My FT817 (not ND version) has been owned from new way back when these radios were new "on the block" at the beginning of the millennium when the price was still £799. In all that time it has performed faultlessly, mainly at the 2.5W or less settings.
Mine has worked the world on SSB (even handheld) and I get WSPR reports worldwide at 1W, even on 40m with a small wire antenna. I intend to buy a new FT817ND soon so I can WSPR and work other modes at the same time. I can honestly say my FT817 does all I want and with 5W maximum output, which is more than enough power to work DX without upsetting the neighbours.
The best UK price currently seems to be around £513 but I hope to pay <£500 cash. At the current Yen-Pound exchange rate more like £450 is a reasonable price, unless the dealers want to be greedy. I hope the price includes the NiMH battery pack , charger etc. At best, the UK price fell to below £350.
The newer ND version covers 5MHz and all of 7MHz and has more rugged PAs.
My current FT-817ND has been with me a couple of years. This one will not be sold. Perfectly happy with it for my cw-only operating. Don't have to go into the menus frequently. The 500hz cw filter the only option installed. I wouldn't wait for an updated version. Don't think one will be coming soon. Maybe next cycle peak. 73 Dick
ReplyDeleteRoger- How does the 817 hear on LF .... 2200m ? Preamp needed on LF?
ReplyDeleteSteve / VE7SL
Have you seen this amazing stand alone WSPR (and other modes) transmitter kit. Does audio to 30Mhz and you can add a cheap GPS module for greater freq accuracy. About 150 mW output and it only costs £17.50 !!!!
ReplyDeleteWhoops sorry should have added URL
ReplyDeletehttp://www.hanssummers.com/ultimate3.html