The Best "Buy Once, Cry Once" Ham Radio

[@ludoka58leo]

Learned the hard way that a good antenna is #1...

[@Hebdomad7]

A good antenna and getting that antenna up high is the real trick. So many ham tubers just throw their wire up into the tree and talk nothing about how it was made or how to tune it. Josh being the exception having some good videos on making and tuning antenna.

[@kchaney56]

I am learning that very lesson at this time.

[@John-K6RXD]

Gospel.

[@stevenemert837]

@@Hebdomad7 Especially ones made of Christmas lights!

[@kenchilton]

Getting a bigger lot for more, bigger antenna setups has been a life goal for me. 🤭

[@slappomatthew]

The general rule of thumb for new people is everything sucks, nothing is what you want and everything is 4x what you want to spend

[@travisbakeriii3053]

😂

[@411Adidas]

😂 bro 🤣

[@therealyogibear2k225]

Ain't that true for everyone though?

[@north_7646]

@@therealyogibear2k225and everything lol fuk

[@alexandersheridan2179]

Oh cool. Just like cars, and all of my other interests 😂 Thanks for the honesty and heads up though! I love being given accurate expectations, rather than being gassed up, coming in @ 100 mph, until those wall and cliffs suddenly appear!

[@BruceForster-k9n]

I have a true story for Y'all. My wife and I once lived in a trailer Park. The Lady across the street was ALWAYS complaining about me interfering with her TV, simply because she saw the R-5 ( Shortwave Antenna) on my House. She constantly complained to the Park Manager. She even filed a complaint with the FCC-interesting because on the dates she specified in her complaint, my wife and I were visiting friends in CANADA! What finally brought the thing to a head was when she saw me on my Porch one day. She stormed over to me, and started yelling that the "Radio" sitting in front of me was messing up her TV yet again. What she identified as my Interference causing "Radio" was MY PISTOL THAT I WAS CLEANING AT THE TIME! Perhaps Smith & Wesson needs to be Checked out by FCC, LOL!

[@rodgowdy]

Hi Josh, you forgot to mention the only 100W "base station" All in One, the Yaesu 991A. I know dedicated HF and UHF/VHF radios will perform better than this All In One, but as a new ham I wasn't ready to drop three grand for a superb HF. I'm super happy with my 991A and will be upgrading to multiple radios in a few years as I refine my interests.

[@mgkaragas]

That's what I did in 2019. I had an old used Alinco HF mobile and a cheap AMAZON dual band mobile, but my first new serious purchase was the FT-991A. I have bought more models since then such as HF and VHF only radios, but I still have my home station centered around the all-in-one. No regrets here either. 73 K5MGK

[@kengerace]

Got one as well. Great radio. Bought the ftdx10 which is an upgrade and also a great radio except…. The 710 the radio between these has features that would be coveted. Example, the dx10 has an averaging power meter on SSB on CW, AM, full carrier it seems to show full power. 991a has a peak power meter regardless. 710 has a selectable peak or average. Now interestingly I have a MFJ 941 tuner which has a peak power meter. 991, 891, shows a swing up near 100w on SSB. The dx10 shows about 50w on my peak meter on the MFJ 🤷🏻. I have no other test equipment. Oh, also in the dx10 to get that 50w on the MFJ the swr MUST be below 1.5:1 if your any higher in show 20ish w on the MFJ and the MFJ always mirrors the radio’s power meter on any radio. The other radios don’t start to roll off power until you reach about 2.5:1 swr.

[@kenchilton]

⁠@@kengeraceI have both the 710 and the DX10. They are simply different animals, even considering the similarities between them. I have had them on the test gear and have not seen the difference you noted on power on SSB. It could be a difference audio processing settings between them, the microphone, etc.

[@radioactivefarmer983]

@@kenchilton I'm curious about your thoughts on the performance differences between the 10 and 710?

[@kenchilton]

