FTdx10 & FT-991A: SSB Receiver Comparison (Video #18 in this series)
Вставка
- Опубліковано 15 лип 2024
- My good friend Joel, KC4WZB, loaned me his brand new Yaesu FTdx10. When I say loaned, I mean he picked it up at Ham Radio Outlet and brought it straight to me, so I could unbox it and shoot a series of videos, exploring the capabilities of this latest offering from Yaesu.
This is the eighteenth video in a series of videos I will be producing to show the capabilities of the Yaesu FTdx10. In this video I compare the weak signal SSB receive capabilities of the FTdx10 and the FT-991A.
Subscribe and click the notification bell to ensure that you don’t miss the other videos in this series.
I hope you enjoy this video and find it helpful. If you find my channel informative and entertaining, I hope you will consider joining my support group by clicking on: www.patreon.com/N4HNH There are 3 levels of support, including exclusive content. Patreon team members gain insight from our technical discussions and internal polls. They also have the opportunity to view certain videos before they are released for public viewing.
N4HNH Radio has a Web site, where you can purchase T-shirts with some of the sayings you might hear in the videos. Some of the more prominent videos are featured there as well as a page geared toward ham radio training. Go to: www.n4hnhradio.com
Another great way to help support this channel is to click subscribe.
73, de N4HNH - Наука та технологія
I learned more about my FTDX10 than I have with any other radio that I’ve owned. Thanks for your no nonsense, no ego approach.
You’re quite welcome. I’m just a radio nerd. Hi! Hi! I’m glad you learned something from the FTdx10 series. Thanks for letting me know!
73, de N4HNH
The FT-991 is a nice sounding radio. Yaesu’s DNR is amazing!
That comparisson was just what I had in mind!!! Thank you so much for your efforts!!!
I’m glad the video helped.
73, de N4HNH
have had my ft-991a for almost as yr as of april , just got a ftdx10 and i got to say these vids you have put out are very thorough and concise...if the ftdx only had the vhf/uhf side it would be killer
If I could only have one transceiver, it would be FT-991A, but no it can’t beat the FTdx10 for HF. It isn’t extremely far behind the FTdx10 though. The DSP makes up for the lack of tight physical roofing filters. Those physical roofing filters, and the low phase noise, give the FTdx10 an edge.
Just remember the rule. One radio is none and two is one. I think that’s how the saying goes. It’s a military thing. So enjoy both.
73, de N4HNH
These are impressive videos and I am becoming more and more of a Yaesu fan. I own an FTDX-10 but I kind of want a 991A also ;). Thanks for the time you take on these videos.
I’m glad you find the videos helpful, Don. Thanks for saying so. Congratulations on getting a FTdx10. The FT-991A and the FTdx10 are both titans. Two of the best radios I’ve ever operated.
73, Doug
I can imagine that! I also bought both. Now I'm completely satisfied. :)
@John Cliff I ended up snagging a near new 857D. ;)
Just wanted to drop you a quick message and thank you for your videos. I’m a new ham pretty much starting from scratch. I was fortunate enough to run into an incredible deal 1 yr old FTdx10. It should be here in a few days and I’m starting from scratch. That said your hard work putting this together greatly appreciated. Wish me luck that this senior citizen has the bandwidth to absorb it all. 🤪😂. Sincerely, thank you sir!
You’re very welcome! But I must give credit to the members of my Patreon support team, especially the long-haulers. Without them, this channel would not exist. They contribute over 90% of the support to keep the channel up and running, versus UA-cam ads. So the bulk of the premium content can only be viewed by S7 and S9 Patreon team members. The FTdx10 series has nearly 100 sequential tutorial videos over on Patreon.com/N4HNH.
73, de N4HNH
VERY INFORMATIVE!! You did a great job in your comparison!! I learned a lot!... and can see why the Yaesu's DNR is so valuable! Thanks! 73's K6PAM (Returning to Hamming, again, after a 30 year absence. It has sure changed in the meantime!! WOW!!).
Welcome back! Your timing to return to hamming is excellent. Cycle 25 is beginning to open up 15 through 10 meters, and 6 meters shouldn’t be too far behind.
73, de N4HNH
Superb, I have the dx3000, and the 991A, your videos have explained so much more than reading and any other videos on UA-cam, so clearly explained, thank you. 73 de Richard G0VCW.
Glad I could help! 73, de N4HNH
Doug, keep it up. I often return to this video for reference to your settings on the 991A. You are an endless supply of knowledge, information and random topics of interest. 73's. K8JAZ. 🎷
Thank you! 73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio You may have sold me on the FTDX-10. Looking at prices now and wish-listing. 🙃 K8JAZ.
Even at the regular price of $1,700 it’s receiver beats the receiver of radios that cost twice the price. In fact it beats the IC-7851 and the Hiberling PT-8000A, which both cost well over $10,000. I’m wondering if Yaesu might increase the price back to normal after the FT-710 is released. The FT-710 is basically a FTdx10 lite. It should be priced closer to the price of the IC-7300.
73, de N4HNH
Hello there, just came accross ths video and I like what I see.
