on 20 watts, it's all I need. Walt got a. Link to that small power supply???? AA2BD

[@DeepBlueWaves]

Cool man! Exactly what i was hoping to hear. What you described is the whimsical dream of HF I’m hoping to attain. Set you doing 20 meter?

[@rabidjackalope1319]

Congrats. I did the same when i got my general… I was considering the FT-891 as well, but went with the G90 as well…

[@silicosick]

@@DeepBlueWaves 10 - 12 - 15 - 20 - 30 - 40 - 80 .. it's all popping!

[@SP5NT]

I'm also Xiegu G90 owner. Today DX QSO: AC1NU Jonesboro Maine USA - distance 6592 km - Band 40m, VE9FI Hampton New Brunswick CANADA - distance 6009 km, Band 20m, JH3NGD Akashi City Hyogo JAPAN - distance 8457 km, Band 40m. Vertical Ground Plane Antenna 41 ft. TX power 20W. You inspired me Walt. You're doing a great job. Keep it up. 73 from Poland 🇵🇱, SP5NT

[@snowdiddley7390]

Love my G90, just bought my second one. One for vox, one for digi. You go Walt.

[@hikerglenn]

I agree Walt, I just sold my FT-891 and if I got another radio to use as a portable it would be another G90. The built-in tuner, the waterfall -the price- it’s a much better unit for me too. Still my base unit is a 7300 and I’m very happy with it.

[@MyHamRadioJourney]

I bought my G90 and the battery because of your recommendations. I have been using it for POTA and LOVE the radio. Whenever I mention your name at the dinner table, my wife asks, "What are you buying now!" Hey, we all need an Elmer for this fantastic hobby of Ham Radio. Thanks for all you do. 73s Walt!

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thank you so much my friend! I’ll try not to cause you to spend any more money 😂 73, Walt

[@daveengstrom9250]

This is good info. I remember one of my teachers telling us 10 watts will take us around the world if the bands were in good shape.

[@BulletBarDave]

Very cool Walt! I just got my Tech license and was inspired by your videos to start my journey with the G90. I live in Reno, NV and I just made my first DX contact with Australia today on 10m! Super excited! Cheers and 73!

[@jerrybicknell1627]

Thanks Walt. I've just come back to amateur radio after a 40 year break. In the UK this means my old licence is now a full licence. I bought a g90 because it is ideal simple rig to ger me restarted. I've worked stations over 5000 miles away on your 17.5 feet antenna video construction 😊 so thank you very, very much. It's ground mounted in my back garden in the middle of a housing estate in Gloucester UK. This was a great video because i have been toying with buying a 100w radio. A side point is 20w also doesn't cause any problems with my very near neighbours. Thanks again for your great videos. 73's Jerry G6YSJ

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thanks and 73 my friend!

[@spaceflight1019]

If the UK has moved to HDTV, you won't have any TVI issues.

[@paulsengupta971]

@@spaceflight1019 How so? I find HD is VERY susceptible to signal strength and interference issues. The SD channels less so.

[@spaceflight1019]

@@paulsengupta971 One of my friends has a HDTV antenna mounted on the same mast as a 3 element 6 meter beam. Running 100 watts he reported no interference.

[@mrkopecky]

I’ve been enjoying 50W portable on FT-710. It’s my 1 trick pony. Only radio I have. I’ve been eyeing the G90 for portable use.

[@johnk23705]

Right on point Walt and good job on the laying out the facts. I have a G-90 and an 891. I see little difference in contacts made between the two. The G-90 has an edge with size, weight, power usage and a fantastic tuner. The 891 has a slight edge in power and it's excellent DNR. You are not wrong in your decision Walt. I have thought about selling my 891, but decided to keep it for a couple reasons. One, it's in a faraday cage as a back up should the worse happen. Second reason to keep it is for when the bands get really bad. Either because of the solar flares or when we get to the solar minimum and contacts get much tougher. In those cases, that one "S" unit might make the difference in getting a contact or not. In most cases, that one "S" unit doesn't make much difference. No matter what radio you are using, the antenna is always one of the biggest factors in your success. Using the correct configuration for the desired distance, the right band and the most efficient antenna will make far more difference than one "S" unit. Some may disagree....it is what it is. I love the antennas you build. Ham radio does not have to break the bank. I often recommend the G-90 to new hams. It makes a great base radio and is great portable. It lets them get on the air and gain experience so that they can make better choices in the future as to what additional ham radio equipment they will need and buy. You don't have to be the biggest mouth on the air, especially when your ears are lacking. 73 !

