Yaesu FTM-6000 Manpack - ARMOLOQ TTP-6000

[@machiner5150]

Dude, don't cancel the channel. Your content is great. I feel your concerns about production quality are completely unfounded. Please continue, I enjoy your channel.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I guess it's human nature to be our own worst enemy. I see channels all around me constantly improving their production quality while I've been using the same old GoPro and editing techniques that I originally learned when I first started the channel. Thanks for the support! More videos coming your way.

[@Danefrak]

@@TheTechPrepper the info is super valuable

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@Danefrak Glad to hear it. Thanks for stopping by. Cheers.

[@woodsocial]

@@TheTechPrepper production quality is overrated and yours is dope anyway. thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@woodsocial I appreciate that. Thanks. Time is at a premium, so it helps to not let the video production get in the way too much. People seem to like the content on its own anyhow. Cheers!

[@averageguysradio]

Gaston, First let me say, for the love of God yes... if you have the time, capacity and are still having fun doing it, please continue. You have very interesting and relevant content. This video is now one of my favorite as I too am into public service, my next kit will be heavily influenced by your build here. Sorry for being verbose but I am very inspired. Thanks again 73

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Jose. The trick is going back to having fun with the videos. It's been tough keeping up with the self imposed weekly releases. I commend the other KZbinrs that does this. I think I'll back off and be flexible with the release time lines. There's no shortage of content ideas and there are plenty more public service topics in the pipeline. Best of luck, my fried.

[@ryanfralic1115]

Lighting is great, even if it wasn't I would keep watching. You channel has been the most helpful to me as you have done several videos on 2m and applications geared toward why I got into the radio hobby. Some of the other channels that I like have gotten over my head since I am only a tech for now and there videos are mostly geared at HF. I've really enjoyed having good 2m and "out in the field/remote" application channel to watch. Please keep up the awesome work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear that you can see past the production issues and that your getting some value. Enjoy the ride as a Technician. There's so much you can do with your license. More videos to come. Cheers!

[@lycosa2000]

My favorite thing in the hobby has been hiking into the wilderness with the old Rock Mite CW radios and a wire and try and make a contact. It's always been fun. I've been involved in ARES and Skywarn as well. Something about going hiking and setting up communications is a lot of fun for me. Glad to see someone else enjoy it as much as I do. You've got another subscriber. :)

[@fm71450]

From my POV in S.E.Tennessee, you are adding great value for me. Production value is as good as / better than most, IMO. I have the FTM6000, also, and HATED that it does not have SSB. The original application we had for the FTM6000 was to contact the ISS on VHF, and to work the ISS cross band repeater. Based on your other videos, I will soon purchase the FT891. Man packs are quite applicable - THANK YOU!

[@IremiaGreece]

I’m brand new to the hobby and find this channel amazing for getting valuable information that has been tested in the field. As a new Tech, please keep this channel going! Your information is quite valuable to us newbies.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel and the hobby. Glad you're finding value in the content. I'm just a guy sharing my experiences along the way. As a new ham myself (on the air for two years) I understand where you're coming from. More content on the way. Enjoy the hobby.

[@sfcmac336]

All I can do is ditto what has already been said by a majority of the comments. Your channel is TOP NOTCH. I have learned so much from your channel on a number of topics. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK. If you feel you are getting burned out take a break, just put up a message letting us know you'll be back. The length of you videos is perfect and the quality is better than most.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I appreciate that. Don't worry, after the response from yourself and all the wonderful viewers, I'll keep going. There was a bit of burn out settling in, not just the lighting. Next up, a field video so that I can relax in the backcountry. I am taking the FTM-6000 portable.

[@robertbeasley4590]

First, and foremost, thank you for your contributions to our hobby. Your content is great, practical and educational; if you love doing it, I assure you that we enjoy watching!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you, Robert. I'll continue to share the experiences as I work my way through the hobby. 73 de KT1RUN

[@YayaOrchid]

I see no production issues. Lighting is clear and bright for video quality. I prefer nature light. Great videos and very informative. Just purchased FTM-6000R and will be watching all your related videos.

[@andrewbeal9997]

To repeat what others have already stated, the quality of your videos is great. You don't need fancy lighting or slick transitions to make engaging videos. The content you provided is extremely useful and your presentation is very authentic and engaging. I am just getting into HAM radio and before stumbling onto your channel, had no idea about all the possibilities of packet radio. It is very exciting to learn and I have found your videos to be some of the most informative and inspiring of all the content I have found. Thanks and keep up the great work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel and thank you for the support. Ham radio has so much to offer. I've barely scratched the surface on the channel as I am still learning and sharing along the way.

