Shortwave radio review and discussion
One of the things that Rose and I really came to rely on was our shortwave radio. I had researched various brands and read all I could about them, and then bought the Kaito 1103. It's alarm was set to make sure we were awake to listen to Chris Parker's weather net every morning it was on.
Kaito 1103 specs from Kaito site;
(http://www.kaitousa.com/radioimages/KA1103New.jpg)
Now, I do not believe that a ham set, or even an SSB transceiver is a requirement onboard a small boat, but I have to say that a good shortwave receiver, capable of decoding SSB transmitions is an important peeve of gear.
When you are close enough to the US, you can still get NOAA on the VHF, but that was good for about 75 miles on a good day (for us). Others use more advanced methods, some you have to subscribe to, to get their info. I bet that XM weather is nice, but don't care for the equipment requirements or the monthly subscription fees.
I admit I had not gone much beyond buying the gear before we left US waters... this was not a good idea. While I have a pretty strong background in electronics, especially communication's I struggled to get the right combination to get a reliable signal.
The ham guys, and most everyone I checked with had nothing but praise for the Kaito 1103. Read some reviews on Ham.net here. (http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/5071) It is also marketed as the Degen 1103, and tested against the standards seems to perform well. The Sony's are great radios, less so the old standard which is the Grundig Yachtboy.... which no longer is much of a contender according to many of the the radio guys, but still seems to be popular talking to other cruisers in anchorages in the Bahamas.
Both cost more then the better rated Kaito which a quick search shows can easily be had online for less then a boat buck. There is also a 1102 model, which many like. Whatever radion you go with make sure it has the SSB (USB/LSB) decoder... I have a YB300 that does nothave this. It is ok for news, but not IMHO a cruising radio. The Kaito also have a solid feel, not like the cheap plastic feel that Grundig has adopted (my Yachtboy YB300 is positively cheap feeling compared to the kaito)
I had great success with my dodger frame as an antenna... which was surprising since I had less success with long (even tuned) antennas I tried to hoist up into the rigging.
One thing I did not try, but do not hesitate to recommend would be following James Baldwin's advice on his web page. He mentioned this page to me when we visited them, I later wished I had taken the time to put one together before I left. The link is; Aerial Tricks - making a dipole antenna for your SSB radio
(with notes on SSB receivers and RF ground planes)
by James Baldwin (http://www.atomvoyages.com/projects/dipole.htm)
I am new to this SSB/Ham thing.
Why would you only get a receiver? Is this a backup to your SSB receiver and sender? Don't you want to send also when out on sea? How much $$ more does it cost to get the complete outfit (and get certified)? Finally, how bout just going with Sat phones and internet? How much more would that cost?
There- I think that is enough questions for one day- I'll go back to looking at the wind forecast and stop bothering you. ;)
Quote from: newt on July 21, 2008, 03:38:05 PM
I am new to this SSB/Ham thing.
Why would you only get a receiver? Is this a backup to your SSB receiver and sender? Don't you want to send also when out on sea? How much $$ more does it cost to get the complete outfit (and get certified)? Finally, how bout just going with Sat phones and internet? How much more would that cost?
There- I think that is enough questions for one day- I'll go back to looking at the wind forecast and stop bothering you. ;)
The receiver is goo enough to get what you end up wanting to know. Wx info was what we were interested in.
To receive, all you need is the radio, which can run on AA batteries or 12vdc. You can add an antenna to get better reception.
From there, it is just a question of how far away from the KISS principal you want to go... spend more money, time, energy, and space... for.
To xmit, you need a much more expensive radio, a tuner, and a dedicated antenna... much more money, space, and labor intensive. Even if you elect to do it you probably still want a small portable receiver to pick up wx (and maybe a time tick).
Offshore email adds another level of complexity... not interested in working that hard for comms myself. I could not really picture using it on a small boat in the real world myself... but I think that, and sat phones have been talked about in this thread (http://sailfar.net/forum/index.php?topic=469.0).