[@WECB640]

Excellent report and decision Walt. "Less is more." Hope to work you again soon. 73 OM

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thanks! Catch you soon!

[@OctavMandru]

Hey there Walt! I was many times inspired by your videos, especialy about the half square antenna that I built and tested with very good results. My experience differes from yours, I prefer my Alinco DX70 (probably because I had to repair it before using it). I have and enjoy my IC-705, I do have a tuner but I'd rather have a good antenna than a tuner. With more power I can make contacts easily, while I had to really struggle with the Icom (beautiful radio, she was the reason I finally started to go out and make contacts). But with the bad propagation these days my Alinco breaks the pile-up in a breeze. Oh, that db scale you posted threw me off, I normally use dbm (0db=1mW)

[@williamkizer3445]

I live in coastal NE Florida I have talked as far as South Korean and Chilie on my g90 love this radio KQ4OHB

[@TechMindsOfficial]

I totally agree with you here. 20 Watts is the sweet spot in terms of power for portable, or even at home. It's a shame that the 6100 isn't 20 watts otherwise it would of been a G90 killer. If the IC-705 had 20 watts on HF, then wow, that would of been a keeper too. The G90 is a fantastic radio, great audio, ATU, SDR Technology and 20 Watts... Great video!

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thank you! 73, Walt

[@scottdunbar4898]

The only real difference between "low" and "high" power in my experience is that qrp fades go a little deeper but it also makes me a better listener/operator. Thanks Walt. 73 from K1NEO, Maine.

[@cuteb0t]

Love it. I only use my FT-891, but I rarely toss it up to 100 watts. 25 watts is plenty and keeps that battery running longer. 20 watts of the G90? It's darn near perfect for portable work.

[@GUE5TPA55]

Thank you for the honesty, I tell all my friends the same thing I get nothing but "you're crazy"

[@robertbower9862]

Great Video, agree 100%. I have made thousands of contacts with my G90 and it is a great POTA radio. But with that said I wish Xiegu had better quality control. My G90 has a few weird glitches in that limit the power I can use on different bands and if you want to use an AMP you cannot. Too bad I didn't figure out the issue was the radio till after the warranty was expired. I not saying not to buy a G90 just make sure you run it through the paces to check everything out.

[@adam-g7crq]

well done Walt, I've been operating on 10 watts or less for years and have worked the world, comes down to the the right location and efficient antenna's, a good signal to noise helps a lot.

[@Motleydo]

Your comments on 20 watts vs 100 Watt radios is interesting and relevant to today’s excellent overall propagation. Currently we see reliable signals on the upper frequencies 14-28 megahertz and even 6 meters. However, propagation changes in step with the 11- year cycle. Many times, on the downside, having 100 watts will be very much appreciated with signal reliability. Yes, even the 20-meter band may see days, if not weeks, of very little or perhaps disturbed signal strength. Many will say; “Where have all the signals gone?”. Ditching a 100-watt radio, for 20-watt rigs, may be seen as a poor decision for many, especially new-comers to ham radio. Yes, 20 watts with the current good propagation is fairly good, if not outstanding. However, changes will come making the advice less tenable as future high frequency propagation is reduced. Good to hear you want to improve your antenna system. That is a good goal whether propagation is good or bad. The best!! Cheers! W1VR

[@bill-2018]

48 years ago I had a KW204 tx and KW202 rx, sold them and got a Yeasu FT101E, both 100 Watts. Turning the power down as low as possible on 10m in the 80's I was still getting out. Sold that and went QRT for ten years after moving QTH, built a QRP rig, 80m + 20m 4 Watts s.s.b. and c.w. and later added all h.f. bands and now adding 60m. Currently using an FT817ND 5 Watts s.s.b. and c.w. with attic dipoles and regularly getting 1,000+ miles on 17m and 10m. One Watt c.w. recently to Bulgaria and Finland on 10m. My Pixie on 60m with 350 mW out got me 180 miles QSO with a SWL report from 220 miles. Just getting back into it after suffering S8 noise 160m to 20m from internet broadband which cleared up in February when it went to fibre optic cable. G4GHB.

[@danielrgusa]

Great video Walt! Keep up the good work.