[@leeH-89]

Lighting ( production) is Really good to me ... I wouldn't have even tried to notice, if you hadn't said anything, and I still cannot tell... I am a General, and my better half is an Extra, and she has been trying to get me to upgrade ... Since I have been watching your videos, I been really thinking about it ... I like all of your videos.. To make a point on how Good, I think your videos are, I hardly ever comment , and you are only the third channel, I have ever commented on ... Keep up the Excellent videos ( Work) ... Thanks again , LEE...

[@TheTechPrepper]

I really appreciate you taking the time to respond, Lee. It's really helpful to hear that this little channel is motivating people. For what it's worth, definitely get that upgrade. You'll have more room to spread out on the bands. Extra has been on my list todo's for a year now. 73 de KT1RUN

[@dimitdamnit]

PLEASE do not quit! Between you and Charlie's channels I've got the HAM bug again. Your organization & production quality is some of the best HAM content I've watched on You Tube! As to lighting.....let's talk. I think I know someone that could help you out. I'm sure Uncle Phil can get you hooked up.

[@TheTechPrepper]

David, yes, I could use any lighting tips for the shack and the home office. Don't worry, the channel is going to live on. I think you and the other viewers made your point. I am humbled and accept the challenge to continue. That ham bug is a contagious let guy. ;-)

[@gmupton]

Please keep making these videos. I'm a newly licensed Amateur Radio operator (WH6GTC) and I plan on assembling a "Manpack" similar to yours. Mahalo from Kaneohe, Hawaii.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I will. Welcome to the hobby and best of luck with your manpack build.

[@anthonyglaser929]

Please do not stop the channel. You seem to be the first voice of reason on the topic of coms. I am a long time coder with a back ground in embedded RF. I started looking into ham radio a few years ago, but the barriers to entry were just too high. Getting started in the world of ham radio there is just way toooo much to make sense of where and how to start. I stumbled on your videos a few days ago and now I think I see a way to at least get started.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I really appreciate the kind note and your support. I will keep it going for as long as I can. I finally have come to terms with the video quality and realize that it's the best I can do given my limited skillset (video production and editing) and given my limited time. I will be stepping back from the comments and the email bag as I can no longer spend two hours everyday responding to everyone. The plan is focus more on my emcomm related project and products and share videos when I can. Take care.

[@HamstudyOrg]

Nice little setup; someone asked me about how you're using the Signal Stick here and I wanted to point out that it's likely that the coax and bracket you've got on there to give you a BNC connector out the front is actually providing a better counterpoise than you'd have otherwise and so you're getting much better performance from the signal stick (or likely other antennas you connect directly to it like that) than you would if it were connected directly to the radio via adapter instead of through the coax. Always nice to see my products show up in these videos ;-) 73 and thanks for the support! Neat little project, I'll have to look at this more when I have time.

[@TheTechPrepper]

First, thank you for the fantastic work that you are doing at HamStudy.org and at SignalStuff. I used HamStudy.org to pass my General. I've only been able to confirm the SWR on the FT-857 with the pack frames as I have the ability to monitor the SWR with an integrated analog meter via the 3.5mm interface on the head. The SWR is close to a 1:1 match on 2m. However, it is dangerously high on 440MHz, so I do not use it on 440. I assume that the same would apply to the FTM-6000R. My personal experience to run 20-25 max on 2m with the SignalStick using these TPA pack frames. Unfortunately, I do not have any way to determine how much of a counterpoise is provided by the frames. It's probably time to re-run these experiments as this information is anecdotal.

[@RESlusher]

As you can tell from the other comments already, your production quality is top-notch! You're put out better content than a lot of channels that have been around a LOT longer. There's a lot that people can learn from your channel. All that said, It's OK to take a break now and then so you don't get burnt out. Thanks for all that you've done already and whatever you feel like doing down the road. 73 de KF5RHI

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you, Richard. Your comment is really helpful. I'll focus on the content and not worry so much about competing with other channels. More content coming your way even if it is a couple of weeks between videos.

[@RESlusher]

@@TheTechPrepper When you start putting the burden on yourself to put out a video a week it puts a lot of pressure on you. Take your time. Put out a video when you've got something to say (or show). You'll be much happier with the product you put out there!

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@RESlusher You nailed it on the head. That's the plan. I'll get back to enjoying the process and not worry about keeping up with the other ham radio channels. Honestly, I don't know how they do it.

[@RESlusher]

@@TheTechPrepper Me either! I've got another channel where I get into baseball cards and try to get a new video up each week; but sometimes I just can't.

[@richardpeschke3283]

Please keep going. Your content is way more important than fancy production

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear. Yes, I'm dedicated to you guys. We're going to keep going.

[@maxsimmons7042]

Keep up the content! Information is way more useful than any production value. This has been the most useful comms I’ve found.