Your power requirements and capital investment skyrocket if you want an SSB transceiver. An SSB receiver is relatively inexpensive... under $300 or so for a really good one... an SSB transciever is going to be at least three-to-four times that for the radio, antenna, tuner, and ground plane. A receiver uses very little power, and some can be powered via solar or AA batteries. An SSB transceiver uses a massive amount of power if transmitting.
Thanks guys, the tread was exactly what I was looking for. I don't know why I didn't see it earlier. (Grog to ya for helping me out!)
S/V Faith, how much does the one you bought cost?
Quote from: hearsejr on July 21, 2008, 11:55:19 PM
S/V Faith, how much does the one you bought cost?
Bill,
I seem to remember paying ~$135-150 for mine maybe a year and a half ago. A Quick search (http://www.google.com/search?q=kaito+1103+price&sourceid=ie7&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&ie=utf8&oe=utf8) shows they are now available for less then $100. ($80-100, plus shipping). If you can find the Degen 1103 it is the same radio, but the Degen brand was for Asians markets and for some reason was running less when I bought mine.
kewl thanks. I'm thinking that I like the idea of a portable shortwave Radio for weather warnings.
Bill
Quote from: AdriftAtSea on July 21, 2008, 05:28:26 PM
An SSB transceiver uses a massive amount of power if transmitting.
My Icom M802 draws almost 2 amps when *receiving*. I have a shortwave receiver on my shopping list specifically to reduce power consumption receiving weather faxes and listening to BBC / VOA / AFN.
sail fast, dave
S/V Auspicious
Dave,
You might want to take a look at Reviews Summary for Kaito KA1103 (http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/5071). The hardcore ham guys really like it.
darn...didn't think it drew that much in receive mode.
Quote from: Auspicious on July 22, 2008, 10:11:22 AM
Quote from: AdriftAtSea on July 21, 2008, 05:28:26 PM
An SSB transceiver uses a massive amount of power if transmitting.
My Icom M802 draws almost 2 amps when *receiving*. I have a shortwave receiver on my shopping list specifically to reduce power consumption receiving weather faxes and listening to BBC / VOA / AFN.
sail fast, dave
S/V Auspicious
Anyone have a handy-dandy list of recommended frenquiencies I should print out and keep by the squawk-box?
I really like my Kaito 1103. Once I got the hang of using the antenna (and the dodger frame as an antenna) I was able to get Chris Parker's weather pretty reliably. Of course propagation is the variable that no one can control, but I did at least as well as those with installed SSB / HAM sets.
The problem was that I did not want to bring the Kaito out on deck for listening to 'the voice of the Bahamas' or other radio programs.
I see now the Degen / Kaito 1103 is available on Ebay for about half of what I paid. I will probably pick up another one and let my Yachtboy go like I did the SiTek (I have NEVER liked the Yachtboy, and since it lacks SSB it is not really worthy of a place onboard). Even if I get another 1103, it still leaves me with non-waterproof gear in the cockpit.
Rose got me a shower radio a few years ago, and I used it for a while but the sound is pretty tinny.
What would be nice would be to find either a good waterproof AM/FM radio, or a waterproof AM/FM/SW/SSB radio.
Anyone know of one?
I'm interested in getting a Kaito, so the weatherproofing issue is of interest to me as well.
Dumb question: is there an external speaker jack?
If not, couldn't one be wired in pretty easily? Then run a lead to the cockpit with a weatherproof speaker and call it a day. Perhaps not ideal (volume control, freq adjust, etc is still down below), but workable.
Yes, the Kaito / Degen is an excellent radio.
I doubt I will find anything I like more (at least for SSB).
It does have an external speaker jack. I like to be able to just keep the radio accessible so I can adjust the volume etc. at will.
I have considered an installed radio, WM has had some pretty good deals on marine radio packages with speakers and USB inputs for stored music.... I am not really wanting to install another system onboard. I think a radio is pretty KISS and would like to avoid something more complicated.
I had an Icom 718 which worked well as a ham radio and a general coverage receiver, but it died, I guess I shouldn't have left it in the boat over the winter. I recently got a Kenwood TS-130S off of ebay for about $250 delivered, however it does not have general coverage, it only picks up ham frequencies. I have not tried it in the boat yet.