​@@radioactivefarmer983 Performance-wise they are virtually identical, but they are different. The comparisons on KZbin are all very good. They note all of the issues with button placements and menus and junk like that, so I won't repeat it all. I do like the second ring on the FTDX10. I don't mind the buttons on the left on the 10 because of my shack setup and since I log on paper with my right hand -- that is, there are buttons on the wrong side of the tuning knob on all rigs for me. I do like the bigger screen on the 10, because I am not using an external monitor on either one. I like the extra USB port on the 10 and the way the digital connectors are set up, but I made it all work with the FT-710 before I got the 10 anyway, so no biggie. I love the 710, and I love the 10. The 10 is at desk level and the 710 on a shelf above it. As they came, right out-of-the-box, I think the FT-710 with AESS has better, easier to understand sound. That was not enough for me, so I modified the external speaker on the 710 to use a much higher quality speaker and put acoustical dampening in the enclosure to give it even more clarity on those higher audio frequencies. This really made the 710's audio so good that I don't even use headphones with it. The 10 was also pretty good audio from the speaker compared to other rigs, but just not as clear as the 710 with AESS and now my mods to the 710 external speaker makes the differences even more clear. In practical use, though, I use headphones with the 10, so even though the 710 audio is nicer, it really is not an important difference now. If I did not get the AESS version of the 710, I probably would not think there was much difference. In terms of receive capability, the 10 is a bit hotter. On CW, the 10 also has just a tad better selectivity to make it easier to copy a station close to another one. These differences are really small and only appear when I have done the comparisons to look for the differences. I never find that the 10 can hear something that the 710 cannot - it is more like the 10 is just a little more pleasant to work from a receive standpoint. I don't have a lot of local QRM to overload the front of either rig, so just beware that if you do your results could be a lot different than mine. The 10 has the ability to copy CW, which cuts down on my asking for a dozen or so repeats because my ears are getting old, although both rigs can connect to a computer to do this instead. The DNR on the 10 also seems to work better on CW than the one on the 710, but again, both are great. The 710 DNR often seemed to be a bit better on SSB, but not always - if you flip through them sometime the 10 has a better one for that station. This is where the different animals start to show how they are unique. The 10 seems to be a tad better at pulling in that voice station and filtering out the unwanted stations, where the 710 seems to make up for it with DNR and the audio side of the house. On CW, the 10 edges out the 710 more consistently. So far, I have only used the 710 for digital modes. I repeat it again that the difference is not so great to discourage anyone from getting either one. I tested both rigs on my bench before putting them in service. Again, not much difference between them, with a slight edge to the 10 if there is one. Transmit was virtual identical all the way from bottom to top, with one a tad stronger on one frequency then the other when moving up a band. Modulation was identical with the right settings. The factory-supplied mics are essentially large diameter element mobile mics, minus the tone pad. I made an interface for the 710 to use an XLR balanced input so I could connect my RE-20 to it, and modified my setup to use that one mic setup for either rig just by throwing a switch. I did find that the tx audio settings were a little different between the two rigs, but after that adjustment, the on-air performance is identical. Not that either rig was wrong, they were just slightly different - like RCA 12AX7 versus Tung Sol 12AX7 different. ;-) So, performance-wise, about a wash, with a slight edge to the FTDX10. Is it a $1000 edge? No, honestly not. Why did I get the 10 after having the 710? Well, it was on sale! I am actually glad to have bought it, and the screen on the 10 is appreciated. (Yes, not just my ears are old.) Also, I wanted to dedicate my 710 to the ATAS antenna and have another rig to drive the kW amp (which I still have not hooked up) and it looked like the 10 would be easier to interface without giving up stuff. It is nicer to not have to go through the menus to turn on/off the ATAS on the 710 to switch to the dipoles or to fire up the computer just to use the CAT automation to do stuff - the whole ATAS to/from antenna tuner swap is not well done, considering antenna switches are just a button push these days. I was considering setting up a RaspPi to do the CAT control based on the antenna switch position before Yaesu made it possible to have both rigs. I would not have minded two 710s or two 10s, but this is nice, too.

[@jackfrancis5069]

FT-857D was my first radio in 2006 and I do not regret it one bit. I liked it so much I bought the FT-897D a few months later for my base station. I still have them and love them. I've added a few others since but still love these radios and the capabilities they have.

[@rickt10]

Yep, got one about 15 years ago. Wanted to get another, but the price went nuts.

[@RoelandJansen]

I regretted it 100%. Expensive because of options. And a 1500m away mw station killed rx completely. It was less than 100 kW. The IC 7000 (no options to get, all included) did much better, almost no problems. 7610 no issues at all.

[@VA3HDL]

I have two all in one radios. The FT-857D and the FT-991A (not sure why this radio was not mentioned on the video but all Icom options did get mentions.) I'm extremely happy with both and I have the flexibility to operate any two different bands at the same time with both radios. 73

[@vasilpeychev2637]

The most helpful video for beginners I've watched so far in your channel. I got into ham radio a couple of months ago acquiring my license with a bit of listening on the frequencies in advance. Once I got licensed, and with a Baofeng UV-5R in the backpack, I've started digging into the topic which radio and antenna should I get first. And that is when I got completely confused with the premium models. What I did and still doing is: first purchased ANTs: Sirio HP2070, Diamond SG-7900 and Signal Sticks for my HTs. Then I bought the Quansheng K6. Next I purchased Revetis RT95 to learn the mobile radio operations (cable management, connections, etc..) and switch between antennas for testing purposes. All the way up I am learning in order to get to the point when eventually I'd know for sure which premium radio I want to have in my 'shack'. Still can't decide between a combination of IC-705 and FT891 or 1x IC-7100 because I want to be portable/mobile 75% of the operating time and reason #2 to understand for myself what work I'm more into - repeaters of HF. Thank you once again for the video. 73.

[@codygingery1495]

Hey Josh! Good video. One thing us at Black Swamp Amateur Radio Club has adopted is an alternate "buy once cry once" mentality amongst our members, we have done some hard work to figure out what gear just absolutely works, quick and easy and performance based. So that's the range that we recommend. Like if you're only wanting a bang for the buck hf rig and you want to run digital modes, 7300. If you want a quick and easy wire to hang up that just performs go with the par-end fedz. And from there you can branch out and try other stuff, but that initial item bought once (instead of trying 5 different items to try to make it work getting progressivley more costly in time and funds) can give you the performance you were looking for to keep you hooked in radio and want to explore more, and go further down the rabbit hole. We all want to expirement and play with what we can make work, but we also just want to be able to just throw something up and plug in to make sure if it's the bands, or just the gear that's hindering us. Keep up the good videos! K8CAG

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

That is a good approach! Thanks to the entire club for sending me the swag pack! I opened it on the podcast a few episodes back. Much love! 73!

[@codygingery1495]

@@HamRadioCrashCourse I must have missed that one, which one was it? I want to find it and share with the club!

