Transceivers (Radios)

Radios are as varied in style and capabilities as are the Hams who operate them!

If you have experience soldering or can obtain assistance, kit building is a real thrill. Being able to use something you built gives one an amazing sense of accomplishment and pride. But no worries, if you do not wish to take this route, there are many radio sets commercially built and are of very high quality.

Radios, typically 'transceivers' can range in price from about $200 to literally $10,000! Pre-owned equipment is another avenue to investigate, which can be quite cost-effective too.

My personal favorites are from Elecraft Radio. They offer small portable CW only rigs in kit form to 'factory built', all modes, and all band transreceivers. They are all portable and run off of 12VDC, making them great for outings, camping or mobile. These radios are of the highest quality and match the performance of radios that cost many times more. I personally own a K2 and a K3.

Photo by Mark Cherry

Elecraft K2 Classic All Band Transeceiver is a great performing radio kit with a full range of options, which are usually only available on higher priced units. While it does require some soldering experience, newcomers can, with a bit of practice, build this unit.

Elecraft K3 All Band Transceiver is the 'next generation' in computerized transceivers. It is available factory assembled or in a modular, no-soldering kit. A K3 is all mode, 160-6 meter coverage and outperforms transceivers costing many thousands of dollars.

Photo by Mark Cherry

Antennas

Software