[@AD6DMDennis]

Can't wait till that ARMOLOQ cage goes to retail. Regarding your channel and posting, don't shut down!! No need pressure yourself to release on an interval. Just post when you are moved to share something. It won't become quit-your-job KZbin income stream but we hams greatly appreciate it whenever you share your training and experiences, including the practical gear demonstrations like this vid. I get a lot of inspiration from you so definitely do not leave KZbin.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Shoot ARMOLOQ a note on their contact page. The design is complete, but the web site may take a little time for them to put a new product page. You're right about this not becoming a full-time job that can replace my income; it's a labor of love. I appreciate the support and owe you and everyone else an EmComm Tools release. Hopefully, I will have time over the holiday to continue work on the re-write again.

[@omardejesus2940]

Great video, I just purchased the FTM 6000 and ran into your video, exactly what I was looking for, I am just starting with Ham Radios and your content made it a lot easier with the accessories and options information. Thank you, look forward to more videos.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel and the hobby! This is a good starter radio. Enjoy!

[@fm71450]

No problem with production quality. Period - end of statement. Having a real home as background - makes it real, for me. I am a new Technician. Originally had zero interest in VHF / UHF. I can see value there now, some of that comes from your videos. NEVER GIVE UP. I ordered the FTM-6000R, despite the lack of SSB.

[@ReedAB8AS]

Hello from WV. No issue with lighting for videos here. Content is more important and the content is always spot on. Keep up the good work my friend.....we will keep watching for sure!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for the kind note from WV. More backcountry ham radio coming to you from the great state of Arizona. I appreciate the support!

[@marcchauvin4992]

Content is much more important than lightening!!! Keep putting out GREAT videos!!!!!!!!!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Will do. Glad to see that you're sticking around.

[@TheNoCodeTech]

Yes, there is extreme value in your videos. The y'all tube ham family would be less without you. Great video man. Thanks

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. I would miss you guys, too. I'm going to keep going.

[@TheNoCodeTech]

@@TheTechPrepper Yay!

[@johnkershaw9575]

Please keep up the great videos. Production, i.e. lighting is fine. Love the portable operations. Take care. JJK

[@TheTechPrepper]

Awesome. The next video is a portable operation. I definitely keep them coming even it there's a delay between videos.

[@harrynorman654]

I ordered all the stuff to make the TTP- 6000 built. Seth at ARMOLOQ was very was very responsive with the order. Thanks for all help I received from the video and order links.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear you're building a full kit. Seth is a good guy and makes a great product. I'm in the process of designing a custom bag specifically for this setup. I hope to have it available later this year. 73

[@robertfassett3147]

Agreed, F the “production value”! It’s you and your pithy analyses we’re here for. You’re providing a great public service. Heck, half the stuff I’m buying for my family comes from your analysis. Thank you!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks! I appreciate the feedback. It's really encouraging. I dropped a video 16 hours back to close out my VX-6R series. It was another in-the-dark video filmed before work at 3:00 AM. I'll keep going as long as I can, but the video/audio/editing quality will just have to continue as-is. I'm impressed that other part time KZbinrs can pump out videos with great quality and still have time for work, family and life. I have no idea how they do it. What gear have you picked up for yourself?

[@FlbInRb]

Production quality is fine. Keep up with the great vids!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks! Will do!

[@NoSaveData]

Keep'em coming if you can, never had any issue with the production quality and lighting is fine here. Thanks for the videos up so far actually learnt quite a bit and found some stuff that I ended up getting myself for long trek hiking and radio use. Take it easy and I appreciate what you do.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You got it. Next up is a digital video with the same manpack assuming the DigiLink Nano arrives from Switzerland, otherwise there's a backlog of 25+ videos that need to be created. Take care!

[@mkv74]

Please do keep it going, your videos quality is more than enough.

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's good to hear. I'll still see what I can do make improvements here and there. Take care.

[@sandygap1]

No, don't stop producing content. Your production quality is just fine. Really enjoy your content.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. I appreciate you taking the time to write this. More content coming, but there may be a longer delay between videos. 73

[@jharrington4435]

Please keep the channel going! You always do a great job. We all appreciate your efforts.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I appreciate that. I appreciate you and all the other wonderful viewers.

[@wild-radio7373]

I gotta tell ya, I was caught unaware by the intro! I like you just the way that you are. As a fellow content creator, I can fully understand the desire to own all the best equipment on the first day. But I have found that creating videos on this platform is very similar to our love for radio... every paycheck is potentially a new radio!♡ 😄 so if you get fancy video equipment at some point later, it will be new fun, but just getting out there is the point, in the end, and we like what you have shown us so far- no question.