[@darylcheshire1618]

In Australia in 2000, I gained the Novice licence which had no or very limited HF options, I only got a 2m/70cm radio and left it that. Years later the Novice licence became a Standard licence with HF priviledges with 100W. I recently got the Icom 7300 and looking at building antennas. I might be wrong, but I think the “all in one” boxes suffered trade-offs when trying to do everything and preferred to get more specific radios. Years ago all mode radios tended to be QRP radios, output power might have been one of the trade-offs that might have been improved recently.

[@n1kkri]

@@darylcheshire1618 Unless your a hardcore DXer or someone that has the have the very best money can buy, for the average user any of the all in one radios will do the job. You have to be into really weak signal work to notice enough of a difference to make a difference.

[@tinwhiskerSC]

Extra points for the Alton Brown reference.

[@NathanMazanec]

Excellent as usual! I was thinking as watching, "Wow! Josh makes such well thought out videos!" Each video you make makes us better informed, and all around makes us better! Thank you so much!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Wow, thanks!

[@kd2kvz]

I have a Yaesu 991A and love that its a shack in the box. I primarily use it for HF and have a FTM-400 for my VHF/UHF but the 991A has always been a great radio.

[@KO4VNX]

You wrap so much up in an easy-to-understand and easy-to-apply format, it's just mad genius I say, mad genius!!! Very helpful, thanks for posting this one!!!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Wow, thanks!

[@k6usy]

I have only ever owned one “all-in-one” and that is the IC-705. I have other radios at home, 705 is for portable opps. People do it but I do not recommend the 705 as a first radio for someone getting started. Completely agree Josh.

[@nm645908]

I went 705 to start the hf journey. Should I just gotten a 891 maybe but it's been fun. And now I can be the annoying qrp guy in a pile up. I love the 705. But once the solar cycle drops might be looking into either an amp or 100w base radio.

[@k6usy]

@@nm645908 my 705 sits in d-star terminal mode when it is at my house. It’s a very expensive d-star device. But then I go have fun with it doing POTA to make up for it.

[@kennethherring2918]

If there's one thing I learned early on, is that having an all mode radio is not the best option and the only solution is to have two separate radios, each of which that offer full power and can be monitored at the same time. Great video that I think all new Hams should view.

[@walterblizzard]

What are the main disadvantages of all in one radio's such as the 991A?

[@AA0Z]

But I love to scroll through 16 menu functions pages on a Yaesu radio when it's 100 degrees outside and I'm pressed for time looking for a setting that doesn't have a well named label. It's fun.

[@nothingnewhere6551]

Type 2 fun

[@turdferguson2863]

Skill issue

[@GoonyMclinux]

Analog issues.

[@jeromeGrzelak]

Get tht Nifty Manual to find what is what

[@slothchunk]

the saying goes, "Jack of all trades. Master of one." it's been bastardized and repeated in a cynical way, "...Master of none." you are a master of radio! thanks for keeping us informed!

[@Blake-jl8lh]

I SOOO BADLY wanted an 818 and a 991 when I got into the hoby. I resisted the urge thanks to you preaching the same message in 2020. (I have since bought an 818 but im so glad it wasnt my first) Having a vhf radio to talk on the local ares net while listening to the national hurricane net when i was flooded out a few years back was fantastic! As you said the all in ones are pretty cramped, which is great for a sota but the last thing you want as a noob or someone in a stressful situation is having to poke around that much. Great video!

[@N2YTA]

I bought an FT-818 before the buying frenzy after the announcement of it being discontinued. I’m glad I did, it’s very quirky but I really like it.

[@SargeSolutions]

Awesome video! I was getting into analysis paralysis about what to buy, and oddly enough I completely glossed over REDUNDANCY over "all in one". Your videos are awesome!

[@RustyConibear]

Just started out got a 705 after years of deliberation. No regrets.

[@N2YTA]

Excellent radio, enjoy it!

[@kenchilton]

Congratulations! Icom and Yaesu are solid choices. I never regretted buying either one.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Great choice.

[@Transmissions]

705 is the GOAT.

[@RoelandJansen]

705 is the outperformer!

[@NukaVaultReadiness]

While being on a budget, anything I get is a "Buy Once, Cry Once", haha. Thanks for the video Josh, great stuff!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

When I was younger, living on a budget, there was lots of crying. I understand!

[@N4EJM]

I ended up with a FT-991a due to wanting HF at the house but also had some repeaters across the NC/SC line that I wanted to connect to better. A 5 watt FT-3 and an Ed Fong J-pole was making it rather scratchy. The 991 was perfect since I could use 50 watts(I only needed about 10-15 to make it clearly). So far no issues but yes it’s my only HF radio. I use a lot of Wires-X and DMR currently so I can always wait to get the 991 fixed or simply get an 891 which is on my future radios forecast. Great video Josh as always.

[@TFuzz58]

I think there’s two reasons why all in ones are tempting. When starting out, you may not know what mode you’re really interested in and if you buy something that does everything you will be equipped to explore it all. Then for the folks that have been at it for a while, it’s the convenience of taking less gear into the field. I was tempted by the rationale of the first one when starting out but this is a good reason to get involved with the local club, so you can talk to people and see what different things may interest you. Your interests will likely change over time as you gain more experience. Who knows, to simplify things later on you may even go searching for a good used all band rig. I know a number of guitar players and not one of them has only one guitar. Great video Josh. Cheers from Moose Jaw. Tim VE5THF

[@paulsengupta971]

An all-in-one was tempting for me because I wanted a radio I could fit on my bedside table, one where I wouldn't need to construct a rack to stack HF and VHF/UHF radios, a single neat solution. I had an IC-706, but then I found a good price on an FT-991 and bought it. I did exactly the same for my other QTH when I found another 991 at a stupendously good price!

