It is good to have options. For Hams, the options have been limited when looking to buy a radio to work FM satellites. There are not many transceivers, at least in production, that are full duplex. Full duplex is a key feature, especially for those new to satellites, that distinguishes a radio as a good satellite radio.
Yaesu recently launched the FTM-150RASP, a full duplex, analog mobile transceiver.
When we get a new radio on the scene we, as radio amateurs, do the obvious. We start to compare them to other radios in the same category. According to Yaesu, this radio will be available before the end of November. This gives us the perfect opportunity to dive into one of our favorite pastimes—speculation!
In my view, here’s how the FTM-150 measures up against what I consider to be the best value available in analog VHF/UHF radios and in the satellite radio category, the Icom IC-2730.
I invite you to share your thoughts, opinions, and criticisms of my opinion! Let the dialog begin!