[@wild-radio7373]

❤👍📻🥰

[@TheTechPrepper]

Sorry about the curve ball. It's been a challenge filming at home lately with the poor lighting inside and outside along with the constant construction on our street. We live on dirt road for goodness sake. Why are the some many people wrecking my videos? ;-) Thanks for the support. As you can see by your response and the comments, I must keep the train running even if I get annoyed with the occasional production flaws. I appreciate you and the rest of my hamfam!

[@kurtismeinhardt68]

Just finding the channel now, honesty I love listening to these videos while I’m at work. I glance occasionally but since I work with my hands my phone is often just in a front pocket playing audio. Great channel. I don’t feel like there’s a lot of EmComm/2A people producing content. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Interesting...audio only. I'm going to try listening to one of my videos see what it's like. Welcome to the channel. I don't talk about 2A too much, but Im a huge supporter. You may like a video I made on "why you shouldn't bug out on foot". I think that was the title. Take care.

[@Bearjew613]

Keep it up cause they're is lots of reliable and realistic information for the Ham enthusiast.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. Will do!

[@martirjd]

I don't see a problem with your production quality. You have great content.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you! I appreciate your support. The channel will live on. Happy Holidays!

[@dougputhoff3215]

You are contributing greatly to the radio community ….please continue

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. Will do. I have a small series on SDR's coming up next. Stay tuned.

[@patrickoneillnl1966]

HI, I haven't had time to watch this video completely but I wanted to comment on your early ask about value and production quality. I like your style and the quality of your videos has not been an issue for me for the three videos I have seen so far LOL. However, don't push yourself. The channel has to be fun for you too right so don't neglect something just to keep the videos coming. Anyway have fun and best of luck with your future productions 73.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. I appreciate the support. If lighting was still my concern this video would not have been released. This year I'm just focusing on delivering content that has value even if a few videos are filmed in low light at 4:00 AM in the garage. Take care.

[@BuckeyeMan5656]

Love the quality! Crisp and clear!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Jeremy. It looks like you and the other viewers have twisted my arm. I think I was experiencing a little bit of burn out now that the channel is approaching 2 years. I'll keeping going.

[@tcfitz]

Good afternoon. The production quality is a far second in importance when compared to the content. While I do not find the production quality poor in any way, the content is what keeps me coming back. Thanks again, - W6TCF

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you for the kind note and feedback. Got it. Content is king and keep going. I can do that. Take care.

[@drdarwin1]

I’m new to ham radio and I really appreciate your content. Thanks for the hard work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

You are very welcome. I am basically hitting the reset button now that I have picked up a lot of new viewers. You may enjoy my last two series: VX-6R and Manpack series. I'll be kicking off a new series called "NO RANDOM CONTACTS" that will start from the basics and demonstrate how to make contacts at the community, city, county, state, region and country level. Cheers!

[@collinke8rxn]

Hey Gaston, I just wanted to let you know that I really enjoy your channel, and consider you in my top four ham radio channels along with Ham Radio Crash Course, Ham Radio 2.0, and Dave Casler. As far as production quality, I think your quality is just fine - I think most people in the prepper/ham radio space are looking for good information rather than flashy content. For example, the reason why guys like Dave Casler are popular (even though Dave typically sits and talks to a camera for an hour, so not very complicated production quality) is because his quality of information is so good. I can certainly understand if demands from career, family, and life make it challenging to be a KZbinr. But just like Dave Casler's channel and others, I avidly follow your channel because your quality of information is also very good. I also appreciate how you bring your technical experience to bear in the art of communications. Hope to catch you on the air sometime. 73, KE8RXN

[@TheTechPrepper]

I am humbled. That is impressive company. Thank you. I was personally motivated to get into ham radio because of all those channels. I think we can arrange a QSO for yourself and the community. I have a video planned where I'd like to send out QSL cards to you and the other wonderful viewers. I'll announce in advance a day, time and set of HF frequencies that I plan to be on and send out QSL cards to all contacts. I hope to do this over the holiday break. 73, KT1RUN

[@jordanjohnson3370]

Idk how I haven’t seen this video before, have had the 6000 since it came out but haven’t decided what to do with it. Just caught your latest video earlier along with the shipping list for the pack. All the pieces should be in by the weekend. Thanks again for the video and links

[@TheTechPrepper]

Awesome. You're in luck then. My next manpack video (Part II) is going to re-cover a lot of the martial in this video plus every use case that I have ever used with FTM-6000R. Take care! It will be released next Saturday.

[@MikeN2MAK]

Yes, please keep it up. The content and quality of the videos is great!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you, Mike. I appreciate the validation. More content coming.