[@andresjustus160]

You missed one point,Josh: The All-in-ones will likely be able to do sideband on VHF/UHF. Good luck finding a inexpensive mobile doing ssb or cw...

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

I don’t think I missed it. I appreciate weak signal SSB. But that is a much smaller niche than those clamoring for an all in one radio.

[@jdecar1]

857 will do ssb or cw on vhf and uhf. "All mode, all band".

[@cappaculla]

I think thats just a nice consequence of owning an all in one, I've not really heard anyone complaining about the lack of it on a VHF/UHF only rig.

[@rickgilbrt]

​@@cappacullaI just complained about it in another comment.

[@seandrake7534]

Josh would it be possible for you to do a how to program a icom ic208h it's confusing me how to get it on the repeaters

[@AndrewB416]

Recently bought an FTDX10. Don't regret it. For VHF/UHF I use a Kenwood 281a that I bought for $100 connected to a Comet GP-3 antenna at home. In the car I use a TIDRadio TD-H3 connected to an old Alinco 230D amplifier and a signalstick on the roof. Covers most of the bases and focuses more on the HF frequencies that I enjoy more.

[@JxH]

Tragically, the FT-DX10 doesn't have backlit buttons. ;-) !!

[@AndrewB416]

@@JxH that's ok. I have a desk lamp

[@C_103]

At this for only about 3 months and and at general, I'm getting tons of useful info watching all these videos. Thanks

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks for watching!

[@fm71450]

Josh, as always thank you. Time well spent watching/listening. For me, the radio conversation is worthwhile - BUT - the antenna conversation is REALLY (more) needed from experienced folks like you. My opinion only. Additionally, thank you for the idea of a backup…..73, KQ4IXD

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@jaystephenson]

Lots of good points in this video. I ended up buying an FT-891 as a base HF radio because it had everything I wanted in a price point I could afford at the time. Great radio, sure the scope is lacking but a super rig for the money.

[@K7TDM_Tyler]

I always point new hams to your videos when they get started. This is an excellent example of why. Well said Josh.

[@natecus4926]

I just passed my technician license exam yesterday, thanks for your videos!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Great job! Please get on the air!

[@natecus4926]

@@HamRadioCrashCourse I will as soon as I get my call sign!

[@Ammed_KN6STX]

Super duper video Josh!!! As of today I have Bought once, cry once!! Many many times with all the radios, radio gear and the slew of antennas I have bought! You Josh, Mike K8MRD have been a bad influence on me I buy the items you guys recommend can’t complain about any of the items. Keep it up Josh your videos are outstanding!!!! I just picked up a new in the box 857 nice radio!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks for the kind words! Remember, if you indeed bought more than once, than you just cry now. 😅

[@N2YTA]

Wow, a NIB 857 is a real find! Enjoy it.

[@ecmo2007]

Excellent point about monitoring VHF/UHF and HF at the same time Josh. Also good points about working your way up and starting small. I am into a lot of different operating modes within in radio and communications as a whole. But I continue to jump around and it has been cumbersome and very very expensive to not learn one thing and then advance...

[@CapitalTX]

Great video. Keep it up with these types of videos! Soooo informative. Can’t say enough how much I appreciate this page. Love seeing new content. CANT decide what HF radio to buy. I have already realized I’m going to get bored quickly on UHF/VHF repeaters.

[@dougdaniels]

My buy once/cry once was the IC706MKIIG over 20 years ago. It is still my go-to base, mobile and portable. 100w of all band all mode and I know it like the back of my hand. It is the "P" in my PACE. If your "P" is very reliable and dependable, as this has been/still is, the less likely you'll need to go to your A, C or E.

[@gorgarath]

I kept looking for an IC706MKIIG when I first got licensed, but could never find one at a low enough price point. I did manage to get my FT-857D at my price point though. I keep thinking about selling it as I could apparently make money on that deal with how little I paid for it, but I like the radio.

[@teddean7763]

I have one for over 25 years use tlit evey day in my moblie i wish IC woild bering that back on the market the ic-7000 had replaced the one i own one as well i do agree with johse when you what have only HF and work the other bands and VHF/UHF bands then you have both worlds i can see his point if you just buy shack in a box radio if it stop workig ted kd2ard...

[@RoelandJansen]

I have two 7000's.same story

[@PrecisionGroupYT]

My first HF radio was the FT-891 and then I quickly realized that the 891 was not what I wanted in the shack so I got the 7300 and have loved it ever since! Made the FT-881 my mobile HF rig and paired it with the ATAS-120a (they make an excellent Mobile HF setup)! I have added more radios since then but before Icom announced the 705 I had stopped looking for a portable Emergency QRP rig as I figured that the way the SDR tech was coming along that someone would make a portable rig like the 705 and not too long after that the 705 was announced so of course the 705 is now in my Arsenal of HAM gear & Equipment 73 and thanks Josh

[@dake573]

Thought about it and it absolutely made sense. Now I have HF and separate VHF/UHF mobile/portable radios. Thanks 73

[@DM-fz3ly]

Completely agree Josh!! I do have an FT857 but I also agree that separate is MUCH more agile. You might want to be doing, say, a POTA activation on HF while monitoring the local repeater for other reasons and having a separate VHF/UHF is better in that case.

