Best Base Station HF Radio for Ham New to HF and Wanting to Be Heard by Jim Heath W6LG

Jim W6LG lists the best base HF transceivers ham new to HF. It is a very short list. Which HF home transceivers would be on your list? Again, this would be for the ham new to HF and wanting to be heard.
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[@basshorseman998]

After my wife died (she was also a ham) I decided to get back into the hobby, and went with the IC7300, later the FTDX10, now I have the FTDX101MP. Everything Sir James says is quite right...Thanks Jimmy

[@rays9033]

Living large, awesome!!!! Well done!

[@ShowMeBlog]

Sorry about your wife OM. 73

[@ShowMeBlog]

@@rw3497 I am just a tech. But I was online doing stuff a long time ago. I was a monitor for the FCC. I tracked Sputnik one and other satellites and did a lot of other things over the years. I did a DX program a long time ago. It was broadcast over WRUL radio around the world. I wish I got my general license. I still have not. Must have been great to have a wife that was also a ham with you. I got married at age 26. My wife did not like the sound of the QRM and was not interested at all. I had a lot of QSL cards. From SWLing. I started SWLing when I was 12 or so. When I got married at age 26, she did not want them on the wall or anything. I put them in the laundry room up on a shelf and she did the laundry and the bag, or bags just happen to fall on the floor, and she never said anything to me. Just happened to be a leak in the laundry room and they all got wet! 73 Jim N0UWY

[@lawyerzubin]

I am a newly licensed amateur radio operator from Nepal. I did my research and ordered a new rig, the Yaesu FT 710 AESS from the HRO. I am waiting to get the delivery of the radio, very excited. I agree with you Jim. Thanks for your informative video. 73, 9N2WF.

[@mewrongwayKOCXF]

Hope to catch you on the air! 👍👍👍

[@barrymayson2492]

I think you may be busy on HF LOL. Seriously good luck hopefully everything goes well.

[@optscep]

Price

[@hipal2271]

My first HF was a Kenwood TS850. I actually got to use my radio at the Elmer’s residence before and worked great. He came to my house and helped me set it up at my residence then got me on the air. I was able to buy his radio, power supply, external speaker, and external antenna tuner. I was a lucky one. Still use it today. It’s been 6 years.

[@captwillj.1168]

Jim's advice is spot-on. I've been in HAM radio probably about as long as Jim... got my Novice license in 1959, and General in 1960. My father (who was not a ham), drove me to Phila again in 1961, and I took and passed my Advanced. Joe Welsh was the FCC examiner that administered my (and at that time, all G and up tests). Started with a borrowed Hallicrafters SX99, and home-brewed a CW transmitter from a diagram in the ARRL Ham Radio manual. Had fun, and worked hard, saving money and worked my way up, in used equipment. I eventually bought a Swan SSB rig, which I absolutely loved and used for years, and much later, bought a Kenwood. Both the Swan and the Kenwood, were 100 watt rigs. I still have and use the Kenwood, and it still works as new. There's something to be said if you want to build, learn, see what you an work on low power, but you will probably eventually want that 100 watt rig, which really makes a world of difference. Best advice is what Jim has said, and if 10w is all you can afford, get it and get on the air.

[@W4BTK]

I own the FT-710 AESS for about 8 months. It is indeed a fantastic radio and has an internal 3.1:1 antenna tuner. The DNR filter in HF set at about level 4, or sometimes 7 makes things sound clear. You can use a mouse like in a computer to handle the menus. No need to use the touchscreen. The video (DVI) output is just icing on the cake. Certainly recommended radio. I also own the FT-891 which is another incredible radio but the menu system is a pain. Also has no internal antenna tuner. I also recommend the FTDX-10 which is a small step-up from the FT-710 with a cool CW and (I believe) RTTY internal decoder. If you look at a couple of my recent videos I am constantly showing the FT-710. Mine was a bit off on RF/IF AGC levels so I had it adjusted. Fabulous receive. Thanks Jim for yet another great video. 73

[@ham-radio]

Thanks, Jim

[@daytonstrongrecovery101]

Bought my first full HF rig 2 years ago, a FT-710 & absolutely love it. Great recommendation for anyone wanting a great rig straight out of the box with a simple learning curve. The filtering,receive & audio is fantastic. Hard to beat for the $. 73 KB9QDI

[@robertjureit2574]

New guy, just came across you channel. Like you content. I’m 70, so getting my liesense,will be a challenge. Have wanted to get a ham radio for 20 years. Just procrastinated . Will be a new follower.

[@bendeleted9155]

Thanks, Jim. New to ham here. Great timing. I have run through the whole gamut on how to build a shack in a hurry, and I ended up exactly here a few days ago. This video seals it for me. There's a lot of used stuff you can find but they are invariably very proud of it. Cool and nostalgic, but not worth the prices. I think going separate radios and antennas is great if you don't want to abandon one band to get to another, especially if you want to listen for and/or relay important traffic on multiple bands without switching anything but mics. Thank you.

[@TheQwik512]

Good to see you Jim, I agree with everything you said. My only other comment would pertain to new amateurs overcoming mic fright. POTA/SOTA hunting, Field day, QSO parties etc are a great stepping stone to get new amateurs used to using their rigs. The exchanges are easy and good confidence builders.

[@SupaFUZZZZZZ]

As long as they don't hog the bands and talk over everyone. Contesting has really ruined ham radio.

[@Alwayscheckingforfraud]

@@SupaFUZZZZZZ absolutely agree. Some participants intimidate new hams(me) and make one feel like an idiot and only want another call sign for their contest. Turn off to some of us participating in the hobby.

[@tomw3380]

Jim, I totally agree. New hams starting with. 100 watt transceiver with a homemade antenna is the best way to start into the hobby. I am sure there are some that just can not afford the expense and for those, all I can say is just do the best you can. But get a radio and get on the air. Find a person or group to just chat with. Maybe start with some POTA hunting just to get past the fear of the microphone button. But as soon as you can, move on to some longer chats. Tom, WA4EOD

[@jeffwillams2773]

Spot on. And new hams, watch out for the online sales people and marks who push their favorite brand no matter what. Listen to hams like Jim. They speak the truth.

