Excellent presentation by Richard, G3UGF, on the Yaesu FTX-1

The word was that Yaesu was to release a sophisticated version of the FT-817, beloved of the QRP community. But the expected release date came and went and eventually the replacement came in two forms, a low power FTX-1 Field with a 100W add-on, making it the FTX-1 Optima.

At our April meeting last night Richard, G3UGF, explained the reason behind the birth of the SDR radio and its twin PA, assessing their features and performance in an excellent illustrated talk, delivered with insight and humour.

Yaesu, he said, was reacting to falling market share due to the increasing volume of transceivers emanating from China. While the Chinese rigs come at an attractive price, his verdict was that the FTX-1 offers greater refinement and better performance in the key area of signal rejection.

He had previously reviewed the Field and Optima in Practical Wireless magazine and his faith in them is reflected in his decision to buy the Optima for camper van operation. While positive in his assessment, not least the perfect viewing angle of the battery-run Field model, the clear colour display and the quiet fans, there were criticisms.

These included a complex menu system, the poor power lead, the lack of a remote cable, the weight and bulkiness with an attached atu for portable operation and – big moan – the lack of a carry handle, a cost-cutting exercise too far!

Many thanks for a first class presentation to Halifax-based Richard, who was licensed in 1965 and speaks from a lifetime of amateur radio experience.