[@Deano_K5MPG]

Great video Josh, I always learn something watching your videos. Thank you for what you do!

[@1967plymgtx]

Sounds like good advice to me. My first HF radio was a Yaesu FT-897D. Although a very good radio, it now resides in a case as my emergency back-up. My HF rig now is an Icom IC-7300 and paired next to it on my desk is a Kenwood TM-D710G. They make for a great combination and, as mentioned, I can operate HF while monitoring local repeaters. Rounding out the shack is an Alinco DR-MD500 for DMR and GMRS. A pair of Motorola XBR 3500e radios and a Kenwood TH D74 take up the HT duties. Yes, I've not cried once.....but many times! 😊

[@reggiebradshaw6819]

The Yaesu ft-991a is a great shack in the box with the internal antenna tuner. Great transceiver.

[@kenedmonds7599]

I completely agree with you as far as the all in one radio. I bought the 991a as a new general thinking that the shack in a box was the best option and soon realized that this was not the best option. The 891 is an awesome mobile radio. I have one in my work truck and find it really fun. Keep up the good work. Love your videos.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks, that was definitely the message I was trying to get across.

[@kirklunsford7530]

Thank you for your information. Your channel is my go-to place. I'm just starting in radio, but lacking in so many areas, it's a slow start.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks for watching!

[@RichardDePas]

Treated myself to the Icom IC-7000 when I passed my General. Awesome all band all mode 100W radio and I found the menu system so much easier than Yaesu. Still have it but now I use my 705 and Elecraft KXPA100 when portable. I probably lean too much on that band scope. Like having the "near repeater" search when traveling and D-Star that the 7000 does not do.

[@spyder2289]

The near repeater function is such a killer feature on portable radios.

[@Subgunman]

My original 857 is a fantastic radio! Still working and no issues with it, knock on wood. Functions were no issues. Used as a mobile, fixed base and a travel radio to Europe. The only issue was for those who mounted the radio full time in a vehicle was the deterioration of the LCD display. There are alternatives for those whose display has failed and there are how to videos on making an "remote" display working off the data interface. In my go box today there is a dedicated V U radio, a Marine radio, the 857 but soon to come an aviation Comm radio ( have no use for the Nav feature so it’s not an issue). Also been pondering adding a chicken band radio to round out the package. Tying all these radios together is a NCC controller that will allow one to have a mini "Centracom" style system so I use a common Mike and select which audio source has priority with radio selected while the unselected audio is mixed between the unselected radios. With an add on expansion controller I can add up to four additional radios to the mix. The controller also allows me to cross connect radios for a cross band link if needed. Antenna switching is accomplished using multi pole antenna switches except for the Airband radio which has a dedicated antenna. HF and CB antenna is one and the output of the HF antenna switch is run to a SGC antenna coupler. Great little compact device, too bad SGC's new owner took the company to producing military antennas and coupling systems. ALWAYS HAVE A BACKUP RADIO! Murphy is NOT your friend. This also applies to your antenna setup as well.

[@EZPromoVideos]

I am in the category you are talking about! I got my license on Friday morning (KJ5GXF) and bought the Yaesu FTM-300DR. I like the radio and it is my growing Shack radio. I am learning that if you want to tinker with Winlink you need some attachments. If you want to do DMR it has attachments. Of course I have already purchased my Antennas (Live in an Apartment) for 70CM & 2M. I only have 1 cable coming inside. So now I need a combiner so I can use both Antennas. LOL But, my point is I am learning! At this point I am learning. What better way to learn than try something and find out... whoops you need something to complete that piece. The radio works. I am getting in bound mesages loud and clear. When I do a PTT and ask for acknowledgement... no responses as of yet! LOL I help setup for Field Day so I did get some hands on that way. But, these videos help me learn and grow! I have been through video series for the Tech license and that was great! I have also been through where to get started,.. all appreciated. Growing at this point is the fun part... learn, learn, learn!

[@stevenmackenzie59]

Thank you for clarifying this. Opened my eyes on looking at radios being very new to amature radio. This is why I love HRCC so much knowledge here

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@k2rcb]

Like you said, being able to multitask with various radios is nice. I have an IC-7300 for HF, IC-2300 for VHF, and VX6 HT for UHF. Having radios with wide receive is nice too. My 7300 is tuned to commercial AM or shortwave most of the time for background talk radio if I'm working on the computer. On the VX6 I can also pickup my local AM as well as FM, marine, and weather stations. And yes, having decent antennas (like a long wire ready to attach to the VX6) is a critical piece of the puzzle.

[@spyhardman]

This reminds me of when I started getting into electronic music. Early on, I went overboard and got an expensive and extremely complex synthesizer and sampler, and it ended up being overwhelming. I think it slowed my progress, because it was such a vertical learning curve. If I got the same setup now, I’d be able to use it properly, as I have since worked my way through learning the fundamentals with simpler gear.