[@ham-radio]

Guys like Dick Deceiver. 73, Jim

[@RicksHamShack]

I agree with your summary. For the beginner, new is better than used, 100w is the starting point, and the FT710 field is probably the best bang for the buck right now, albeit it is menu driven and has a steep learning curve.

[@mewrongwayKOCXF]

Agree! Get a FT710 and dont look back!

[@SteveBerwick]

I'd still recommend the 7300 just due to the overwhelming community and support. I'm a fan of competition, so I applaud products like the FT-710, but I'm just not a Yaesu fan. Sensitivity isn't an issue, they all reach the noise floor, not sure why Jim focused on that. And narrow-spaced dynamic range mainly benefits CW operators. So for most first-timers, it's not really relevant.

[@mewrongwayKOCXF]

@@SteveBerwick Jim knows his radios! The Yaesu is best bang for the buck! Nothing against Icom.

[@kellydjohnson]

The 710 was my first radio. Did not notice any problems with menu or steep learning curve.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Get the FT-710. It has better numbers than any Icom ever made. It has a simple menu with all the important controls eithier on the front panel or one button away. I own this radio. You will never look back.

[@MrAndyCandee]

I'm a new ham user. My first transceiver was Icom 706mkiig but I let it go as soon as I realized I was hooked up by this wonderful hobby. I was thinking of FT710 for my home base radio but a friend of mine had a FTDX10 for sale at a very good price and I gave it a go. Best decision of my life ❤

[@tlebryk]

Thank you Jim for your videos, learning a lot. Early this year HRO had B-stock FT-710 AESS for $800. Noise Reduction is better than the Icom 7300 as long as one updates the firmware to March 2023 version (simple to do). Best Ham receiver I've ever used at my noisy QTH. For Portable Park use, I always use 100 watts and a tuned vertical with raised counterpoise. Europeans and South American stations give me S5 thru S9 consistently (SSB). Can't imagine them hearing me with 5 watts and their high noise levels, especially Europe. ❤❤❤

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Thank you Jim, a great unbiased post. The FT-710 is by far the best new radio for a new ham. It has everything required along with a three year warranty. While there are other radios available the 710 is cutting edge with firmware updates that are super easy to apply. Being number 4 on the Sherwood list means the receive is world class unlike some of the vintage radios. The menus are very well done and easy to learn. with the built in tuner you can build a simple wire antenna and you are on the air. The display is clear and you can even add a big screen with the rear connector. this radio does it all including SSB, CW and digital with a simple usb cable. I think we want to welcome new hams to the hobby and keep them. Great Post.

[@fredflintstone8048]

Great down to earth advice. Thanks for sharing, Jim.

[@davidhayden6724]

Excellent video Jim and great advice as always. I started with a Yaesu FT-891 because my initial interest was portable operation. I coupled that with an LDG tuner and the combo has worked very well. I then added a Yaesu FTDX 3000 for my main shack radio. I have had the FTDX 3000 for about three years now and absolutely love it. We have several club members who have purchased the FT 710 and they all love that radio. Thanks again for the great video Jim. Take care my friend!

[@ripnlips-KF0NNA]

I bought my first hf rig 9 months ago. I decided to spend the money on new proven equipment and eliminate the frustration factor. I am so glad I did. Now I have confidence to buy old/used equipment and play around with it to get it working. Btw, my rig was the FT-DX10.

[@AlexanderFriedrich-lr2ni]

Good choice!

[@Andrew-yx7sf]

My first real rig was a Yaesu FT-747GX. I loved that rig. I had a 10 meter radio before that that I had used on CB. When I got my ticket I used it for a while with my 3 element beam and vertical. I got the Yaesu so that I could increase my CW speed to upgrade to general. Back then I was a Tech+ and i needed to get my speed up to 13wpm. Thanks for your great channel.

[@chiltonweems1357]

Generally I agree with everything you say. I purchased an FTDX10 two years ago as my first HF. It’s been great and I’ll probably never need another transceiver or get around to using all its functionality. But, For a new ham, like me, I’d suggest purchasing one of the several MFJ multiband wire antennas or similar ones. They are only about $100 +/-

[@mully89]

Yes I agree on 100w power, my first and only radio is a Xiegu G90, and face the problems Jim explains (disenfranchised struggling to make contacts @home). Good Advice 👍

[@travisbakeriii3053]

Same radio. Same frustrations.

[@KD2ZTA]

I went with the FT-710 and absolutely love the radio. I pair it with a 107 foot random wire antenna and have had so much fun talking around the US and the world! For portable, I went with the IC-705 and the Icom tuner designed for that radio. The entire kit fits in a backpack and the challenge of QRP is my favorite part of the hobby. I agree with you about the 100 watt radio for a base station. Dollar for dollar this is the best option! Thanks as always for your great videos. I have learned so much from you! Be well….

[@rickgilbrt]

My first HF rig was a KX-3, in part because I did not have a place to set up a base station with a fixed antenna. I've carried it cross country without Not the rig you want for SSB if number of contacts is your goal, but I've had a lot of fun with it. The wide range internal tuner is a big plus. I now have a place to set up a station, and I bought a Yaesu FT-710AESS. I've not explored all the settings on it, but out of the box I hooked it up to a home-made portable 20m inverted-vee and made several contacts pretty quickly. Now to get the "shack" set up, throw up an antenna, play with the 710's settings, and get on the air. A nice feature of the 710 is the ability to add an external monitor and use it with a mouse to navigate the menus.

[@petermccarthy5794]

Hello, I'v been in hamradio since 1977 and I completely agree with Jim. Good show Jim. 73, LA0HV

[@JamminJellies]

I just got licensed in the past two months. My first experience with HF was on Field Day. Since then, I decided on the FT-710 and I have been pretty happy so far. My set up is minimal as I build up my shack. I operate portable in my back yard with a speaker wire dipole. I’ve only operated 3 times and had to pack it up twice due to weather. This last weekend I was disappointed there was an international contest going on because 20m was so busy. I didn’t think I’d be able to get through to anyone. Well, I was wrong. I made contact with a bunch of stations in almost 20 different countries and I had a blast. I don’t think I would have had such success with 20W or less.