I run a 20m dipole hauled up with a halyard. I can tie it to the side of the boat just aft of the spreaders, but it seems to work better if I pull it back to the pushpit. Its in the way of the mainsail, so thats not a good permanent choice. I'm thinking about using a wood pole to hold it out aft of the aft stay, the further the better. I also have a 17m dipole.
I am interested in using PSK or other data for email or weatherfax, but have not tried it yet. Mainly I listen to 14.300Mhz, the Maritime net.
Paul,
I am not really interested in a transceiver, or an installed radio. I used to be, but don't really want to 'go there' right now.
Where do you find room for your Kenwood TS-130S? (http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/ts130s.html)
Looks like a pretty big space commitment to me.
(http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/ts130s.jpg)
I know your Icom was not exactly pocket size;
(http://www.rigpix.com/icom/ic718.jpg)
But the Kenwood is going to take up some room. (Looks like a cool unit though). ;D
(http://cruisenews.net/tanzer/22V2005/108.jpg)
(http://cruisenews.net/tanzer/22V2005/121.jpg)
More interior pics here, but warning for slow connections, there are many large pics on this page:
http://cruisenews.net/tanzer/22V2005/ (http://cruisenews.net/tanzer/22V2005/)
Its too bad the Kenwood does not receive all general shortwave bands. I have only had it a few days and am still working on an antenna at home, so I don't know everything about it yet. Maybe it reaches the 49m broadcast band, which is one of the more useful general coverage bands. I will probably want to bring a general coverage shortwave receiver as a backup, I consider a portable SW receiver as an important piece of equipment in my seabag, along with a GPS, compass, knife, multitool, etc. If I had to choose between a receiver and a ham transceiver, I would get a receiver. However in an emergency, a transceiver would be useful.
The Kenwood is a decent radio. It was designed as an entry-level offering and general coverage receive was left out as part of the effort to keep the price down.
All you're going to get is the 41 meter stuff from Region 1 and 3 and even that will disappear over the next year or so. The ITU has rationalized the band-plan worldwide and the shortwave broadcast between 7.1 and 7.3 MHz that overlaps the Region 2 (us) 40m amateur band is being moved. I don't recall the exact schedule.
Got my Kaito 1103 for Christmas (yea First Mate...what a gal)!!
Been playing with it for only a couple of hours and so far I love it. I've not used many SW receivers before but I have used some.
So far, from inside a house in central North Carolina and with the integral antenna, I've picked up:
An English speaking station from Bangkok, Thailand
A dude in Southern California with a 25 degree directional aimed East that was blowing my ears off
AFN from Key West...loud n clear
Cruisers Roll call on the Atlantic Maritime Mobile
VOA
BBC (multiple stations)
Canadian Radio International
And many others.
I also learned something I did not catch at first. It will tune any SW frequencies from 1710-29999 kHz; I initially thought it would only tune freqs in the bands listed on the screen, but that's not true.
The interface was a little counter-intuitive for me at first, but I've gotten used to it. Beyond that, what a tremendous unit for less than $100. Now to d/l some weatherfax software, hook 'er up to see how she does with that.
Well pleased...thanks, Craig, for bringing this unit to my attention. Great KISS friendly workable solution for the Wx issue. Grog to you!
Sorry for the double post, but....
Quick update after I got the Kaito aboard the boat.
(1) I'm getting mondo interference from our ship's battery charger. Strong stations come in okay (like Budapest Radio and China Radio International and Radio Cuba with the integral ant and inside the main cabin....), but anything with questionable S/N is blown out by the noise.
The computer is giving a little interference, but only if the antenna is right close to it....it's cool, though, I can pick up different patterns with mouse movements. Haha.
Craig, you notice any onboard equipment giving issues? It's got me wondering about a wind generator/towed generator. I'll have to hook up my depth sounder and see what happens.
Worse case is having to turn things off for the duration of getting wx info.