[@spacemedic545]

I run one mobile with a Atas120a and its a great radio. If i can hear a signal, i can talk to it. Great radio. KS4QF

[@VeteransHamShack]

I got my hands on an FT-857d back in 2014 and still have it to this day. I've used it as both my base station radio (until I got my FTdx1200) and mostly as portable with a battery. I've yet to have the display issue that many have had (*knocks on wood*). I've never used it in my vehicle but I have been looking at the ATAS 120 and considering putting it in my Wrangler. No regrets. Fantastic little radio. ~Jeremy KF4CHW

[@dannydivine7699]

So at the risk of asking a dumb question, is there a mfg that makes a "Family" of radios that use a "Similar" interface / menu system so both newbies as well as older guys (I'm in both groups) can learn a single common interface to simplify operations, especially when out in the field with fewer resources and stacks of references manuals at hand? Or am I missing something. Thanks for tons of GREAT content, just wish I could absorb it

[@xitec75]

This is a really good clip about the reality. How the things really are. The best whatever radio is nothing with a wrong antenna setup - you hear something and no one hears you.

[@DarkShadowCustoms]

The Yaesu FT-991a is another all band all mode option that is currently on the market. I can understand the appeal of an all band all mode radio since they save desk space by having one radio and they have the most used VHF/UHF bands. For someone that enjoys working HF and talking on local repeaters or simplex FM on VHF/UHF an all band all mode radio might be over kill unless you wanted to play around with AM, SSB, CW, and data modes on 2 meter and 70cm before purchasing a dedicated radio for those modes on the VHF and UHF bands. Worst case scenario they have a fully capable HF radio that can also be used to talk on their favorite 2 meter and 70 cm repeaters or simplex frequencies.

[@OdegardOnline]

When I started out I bought an Icom 706 Mark II G. It was a great radio, but in the end I only used it for vhf/uhf. I had dreams of working the world from my pickup, but it just never happened. A good dual band would have been cheaper and probably better for what I actually ended up doing. Great video, thanks!

[@rider275]

I am going with your video about the FT-817/818 being the Mazda Miata of HAM radio. I am looking to combine hiking with HAM radio. Thank you for your informative videos!

[@JimPBarber]

I love my IC-7100. I have a 100' ethernet cable and second head in my Shack/Office, and I have it mounted in my truck with an Antenna switch and pass-throughs in the side panel. Hook up to my base antennas in the driveway, disconnect, and flip the switch for mobile. I use it as a base at home EFHW, Full-size Windom, and Base 70cm/2m and mobile on the road with a diamond HF/UHV/VHF and a splitter to the truck antenna 70cm-10m. Love it and would not trade it off for the world. I have backups for 70cm/2m that I fire up occasionally to maintain skill in using them.

[@rrich8371]

Excellent advice for everyone Mr. "Elmer"! HT first is just a plain good idea.... then let your radio technology grow with your skill. THANK You, Josh!

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Generally yes, and ht is a good first buy. Unless you live in a remote area, then a 50 watt mobile may be required.

[@CoaxAndCampstools]

Editing was pretty crisp on this one. Nicely done.

[@3oo3tube2020]

One of the advantages of the Yaesu 857, 817/818, 991a, and the Icom 705, they all do SSB on VHF UHF. I have a the Icom 705, great SDR radio. I also have the Yaesu 857, and the 991a, and 2 818, which I hope to use for satellite work. I think the biggest problem I've had, buying equipment, but not learning how to use it. I have finally started using my rigs, and I'm glad I have them. As always Josh, a great video, thanks for being a great part of amateur radio. Glendon KG5WXU 73

[@Ted-F-Strassburg-III]

I really appreciate your content. I've been trying to build a go box for years and am still working on that. One day a week is all I have to do everything at home and finding the right parts is still a challenge, due to constant change. I've got my two LifePo4 batteries, just need everything else. I'll keep watching your content to keep going down this rabbit hole. Thank you, KE8DZW.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Thanks for watching

[@carypeaden4147]

At around the 6:40 mark you said that the only All In One radio from a major company that is still on the market is the ICOM-7100, and then later you added the ICOM 705. What about the Yaesu FT-991A, isn't that a good All In One transceiver that that is still on the market? Two pluses of the All In One radio that you did not really talk about are space and weight. Generally one radio takes up less space and weighs less than two and sometimes that is a big difference.

[@JKFlipFlop.]

Echo Josh's 3rd bullet. Attaching radio to our existing outdoor activities is why I have time for it. Any radio exceeding a couple of lbs would have been a fail for me, no mater the quality.

[@JxH]

In some cases (e.g. POTA), you're bringing a 10- or 15-lb LiFePO battery and other stuff anyway. Especially if your vehicle is parked nearby, as is the case 95% of the time (most POTA people). On the other hand, if you're doing SOTA and have to climb a mountain, yes - I agree. Tiny and light. But I see so many cases where POTA people are discussing small and light, while their truck is parked very nearby, visible in the background. They could bring a pool table for gosh sakes...

[@bendeleted9155]

If you're looking for a radio that works for a budget, a backup, a mobile you can afford to leave in a car, or for setting up someone you want to stay in touch with if things go down (again), the Retevis RT-95 ($120) is unlockable and will take the GMRS freqs if you need to for the non-ham or your own convenience. I grabbed the Comet FC5NMO that's billed as VHF (tuned for MURS) and UHF (tuned for GMRS). It does indeed have very low swr at 463, and acceptable at 468. Haven't run through much else yet as it's just to stay in touch with elderly relatives on GMRS, but dang, I'm only in it for about $200 and am impressed. It'll mount anywhere too. Dang, this reads like an ad. 😅

[@lundebc]

I have the 857, got it in the late 90’s; it give me a mobile command post right from my truck; two antennas HF- and separate dual bander; FT710 is going in my shack; and a HF signals for portable HF with a group of HTs; so I agree with your methodology of having separate units and I did not spend a ton of $$$ to get to this point;

[@mjktrash]

I think you misspoke at 6:30 saying that you " _ ...get a little more performance from an all-in-one..._ "

[@warp9988]

“Jack of all trades master of none” is the usual situation for all-in-ones.