[@travisbakeriii3053]

Thanks Jim. I am tired of not being heard myself. I started in January with a G90, made quite a few contacts but then again a lot of times cannot be heard. One approach if for me to get the 100W amplifier, but that is at a cost of $549.00. I got the G90 just to see if I would want to continue the hobby. Of course I got hooked. I am leaning toward getting a new radio altogether and using the G90 for POTA, and since winter field day will be coming up soon, so I see it as a better use for situations like that, and for spring, summer, and fall, when the sun activity is higher, I think the 100W rig altogether would be perfect. Of course, while I am having these thoughts, you're well thought out video with your best wishes for us comes along. There are no coincidences. Thank you Jim!

[@75ohmHAM]

Jim, when I got my tech, I watched almost all your videos from the beginning, you helped my with my thought method, expectations and my overall attitude within the hobby. You will always be a voice I hear within. Thank you for being a massive part of my HAM journey 75's

[@ham-radio]

I am honored. Thank you. 73, Jim W6LG

[@ham-radio]

75 year old ham, 73, Jim

[@jimf4492]

HI Jim. The FT-710 is a great value. I've worked quite a few stations that were using one, and have heard no complaints, only praise. Your comment about having an actual conversation rather than just a "hit and run" contact is right on. If I were a new ham, and all I heard were quick signal reports, I would rapidly lose interest. I call CQ a lot, and it's amazing how many of the folks that answer me complain that no one ever wants to talk. Fortunately, I don't have that problem (or unfortunately). QRP would be tough to get enthusiastic about with no other operating experience. I have a KX2, and it's fun, but I know what to expect. I like the FTDX-10, and it seemed to perform very well in my limited experience using it, BUT, I did not enjoy operating the radio due to its ergonomics. My main radio is a K2, and I also have a TS-590SG - which I really like - so it might be obvious I don't easily embrace new tech. I'm fairly sure that none of my radios would be a good choice for a new ham. 73, Jim

[@bebopwing1]

I was out of pota activation with my local club and one of the guys had a 710, and I was blown away with how good it sounded. Easily the best receive I've ever heard on a ham radio.

[@ammocraft]

I have a FT-710 for portable, and an IC-7610 in the shack….now, I am a self confessed icom guy, but although the 710 has a great receiver, I dislike everything else about it. You summed it up perfectly when you said whoever designed the interface clearly doesn’t use radios! The 705/7300/7610 are the complete opposite. Apologies to the Yaesu guys….all personal choice and preference, of course.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Your right a personal choice. The FT-710 is a dream machine and the menu system is intelligent and easy compared to any Icom. Now if this will be your first radio you will learn the menu overnight.

[@josephbovio3447]

Jim is the Elmer we all need, thank you for taking the time to explain your perspective so clearly.

[@cmillerphotos]

I went with the FTDX10 as my first HF radio in Sept 2023. I've been VERY happy. - KQ4CM

[@cliffbarber2953]

Excellent discussion Jim! I always appreciate your insight. I picked the FTDX10 as my first HF home transciever for the same reasons you discussed and it has been a great radio so far. 73 KE8NRP

[@PD7JV]

Hello Jim and all Hams , i'm 1 Year a Ham Starting with a Yaesu FT991-A got 2x Now , I used 1 on my Barge . 4 weeks ago i Got a Yaesu FTdx10 Super Radio. My Antennes are Chameleon Loop 2.0 Home Base & Endfed Home made 10,20,40m working great on my Barge. Love My Hobby - also got 2x Yaesu Ftdm 300 - 1 for in the car ant one on the base station. 73 From Capt.John PD7JV have a Great Dx

[@edwardholland36]

Sound advice, as always, Sir. I took a slightly different approach, being very budget conscious, and took the risk of buying on Ebay. Prior to this, I listed all the candidate radios in my budget range, which was around the $600 mark, and laid out the pros and cons e.g. power out, built in ATU, review found on-line etc. This led me to break your other rule, and choose an obsolete radio Kenwood TS-570, albeit from a trustworthy seller. My fortunes held and this has turned out to be a good choice in my case. The radio is a good performer and is really intuitive to use. With some help from the local club, I was running on HF, and am now building/testing antennas and making contacts when time allows. A lot has been learned from your channel, thank you for all your excellent insights and advice.

[@robertmeyer4744]

Great job Jim. 100 watts HF . I got a icom 7300 some years back. the FT 710 and FTDX 10 was not out at the time. I had very good luck with the radio. not going to change at this point. Great information. If I was buying a radio today ,it would be the FT 710 . 73

[@jerryKB2GCG]

I use the Dx-10 as my base station. For POTA I ended up with the FT-710 on occasions when I need max power (bringing along my new Tech friend looking to work 10M), my xiegu G90 (it can literally tune a wet noodle) and a newly acquired Fx-4CR (small form factor) and for fun a QDX < 5 watts. For a first HF radio, if you can afford it, nothing better than the FT-710. Jerry KB2GCG

[@ths3900]

I totally agree. If an experienced operator wants to make contacts on 5 watts great. New operators need 100 watts and have fun. New rigs like the 710 price point are hard to beat.

[@EdGerber-n4n]

Jim...Youre spot on. get a radio with best receiver you can afford. Antenna tuner, outstounding noise reduction on those radios. Today, everything makes emc noise. Older radios are fine if you have a "quiet" qth....but in the City, be prepared.... 73

[@billbolen8115]

Thank you, Mister Jim for this video.

[@n4hnhradio]

Jim, that was great advice. A very methodical approach. It’s hard to beat the FTdx10 for any money. The FT-710 is nipping at its heels too. But, as you say, there are more nice features in the FTdx10. That transceiver truly is a game-changer. The Flex 6700 belongs about 16-17 places lower in the list, after you factor in Rob Sherwood’s footnotes. 73, Doug

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Doug you are so correct. I bought the Ft-710 over the FTDX-10 due to price and that Rob Sherwood placed it very close to the 10. I'm not sure why he has not edited the list, but he may just hate politics. Flex tried to pull one, but he saw through it. I hope you enjoy your FTDX-10 as it is a fantastic radio. I do believe that for a bit less money the FT-710 would still be a great radio for a new ham.

