RE: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread Darwin, Keith
- Original Message - It seems that there is some disagreement as to whether a beginner should start with a Straight Key or Paddles and Keyer. I favor the Straight Key, but I can see some merit to the Paddle position. -- I learned CW on a straight key so it

Re: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread Paul Christensen
Because of this, I've changed my tune and I now recognize that a straight key is not a beginner's tool, but is for the intermediate CW operator. Keith, It's commendable that your kids have shown an interest in Morse. I learned basic letter formation using a straight key, but only for the

RE: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread Darwin, Keith
-Original Message- Looking back, the HD-1410 by Heathkit (and perhaps the Curtis 8044 chips) probably did more to launch the popularity of iambic CW than all other products combined. Pauil, W9AC --- My first run as a Novice was straight key only. No elmer, no help,

RE: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread WA6L
How true that is. After years and years of using a paddle, I am learning to use a Bug. It is quite a challenge. But as you say, it puts the fun and the individuality back into CW. I think if I ever ran out of new things to learn, I would give up Ham Radio. But luckily there is no danger

Re: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread T. David Yarnes
- Original Message - From: Darwin, Keith [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Monday, March 24, 2008 6:25 AM Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs - Original Message - It seems that there is some disagreement as to whether

Re: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-24 Thread Ken, KA0W
Good to try (use) all the CW tools. Whatever the op likes and is comfortable with is what the op will prefer. One soon finds out that it's the op much more than the specific tools that make the wonderful CW noise. Excluding a keyboard perhaps. Even some of those sound a little shabby when the op

Re: [Elecraft] Straight Keys, Paddles and Bugs

2008-03-23 Thread Sandy
Having worked CW for some years..I would say stick with a straight key until you have at least reached 7-10 WPM with no problem. Going to a Vibroplex key then would be OK as even I find it difficult to send really good CW on a bug or an automatic key at less than 13-15 WPM. Once competent