[@ca5o22m]

Content is awesome and lighting is sufficient and does not distract. Keep up the great work.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Done. Thanks for the input. It's time to stop worrying about the lighting and just focus on content. I can do that. ;-)

[@omnisteverino]

I'm a subscriber because I like your videos and have no problem with the production quality. People seem to be overly amped up about the image quality of their vlogs. Yours is just fine. The important thing is clear, concise content. If anything, your videos are too long. Go for 10 minutes, which will take less of your precious time. This one could be quite a bit shorter without all the digressions... Keep up the great work!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Great points on keeping the videos short. Trust me, I've tried to keep them 10-15 minutes. Thanks for the channel support.

[@KK7BGA]

Keep it going! Never had a complaint about quality

[@TheTechPrepper]

Well, that's good to know. It's been the same recipe since the beginning. I thought viewers would expect better cameras, lighting, new shooting/editing techniques. There just aren't enough hours in the day. I'll keep going. Thanks for the channel support.

[@paulNC]

Dude your videos are great! And Audio is way more important than video...so don't worry about perfection!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I appreciate the kind note, Paul. This is train is going to keep going! I am looking to get new audio/video equipment as soon I can. Thanks for the support.

[@paulNC]

I've been learning a ton about this subject, I've been playing woth GMRS for local via Repeaters I can reach over 100miles, and just last week I passed my Tech license too. Mainly I'm just trying to have communication etc to go and have a base setup too, I have a small homemade portable battery box with 12v inverter 1500watts, 200ah with a folding 5amp max solar that can power it, now I just bought a 7500watt tri gas Generator too (I live in California) lol... I don't know if you have done this yet but, I think it be cool if you had a video with the cheapest and easiest setup for almost anyone could have communication etc and what go bag should they have...but I know that can be a loaded thing, i.e. hurricane vs earthquakes etc. You have lots of very good info but sometimes i see a very elementary prep for the untrained ones.

[@TheTechPrepper]

@@paulNC Congrats on your license! Welcome the party. It sounds like you are focused more on VHF/UHF. In that case, I would look at a good dual-band, dual VFO rig. If I were personally to buy a currently available rig that is comparable to the FT-8800/8900 and of good quality (a Japanese radio) not a Chinese radio (TYT TH-9800), I would look at the Kenwood TM-V71A. This radio is on my list to buy soon and ARMOLOQ is very likely going to make a frame for it. It's dual-VFO, supports cross-band repeat, has enough power to get out, is the correct form factor for a manpack and is simple to use. I have it's big brother the Kenwood D710GA in my Jeep. I have a feeling it will be discontinued soon. Just my two cents. Do your research.

[@applejacks971]

good video. Keep in mind, the ftm-6000 is a BASIC radio and advertised as such. The other features you want in a radio are available in the 200, 300 and 400. The price goes up with those radio's and features. If they'd put those features in the 6000, the price would be the same as the 2,3 and 400, because it would be the SAME radio as the 2,3 and 400. The 6000 is a BASIC radio and priced accordingly.

[@00Widget]

Your videos are great .. nothing wrong with quality!! Keep it up brother ..

[@tmatney98]

I follow you so keep up the good work.....Whatever you do dont QUIT!!!!

[@vd89198]

With a thick hard peace of black plastic on the side of the pouch connected to the molle, you could add a trunk mount for a sweep antenna or something. A bit like the icom back. Have a good day!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Interesting idea. I like it. Thanks for sharing.

[@vd89198]

@@TheTechPrepper Your welcome! Got the id from ham radio crash course where he talked about what is in his icom back. But I am more into tactical backs and I think a set up like yours would make it even more mobile and powerful I think with a longer lightweight whip on the outside.

[@mattcampbell4601]

Started following you on Instagram a few weeks back. I love the packs. I'm honestly just starting out, so trying to learn everything I can. Videos are great! Quality is great!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel! I'll be doing a deep dive into some of the digital options for the manpacks very soon. I have a TPA pack frame playlist that has the other manpack builds. Thanks for the support.

[@forthy62]

Great video again Gaston. Please keep on doing videos! 73, Stephan, DF6PA

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, will do!

[@k2rcb]

Nothing wrong with the production quality of your videos! Keep up the good work!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Ray. I'll keep things going and go back to having fun and sharing content with you and the community.

[@neubert500]

If I was concerned about slick production values, I would watch a hollyweird movie, BUT I have never learned anything about Ham Radio from the movies, I have learned a LOT from you, KM4ACK, and of course OH8STN! I would really miss your videos if your stopped The Tech Prepper. I feel compelled to ask that you keep making videos, please.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I really appreciate this comment and your support. I will absolutely keep making video even if there's a bit of delay between videos moving forward. I've enjoyed the ride so far but was getting concerned that the recording and production equipment and techniques have not changed much in the last year. 73

[@neubert500]

@@TheTechPrepper Thank you!