[@GordonHudson]

There is a new version of the G90 called the G90N. Better heatsink, power pole connector, only 10w out. It's for the Chinese market, but it's likely that the heatsink case and power pole will come to the main version. I spoke to a Chinese ham on Facebook. He told me it's because they have to register radios onto their licence at a government office. This can be hundreds of miles away. There is a new online registration system for radios under 15w. So this radio can get people on the air easier on their lowest licence class. The heat sinking is just sides like the bottom of the G90 we have.

[@georgebradshaw474]

Hi Walt, I love my 100w Yaesu FT-450D, which is My flagship radio. However, I seem to keep it in the Faraday bag at home and only use my G-90 & FX4CR for both base station, field work and RV travel. 20 watts has gotten me to Alaska from POTA in the woods in Florida. As well as all over most of North & sometimes South America. Plus Ireland, France, Germany with just my portable antennas. I fully agree. I have more fun with my 20 watts, then ever with my flagship 100 watts. Good video, thanks! AC3EA

[@CoaxAndCampstools]

My first radio was a G90. I still have it and I still enjoy using it. No regrets.

[@bduff5004]

Walt, late to the channel and the hobby but another great video to cover the questions I've been mulling over. Thanks

[@TangoOscarMikeN3WS]

Sold my 100 watt rigs years ago. Not against more power, some people live in less than ideal places an a little more power helps them get out. Using less power means you can carry less power. Smaller batteries, smaller wire, smaller transformers. I don't even own a tuner. To each their own though. Do what you want and have fun.

[@MrToymod]

I have a g90 as a main radio , all about the antenna and coax.

[@agoraphobicadam1171]

Just like any radio, If it makes contacts and your having fun then it's doing it's job. KO4HPC 73

[@haletd]

Great points, Walt. I am mostly a CW guy and do a lot of POTA. I'm always shocked at how much DX I get with my G90. I recently got the FT891, it's a great radio and has many features like memory keyer, better receiver and such but it's a power hog even when you turn down to 20-40w, also no tuner. I often still travel with my G90.

[@kuyakano8976]

Walt, you do you and what is best to enjoy the hobby your way. That's what it is all about. I have both the FT-891 and FTdx10. Great radio's. My main gripe is that they will not go below 5 Watt. My first Yaesu was a FT-890 bought new in the early 1990s. That one went easily to around 1 Watt. As I am not an outdoor operator, I now use an SDR (on a big screen) that will go as low as 60mW. Great fun. And yes, I am definitely in your camp that 20 Watt is the sweet spot and works well for outdoors, for all the reasons you mentioned in this video. Take care.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Roger that and as I said in the video, the 891 is a great radio for some, just not me.

[@yophotoman]

Love my G90 too! I use it in an off grid outbuilding, dedicated to radio (& storage), where I use a pair of 8 amp/hr LiFePo4 batteries, kept up with a 100 watt solar panel and Renogy charge controller. Perfect set up to feed in my two HF antennas: an OCFD dipole with a 4:1 balun & random wire 44 ft long with a 9:1 balun.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Awesome! 73, Walt

[@Tokyo1991.JL1AJE]

Home built linked EFHW and 20W got me into Canada no problem the other evening on 18MHz SSB. Running an IC7200 on a battery portable. Antenna up a tree somewhere north of Tokyo. I can get into VK land on 10m daytime with 5-10W JS8 on a short horizontal EFHW. Great fun. Admittedly sometimes the other end’s antenna does help a bit but hey, it’s all part of the hobby. We’re capped at 50W portable anyway so 100W is out the question.

[@jlca320]

Walt, brother as a Ft891 owner I will pray for you! 😆 I own an FX-4CR and love it. My only draw back is I am looking for a tuner for it. I am considering buying a G90 because it comes with a great tuner. I do love your videos keep them coming 73

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Hahahahaha thank you brother!

[@JeffreyWilliams-x4x]

I set up a winter ham shack in my basement built a 20m speaker wire vertical,,,my G90 was the rig i used ,,the contacts on 20m were unbelievable!! A sad day is comming when i take it all down to put the grill and picknic table back,,,,this fall ill put a rybokov in its place and hope for the best 73 thanks walt

[@F4LDT-Alain]

Hello Walt, thanks for yet another video that makes a lot of sense. I actually own these two and I have been using the G90 almost exclusively for my portable ops so far. I will keep the FT891 however, because it's a lovable TX I can't really imagine parting with, for when I shall be able to do some base ops in the summer house and because of the 6 meter band. Talking of power, I'm always amazed when I hear OMs announcing that they push out over 1 kW like this French guy working in the Middle-East last week-end...

