I've been on 50 MHz since the time when DXCC was impossible since there were not 100 countries in the world that had six meter privileges *. I even have a QSL from a pirate in Scotland (back in the 70's ??) before they got the go ahead after ch1 TV was shut down in Europe.

Every propagation mode known happens at one time or another on 50 MHz. Moonbounce, E skip, Tropo, F2, Aurora, Meteor scatter, Back scatter, and good old Ground wave if you're diligent. There are many beacons all around the world below 50.1. Check there first before you say the band is dead.

Two meters is right behind. About the only mode I haven't heard there is F-2. There's even E skip on 220 Mhz.

There's LOTs to do above 50 MHz.

That said with all the enthusiasm, I can't really see Elecraft making a dedicated VHF/UHF radio when they already have some very good transverters available. I would have to agree that effort to fill some holes on the P3 would be of more interest to me.

73, Charlie k3ICH

*
140 countries confirmed on six meters, plus WAS, WAC, and 37 states confirmed with NO moonbounce on two meters from here in Virginia.


----- Original Message ----- From: "Edward R Cole" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, January 31, 2014 2:01 PM
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode VHF/UHFoffering from Elecraft?


Ted,

You really expected a VHF contest to sound like Field day on the HF bands? That tells me that you do not regularly operate VHF-ssb.

I have been pleading with the FM repeater HT hams for years to explore the fun of VHF-ssb/cw/digital modes with multi types of propagation and the response is they don't have the time, the cash, the know-how, the property that allows antennas, etc. etc.

There is plenty VHF multi-mode radios available plus a wide assortment of transverters, plus very economical surplus multi-modes from past years. Radio supply is not the problem. With the exception of 2m-eme using digital modes there is just not much interest by the usual VHF users and especially new hams. Satellite use has dwindled due to lack of cheap launch capability so new satellites are essentially orbiting repeaters for the most part.

A radio with the capabilities you request will be in the $3000 class (If not more). A K3/10 + transverters will accomplish this if you want Elecraft equipment at less than that (I think). Or one could buy the KX3 and add the 2M module when it comes out. Then add transverters for 222, 432, 1296.

In 2012, I sold my FT-847 to purchase a 222-28 and 432-28 transverter to go with my K3/10 which I already had 144-28 and 1296-28 transverters. The K3 + transverters make a "way superior" combo than any multi-mode VHF/UHF that I have seen.

I am QRV from 600m to 3cm!

73, Ed - KL7UW
PS:  I worked three stations in the Jan. VHF Contest!

From: Ted Edwards W3TB <[email protected]>
To: Dave <[email protected]>
Cc: Elecraft Reflector <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Would anyone like to see an all-mode
        VHF/UHFoffering from Elecraft?
Message-ID:

<caghfmtjuqkp_3ncbyi32sude+5bhrqtqszunuj7mvc5uveu...@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

Yes for CW.
This would be a GREAT way to get our Techs beyond the limits of operating
on the repeaters.

Some years ago, I had expected the June/Sept VHF Contests to replace Field
Day as the big participation event for local clubs as the new Techs would
discover the many other ways to use their licenses. It didn't happen, but
this might help move along greater participation on VHF/UHF.  Good idea!




73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
    "Kits made by KL7UW"
Dubus Mag business:
    [email protected]

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