[@M9A1MAN]

I am just waiting for a upgraded 991A. I freaking love that radio, just needs an updated screen/sdr.

[@jackK5FIT]

I found an 857 in great shape at our local Hamfest last year. Only got to test it to make sure it worked and a friend wanted it more than I did and bought it. I already had an 891 for portable so I really didn't need the 857 anyway. I prefer separate radios for HF and VHF/UHF too and own two 2730A's, mobile and base. I really struggled with the 891 menu system since I only used it for portable and only once or twice a month. I found somebody that wanted my 891, tuner and portable case so I sold it and bought a 710. I run an FTdx-10 in the shack so adding the 710 for portable was really easy. I know from hard experiences that you need the best coax and antenna you can afford or an antenna you can build (I like to build wire antennas). This one (or two) piece is 90% of your communication quality, in my opinion.

[@derekvargason]

Forgot the 991a or the older 991. But even still with today’s tech it shouldn’t be a blip on the radar to create an actual base station (or heavier bulkier radio) that can do everything at once with at least dual monitoring for at least one HF band and one VHF or UHF band. You are definitely right on the point in this video, as a tech I wanted a base station and almost bought the 991a but with other goals in mind I bought the ft710 to start my new adventure with. I could be wrong about that statement earlier but seeing how technology has evolved over my short years makes me think that it’s entirely possible to create a radio (even for extra hard earned money) to build a radio that does everything excellently at the same time

[@soeffner6833]

857 fan here. I live in a mountainous region and travel to plains and deserts is only hours away. I can grab and go when and where I like. I have ht's for simplex, and repeaters can be far and few between. Doing nvis from deep in a valley or dx from a mountain top is the joy for me. I likely carry, pound for pound, more antennas than radio.😀

[@zvjezdaniput6121]

I am confused. Why is a one band radio better if for examole the newest YAESU FT991A has a multiband functions?? MF/HF/VHF/UHF Can you explain Josh? 🤨

[@Dennis-tf2cs]

Same thing goes for Astrophotography, it's not a cheap hobby by any stretch of the imagination. We use this saying A LOT!! 😅

[@judd_s5643]

Most don’t realize how expensive Astrophotography is… personally I think ham radio is cheap by comparison, that is if you exclude towers etc.

[@joekrepps]

Always been tempted to try astrophotography. Took the “cheap” way with a Pentax K-1 camera, which is my everyday work camera. Nice to be able to use my “astrophotography” camera as a business write-off! 😁 Now I just need a big thumping lens and lots of free time.

[@DigitalAndInnovation]

5:14 REALLY good reference!

[@DD5LP]

Currently available mobile/portable all-in-1 100w radios is not just ic7100 - don't forget the Yaesu ft991a.

[@amnchode]

Bad part is, the only reason I kind of want to get a 991a is for the V/UHF all mode capability, as it is one of the only affordable options for such. Why do we have to buy a AIO Shack-in-a-Box just to affordable try V/UHF SSB or CW??? 🤬

[@JamesNeighborso4a]

I'm filling out a bucket list item. Just got an antique, rebuilt 1963 Heath kit base station setup. Used to daydream about having one, and now I do.

[@Coyotehello]

Josh, ok. I will get back to you. I am going to binge watch your videos. I am not into radio, but I love them for decades and all HAM stuff. But my primary reason to get a HAM radio is to put it in my sailboat and be able to reach sailors I know (or don't) that could be in the next anchorage or across the globe. So I am watching videos after videos but so far I do not find what I need. What radio do I need? Bonus if the face plate is detachable and less than four inch deep as this is the space behind my navigation station (where I would like the radio to be mounted). Someone mentioned a IC-706 Mars, I do not even know what he meant! I currently use a portable and a station VHF (both Icom). All right here I go diving into your "channel" pun intended.

[@easternpa2]

I feel seen. Twenty-something years ago, when I earned General, I bought myself an 857D as a present. I grabbed a SignaLink USB and CAT control cable (including a USB RS-232 adapter cable). I had what amounted to an IC-7300 (plus 2m and 70cm) 20 years before the 7300 was released. I replaced the adapters with a Digirig yesterday, so life begins anew.

[@TheArtofEngineering]

After 30 years away from ham ...my first radio was a 2 transistor QRPP CW homebrew rig and a DC receiver built in an old chocolate tin. Even built the morse key from hardware store bits and bobs. 2 years in and I have 7 or 8 in the menagerie many old or kit built.

[@w.rustylane5650]

Since we have a local net here in eastern TN, on 2 meter sideband, I had to get a radio that would enable me to do HF, 6 meters as well as all mode 2 meter. My choice was a Yaesu 991a. I got it and a new linear power supply (MFJ) and this will be the only radio I'll ever need or buy as I'm now 73. I use a 2 meter CushCraft Ringo Ranger II and a OCF half wave long wire for HF. Still need a 6 meter vertical antenna. I also use a 2 meter only FM Kenwood 281a. Cheers & 73 from K9POW in eastern TN

[@FreddyNietzsche.]