[@USAF-SF]

Very, very hard to NOT fall in love with the G90, the ATU is phenomenal and you're right, 20 watts is a wonderful sweet spot, and look how much money folks save when they purchase a G90!!!

[@jonizornes5286]

As a 50 year ham and retired two way radio tech, I agree 100% about the difference in power. I run my 891 on 10 watts CW and 20 on SSB. As a field tech, it's hard to explain to a customer that his brand new 100 watt UHF repeater car radio just isn't going to get double the range his old 40 watt car radio did, LIKE THE SALESMAN TOLD HIM HE WOULD...... There are 2 advantages the 891 does have, first with 100 watt capability, you have plenty of overhead to protect the finals. Second, the 891 has 6 meters, which is great for portable operating with an antenna that just is so much smaller. I used to have the SGC SG-2020 that I loved for portable use, but in spite of it's 20 watt rating, it's well known it doesn't do that on 10 meters. Mine only did 10 watts on 10 meters, which was disappointing. I sold the SG-2020 and replaced it with the 891, but I still regret selling the SG-2020..... It was just the most simply rugged transceiver ever.

[@bullterriertransylvania]

QRP for life! Im very satisfied with my x6100 10W with a chinese vertical telescopic whip! Best setup for me! I also tried 75W amp but didnt considered any big difference 🤷‍♂️ YO5ZL

[@jamess1787]

What amp did you use?

[@bullterriertransylvania]

@@jamess1787 I dont use. I just tried a 75w Chinese kit from ebay.

[@fredwatkins8177]

About a year ago I became interested in portable operations using what the military calls field expedient antennas. I bought an 891 and Z100A tuner and played with a few antennas as I learned from Google searches and watching some KZbin videos and in that process I discovered your channel and the G90 radio. I bought a G90 soon after and I've hardly used my 891 since then. I do believe it's a shame you got so many criticisms because you sold your 891 but a lot of people will sell things that are, as one ham I know calls, "in excess of my needs." Soldier on Walt, soldier on.

[@pasjeihobby]

Wow, that's bold statement and I absolutely love it. 20 W is enough in 98% situations.

[@vk3crg]

Couldn’t agree more! I live in South Eastern Australia near Melbourne and using my G90 had a great QSO on 20m with Ben PD2BA in The Netherlands using 20 watts into a Mad Dog Coil and a 5.2 metre whip from eBay in my backyard. Ben received me at 5/7 about 15 miles out of Central Amsterdam. A video of the QSO is up on my KZbin channel. The difference between 5 watts and 20 watts is a lot more stark than the difference between 20 watts and 100 watts I’ve found. 20 watts is a great compromise between performance on air and battery size etc. Keep up the great work on your Channel! 73, Craig VK3CRG

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thank you Craig! 73 my friend

[@Retired_Five-0_W4WAG]

I LOVE my G90. My longest contact so far is 5,300 miles. It’s a great portable radio.

[@johnbrooks9051]

I enjoyed your video. Thanks. I will keep my K3S because I can turn the power down and not have receiver issues with a lower-tech rig. I did a in real time test with two QRP operators and you are right. The one ham could hear me 100% copy with one watt on 20m. I reduced further to 0.10 watt and he could not understand words, but he knew I was there. Keep up the interesting videos.

[@RadioReporter]

Hi Walt, a very timely video. I have a G90 arriving this Sunday. Looking forward taking it to the lake, on trips, bike rides, pedestrian mobile, automobile mobile, operating from different rooms in the house, on the patio, in hotels, possibility on a cruise this October just to hear what the signals sound like in the Caribbean - no chance of transmitting on the ship. . Maybe even take it to the Maryland or Delaware shore this summer for a salt water ground. Much easier than taking my Yaesu FT-857, 20 Amp Power Supply, Antenna Tuner, antennas, etc. Thanks for all the GREAT videos and explaining things in a simple down to earth way. You don't really know something until you do it.

[@corsavic1]

I check out the G90 before i got on air think may of saw a few of the vids with you and yours, but i can say even when using 10 watts i had no problems making contacts love mine its great...walt another great vid..this is the way of the ham

[@giffjim55]

I love my G-90. I’ve had my Yaesu FT-710 and G-90 out on POTA activations. The G-90 performed equally as well. Besides it tunes better, is MUCH EASIER to haul around, and I can operate for many hours on a smaller amp battery.