[@n4hnhradio]

@@whitepinephotography5887 I quite agree. The FT-710 is a great starter to intermediate transceiver. Performance wise the 710 and 10 are very close. There are just missing niceties in the 710. People who are accustomed to such features will notice they are missing. I will mention a couple. There is no quick-split function in the FT-710. I showed in one of my FT-710 videos how to set up a split without the quick-split function. Another missing nicety is a separate mic gain for AM mode. Often AM requires a lower mic gain setting. But you can just remember to lower the mic gain on the FT-710 when you work AM. Find the best setting with on-air tests and make a note of it. Like I said, they are niceties, but not critical. That’s just a couple.

[@kandkmotorsports]

While what Jim says may not be what a new ham wants to hear($$) Jim is exactly correct! I learned the hard way....after spending $600 on two junker used radios I saved up again and bought an FT-710. Save up and buy once, cry once Also figure on another $100 for a power supply I use the Btech RPS 30 M

[@vbnichols]

Thanks Jim for trying to give your expert opinion. I am a fairly new ham, out of Providence Utah, 2 miles south of Logan Utah. I was given the tip to purchase a diamond x 50, and it is perfectly tuned 70 cm 2 meters, dual band, antenna. I love it! I don't even need a tuner. I bought a yaesu ftm-6000, a MFJ 30 amp switching power supply, an any tone GMRS model AT-778uv. I bought about a 50.00 switcher. I realize this antenna is not a perfect match for a gmrs radio, but so far, I have a clear transmission and receiving to Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Utah, down to Los Vegas. A great antenna for about 119.00. I used 2" pvc anchored against my fence, and the antenna is up 20'. It is anchored off my ridge of the house under the gutter. So far, it is a great rig. I bought the best coax, which I'm sure makes a big difference. Check it out!

[@barrymayson2492]

Some excellent advice from older ham. And I know how difficult it is getting back into the hobby. I bought a Yaesu FT DX10. So different than it was 10 years ago. Still haven't got it all setup up yet.

[@danielmccann4055]

Good to check in with you again Jim.

[@BoeingSkunkWorks]

I've had my FT-710 Aess for a couple of weeks now and I'm very happy. I made my first HF DX contact in Bogata, Columbia on 10 meters a few days ago on this radio and an EFHW 4010 antenna. Great radio and very economical but still full featured.

[@bigphillAchtung]

i think this video has sealed the deal for me. ive booked the foundation level course, with a view to taking the exam this year. looking for my first radio and i feel the 710 may be it. Thankyou :)

[@TerraMagnus]

I’m only partway in and commenting just to say I love how you’re breaking it down.

[@smithadmin]

Thank you for this, Jim! My dad is a ham too, and when I got my General he gave me my first HF rig, a Yaesu FT450D. I learned to use that to reach stations from California to Belgium on SSB, and even got some FT8 contacts on the first HF antenna I built myself. It's an HPole, using an article that I found on the Internet as a baseline. Getting started with Amateur Radio can be a bit intimidating, given prices, so opinions like yours are invaluable for someone who is just starting out and wants to make a good investment. Thank you again! 73 de K1PXF

[@DavidMitchell79]

Jim! Good to see you back. I hope you are feeling better. The 710 wasn't released when I was shopping for my first HF/6m rig. So I settled on the FT-891. A lot of the other radios in the newbie category weren't available due to the logistics problems worldwide. I wanted something I could pack around for POTA, also. Maybe one day I can get a 710. Thank you for the review video and get well, Sir! 73 de KJ7WUZ.

[@codywrites]

I have the Yeasu FT-710 AESS and love it. I do not regret the purchase at all. Regards, KT5CCM

[@sc20910]

Bought the x6100 2 years ago as it was the only thing I.could afford. I feel it’s a fantastic entry point because it forces you to learn a whole lot about antennas, to make the 10 watts do good things. Also great for ft8, which itself is great for testing antenna types. BUT… I bought a 710-field last fall and just recently tried it. My god, what a good receiver. Used it with a hamstick mag-mounted on a small car roof and was totally impressed. What this tells me is that the 710 lets one get into the hobby with a bit less money spent on other optimizations of a station.

[@sc20910]

Everyone considering a x6100 or the new 8-watt 6200 should also keep in mind that if using ft8, you can cook the device if you go full power. So for ppl like me who needed to spend less on the entry rig, don’t count on digital at full power. Some folks have even melted parts inside of their 6100 using digital.

[@johnnorth9355]

After passing my UK Foundation licence a very sound piece of advice was given to me by a now deceased older ham that the Yaesu FT450D would be an excellent learner device and so it has proven to be. Capable of simple operation but with enough there to build a learning curve on I have not once regretted buying my second hand unit which whilst having it's quirks has allowed me to pursue my interest in QRP to the full. £400 four years back it is still my main unit in my shack. Not having a band scope I class as a plus. It forces you to learn how to spin the dial and really listen rather than just step to the big signals. 73 M7BLC.

[@HamAround23]

I agree on the 100w for a first radio. With the current prices the 710 is a great pick and can work at home or portable with a battery.

[@ham-radio]

Ditto, Jim

[@michaelalexander4331]

I’ve got a ICom 7300 and I love it. I bought it used on QRZ swap meet for $800. It’s a great radio.

[@SteveBerwick]

This is a fine argument. However, in this part of the solar-cycle, QRP works quite well. My first (and only) HF radio is an IC-705, and I have zero regrets. If you're able to install a 67+ foot EFHW in the backyard, 10w is still very effective.

[@stirlingschmidt6325]

I have had an SB-200 amp for a number of years and had never seen a need to use it, until the solar cycle began to peak. The much increased noise and flaky band conditions would take QRP SSB from being a challenge to an impossibility, especially on the lower bands. CW is probably a different story, but most beginners won't use CW for quite a while.