I also noticed the 8 to 9 “boundary” on the 991a, I own one since couple of years. Glad to see someone else noticed that too, at least I know its like this on all 991s. Looks like you know what you’re talking about, something not obvious.
Thanks for this video. Just subscribed and curious to see your other videos.
73s
Welcome! The FT-891 has the same boundary. The FTdx5000MP and FTdx10 are good from 1 to 15; no watery sounding digital artifact. And, as of the latest update, the FTdx101D & MP are good from 1 to 15.
Thanks for subscribing. This is more of an Elmering channel but we need others to chime in besides me.
73, de N4HNH
This is fun and instructive. Nice.
I’m glad you liked it.
I was told that rapidly moving signal across the screen (band) is a sounder to determine atmospheric reflectivity of signals. My FTDX3000 is similar WRT DNR and contour. I find that with a boosted contour and slightly more aggressive DNR, my older ears hear better than a suppressed contour setting. Great video, keep up the good works! 73
That signal is part of the Ionosonde system (Ionospheric Sounder). It checks propagation within the HF spectrum, focusing primarily on 160 through 20 meters though it sometimes starts below the 160m band. Receivers in various locations report the signal strength and a type of propagation map can be constructed from the data.
Admittedly though, sometimes it is a ham transmitting an AM carrier and spanning the band to check SWR from one band edge to the other.
73, de N4HNH
Doug, I love your videos for your honest opinion. I have an Ft-991A. I am still relatively new to this field of logic and learning. That's why I am watching. It seems to me that you view the FT-991A as a 'Sweet Spot' in transceivers. You often give me the confidence and assurance that I purchased the right radio. 73
Tony, if I could only own one radio, it would be the FT-991A.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradiois this still your opinion or is it changed in the meanwhile. I'm licensed since January this year and I have the ft991a but thinking about to buy the DX10 and sell the 991A but that will be a bad discussion in your opinion?
Doug .. still think the same way about the 991 vs the DX10 ?? Which one would be a better pair with the 891 ??
I would keep the FT-991A if possible and buy the FTdx10. The FTdx10 is a better HF transceiver but not better all-around transceiver. The FT-991A operates all modes from 160 through 6 meters, plus 2m and 70cm. That’s why I say that it is the one radio to own if you will only own one radio. You can use the FTdx10 as your main HF base station and use the FT-991A as a VHF/UHF base station, plus use it as backup for HF. The bonus is that you will have the ability to operate SSB on 2m and 70cm with the FT-991A.
73, de N4HNH
I have the yaesu 991A I absolutely love it.
The one radio to own if you will only own one radio.
Great video Doug. If I live long enough, my dream radio i8s the FTDX10.
You will like FTdx10. There’s no perfect transceiver but the 10 gets close.
73, de N4HNH
great video, thank you
You’re very welcome! 73, de N4HNH
I am using the FT-991A and I find the contour boost at a frequency of 2200 hz in combination with the DNR really brings out the speaking voice very well. The menu is set to a contour level of +9 and a width of 10. Clarity is excellent. I also leave the bandwidth wide unless there is adjacent QRM. The DNR does an excellent job of filtering the noise in the wide bandwidth, yet the voice sound is very pleasing. That's the way my ears hear it, but that's me. While I love the follow your videos on the FTdx10 (and thank you, by the way), I am still very satisfied with the 991A.
I also find that Contour at 2200 works well. I find that somewhere in the 1900 to 2200 range works for most situations. The DNR set to 9, along with the Contour, can help pull out the weakest SSB signals.
73, de N4HNH
Another great review...
Thank you, Gregory! 73, Doug
Great video! Sounds like 991a owners should all write in to Yaesu!
I think so too!
A few good tips for FT-891 owners too. Specifically, boosting the receiving treble if you’re going to use the DNR at 9 or higher.
The FT-891 DNR must be set to 9 or higher to avoid the digital artifacts that make it sound like you are listening under water. I find that algorithm 9 is perfect for SSB. I run higher than 9 (12-15) for CW.
And yes, you might want to consider accentuating high audio frequency response if running the DNR much above 9. The FT-891 doesn’t have a RX EQ like the FTdx10 has. But you accentuate the high frequency audio by narrowing the DSP width and adjusting the Shift control to a positive value - something in the range of 50-150.
Thanks for doing these kinds of videos. I’m 90% sure most people don’t understand or use a lot of these settings. You hear radio videos all the time with terrible audio and not using the settings.
It would be great to see you do this with the 450D. I have one and love it. I only really operate CW, so maybe that makes a difference. But I feel like I can do a LOT in terms of picking out signals and making pleasing audio to copy.
I’m not kidding myself, the 450D can’t hold up to these rigs. But man I don’t feel like I’ve outgrown it yet!
I don’t own a FT-450D to shoot a video with. But I can assure you it’s DSP is up for the task. Yaesu does a great job with DSP. The DSP usually gives Yaesu rigs the edge.
73, de N4HNH
I imagine the algorithms are different. But on my 450D I keep it around 3-4 usually. Usually I call CQ with the 500 (or 600? I forget) filter and then when starting a qso I go to the 300. That filter, light dnr, and very good use of rf/af knob gets me 90% the way there.
