Any VX-8R Users???

[KE7TOW]

I'm new to the ham radio world (certified last year) and am just now arranging a budget for hardware. I have been looking at the VX-8R (someone else in my ward has one) and it looks like a solid radio. This radio, and a couple of accessories is the top most of my budget.

However, the radio is a bit pricey so I'm wondering if those of you more experienced think spending the extra $$$ for a totally loaded HT is something to do or just get something basic? the idea being get as much radio as possible and then adjust here and there...or, stick with just the basics and upgrade over time as needs change?

Looking for guidance/Advice.

Thanks

Phil (KE7TOW)

[wb7sgl]

Hi Phil,

I went to HRO back when I was first licensed (maybe even the week before the license was issued) and bought my VX6R. I initially went in wanting the Kenwood TH6A (?) because I wanted the dual receive; which would still be nice to have...

I wish I had done this a little different. I can't speak to the VX7R or the VX8R but I am not all that satisfied with my VX6R as my sole rig. The receiver just isn't good enough. It's fine with strong signals, but weak signals won't break the squelch without a preamp.

I wish I had bought the FT60 and a dual band mobile rig like the FT7900.

I find that I don't use a fraction of the features of the VX6R and wouldn't miss them if all I had was the FT60.

Please keep us up on what you buy and what you think of it though!!!

73, WB7SGL - Rob

[KE7TOW]

Thanks for the information Rob!

I will definately post back what I finally decide on. It's a tough decision because there are so many different opinions. I don't want to waste my money but want to get something that will meet both my current needs and leave me with room to grow, so to speak.

I've got a buddy who owns a VX-8R and really likes the device and says he would buy it again, but admits he hasn't scratched the surface of its capabilities.

More to come and thanks again!

/Phil - KE7TOW

[AH0U]

Thisis my 52nd year in hamdom and have seen many radios come and go.  I have the VX8R and love it.  But I wanted to play with some of the new features on it. If you just wnat an  HT to get onthe air and join local events, it is way too much radio and way too much money. I like Yeasu HT's because when I was TA1ZA in Istanbul the intermod was off the chart and teh Yeasu radios were the only ones that were not affected by it.  You are correct, it is a solid rig but really not for someone just wnating to get onthe air.  Find a cheaper radio, a simpler radio and grow intothe hobby as your interest grows. If it does not grow, you won't be out too much as most HT's sell well onthe used market.
73, AH0U