[@SteveBerwick]

@@stirlingschmidt6325 Interesting. I'm a relatively new ham, and I do very well on 10w. Almost at 1000 QSOs. However, I have noticed that during the *day*, QRP seems more difficult. Right at dusk is my sweet-spot. Has that been your experience?

[@stirlingschmidt6325]

@@SteveBerwick Yes, the bands are worse during the daytime in general, unless there has recently been an earth-directed CME, and things have had a day or two to calm down. Low bands are pretty much dead during the daytime always. Afternoon/evening on 20 is usually nice, and evening/night on 40 and below is good unless there is lightning or solar wind. I have to say my favorite is 75 in the winter evenings, away from the solar peak.

[@rays9033]

I was hoping Jim made those recommendations!

[@lstavenhagen]

PS: I'm an Icom-705 owner/operator. It's got great specialty features - much lower power draw reducing the costs of power, WiFi, compact size - but I wouldn't recommend it as a beginner rig. But, as requested, I can report that I work the world with 5-10 watts (mostly on FT8 for antenna reasons) and it's a surprisingly good CW rig...

[@SteveBerwick]

It's my beginner rig and I have zero regrets! I can't bust through a pileup, but I Hunt and Activate POTA, do a bunch with VHF, APRS, Winlink, other digital, daily repeater ragchewing, etc. I've owned it for 18 months and used it in some fashion, every single day.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

QRP is fantastic, I chose the X6100 over the 705 and have never looked back, and also work the world but have also had a more difficult time in low sunspot times. The FT-710 is the best radio I have ever owned and on receive blows away the competition on receive, except for the FTDX-10 & FTDX-101. You can turn the FT-710 down to five watts if you want to try QRP, but it will have 100 if you need it.

[@tulenik71]

@@whitepinephotography5887 turned down QRO rig will be still insanely power hungry, and, of course, heavy here in Europe, only what is carried in the backpack is considered to be really portable (and our natural reserves usually aren't accessible by car, so WWFF/POTA = hike)

[@PaulGriffith]

Most of the used radio prices seem to be a bit high. My first radio was a TS-440sat which was a gift from a ham at church when I passed my General. I bought a FT-450D new, which I will still keep when I upgrade to something with a waterfall. I like the FT-710, still small enough to take portable and has the waterfall.

[@imagineoneday]

I appreciate your review, Jim. I’m afraid many of the specs you were reading went over my head, but I understood your overall recommendation. One hundred watts, table set, including a mic. Thank you.

[@WillShattuck]

I had cost restrictions and the Xiegu G90 did me proud for for about a year before I bought my Elmer’s IC-7300. I do agree about the 100W. But the G90 was a great first radio. I reached Latvia from central California in the summer of 2022 with the G90 and a speaker wire 20m dipole. It was great fun.

[@KiloFoxtrotJosh]

I was deciding between the IC7300 and the FT710 for my first HF radio. Went with the 710 because it was newer and have had no regrets.

[@ham-radio]

Good. 73, Jim

[@yungsmile7546]

Jim, the first radio that came to mind was the Yaesu 450D. Bought a used one in pristine condition from a ham on QRZ ad about a year ago when I got my General. It's a shame that it's out of production.

[@JoeSoubie]

I agree with you. My first radio is the FT-710AESS. But a sweet alternative is a FT-897D. It just is a good basic radio. I know that you need an external tuner, but it still makes for a great radio. I use mine for planned potas. 73. KG7COA

[@ham-radio]

Many agree with you and not me so much on the 897. Thanks Joe, 73 Jim

[@JoeSoubie]

@@ham-radio that's the beauty of ham radio... as long as we're making contacts and having conversations, we all win. Feel better, young man. 73.. KG7COA

[@leo3times]

Thanks Jim. I've used your advice and tips before and it's always solid. I have an IC-7300 and love it. I don't talk a whole lot because I was never a big conversationalist but I do some digital when I can. Take care, thanks again.

[@jackmortimer329]

As a very new ham, this kind of review is exactly what I need for when I start buying my gear. Another video I would find very helpful is how to make my own antenna. If you already have put out this information, please point me to it. 73

[@tonym7cvk430]

Jim fantastic video I am a very happy with my FT710 AESS, big jump for me from a FT818nd Stay safe sir M7CVK Tony,

[@drivingsouthwest6895]

Absolutely. My first radio was the TS590S Kenwood, which was certainly a good radio, but I switched to the 991, then the 891, then the 710. When we test new hams, generally we recommend the 991 or the 710. I got a couple QRP radios, including the x6100, which is a fine radio, fun in its own right, but I probably would've given up if it were my first radio.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

I also have the 991a, 710 and x6100 which is fun and a great radio. I use it for POTA. I think though for a new ham the 710 is a great radio to start with.

[@goodfriend6428]

Very helpful! Thank you, and for your years of experience shared so generously!

[@ka6psdrbeswick709]

I went with the Yaesu FTDX10 and never been happier. Going up around December is 1/2" hardline to a cushcraft a4s with 40 meter add on. I got a marb 40 but that's not going to work for me. So I got a US Tower tmm-433-rn and a tail twister rotor. 😊

[@ham-radio]

Super! 73, Jim

[@georgezardecki2545]

You absolutely correct FTDX 10 or FTDX710. I also like icom 7300

[@gregiep]

I still consider myself to be fairly new to HF at a few years of experience. Sort of a comfortable beginner. My first HF right was the FT-891, my second was the G90, Andy third is the FT-710. I 100% agree that you should pick up the FT-710 as your first HF shack radio if you can swing it. It’s and amazing radio.

[@ham-radio]

For many, they can barely afford one transceiver. So your help, does help. 73, Jim

[@timbacchus]

I still use my icom 751 since it came out it still works wonderful. I it stopped and I could not fix it I would get the icom 7300 great price for the rig. Just happy I bought most of my stuff in the 60s.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Everyone has their choices and any radio is good to have but , the the FT-710 blows away every Icom ever made. I can work stations on the 710 that a fellow ham can't even hear on his Icom 7300. Just saying.