[@dandypoint]

Good info in the video. I love my 891 for a number of reasons but never run it at 100 watts! You are correct in the power comments. Under most conditions 1 or 2 S-units are insignificant. Occasionally it does make a difference but only for the contester or extreme weak signal operator. Conditions make the most difference and choice of band etc. I run several power levels but 20 to 50 watts is almost always the choice. I also never run any rig ( except my old boat anchor Johnson Viking Ranger II ) at full power. Even my 1500 watt rated amplifier only gets pushed to 750 watts for maybe the rare new country! It still has the original tubes from the 1980’s! The old rule of thumb used to be you need to quadruple your power or antenna gain to make a worthwhile improvement in signal strength. For me it’s the receiver that counts most. Also the way the front panel controls are set up can make or break a radio for me. It may be what you are used to. I want everything to operate like my long gone TenTec Omni 6 plus! The Elecraft K3 and the FT-891 suit me. I do wish they both had the sound of my old Drake 2B but they are not bad.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Yes and as I said in the video, I don’t dislike the 891 and it’s the perfect radio for some, just not me. 73, Walt

[@AndrewR2130]

Im looking at an 891 as im struggling with to work an hear us stations on it, even with tweaking settings and antenna setup i can work Europe perfectly fine on my g90 tho at 20w

[@dandypoint]

@@AndrewR2130 where are you? What band are you using? My FT-891 has a very sensitive receiver.

[@AzPauly]

@@AndrewR2130 fwiw, I feel my 891 "hears" better than my 7300 on the same antenna...

[@phildurall7466]

Walt - "I''VE GOT THE POWA!" Hmmm .... the military must know something! 73 - KF6IF

[@johnsinclair3067]

Every now and again I get the itch to buy a new radio to "upgrade" from my G90 (going on 4 years of ownership). I haven't found one yet that I can justify the payout. The G90 is the best bang for the buck. Portable I use the 6Ah lifepo4 and my shack is powered by swapping between a pair of 20Ah lifepo4. From Central Kentucky (SSB): all 50 states, Europe, Central Russia, South America - through homebrew antennas. 20 watts is plenty.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Roger that!

[@Zapruderfilm1963]

I use a Yaesu FT 1000D ( the Beast ) as my home transceiver and a Xiegu G90 as the rig I use to activate with. The G90 is such an amazing rig! 👍 73 Walt! 😀 De N1XV

[@ScatManAust]

I have the G90 and absolutely love it. But I do lust for an 891 too

[@franciscolopez3229]

I couldn't agree with you more sir. Me being new to hf starting only with an HR2510 tuned down to only transmit at 15 to 20 watts and a homebrewed rotary dipole. I have worked most of Europe and the farthest I've reach is Brazil at 19, 900 plus kilometers from where I'm at. One time, a friend lend me his Anytone 5555 and an amp that can do 100 to 150 watts. Comparing it with my setup, it only does showed only a slight difference except when conditions is bad. Honestly, it is the thrill and excitement that I get with just 20 watts. With higher output there is not much thrill because you know the chances of making a contact is high. What more, if can build at least a 3 element yagi. 73, and all the best.

[@johnnorth9355]

I have been playing with my newly licenced 25 watts on my base station 450D Yaesu and I have to say that you are absolutely correct. I was always happy with 10 watts and will continue to use it but 20/25 watts is definitely the sweet spot. The G90 is still the best portable rig - the s/h prices show how popular they are. 73 .M7BLC

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

73 my friend!

[@stefanpaul9443]

Agree - I’m either using FT891 with 20W or FT818 with 5W out in the field. No shack here, only portable operation. 20W is perfect for SSB, 5 for CW, FT8 aso…

[@bodstrup]

Can confirm - hoing from 200 W to 5 W on a goid transatlantic QSO (DK to US) - may reduce the report from 59 to 55 - but going 100 to 20 is usually one S unit down. Going DK to NZ (17.000 km) - this is where I need everything to get through a pileup

[@daveorca]

Love the G90 and your channel. I'm about to experiment with a Slinky doublet using a speaker wire feeder and the G90.

[@chipweather]

I love my g90. Don't need any more! Great video

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thanks! 73, Walt

[@scotthamilton7856]

Hi Walt. I have an FT891 but would love a G90 ( keeping FT891 though) to keep in my car boot. Simple quick set up but have heard some poor comments on the G90. I know you love it but £400 pounds in the UK is still a lot of money if it is going to have screen problems etc. 20 watts sounds perfect with no extra tuner etc. like yourself I like sitting by the sea operating. Love your videos. Scott

[@baddogwaterfowl7302]

I just ordered a g90 to do a mobile setup. The reviews especially on the atu sold me.