[@fullmetalradio869]

Hey your channel is awesome. The content is always interesting and the production quality is good. Nice T-shirt by the way ;-)

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you, Peter. I know that you are one of the most dedicated supports of the channel and Instagram feed. Thank you for everything. I'll keep the content coming. Cheers from the US!

[@gregorysmith3097]

Like the other commenters, I'm not really sure where you are seeing a drop in production quality. That said, you have to decide if you want to continue the channel. You bring a different perspective to the hobby than the other KZbin Ham channels, so if you were to stop the channel, you would be missed. However, it is your channel. If you feel that it does not meet your standards, you could easily pull the plug on it. While I hope you don't, I'd fully understand if you did. You have to be proud of what you put out.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I guess only the creator sees the imperfections in their work. As humans we're always trying to grow and improve. For the last few months it feels like the release cadence has been inconsistent and the production quality has not improved much since the channel was first started. It seems like everyone is ok with the content as-is and is less concerned with these videos being a Hollywood production. I'll keep going. Thank you!

[@douglasvamateurradioandmore]

Keep going, I like it. You keep giving me ideas, and keep me spending my money, my wife doesn’t thank you.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I will, thanks. I keep spending, too. There are only a couple pieces of new gear that will be making it on the channel, then I'll be good and work with the gear that I have. Famous last words, but that's the plan. Sell an unused radio and buy her something nice?

[@joedupre32]

This looks similar to the ftm-200, I would love to do the same setup for my ftm-200. Please keep the videos coming.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'll keep them coming. Seth from ARMOLOQ is working on a TPA frame design for the FTM-200 right now. I haven't checked the dimensions to see what bag is needed for it.

[@davidedger3935]

I am very impressed with your manpack builds. Would love to be able to do the same thing to have a manpack that I can slip in the car when I need a full power mobile. Thanks for all the effort.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. These work great in the vehicle. I made a video sometime back on running the FT-857D manpack using only a permanent antenna install where I run the feed line into the cab.

[@BingoBabyO]

Just got a FT-500 and I want to build out a pack similar to this!

[@heikopinero6875]

Quality is fine, please continue

[@TheTechPrepper]

Done. Thanks!

[@markdupuis879]

Yet another awesome and informative video! I do truly enjoy your content. The content is always more important than quality. But with that said your quality is great. The lighting is always adequate in my opinion. I've also haven't noticed any shaky video which is awesome. The audio is always clear. It's obvious to me that you put some effort into your production. All in all what I'm saying is if you're worried about your work not being good enough, Stop worrying the videos are great. I feel that every video has a point and you do a good job at fully getting your point across. Keep up the great work brother! 73 de KI5NGT.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Mark. it's time to let go of the stress of constantly feeling the need to improve everything about the channel and get back to enjoying the process of making good content for you and the other wonderful viewers. Take care. 73 de KT1TUN

[@robertkennell5630]

Please keep your channel going your information is great. I just getting into ham radio. Trying to decide where I am going. I have general and working on my amateur extra license

[@TheTechPrepper]

Will do! Congratulations on breaking into the hobby. Good luck!

[@charlessummers3461]

Heck yea man I love the videos you put out. My own complaint is you have me spending more money other than that keep it up

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to see that this little channel is stimulating the economy one viewer at a time. Thanks for the complaint! Love it.

[@marcbrown1312]

Why would you quit? I enjoy your videos, you have given me some great ideas..I have been emailing Seth about the manpack...he told to reach out to you.. Pls keep making videos...really enjoy them.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Lately, work and family have been incredibly busy and I feel like I have been neglecting the channel. I was very consistent with a weekly release until about two months ago and can't seem to keep up with this release schedule. I've been forced to make more videos at home instead of in the field, so I wasn't sure if people came for the backcountry radio videos. The last few videos have all been filmed at the house with poor lighting. I'll keep going! Thanks.

[@texasstealthcamper8139]

Greetings from Houston! 👊🏽

[@TheTechPrepper]

Hello, Texas!!!

[@recoblade1465]

Whoa their kind sir I'm too new here for you to be leaving now the lighting is not an issue the content is amazing

[@TheTechPrepper]

Welcome to the channel. That's good to know. I've been fighting with the lightning and noise for awhile. I'll keep going. Cheers!

[@TangoOscarMikeN3WS]

I agree your quality is great. Audio is fantastic. Same issues here though, short daylight hours. The Signalink will work well, I just wish they would shrink that thing. It could be made so much smaller for portable use. I've been looking to pick up one of those "digirig" units. Cheers...

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Tom. Filming this time of year is rough with only 12 hours of daylight. I'll figure something out as the majority of viewers don't seem to mind. I used to take the SignaLink portable when I first started in the hobby. You're right, it's unnecessarily bulky with a lot of wasted space. It's also far too delicate. Let me know how you like the digirig.