[@garychanco6956]

I have an Icom 7300. It may have been on the market a few years but for about 1000 $ it's not a bad rig. It has a spectrumscope/waterfall, puts out 100 watts, has passband tuning, digital noise reduction, you can tune to the frequency by touching the screen and it has many other features, and it is fairly intuitive to operate. I am feeding it into an off center fed dipole for 6 thru 40 meters and it works FB. I"M sure the Yaseu is a fine rig , but I like my Icom as a fine starter rig.73, Gary KJ4PHG

[@jamesabc372]

I hear the latest firmware update for noise reduction really made a difference.

[@WaynePatrick]

I’m running the same setup for my base setup. 80-6 is FB. 30 meters needs a 10:1 tuner. No complaints here. I use my IC-7200 for digital with a EFHW since it doesn’t have a band scope.

[@adyg6ad73]

Try before you buy. Great advice. I spent a lot of money and wasted a lot of time before I found “the one”.

[@kenluning909]

I tend to agree with your assessment. When I started my journey in amateur radio, the current offerings in just HF radios were not available back in 2012. How far they have come since then. I still have my first radio, the Icom 7200. I would most definitely recommend one of the Yaesu"s that you have spoken about. I have a second hand 991A and would not part with it. For the NEW HF Ham, one of the Yaesu's will make it so much more enjoyable for him or her.

[@patthesoundguy]

I completely agree with everything you said. It's no good to be transmitting and not getting anywhere. I'm definitely the exception though, I recently passed my exam here in Canada a week ago, and I have been making contacts all over the world with a cheap uSDX+ SDR transceiver with the cheap ATU-100, a 64:1 balun with a wire in the tree in the yard. The contact I made last night to Serbia from Nova Scotia Canada was with 1.8 watts. But not everyone is going to be that lucky to make something like that work, and it's probably best to get a proper setup from a reputable manufacturer to get results as a beginner.

[@johnwest7993]

I remember a net-control op on a major repeater asking me what I was talking on because he said I sounded like the voice of God. I was talking on an old Motorola SyntorX using a GE mobile mic from about 1969 that I'd wired up for it. I could use the same mic in the car with the window open, driving at highway speeds, and the hams I was talking to thought I was in my shack. There was zero wind noise. It was just an acoustically well designed plastic shell on the dynamic mic. Those GE engineers really knew how to design a mic. I think I paid $2 for it at a swap. My first HF rig was an FT-101, $200. I replaced the caps in the RF output chain and did a resistor mod and retuned the rig to factory specs. After warming up, it worked fine. My second and third rigs were two $99 (tr)uSDX kit rigs with different RF band boards. Knowing that they hit no more than 6 watts output, fine for QRP, but not optimum for easily working the world on SSB I built a couple of those $20 Chinese HF amp kits. I paid $8 each for a couple of step-up DC to DC modules to drive the FETs with 26 volts to get another 60 Watts or so out of the (tr)uSDX rigs if needed. That's close enough to 100 W for me. After that, it's all a matter of setting up a few different wire antennas of different types in both polarities to experiment with and see which works best and when. What this all implies is that a ham needs to learn a bit about RF electronics and to enjoy it, to know about RF communications, and how to make it work, an idea the FCC was trying to foster when it created the Amateur Radio Service, an idea that's stated in the first couple of paragraphs of the FCC rules and regulations. I think Jim has narrowed pretty far down the givens of what a new General Class ham wants from the HF bands, just someone who wants to talk to a bunch of people far away. I've been fascinated by radio all my life, so I fit right in to what the FCC is picturing for Amateur Radio. I was a LowFER, communicating several hundreds of miles with a few miliwatts long before I got a ham license. Amateur radio is a very large hobby with a lot of facets, chatting to people being one of them. But if someone just wants to ragchew, then all they really need is a CB. However, if they want to get into HF ham radio, and they aren't already an RF hobbyist, tech, or engineer, then nothing beats starting with a good Elmer. Not much else matters. A good Elmer, someone like Jim, can help with getting going with any sort of rig and station, with everything from 3 Watt digital mode rigs, to $200 used SSB rigs, from $150 stations to $10k stations on up. A good Elmer can help poor hams find and repair a cheap, used Xceiver, or if the money's not tight, help them select a new, high-end one. Knowledge is the key to the hobby, so the goal is to find sources of that knowledge. Those interested in ham radio should find a local ham club if they can and go to their meetings and find a few friendly hams to be their Elmers. Their first rig could be just about anything, maybe a loaner from their Elmer, as long as they understand what it will and won't do, and how to use it and keep it running. The rig that gets chosen is of secondary importance. The Elmers come first. They need to know the things you want and need to know. If someone has no Elmer hams around, they are stuck with the web, to read, to watch KZbin videos like this one, etc. But that's a much harder way of doing it, without access to test equipment, advise, borrowed rigs, and quick answers to questions. The web is good filler info, or for specialized aspects of the hobby, from how to build a band-pass filter to EME, but a good Elmer is worth their weight in gold. That's my suggestion for anyone starting on HF, because the possibilities are endless.

[@n4hnhradio]

Great points. Just one correction. The FCC didn’t initiate ham radio. Ham radio predates the FCC. The ARRL started in 1914, predating the FCC, which was established in 1934. But you are so right that ham radio fostered a technology boom, because, in the early days, you had to build your own radio or hire it done.