[@mikesmith5139]

Hi Walt. I love my FT-891 and could never part with it! The FT-891 is a fantastic all-round, great radio. It's not my main shack rig, bit I still love using it in the shack from time to time as it performs so well. I find it a joy to operate. However, your videos have persuded me to try some portable HF at some point - and I'd like to have a go with a G90. A G90 has therefore been added to my wishlist! (But the FT-891 definitely isn't going anywhere!!! LOL). Thanks for your videos. 73, Mike, M0MTJ

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

You will absolutely love the G90. I'm actually thinking about getting a second one as mine has been through the ringer and is being held together with tape LOL

[@mobiltec]

Like I said in your last video. Since I got the G90 I haven't turned on any of my big radios.

[@nickbudge1459]

Hi Walt, first of all, thank you for the videos! Love them all! Just made a couple of SSB contacts today from Japan to south Australia and to Fiji using the FT-817nd on 5 watts and a vertical antenna right next to the salt water! Around 5k miles! Love it! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@AzPauly]

Hi Walt, I don't fault you at all for letting go of the 891..I really wanted a G90 for all the reasons you mentioned..only reason I went 891-not so much the power- I seldom run full out, rather was for the built quality, 3 yr warranty and support..if Xiegu ever gets local support in place I'll be in! With stat said, I love the superhet receiver/filters on the Yeasu..would likely miss it, but the convenience/form factor of the G90 would be appreciated for sure..👍

[@Sound_Goof]

Very cool! I’m headed to Avon OBX to camp for a week this summer. I have my T and I’m getting my G before the vacation. After watching your videos, I’ve decided to get the G90 as my first HF radio 🤘

[@ChrisKD9YSW]

This is why as a new ham I bought the G90 and I will be having a shy loop for a QTH antenna

[@petersichel9934]

Well said. For operating portable from a battery 20-40 watts offers a great balance. My take is to think about what experience will give you the most joy. For me it's an IC-705 with a modest 40 watt amp (+ tuner depending on the antenna requirements). Yes it's somewhat bulky and more expensive, but the experience is delightful. I don't want to remember a different UI for each rig. Others love the experience of collecting radios.

[@JimMarshallUK]

I usually drive my 2290’s with 20 watts, into 2879 into 3CX15,000a7 I agree, 20 Watts is useful

[@deankq4adj125]

Totally agree with you on the 20 watts! Keep up the good work.

[@Howie-wd5oc]

I'm a new Ham. I got my Tech ticket four months ago, my General three months ago and will be testing for the Amateur Extra this week. In all the reading, studying, YT vids, etc. Seeing power limits at 200 watts, 1500 watts and so on, I've come to the conclusion that it isn't all about power but rather, the largest equation being, propagation. I don't see me using anything more than 20 -25 watts going forward in this exciting hobby. Time will tell. I studied radio communications several decades ago which is where, in part, I base my opinion. To date, I haven't used more than 5 watts on 2-meter with an Icom IC-2730a. I'm currently trying to get set up on 10-meter. There are so many good radios out there it makes selecting one challenging. 73

[@franciscolopez3229]

See my comment. If you can find a President HR-2510 in very good condition and not tinkered with then match it with a Turner Super Side Kick like what I did, man you'ld be surprised especially if you can build at least a 2 or 3 element yagi. 73 and goodluck.

[@Howie-wd5oc]

@@franciscolopez3229 Thanks for the suggestion.👍

[@markviers998]

Makes sense to me and watching the contacts you've made with that G90 to prove what 20 watts can do.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thank you my friend! 73, Walt

[@geirha75]

Thanks for good information Walt. I'm actually not into SSB mode, I'm more like a cw guy, but I support your thoughts and ideas on qrp. I personally really do think it's more rewarding running qrp. I remember my first cw qso qrp 5W from Norway to Italy, 40m. Great great fun I must say. I would love to have G90 once.

[@LouiseBrooksBob]

Where Japanese radios excel is the build quality and the filtering, which is really important.