[@garrettswoodworx1873]

@@TheTechPrepper The Digirig is great! The best review I've seen is from Julian OH8STN. Take a look if you're interested & keep on doing what you do and don't compare yourself to anyone else. We watch you for what you do, not how you compare to others. 73 de NV4F.

[@rgt622]

hello from the uk,stop being so negative ,your voice is great and the channel is brilliant,i prefer hand helds to man packs well done richard uk.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks Richard. Cheers from the U.S.!

[@CharlesMartellus]

Don’t worry about lighting, etc. it doesn’t matter.

[@TheTechPrepper]

I appreciate this. Thanks.

[@WisconsinGabe]

I love the content please continue.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Will do. I appreciate the support.

[@Soladaddy]

Your video quality is better than mine, so no complaints here.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Glad to hear it. I'll keep slumming it with my GoPro in that case. Cheers!

[@ajameslee]

Your production quality is great! Don’t compare yourself to others and it’s all about the content. My only concern is you seem to have a few library books to return 😂

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks. I appreciate the support. Actually, we only kept about 10% of our books when we moved two years ago. I love my books in print. :-)

[@Littrell1966]

Yes please!! I really like the content and fancy lighting does nothing for me!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Absolutely. Hopefully, the latest video (in the desert) has better lighting...not that you mind bad lighting. 73 de KT1RUN

[@suburbansurvival8239]

I'm just getting into HAM, specifically for mobile communications like you have so many videos on. If you haven't already canceled your channel, consider my vote for you to keep up production.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks for vote. Welcome to the channel and the hobby. I'll keep going as long as I can. Take care.

[@W7LDT]

Your “quality” is better than many.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. I'll try to see if there are some easy, inexpensive ways to improve the lighting and improve the editing incrementally, even if it takes a little more time. Take care.

[@rbishopp]

Keep up the good work if you can. I come for the content not the perfect video and sound quality. I camp a lot and your ideas inspire me. I also have the FTM-6000 because it is simple and can be added to. Just wish Yaesu would include programming cable.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Will do. Glad to hear this little channel is motivating others. I am curious, how do you plan to use your FTM-6000 and why did you buy it? At least they included a proper DTMF hand mic. It would be nice if they would throw in a programming cable. Although, I have been personally forcing myself to manually program on all my radios these days to keep that skill sharp. It's a frequent use case we run into on the public service side or when traveling around the state.

[@rbishopp]

@@TheTechPrepper bought the 6000 as an option for my wife for the home shack. She works HF no problem but doesn't get into the repeater stuff around here. Also she doesn't like the multi channels to scroll through in memory but works the VFO just fine. So I figured simple is best. She can get me on the calling frequency from home. Once it arrived i realized it should be a piece of cake to set up in camp for local comms and maybe even some POTA on the VHF frequencies. I've played with APRS on the HT but it doesn't have the reach some of the time. So this might do the trick with a set up similar to yours. Baby steps for me. I'll get there.

[@N7CX]

Love your channel. The content is great and production quality is spot on. You have sparked my interest in packet. I tried packet in the 90’s but never was successful. Also I am trying to gear up for 2m ssb. 73 de N7CX dm42

[@TheTechPrepper]

Very good. Packet does not have to be dead in 2021. Keep it alive! Also, SSB is a ton of fun if you have an active sideband community on 2m/440. Good luck! I've had a few videos planned in my back log for a while.

[@timreasoner3744]

Keep doing what your doing!!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Done. Thanks for chiming in.

[@Redhawk03a]

Dude are you kidding? Keep it coming!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Just a momentary stumble. The channel will live on. Thank you.

[@gbamck]

Hi - I think your content, quality and the amount of videos you post are just great (as is your insta) - I hope you're able to continue and at a pace that suits *you* and don't worry about us! The best thing for me is the decent length and interesting topics. Cheers, Mick - M0VMK

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, Mick. This is very helpful. I think the trick to preventing this momentary burnout is to take a longer break between videos. It's been tough trying to meet a self imposed weekly release schedule. More interesting topics on the way. 73 de KT1RUN

[@martirjd]

Yes. A prepper kind of video.

[@TheTechPrepper]

It's been a while since I've made a prepper video. I have several dozen ideas in the backlog, but let my ham radio obsession take over the channel. I'll start squeezing some in. Take it easy.

[@moonlightsoldier8443]

Dude your good dont stop

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, but, I'm finally pulling back a little. Videos will come out about 3-4 weeks due to time constraints. There's still a healthy backlog of videos. Take care.

[@tys3456]

Hi TTP, were you able to test the approximate SWR of the FTM6000 manpack setup with the Signal Stick? 73.

