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Amateur Radio / Re: 2M SSB - Is it worth the cost? That depends, but it is fun!
« on: April 05, 2021, 0528 UTC »
In the mid-90's, I paid about $1,100.00 total into 2M SSB. That includes a used Kenwood TS-711A, a Mirage modified 2M 140W repeater linear amp, a Hamtronics 2M GaAS FET preamp kit, LMR-400 coax, and a homebrew copper 5 element HORZ beam. At that time, I knew several people into 2M SSB, and even 432MHz SSB, and that 140W PEP talked weekly into the St Lawrence Seaway, CT, NJ, PA, and even into D.C. off the back of the beam. At the time, I was living near the bottom of the Newtown Creek Valley, my beam was only 30ft up, yet just cleared the rooftops and trees close by. +300 miles, without DX enhancement, seemed to be the norm. It seemed to be about on-par with my 6M SSB system. 432MHz SSB, with 30W and a 3 element beam, got me out to Erie, PA, or about 175 miles. So, was it worth it? At the time, I'd thought YES, plus the experience that I've gained in doing it that I can apply today. Just don't ask how much I've spent on 222MHz FM and 1.2GHz. I probably should include the Astron RS-70M power supply, as well, that powered the rigs and amps.