THE QUESTION:

Subj:  HF/6 mtr rigs in contests.
Date:  Mon, Jun 19, 1995 10:13 PM EDT
From:  Tim_Coad@smtp.svl.trw.com
To: CQ-CONTEST@tgv.com (CQ CONTEST)

                       Subject:                               Time:5:24 PM
  OFFICE MEMO          HF/6 mtr rigs in contests.             Date:6/19/95

Hi gang,
I asked this on the VHF reflector  a while back to get the VHF point of view,
now I want the HF contester point of view. I am considering purchasing a new radio that 
has 6 mtrs and HF. Like the TS690 or the IC736. I currently use a TS-930 on HF 
contesting and I love it (but its not mine).

The Question:
Are these radios competition grade radios? The rig would be used for
Dx-peditions, very serious contests here at home, and VHF mountain topping.

The other option I am considering is:
look for a used TS-850 and some other used 6 mtr radio, though it looks like
this option would still cost more.

I would appreciate comments from anyone out there who has experience using
these radios in a SERIOUS effort.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ANSWERS:

Thanks to all who responded to my HF/6 mtr rig question!

This will be real easy to summarize:

To my surprise almost all suggested to buy a TS-850 (or similiar) and a
Downeast or  SSB Electronic transverter. Several said if you really want a
combined HF/6 mtr rig then get the JST245. Most said I would be disappointed
with a IC736 or TS690 when compared to a "real" contest radio like the 850.
However most thought they were much better Six meter radios than say an
IC-551.

Thanks again.

Tim - NU6S