[@DominicMazoch]

Just got the 6k from Giga. I have it and the 2980. Is it me, or are Y mobiles, at least in this price range, seem to have "tank" feel bodies. Seem heavier than I. But if that makes the rig more survivable, so be it. Also have the Digirig cable for it

[@texasstealthcamper8139]

Yikes! The TPA-857 pack frame just saved my 857-D! No lie! Wow! 😬

[@TheTechPrepper]

Really? I still have not had an accident yet (knock on wood). What happened? Glad to hear it saved your irreplaceable rig. If you have time, I'm sure Seth from ARMOLOQ would appreciate a short testimonial. Take care, Texas!

[@davidg5308]

Your content is very valuable, but we all have priorities and I know you will do what is right for you and your family. Even monthly updates would be very valuable. I also am looking for something more than the HT and want to take my FTM100 for SOTA and 2m/440 simplex here and there. Wonder if that cage would fit the 100 - have to compare the specs. I'm just starting to get into Winlink but not a programmer. Hang in there and Illigitimi non-carborundum...

[@TheTechPrepper]

I had to look that one up..."Don't let the bastards grind you down". Don't worry, I won't. I think it was a brief moment of feeling some burn out. As for the FTM-100, shoot Seth a message on the ARMOLOQ website's contact form. He has done a one off here and there. It does not hurt to ask. If he has time and is willing, he requires that you send him the rig for a short period of time. In the case of the FTM-6000, it was nearly identical to the FT-817, so it was a quick process. Enjoy your portable operations.

[@willcorsair6099]

Love the channel. Keep it up.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thanks, will do!

[@gamingforlive2150]

Good to see im not the only one abusing 446

[@TheTechPrepper]

That's great. Why the heck is there only one simplex frequency on 440? I am also abusing 446.000. Cheers!

[@gamingforlive2150]

@@TheTechPrepper yea but im using channels 9-16 most cause most cheap ones only offer channels 1-8 so its nice and quiet only heard one there once and that was when i lbly had pmr and started radio ing

[@steveverhoef5667]

Plan on building a kit similar to this for roof tops.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Good luck with your build.

[@no5x937]

I'm looking for a chest man-pack for satellite work that holds either a TM-D710A or FTM-400DR, a 12V 9A LiFePo battery, frame and wiring. Any ideas?

[@brettlong4479]

content is good. stay strong.

[@TheTechPrepper]

Thank you. Stay strong as well.

[@johnharllee3568]

Great video ! I noticed you have excluded inline fuses on power cord set up. Any concerns?

[@TheTechPrepper]

I get this question a lot. I made a small inline fuse using an automotive ATO/ATC fuse holder a couple years back on the channel. It has two Anderson Powerpoles on each end. It's stored in the front admin pouch. These days, I only use it when I connect the manpack to the vehicle's starter battery. I am less concerned when I use the Bioenno LiFePO4 batteries as they have a built-in BMS.

[@rider275]

I enjoy the content. I have recently become interested in HAM radio. I plan on getting my technician license this year. My goal is to build a similar rig to what you have in your videos. Please do not close up the channel. Is there a video on the Raspberry Pi build? Thanks.

[@TheTechPrepper]

The hobby is fun with many rabbit holes to explore. I had a planned on doing a Pi build video, but I have moved away from the Pi due to some reliability issues when using them in the backcountry. Check out KM4ACK's channel. Jason is the RPi king when it comes to amateur radio. He has a project called Build-a-Pi that makes the installation and setup easy. Thanks for the support and good luck with your Tech license.

[@daveruff47]

power cable has no fuses. Is that a problem?

[@kylethedarkness]

Would RF exposure @50 watts with that orange antenna be harmful?

[@DuckingAround58]

The Arrow 2 antenna your using, is that the Arrow 2 satellite antenna your using? I already have that antenna but never took it portable. What mast are you using its hard to find a good one. 73!

[@TheTechPrepper]

I'm running the backpacker model of the Arrow II 146/437-14BP. It breaks down into three sections. For the mast I'm using a Mr. LongArm Pro-Lok 8.4-ft to 23-ft painter's pole. Arrow sells a mount that works well with it. The Mr. LongArm can only support the weight of the Arrow II at the 16' position. The antenna transitions well from my home to pack frequently for portable use.

[@kj7a--]

Can you tell me if the 5.11 pouch will fit the Bioenno BLF-1212AB [Dimensions:(L x W x H) 4.4 in. x 4.3 in. x 3 in.] I wasn't sure because the smallest dimension on the 1212AB is 3" which is the exact same as the smallest dimension on the 5.11 pouch. Thank you for the great content!

[@TheTechPrepper]

Unfortunately, it will not fit. I have that battery, too. Although, the 6Ah Bioenno fits perfectly with room for the mic, whip antenna, and a couple of small items.