The QRPer Board

My line up. I tend to switch them up and use them with different radios, but have been used with the TR-35 and work well.


N6ARA TPJ (carry as a backup), AME Ultra Porta Paddle, BamaTech TP-III, N0SA, CW Morse

I have a couple of cases that work, but I really like the Lowepro Hardside CS60. A little expensive new, but I am finding them used for around $15 and they offer good protection and flexible storage space. So far I have found three used ones in near new condition on Ebay $15 or $16 each shipped. The...

Thanks Brian. I cant figure out why the mAT-30 tuner is drawing so much power while just sitting there, but with it attached the draw is unmistakable on two different meters. I am starting to wonder if the YaesuFC-50 will be better, but I will need to research that. It is expensive, but its included...

On the firmware question, I found on an FT-891 group that newer radios are shipping with that firmware version, but it is not generally available yet. So that solves that.

After a back and forth about the FT-891 in the comments on QRPer.com, I ended up getting a second hand FT-891 to test out. It came with a mAT-30 tuner, and so far it seems like a nice little rig. My ultimate intention is to explore it for installing on the sailboat, but power consumption has me worr...

If you have external power for the other radios, why not use that source for the KX2? I almost always KX2 from an external battery and I save the internal for a backup or an occasional quick use.

Have a great trip.

I considered a K2 for quite some time, as I was looking for a more KX2/KX3 like experience in the shack with the option to run 100W. The small amount of comparisons I could do did suggest that my KX2 or KX3 would perform better for me in most situations. There was little gain to be had for me with a...

Good luck on finding a used KX2. I searched for one with no success for months before deciding on the 705. There is a mailing list for Elecraft owners/users and I have seen 2 or 3 on there over the last month. But even there you have to move quick or it is gone. Nice looking once just came up today...

My tools were in boxes this winter with a room redo, so I skipped the kit and got a built TR-35 when they became available. I also sent mine back in for the update and have the memories. The TR-35 quickly became my favorite CW only radio. It is a nicely implemented little rig.

I would also add that Thomas turned us on to this Marlow 2mm throwline available at WesSpur. Inexpensive, very compact and handles well. I was an instant convert once I tried it and figured it was worth a re-share in case others did not see it:

https://wesspur.com//items/thr112.html