[@johnwest7993]

@@n4hnhradio, a reply and I fear another long-winded comment: I didn't say the FCC created ham radio. I said they created the Amateur Radio Service. The government took control of 'our' airwaves at that point, ending our Wild West of radio, and told hams they could continue to experiment and play on the air - but these are the rules. The point was that the government's Amateur Radio Service was created, and now it exists at the tender mercies of the FCC and what they want from it. They giveth, and they taketh away, as they have demonstrated more than once in our history, and we would be well advised to be aware of the nature of the service they created and the reason for it. In other words we should know what they expect and hope that we will do with it. Simply put, while they don't require it, they want us to learn about radio, as much as we are willing to learn, everything from building and repairing rigs, to atmospherics, to net etiquette. Oddly, knowing why we are offered these bands essentially for free for the rest of our lives, 1500 Watts of power on most of them, and are authorized to design, build, tune, and repair any transmitters used on our licensed bands from the moment we receive even the laughably non-technical Tech Class license is not something that we have pounded into our heads in order to obtain our licenses. We aren't even required to have that gear we design, build, tune, fix, modify or whatever tested by the FCC for compliance with Part 97 to ensure it meets specs. It's up to us. It's ALL up to us, from the moment we answer 35 multiple-choice questions, (of which we only need to get 26 correct.) Then we have a federal government license to do all that. No one can say we can't. The reason we are given so much responsibility and so much authority is something many hams aren't even aware of. That is that the FCC simply wants us to learn all about radio, or as much as we can and are willing to learn. That's why I don't see selecting a particular new HF transceiver for new General Class hams as being the best thing for the hobby. It's OK. It's perfectly legal. Not all hams can build or even repair gear, or want to. But simply advising new Generals of what new rig to buy misses the point of it all. It creates an inaccurate impression of what the 'powers that be' are hoping for from the service, and from us, right at the point, the General Class license with HF privileges that it becomes much easier for us to do more than just operate short-range appliance radios. The HF gear is relatively easy to work on, even easy to build from scratch, unlike VHF/UHF were everything is 'tricky'. The General Class license allows hams to 'play with the big boys', not just chat around town or over the repeaters on Baofengs or even Icoms. So, when someone gets their General Class license it's a good time to learn the perspective of the FCC about all this, as well as be made aware of the many new doors to open, and the new possibilities of the license beyond buying a new $800 HF appliance rig, whatever it may be, and working SSB DX. That's not really the first stop on the road for a General Class licensee. A General Class license opens up an ocean of possibilities to explore every aspect of ham radio. That's something for us to keep in mind if we don't ever want to see Amateur Radio simply disappear with the stroke of a pen, with the FCC kicking us all onto the CB, something I'd really rather avoid. I can't afford to build a 5 kW amp, learn about 'pills' and 'Birds' and such, and besides, I really dislike echo on my audio. :)

[@ham-radio]

Short answers are best, if possible. I knew many who were on the air before licensing. One was Donald Brockway W6PL and another was Philip Keast W6DD. W6UP was a third. Fun stuff for sure. 73, Jim

[@l.a.2646]

I'm going through this same issue, I'm an Elmer to a few new hams, they see my shack and say " oh man I need to save up so I can have a station like that" I tell them that it's taken me 40 years to build up what I have. but I also tell them that they can have an excellent station with what is on the market today. especially with the new Yaesu lineup. the FT-710 has everything one needs to have an excellent station. I started with a Heathkit HW-101 when I was 14 years of age. lots of folks complain about the startup cost but with the FT-710 in my humble opinion is an excellent bang for the buck. even the Icom IC-7300 is also a great cost. I'm still running my old Kenwood TS-850SAT's both are more than 30 years old now, I'd say they paid for themselves ( I rebuilt them 2 years ago - bad electrolytic capacitors and needed a new carrier board. and I also still run my 20+ year old Icom IC-746 pro . so if these new rigs last as long as some of my older gear have, these lads will be in good shape for years to come. I always preach to build antennas and build and repair whatever they can. - that can save them a bundle and use and enjoy what they do have. I've been blessed that I've had the gear and equipment I do have, and still look back on those fun educational days growing up with that old Heathkit radio. such a great hobby! 73 Jim de N3TGY

[@m7trsradio]

Great words. I only have a 817. I've managed the USA which I was amazed with. My 5w works great with a efhw but want a qth radio. Was looking at the 991a but probably going the 710 route. Only a foundation so 20w max for me . Not going any higher with my license so the 710 would be more than enough for me. Hope you and the family are ok. 73

[@quadcam24v]

Agreed on getting a new radio and also for building your own antenna. I bought a used FT-7 during COVID and it works OK on 40 and 80 but that's it. I have S8 noise at home as I am surrounded by homes with solar inverters. I now have a G90 and use it for activating WWFF. Even the tiny waterfall is a game changer. Once I upgrade to Advanced I will look into a 100w mobile radio. 73s, VK5BRU

[@alanbernard9080]

Hi Jim, watch your KZbin because you know what your talking about. An idea for a video. You had the Sherwood site up here on this video. Was wondering if you could explain in layman’s terms at the top of the Sherwood list to the rest of us that don’t understand this as well as you do. This would be much appreciated by myself and I think a lot of others that watch your channel. All the best Jim you do a great job on here explaining technical stuff in a down to earth manner that everyone can understand. Al MM0OVV

[@whitepinephotography5887]

I will jump in here. Rob Sherwood has been testing radios for years on the basis of how well they receive and are able to separate other stations. In a nutshell this is an unbiased test showing the best numbers for the best radios. This should be very important for a new ham considering the FT-710 is number 4 on the list and priced well. I'm sure Jim will do a better job explaining.

[@mikec3933]

Hi Jim I love your videos. Keep up the good work. Thanks Mike N1XOO

[@KV6OTT]

Good video, I appreciate your point of view. 100W for sure! I should make a list of all the “other” things that were needed to get an HF station up and running… there’s many parts, tools, and experimenting. I debated between the Yaesu FT-710 and the icom IC7300 but landed on the 7300. My reasoning was that nearly everyone I know has used the IC7300 at some point. I was able to quickly get tips and tricks to get settled in and on the air. Programming was fairly straight forward. I haul it around for POTA, camping, field day… it’ll do it all. I bought it new from HRO to avoid any 2nd hard problems. 73

[@whitepinephotography5887]

The 7300 is now a vintage radio, still an OK radio, but nowhere near the quality and performance of the FT-710. The 710 will have a much bigger user base in the near future and there is plenty of tips and programing available. There are a lot of FT-710's being used for POTA as well.