(2) With the batt charger circuit breaker off and the integral antenna, again from inside the boat, picked up both New Orleans and Chez NOAA voice wx, but shaky on signal. Radio fax from either station is loud and clear, but I've yet to record and decode a fax wx map.
(3) Got HamFax (http://hamfax.sourceforge.net/) compiled and installed, but I have not made a cable yet. Fingers crossed this works as I've grown to like pictorial wx info. Can live without it, and truthfully until a few days ago, didn't think I cared enough to want weatherfax on board, but if it is 'this easy' and (imo) this KISS, I'd like to have it.
Quote from: Captain Smollett on December 28, 2009, 11:56:21 PM
....I'm getting mondo interference from our ship's battery charger. ....
The battery charger is electrically noisy. You won't be using it underway, so I would not worry about it.
Quote
Craig, you notice any onboard equipment giving issues? It's got me wondering about a wind generator/towed generator. I'll have to hook up my depth sounder and see what happens.
If I get the antenna close to the Link battery monitor I would get some weird noises, but it had to be practically touching it. I never noticed the laptop interfering, however I do not think I ever had a wi-fi card in and used the SSB at the same time... can not think of why I ever would though. ???
QuoteWorse case is having to turn things off for the duration of getting wx info.
Getting the wx update was an 'event' and not a big deal to not run other gear at the same time. Never had a problem with the charge controller, refrigeration, or other misc items (depth, GPS) causing any problems.
Quote(3) Got HamFax (http://hamfax.sourceforge.net/) compiled and installed, but I have not made a cable yet. Fingers crossed this works as I've grown to like pictorial wx info. Can live without it, and truthfully until a few days ago, didn't think I cared enough to want weatherfax on board, but if it is 'this easy' and (imo) this KISS, I'd like to have it.
I had all the 'pieces' aboard, even the purpose built si-tex weatherfax receiver.. never even bothered to mess with it. The laptop is just too power hungry and unreliable to ever be a real 'must have' in my nav / communication suite... IMHO. I always thought it would be nice to have as a backup, (would have been nice to have some additional info when we were in the hurricane) but never found a 'round tuit' for that.
Quote from: s/v Faith on December 29, 2009, 01:45:11 AM
The battery charger is electrically noisy. You won't be using it underway, so I would not worry about it.
Not underway, but here at the dock with shorepower I just have to work around it. The reason it is an issue at all (and not a big one, now that I now the source of the RFI) is 'crew practice.' My plan is to get all the others used to getting wx reports as a matter of routine. Opening the breaker is one addition 'in training' step that won't have to be done underway...
Quote
The laptop is just too power hungry and unreliable to ever be a real 'must have' in my nav / communication suite... IMHO.
I agree; I'm used to/comfortable with 'visualizing' text forecasts, but since I've been playing with gribs, I am coming to appreciate the 'big pictureness' you get with map data. Must-have? No way. Nice addition (ie, luxury when I can afford it), you betcha. :) All I'm missing hw wise right now is the cable with a miniature mono plug on both ends.
As for power on the lappy, well yep, that's a limiting factor. Just as a tentative thought, I was thinking since 'big picture' weather does not change that often, going with a plan something like 'text forecasts every day and wefax every three|five days' or something like that, just to see what's out there.
I did note on one 'sailing weather' site the following VERY interesting comment (I'm paraphrasing):
Coastal cruisers need good wx forecast data
For short ocean passages, good wx data out a few days is required
Long passages, like crossings, understanding climate patterns rather than local weather is more important
I liked that last bit...very pragmatic.
Quote from: Captain Smollett on December 29, 2009, 08:57:28 AM
All I'm missing hw wise right now is the cable with a miniature mono plug on both ends.
I have found this cable in the consumer electronics section at Wal-Mart.
Okay, just to show that wefax CAN be done with the Kaito and hamfax on a Linux Laptop (or more to the point, that *I* can do it with said tools... ;D ), here are a couple of images recorded tonight (01 Jan. 2010). These were all recorded inside the main cabin with the Kaito's integral telescoping antenna. My patch cord was a 6 ft mono-mono I picked up at RS for $4 (making system cost still less than $100, not counting lappy which I already had for other uses).