[@derbemobile]

Thanks for the video. I’m a new ham and going back and forth because of the price of the Yaesus

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

@@derbemobile just some advice if you’re new. The G90 has a built in antenna tuner that will tune anything, the Yaesu doesn’t. The G90 is more forgiving when using it with different antennas. I highly recommend the G90 because if this and the price for a new ham. Less frustration and more success when getting started. 73, Walt

[@jolebole-yt]

I recently made a POTA qso from south Europe to the east coast in the US with 60W on my Yeasu 891. My USA contact was running 1kW. Both mine and his signal report were 3/3. Interesting how it works in real life too, not just on paper. Btw Calun also runs 1kW + amps for his station. 😄

[@TeamTopKick]

When i get my Ham lisence i want to get a G90. Ive been watching your videos and expecially love the DXing across the world on little power. That G90 seems like a really good radio.

[@MrMotorchild]

You don't need a license to buy the radio. In fact, it might be a good idea to buy the radio before you get the license. That way, you can learn its basic operation as well as build or buy the best antenna for it; and soon as you have your license, boom... that's it - you're good to go - no rush to figure out the radio; no rush to put up just any antenna, you're already set up and ready to transmit.

[@TeamTopKick]

@MrMotorchild I know you don't need a license to buy one but I already have some handheld hams and don't want to spend the money on a good radio just to listen.

[@iamnobody9542]

Couple of sunspot cycles ago I was using a "born again" CB ground plane shortened 6.5" to tune it to 10 M. I was talking to a fellow (SSB) in Nicaragua who could calibrate his TX power down to 1 mw. BION, I could still hear him Q4 - 5 at 5 mw, but lost him below 2 mw into the noise. We are at SS peak 1 right now, no, not as good as that one, but good. Most manpack radios run 20 - 25 watts. Bonnie, KQ6XA who founded HFPack used a Yaesu VX-1210 for all her stuff. 25 W. Worked. 73, Jerry wa2omu

[@WASRT001]

Agreed Walt. It's amazing how much you can get out with less than "barefoot" power. I recently had a 30 min rag chew with a station in Japan (from WA) using my FT-818, 6w with a resonant whip antenna. I think the antenna was key. We both had each other S9. Of course the propagation gods must be on your side.

[@kennethherring2918]

Walt, I too have the FT-891 which I first purchased when I got my Extra. And while I like my FT-891, going portable with it is a bit of a hassel especially when you have to pack an ATU not to mention all the additional cables. And while I will still keep it, 20 watts as you say is all you need given that you'd have to quadruple the power to gain an extra S unit. Great video Walt.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Thank you my friend! 73, Walt

[@444DG]

I came to the same conclusion and love my G90. I bought a new 891 and Mat 30 tuner on impulse and only used them once amd will be putting them up for sale.

[@Christofoos]

What timing! I’ve been conflicted on these 2 radios for months and am getting ready to buy in the next day or so . I was convinced on the FT891 until this week. Your channel has provided some great insight on the G90. In your opinion, is the additional cooling fan needed if I’m just using SSB phone? 73!

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

No I have been running mine for 3 years in the heat with no fan. It gets a little warm at times but the fan really isn’t necessary for just SSB. 73, Walt

[@SeaDogJak]

Walt you make so much sense :)

[@blugoose86]

Well, nothing wrong with that. You have another 100 watt in your shack for emergencies. I picked up a G90 just because of your videos. I also have a 100 watt for emergencies. I don't have a lot of experience with different radios but for now, I believe the G-90 is a first and last rig you need for the hobby. Thanks Walt. If you're crazy then so am I. LOL de KA9TII

[@PARTner91]

I’ll take my 891 all day long. Happy to have more people on 20w, as that gives me the edge when I’m hunting POTA running my 100w 👍🏻

[@JeffBishopVE6EFR]

I fully agree. As the old saying goes, spend as much as possible on the antenna. Then if there is money left over, buy a radio. 20 watts is more than enough and into a superior antenna will do wonders.

[@loraz0]

Right on Walt. I get grief sometimes from folks about 20w and chinese radios, but for working portable I agree with you on 20w. I do cheat with the X6100, and will use a small amplifier pushing 30w sometimes.

[@allanjones4283]

Thankyou. I'd buy a G90 if had to go through it all again. I've enhanced/upgraded my FT-891 and have an ATAS-120 also, so I'll live in FT-891 eco-system for now. I just inject pre-set code plugs depending on what I am doing. Cheers for the video and you work in HAM radio!!