[@rogerp5816]

I have two 100-watt transceivers I recommend: 1.) Yaesu FTdx10 and 2.) iCom 7300 if you want to spend a little less money and are willing to accept a radio that's pretty much at end of life. The Yaesu FTdx10 because it's a new design and will probably have a number of software updates over the next few years to add features. It has a large installed base and lots of users and KZbin videos a new ham can consult for help. The iCom 7300 because it has a large installed base and lots of users and KZbin videos a new ham can consult for help. If a new ham plans on running any digital modes the inbuilt sound cards make connection to a PC much easier and reduces all of the cable clutter.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

I would never recommend any Icom over the FT-710. It is priced better an out preforms them all. The FTDX-10 is better yet but very close.

[@sharetherisk7647]

It never ceases to amaze that radio reviewers, like you, emphasize speeds and feeds, price, free shipping, etc. but when discussing YAESU no one mentions a HUGE feature with the 3 Year Warranty to the original purchaser only.

[@GordonHudson]

I used an FT450D. As I mainly do CW it works fine, but the poor audio has got me looking at other options. Probably the 710 or ftdx10. In 42 years I have only owned 6 HF transceivers for the house. Four other HF radios for the car though in that time. I don't think I would buy a used radio as new ones are such good value.

[@N0RMJ]

My first HF rig back in 2019 (newly licensed at the time) was the Yaesu 450D. I disagree that you say it is a difficult radio. Rock solid radio all around and would highly recommend it if price is right. Over 160+ DX entities from here in Minnesota on SSB (100 watts on g5rv jr or random wire). Crazy how prices have increased though. I paid $475 shipped for a used one at the time. I also have the Yaesu 891 for portable, but would agree its best for portable and not desk. The Yaesu 710 looks like the sweet spot in my opinion for new. However, I could make the case for the 891 for its flexibility - portable or desk. No need to pay over $1000 for a beginner. Thanks for the video.

[@sc20910]

Back in the 60s and before, used to be that hams would build their own equipment, which I assume meant the barrier to entry was lower than right now where folks have to buy something with loads of features and functions. Wishing there was still some lower cost way to join. Too bad we don’t have any heathkit anymore btw :)

[@billcameron]

I just purchased the FT710 amazing radio Jim love it thanks for the video Jim from VE8AP

[@q95oldies57]

Enjoy your videos! Hope you are feeling good.

[@hl1sb_Philip-Yu]

Very nice review about various radios. I'm using TS890S and FTdx5000MP. I like sound of the FTdx5000MP and I've been owning it for 12 years. TS890S has wide display panel showing a lot of information , so, it's also good in a different way from the FTdx5000MP. I thin the TS890s and IC7610 are compete each other in the market. I hesitated between two radios 890 and 7610 before buy 890. The big advantage of 7610 is the dual receiving features. But this features is not attractive to my operation styles. FTdx5000MP also has a dual receiving feature. but I've never used so far. The conventional alternative VFO A/B feature will be enough for me. Jim can you tell me about your useful practical example of the dual receiving system of radio(s) if you are using it often. Thanks for your excellent video. de HL1SB/Philip

[@Fishhunter78]

As a new ham liscensed for almost a year, I agree with you. I treated it like fishing boats. You get the biggest, baddest one you can afford for the job you are going to use it for. Make sure there is plenty of knowledge and learning material out there for the rig you are going to purchase. I went with the ftdx10, and if I could have afforded more, I would have bought the 101d. Most importantly, go and try the rigs out first. Get on your local 2 meter repeater, and you will find that all your local operator would love for you to come over talk radio and use try out their equipment.

[@hamtrucker]

I started with QRP because I love CW, and it was useful to be portable and carry day to day. I can totally agree if you are new. I have been in and around radio all my life. So, it was natural to start in a more specialized niche as I understood radio better than most.

[@dylanschulz2404]

If interested in SSB and reliable communication on the lower bands, then 100 watts is a necessity (unless you build some very good antennas systems). My first HF transceiver was a Yaesu FT101EE. I have only been licensed a few years so that choice isn't for everyone. It taught me a lot about radio that I wouldn't have known otherwise. I still like tinkering with that rig and some other old ones that I have picked up. Thanks for the video.

[@johneckert1690]

My wife bought me a FT 710 AESS for our 25th anniversary. I'm planning on using an End Feed Half Wave on 40, 20, 15, and 10 meters. Until I can get a random with up. I've already built a 9:1 UNUN for it I just dislike using a tuner due to the loss as I want every watt out of the transceiver making it out the antenna and evert microvolt coming into the antenna reaching the receiver. I live in an apartment complex with 330 units so there is only so much I can do but I will find a way. There is always a way.

[@josephheasley3280]

Love your videos, best regards,, GI4GID, Belfast Northern Ireland.

[@barryinn1778]

I agree with Jim, everyone selling their old radios want to much money for them. For just a couple hundred more you can get a newer model. I bought the Yaesu 710 and like it a lot, My decision was based on the external monitor , for the 710. Because all the radios have basically the same thing. And the price was great. I find the 710 easy to operate and get on the air, I don't find it has a steep learning curve , and this is my first one. I have more trouble with the Alinco 735T 2m radio than I do with the 710. There is nothing out there that is as cheap as the 710.

[@norbertstepien9185]

Hi Jim. I operate with a Kenwood 990 at my UK QTH and the Icom 7300 at my compromised Toronto condo. I love both radios and I don't feel I'm missing anything in terms of enjoyment. I suppose my overriding principle is to make the best use of what you have in terms of location and equipment and have fun.

[@whitepinephotography5887]

Your have a point, and if you are happy with your vintage radios that is great. This post is for the new ham. The FT-710 is light years ahead of my Vintage radios and for a new ham the performance and features of the FT-710 will keep him in the hobby. It also has a three year warranty. Try to get parts to even fix the old ones.

[@dalev1319]

Retired my Kenwood ts820s to secondary.Bought the Yaesu FTDX10 . Fantastic radio! Have the ft891 also. I do not see a problem with a new ham purchasing the 891. Ya no display, just a little over half the price of the dx10. Better than a used unknown hamfest radio any day. Especially for new ham. 891 and the best antenna you can put up.