I found a Kenwood TS-830S in excellent condition and it needed only minor cleaning to get on the air with full power output on all bands.
The (tr)uSDX can be used for FT8 and other digital modes by using it’s CAT capability and audio in/out jacks.
The (tr)uSDX is a pocket sized QRP transceiver, capable of CW, LSB, USB (and AM/FM). It covers 80, 60, 40, 30, and 20 meters. What I find amazing about this transceiver is that it has a VFO, OLED screen, built in speaker and key, all inside of a pocket sized case. Further, it can decode CW and measure approximate SWR and power output.
The Kenwood TS-530SP is among some of the most popular hybrid rigs from the 80s which are still in service today. I purchased mine from N1QQV who got me into the hobby and who is now a silent key. The radio has sentimental value and operating it is like stepping back in time.
If you’ve heard of FT8 and wonder why this digital mode has become one of the most popular digital modes, but you question “why?” or you don’t have interest in it, read this post. It might provide some insight into what it is and why it’s so popular.
I hear many QSOs quite often from older amateurs who were around before these digital modes became so popular who don’t have any interest in FT8. I often wonder if it’s because they don’t see the purpose of it and how it fits into the hobby, or if they find it too much of a technical challenge to start using it.
Using CAT and VB-CABLE, put your SDR to work on HF with WSPR
Packet radio is still a popular mode for APRS and Winlink, to name a few uses. With many forms of packet including hardware and software options, it’s worth exploring.
CW is still a very popular mode, and even though it is no longer required on any of the amateur radio license exams, learning it is a challenge worth taking on.
Powerpole connectors make for a convenient and simple way to interconnect all of your equipment to your power sources.