(2024) If you’re curious about what’s new with my ham radio setup, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been busy updating my station to better match my style and needs. I’ve mixed the reliable performance of my beloved Yaesu FTDX101-MP with a brand new Kenwood TS-890s. This shift was all about getting back to the classic controls—knobs and buttons—that feel right at home in my hands, rather than sticking with the more modern, software-driven interfaces like those on my old Flex 6600. The Yaesu FTDX101-MP has been with me for a while now, and it’s a real workhorse. This rig delivers up to 200 Watts on SSB, CW, and FM, and it’s known for its exceptional receiver performance. It achieves this with a hybrid SDR design that combines direct sampling and superheterodyne circuits. This setup not only gives me great dynamic range but also keeps the noise low and the selectivity sharp. Its high-resolution display makes it a breeze to track down signals, even when the bands are packed.
My newest addition is the Kenwood TS-890s. I bought this in because I wanted something that felt more hands-on. It’s a powerhouse in its own right, pushing out up to 100 Watts and sporting a large, easy-to-read LCD color display. What really sets it apart is its down-conversion IF architecture, which enhances signal purity and delivers crystal-clear audio. Plus, its independent spectrum scope and waterfall display are perfect for keeping an eye on the signals. As for integrating all this new gear, I made sure everything was seamless. I set up an antenna switch that lets me choose which radio gets connected to which antenna. I also rigged up a smart audio switcher for the microphone, so I can easily decide which radio gets the audio. And, of course, I didn’t forget about the PTT lines to the amplifier. Separate switchable cables handle this function well.
After a lot of research I added an Acom 1200S amplifier to the mix. This component effortlessly delivers up to 1200 Watts across all amateur bands from 1.8 to 54 MHz. It’s equipped with an automatic tuning circuit that locks onto the antenna’s impedance super quickly, which means I can switch bands fast and keep everything running smoothly. The amplifier’s touchscreen shows me all the stats, like power output, SWR, and temperature.
All this tweaking and upgrading has really paid off. My station is not just about keeping up with technology—it’s about creating a station that fits my way of doing things. It’s about blending the latest tech with the feel of old-school radio. So, stay tuned, there’s always more to come!