Not saying this is the KISS-iest small boat approach, but it's nice to know the capability is there just in case.
Note 1: I have been having some trouble getting good (any in some cases) signal on the NOAA weather fax broadcasts the past few days. Since HF propagation has been "poor," however, this is not surprising. Tonight, the bands cleared up enough to get it.
Note 2: My first "real" ssb fax was just a test pattern. I was elated to see a discernable pattern emerge from the noise, but I did not save that image as my 'first' fax. It was handy for tuning the ssb to get good whites and blacks (though I did some on-the-fly tuning later).
Note 3: All three of the following images were from NMF Boston. The first was 4235 kHz and then I switched to 6340 kHz for the latter two. Obviously, I got better S/N on 6340.
Note 4: The initial sync-ing signal was missed for all of these, so all were initially recorded with a slant and with the 'edge' of the page in the middle of the image. I liked how hamfax allowed me to clean these artifacts up.
Note 5: Any pixelation in these images is due to the reduction for display here and to keep file sizes a bit smaller. I can post original full size images to the gallery if anyone really wants to see 'em.
Here's my "first" fax image recorded with real information, even though it's not readily readable. It's part of the 0300Z 02-Jan-2010 Broadcast Schedule transmission.
(http://sailfar.net/gallery/albums/userpics/10005/normal_first_sm.png)
The slant here is visible...I did correct, but not completely (since the text is not clear anyway).
Moving up to 6340 kHz (Kaito tuned to 6338), I got the Request For Comments that immediately follows the schedule broadcast. The word "comments" on this image was the first readable data I saw as it came off live. I stopped the capture in hamfax a little early (on purpose), so that's why the bottom is cut off. Also, I did not correct the aspect ratio on this, since it is readable as is.
(http://sailfar.net/gallery/albums/userpics/10005/normal_20100101_0300z_nmf_rfc_a_sm.png)
Now for some real wx data. Here is the Atlantic wind wave map for 00:00Z 02-Jan-2010. This one has the aspect ratio corrected. For orientation, you can make out the US East Coast on the left side of the image. (yes, I missed the 'start' and thus the first couple of lines).
(http://sailfar.net/gallery/albums/userpics/10005/normal_20100101_0315z_nmf_windwave_b_sm.png)
And finally, to compare, here is the "original" from the NOAA web site:
(http://sailfar.net/gallery/albums/userpics/10005/normal_PWAA88_sm.png)
(again, the pixelation is due to my reduction of the image)
I know this is old hat to a bunch of you, and weather fax is old news. But I'm very excited about this from a geek pov as well as knowing I CAN do it if need be/want to. The Kaito is a fine addition to the SailFar KISS boat, in my opinion, because it not only plays it's KISS role very well, but it creates other options, too.
Very cool Captain. And very KISS. You say you used the internal antenna? Is that down in the doghouse with everything closed?
Quote from: newt on January 02, 2010, 06:43:45 AM
Very cool Captain. And very KISS. You say you used the internal antenna? Is that down in the doghouse with everything closed?
Yes, that's with the Kaito's integral antenna (no external wire run outside or up the mast or anything) and in main cabin with all hatches closed. Broadcast from Boston received on the North Carolina coast.
Well, I'm going to have to try that now. If Smollett can do it, I'm sure I can as well.
I need to remember this radio for when I pick one up. Sounds like a winner. I wonder how it compares to the 802 (other than alot cheaper)
Quote from: newt on January 02, 2010, 10:34:14 AM
I wonder how it compares to the 802 (other than alot cheaper)
This thread on sailnet (http://www.sailnet.com/list_server/read_messages.php?id=264235) has some anecdotal comparisons of the Kaito 1102 and ICOM 802.
Scroll down for the comparison:
Quote
I'm saving up for an ICOM802 install, but interestingly, I have sailed on
two boats equipped with professionally installed 802 systems and my Kaito
(which I brought along) gets just as good reception. Makes one wonder about
the value of plunking down several thousand dollars when a $69 receiver gets
you most of what you need from a HF radio.