That was an interesting video, I am glad that you made the point that all in ones are not necessarily the best option and that the antenna should actually be one , if not the 1st, of the major points to focus on.

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Yes indeed! Antennas should be a major factor in your planning.

[@gregpace6867]

I'm just starting in Ham, Thank you the great insight.

[@farmerwayne1404]

Josh, great vid! Im fairly new to ham. I have an icom 86 and a yeasu 73cm. Both hand held. I recently bought an icom 7100 so I can have a base and mobil hf plus the option to communicate with the hand held. I also purchased a boo-feng so i could help a friend learn that transceiver. But i wouldn't mind a dedicated vhf uhf mobile. I do agree with your thinking..😊

[@myockey]

I'm working on adopting ARDOP for doing Winlink from my FT-891. I've previously been successful exchanging messages via my 5w HT and a very fancy yagi antenna. I can see the point of backup gear but as someone who wants to be bike portable adding a second mobile radio to my kit for 30w VHF operation has a lot of drawbacks.

[@jjrobiso]

With a good vhf/uhf antenna setup and some adapters, a simple 8watt handheld can work as a second radio to your all band all mode base station. And listening, a cheap sdr(still need good antenna setup). Plus it’s way cheaper than buying multiple radios.

[@TexasScout]

With the FT-857 (no D) is that you "Buy once" and "Cry forever" on this one. I bought mine very early on and it had ALL the known problems. It was a PITA for several years until I sent it back and they did all the mods (been so long I can't remember) and that made it a decent rig. So, it really should be "Buy once, Pay Twice) or more.

[@kg4tri]

As a long haul driver I had 5 radios. CB of course . A THD700 for aprs and 52 simplex. A IC 208H for analog repeaters. An ID 800 for D-Star and an FT 897 for HF. I didn't even have an Antenna hooked up to the 2M/70cm side. If all 3 of the other duel banders died I could just move an antenna over to the 897. I didn't think of it as a pace plane but I guess I had one.

[@tonyp4092]

Have an 857D in a go bag with a Digirig mobile, Mobilinkd TNC-4, and the Jankevolve.

[@cmrtaco]

Which antenna is that tucked into your bag handle 8:00?

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

Packtenna. It’s an end fed.

[@onesimusiii]

nice vid!! First radio was a icom 746 which I still have because of mulitple moves been hard to keep a shack setup going! looking at setting up an aprs/packet setup for an apartment balcony right now!!! Enjoyed your comments! 73"s

[@Zotel_US]

I bought a new Ft-818 before they discontinued, but a few shortwave receivers and 2m handhelds round out my radios. I want a 2nd HF radio but haven't decided what yet...

[@brandonporter4227]

I have a 991a, an 817nd, an FTM500 and a D878UV-II. I also have a Btech UV-5X3 and a Baofeng UV-5R for good measure. All of that with a plethora of antenna options. I'd like to get an affordable HF only mobile and a shortwave receiver though too. Can never have too many radios.

[@bigfootape]

We were using an IC-7000 for field day. Wonderful radio, but like the 857, the menu makes config changes a real pain. As in most things amateur radio, you have to make trade-offs to have so many features in a mobile form factor.

[@martinunger9545]

A lot of people, myself included, just cannot afford a new 100 watt radio, ps and tuner. I have looked at used units but better radios still seem to hold their price. What do you suggest in a case like this? A 20 watt G90? Or something like a Radioddity QT-80 for just 15 and 10?

[@pale_2111]

I've seen a used 857 go for over $1K. At that price, I'd buy a IC-7100 for $200 more. Another radio that's expensive is the Kenwood D-75A. I traded my ID-52 to get one. For those of you looking to get a new or used radio and don't have the money, some places take trades. That helped be get the D-75A a few months ago.

[@daveN2MXX]

"Buy once, cry once" is something simpletons say when they don't understand that EVERY device has both positive and negative attributes. Just because something is expensive, or is advertised as able to do everything, that doesn't mean it is worth the $$$$, or is even the best solution for every use case. Your comments are 100% spot on.

[@GordonHudson]

I have been licensed for 42 years and I have owned 10 HF transceivers. I only had so many because I have often had two - one in the car. I have only had 6 main station transceivers. Currently running an FT450D until it dies.

[@97irishflyer]

I definitely recommend getting separate HF and VHF/UHF rigs starting out. Cost being the main reason. A Xiegu G90 is a great starter rig over a 30 year old base with failing solder joints and obsolete components.

[@aussiedazvk4djh889]

I use to have a FT-857 in the mobile. It was great and i loved it until it died. Now it's a IC-7000 for HF/VHF/UHF SSB and mono band VHF/UHF/SHF rigs for FM. All mounted in an over head console in the 4x4. 100% better than just FT-857. Add solar for portable and i'm happy with the setup. 👍

[@GhostRider1974]

Great discussion on this topic! I like to monitor VHF / UHF while operating HF, so have alwys run separate rigs. Much later, i added a 7100 for the specific purposes of adding DStar capability, SSB capability on VHF / UHF., and a backup HF rig. It is a fine rig, but I don't think it would suit my operating style if it were the only rig in my shack. 73

[@BlessedLaymanNC]

I like the all band versions because they do SSB and other modes on the higher bands. I still keep an HT or mobile rig for V/UHF FM.

[@islandmagicco]

💜 RadioMail and B.B. Link adapter chilling at the beach cameo

[@HamRadioCrashCourse]

That’s right!