[@allanjones4283]

Put in pandapter, anderson p/poles, Noctua fans (quieter and cooler), Armaloq frame, digi-rig, changed to N-type and changed speaker. Now it's perfect 😀

[@jeffreyreid1729]

I have both radios, the G-90 and the 891. Each serve their purpose and I won't be getting rid of one over another. But the one thing I wish the G-90 had, and that is the Yaesu DNR--hands down it beats the G-90 in that department. Friend of mine just ordered the sBitx V3--does about everything including opening your can of soup...Will have to ask how he likes it. 20w and again, around $400. Maybe this will end up being a new radio genre--above the usual QRP, but below the 100w base station.

[@janhenkins]

I can fully understand your reasons for passing along the 891. I had one on loan for a month or so, but could not make "friends" with it. Brilliant quality signal, built like a tank. But it is quite heavy, and power hungry too. I don't like lugging around batteries, so I ended up not buying the 891. I have an old FT-817nd which I love to bits, and also own three Xiegu (G90, G106 and X6100) radios that keeps me busy. I like all my HF radios for widely different reasons, none of them scientific! 😀I find the area between 5w-20w more than ample for me. So there you go, carry on with your blasphemy, I'm standing right beside you spouting the same! Love your videos, 73 Jan M7HNK

[@stevefisher1036]

20 watts is fine when band conditions are on the upswing. In the 90s sometimes only 20 meters was open, so it helped to run power.

[@rafski123]

I'm learning CW now, and playing with my IC-705 - trying to track how far my signal goes on RBN, I don't really see a difference from the builtin battery at 5W, and with a external one at 10W. So I would agree with you on this point.

[@kd5inm]

Im all about the brand.... Have a lot of Yaesu's but would buy a chinese radio like the G90 or a FX-4CR but I draw the line at junk like icom. My FT897 does 20 watts with the built in batteries. Works great and I've got all the stuff needed to go portable with it.

[@bryantwalley]

5:45 I love that you mentioned the "I wont buy Chinese" group of people. Truth is I haven't opened up a single electronic device made in the past 25 years that didnt have Chinese stuff in it. They are lying to themselves.

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Exactly! I tell them to stay out of Walmart LOL

[@ChrisConner1]

Every iPhone

[@kg4gav]

Yep, they all type those comments on their chinese made phone, laptop, keyboard, mouse... I'd bet 90% of the items in their house are Chinese or made with parts from China, including their 'American' or Japanese car. And their favorite radio may say (or they think it says) Made in Japan, but even Japan outsources a large part of the parts and assemblies to China. Yes, China makes some junk built to the lowest price point possible, just like the USA does. Theo also make quality stuff we use every day.

[@codywrites]

My new Yeasu FT-710, from a Japanese radio manufacturer, says "Made in China" right on the back of it. 😂

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

@codymaly652 😂😂😂

[@miket7184]

I'm in Arizona and whenever I'm doing POTA I pretty much run 100w ever time. This is because I'm trying to get more contacts throughout the country and get a lot of comments how I'm being heard better than a lot of POTA activators. It's also nice when hunting when I can hear the operator compared with those running low power and fighting QSB.

[@mikestone9129]

I'm like you Walt, I have the icom 7300, icom 718, Yaesu FT950 etc. But the G90 is just a great small radio that's super easy and fun to use. Yes, thos 100w radios will help you bust up a pile up. But for the money and pure fun of it all I love my G90. 73s N5MLS

[@terryc29]

You can always turn the power down to 20 watts on the FT-891 if it's really about the power. I used a friends G90 last week and I wasn't impressed by it. It felt cheap and the screen was too small. I'll take my FT 890 and turn the power down when I want. If my radio would need repair, it's fixable. Is the G90?

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

it's about the heavier battery requirement, lack of internal tuner, lack of SDR waterfall, price, menu, etc for me

[@sebbra82]

Nice map of Berlin in the background :)

[@COASTALWAVESWIRES]

Hey! You got that, I collect maps. That’s an old German school map from the 70’s.

[@jerryKB2GCG]

I use a FT-DX10 at home and have an amplifier, use a FT-710 for POTA more to get it’s great receive capabilities for POTA, where I also use the G90, and a qrp-labs 5W radio for digital. I like choices 😊

[@nine7295]

PITA?

[@jerryKB2GCG]

@@nine7295 POTA

[@tom-ski]

I ordered G90 only for sota/pota activation because i don't know if i like this type of activity. The price comparing with possibilities is crazy. I agree that 20W can work. Greetings from Poland!

[@Digaroo4427]

Well said Walt 👍

[@KM4ACK]

Haven’t used my 891 in months. I’ll install it in the truck sooner or later.