Nice work John,
Thanks for taking the time to take the pictures. Was that with done with the software from the link you posted earlier?
Quote from: s/v Faith on January 02, 2010, 04:45:03 PM
Nice work John,
Thanks for taking the time to take the pictures. Was that with done with the software from the link you posted earlier?
Yes, those were captured with HamFax. There is a plethora of hf fax software for Windows and Mac listed on the NOAA Radiofax site (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/marine/radiofax.htm). That's were I found the link to HamFax for Linux.
Note for Linux users: I did try the ACFax software, but could not get it to compile even with the required libraries confirmed. The problem was a coding error that I was too lazy to fix. HamFax took some minor fiddling with ./configure options to get it to find my QT installation properly (but I have both QT3 and QT4 installed which MAY have been confusing it).
Note for Windows Users: HamFax uses the QT library, which is available for Windows...so it MAY compile and install on Windows. Probably easier to use one of the Windows hf fax tools.
Quote from: Shipscarver on July 22, 2008, 04:24:48 PM
Anyone have a handy-dandy list of recommended frenquiencies I should print out and keep by the squawk-box?
I started with this list (http://windom.cybox.com/ssb.html)
Also, you'll want to check out the NOAA site (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/marine/radiofax.htm), and be sure to get the fax schedule (it's a PDF you can d/l to the computer and keep for offline use).
That page also has the software to download to capture and decode the fax images.
Also, you probably want the ssb voice wx broadcast freqs and schedules (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/marine/hfvoice.htm). Have not picked up much on these yet.
In addition to the ones listed in that first link, you can do a Google search for Maritime Nets to get others (Europe).
I have to set my mind and put some effort into this subject. I will go for the "Kaito radio and wheater faxes" mod. as you mention here in this tread. see if I got this right?
I can download the software to my computer? from noaa? else?
This site is just a wealth of knowledge. I am going to pick up this receiver, I am currently studing for my Ham license so I figure this would be something good to get me started in on listening at minimal outlay of cash. Does anyone have a specific source or just off amazon or something like that?
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
I have the Kaito myself and used it in the Bahamas to get Chris Parker's forecasts. Now, here at the house, I listen to NPR sometimes.
I really need to explore further to use it's capabilities.
Nice little radio for the bucks, but even nicer with either earphones, or a plug in speaker-the internal speaker it comes with isn't the very best.
Looking at reviews on Amazon, it seems as though the quality is really all over the place especially with more recent reviews. Anyone purchased one lately?
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
We certainly enjoyed our cheapo Kaito. It was a simple shortwave/AM/FM that could be powered by A/C, batteries, a built in PV panel, or a hand crank.
On some of our longer passages, Rachel and I would entertain ourselves by finding some appropriately peppy music and then wiggling our butts and cranking the radio to the beat. Here's a pic of Rachel, butt wiggling and hand cranking:
(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cXaYDxFPiYk/TR5p_XzwVTI/AAAAAAAAAUw/Dxc5ISyhSfc/s1600/12.31.2010%2B003.jpg)
Eventually, our poor radio succumbed to me sitting on it accidentally after too much wine one night. RIP Kaito cheap-o. We will miss you.
Quote from: Cruiser2B on May 19, 2012, 09:23:55 AM
Looking at reviews on Amazon, it seems as though the quality is really all over the place especially with more recent reviews. Anyone purchased one lately?
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
What exactly are they saying is wrong, quality wise?
(Sorry, too lazy to look it up myself at the moment).
Been really happy with mine, but I've had it a couple of years now.
Before I bought mine, I had a HAM friend take a look at the tech specs and techie reviews. He said it looked pretty darn good, ESPECIALLY at the price point. Be interesting to know if newer models have degraded QA or spec changes.
I have a few 'complaints' about the unit, but they are more usability/function layout related than performance.
Well, if I was going to review my radio, it would go something like this:
"Although we enjoyed our Kaito shortwave immensely, I must protest the quality of construction. In my humble opinion, this radio is much too delicate for normal, everyday use.
For instance, one lovely night we found ourselves staring at the stars, drinking wine, and listening to stations from around the world. Through no fault of my own, the radio came to rest beneath me and not only did the flimsy antenna break, but the cheap plastic housing cracked, leaving us with a broken display and reduced reception. Incensed with the infernal machine, I cast it into the water, wishing to be rid of it. After my rage passed, I fished it back out, thinking I might replace the antenna. To my dismay, after being thoroughly soaked in seawater, the radio ceased to function at all!
I cannot help but blame Kaito for a poor design and do not recommend this radio at this time. :D
Quote from: Captain Smollett on May 19, 2012, 04:10:37 PM
Quote from: Cruiser2B on May 19, 2012, 09:23:55 AM
Looking at reviews on Amazon, it seems as though the quality is really all over the place especially with more recent reviews. Anyone purchased one lately?
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
What exactly are they saying is wrong, quality wise?
(Sorry, too lazy to look it up myself at the moment).
Been really happy with mine, but I've had it a couple of years now.
Before I bought mine, I had a HAM friend take a look at the tech specs and techie reviews. He said it looked pretty darn good, ESPECIALLY at the price point. Be interesting to know if newer models have degraded QA or spec changes.
I have a few 'complaints' about the unit, but they are more usability/function layout related than performance.
Seems as quality now varies, many complaints about unit staying powered on, unit shutting itself off, charging function crapping out, button functions no longer working. but it seems only recent reviews maybe 2010 and newer. many say to buy from a reputable place so it can be exchanged for a new one....because all still seemed to praise its ability when working properly
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
Been giving it some thought, gonna take my chances and order one tomorrow. Wish me luck!
www.svsalacia.blogspot.com
Found this program on the web, Gonna buy a "world radio" in a day or two, and try to figure this out! And such beautiful wheater it is :D
http://www.filebuzz.com/fileinfo/4868/SeaTTY.html
I love my Kaito, but I have to say that anyone who is considering using one (or any SW radio for wx) REALLY needs to practice using it at home.... or in their local sailing waters BEFORE you rely on it 'out there'.
sorry guys, I have not ordered my radio just yet....been traveling with work. I should able to it this week. I will keep you guys posted on quality and operation
Thanks SF
Ordered, should be here by friday
www.svsalcia.blogspot.com
Any reviews yet? Considering it myself.
Sorry for not replying sooner, i was in Tarin Kowt, Afghanistan and had limited internet access. When I did have it I skyped with the family, and posted on my Blog to make it look like i was home. Wife was not comfortable with people knowing I was gone. I got back about a 5 weeks ago.
I received my radio about 3 months ago. I used it in Afganistan and picked quite a bit of stations frrom all over( most of which I did not understand. The overall quality of the unit I received is and has continued to be very very good. Charges and lasts quite a while on supplied rechargeable batteries. the external ant is a must for SSB. I am actually working on getting and building a better antenna setup but have been very busy catching with the wife lately. I took it out on a day sail a few weeks ago and was able to tune in 14.300Mhz Mobile Maritime Network. I listen to this station at home via the internet. I was never able to pick this up in Afghan or here at my house. Out on the boat in the middle of the Chesapeake bay during the day I was able to pick it up. I am working on getting a weather fax setup going. I will keep you posted.
Thank You so much for your service, cruiser!
I used to do alot of 40/80 meter cw during the late 60s... was active with MARS providing phone patches to the DC area during vietnam, alas, I allowed my license to lapse with the folks in gettysburgh as I matriculated through higher education, but, still dx
Quote from: SalientAngle on August 25, 2012, 12:54:53 PM
Thank You so much for your service, cruiser!
well thank you, but I am a contractor. I did serve for 10yrs in the Navy. I do ask that after being there on the front lines, in those villages seeing the conditions our soldiers endure, do everything you can to support them. Regardless of what you think of the war do all you can to support: Letters, Care packages if you can afford it. Do it!