Then I’ll use notch if needed, and sometimes the contour. But only the positive contour. Shift is hard with the tight filter, but is there when the seas get rough. Thanks!! 73
The 450D uses a Analog Devices DSP, while most other Yaesu radios use Texas Instruments.
A DNR setting of 9 works best for the FT-891 and FT-991A, after using ATT, IPO, and RF Gain to reduce the noise. You can literally hear the watery artifact go away when you get to 9. It would be interesting to see if the 450D is similar, with a setting of 9.
73, de N4HNH
"This is 2-way radio, not broadcast" - should be the name of your channel. :))
All the filters and tools are somehow already known, but you brought it back into my mind. And it helped me a lot for my decision between the FT-DX10 and the FT-991A. So I bought the FT-991A and yes, it's receiver performance is impressive. It's the first receiver were I can reduce the noise to a level of nearly zero. This was impossible for my TS-480 - it's noise filters are nearly useless and the other capabilities to reduce effectively the noise are very, very limited.
Your videos are a very helpful motivation to try much more than before and to get an overview of all possible functionality. To have a better comparison between two receivers you should spend more time for the audience to hear the same signal at the two receivers.
Thanks for the comment. I have to move quickly showing the techniques used with each radio to maximize its receive. Not much time. I shoot and edit with iPhone. It has a time limit on the length of video it can render. Once in a while it will render a 30-minute video and others it won’t render a 12-minute video. So, I can let everyone listen and not explain what I’m doing, like many other channels do, or I explain what I’m doing.
@@n4hnhradio Don't get me wrong, it's not a real criticism. Or let's say it's a criticism at a very high level (I don't know if that means the same in your language like in ours). I meant only a few seconds more to listen - sometimes. However, I really like the way you're presenting the world of "improving the signal". :)
Very very good. Tks.
You’re welcome. 73, de N4HNH
Great video ! I have both rigs - but at different locations so have been looking for a side by side comparison or DSP
Both rigs are titans. You chose wisely. 73, de N4HNH
merci pour cette video
You’re very welcome! 73, de N4HNH
Thank you for the comparison. Just can't decide between either radio.
I understand. It’s choosing between two Titans. I find that a consideration of operating style helps. I’m not into FT8, so that aspect of the FT-991A isn’t a draw. It has the sound card for digital modes built in.
Will this be your only radio? If so, the FT-991A has 2 meters and 70 centimeters, in addition HF and 6 meters. I have a separate 2m/70cm radio, so I don’t need the 2m/70cm aspect of the FT-991A. But, if you need one radio that does it all, the FT-991A is the best choice.
The FTdx10 operates on HF and 6 meters, but not 2 meters and 70 centimeters.
The FTdx10 has a contest class receiver. That means it has better selectivity for operating under crowded band conditions. It can also combat interference from strong out-of-band signals. It is rated 3rd best in the world for RMDR. The full list is quite long, so that is quite an achievement. It beats radios that cost $7,000, $8,000, $10,000, $14,000, and more. Note that its big brother, the FTdx101D, is currently the number 1 receiver in the world. It is on sale for around $3,200.
The FTdx10 has the bigger display, with a 3D spectrum scope. It also has a direct video output that can drive an external monitor. You can even plug in a mouse and click on the screen to adjust settings. It can also be controlled via the CAT (Computer-aided Transceiver) connection. You could use external third party software to control the radio. I control my FTdx5000MP with my Ham Radio Deluxe logging program, using the CAT connection.
The FT-991A cannot be connected directly to a monitor, but it can be controlled via the CAT connection, with 3rd party software.
So, consider what you need in a radio in comparison to your operating style. And there is also the budget consideration. The FTdx10 costs approximately $500-600 more than the FT-991A. I am doubtful that there will be a price drop for Black Friday, since Yaesu can’t build them fast enough. The parts supply chain is struggling to keep up with the demand.
I hope this helps.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio The FTDX10 also has a built-in sound card.
WB8CTC heard @ 5:40 ish. Joe is now a SK. Nice to hear him in there N8BEG
Oh no! Thank you for sharing that.
Sounds like the receive is great on this little rig
Both the FT-991A and the FTdx10 have great receivers. Of course the FTdx10 will edge out the FT-991A but there aren’t too many radios that can. The FT-991A is still the ultimate all-in-one rig.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio seems like great little radios. I'm just starting out on you tube if you would like check my amateur radio vids out. Only made a couple so far. Thanks Mark W2YM
Thanks for the great video, have been 991A owner for nearly 2 years & have always been impressed by its DNR processing whilst the standard NR performance pretty basic. Do you not ever use the standard notch filter? Seems the DNR is a little more refined in the DX10 then the 991a, thanks for the tip on changing the cut off from 3000 down to 2800, never tried that! 73 from blighty 2E0HKM Jim
I usually leave autonotch on to stop the transient tuner. I use the manual notch to deal with local heterodyne on SSB, but I use the manual notch to knock out filter ripple on CW. I show that in numerous videos on this channel.
73, de N4HNH
Great video as always. I've done the unthinkable and sold my 5k and have a 10 arriving tomorrow. Just couldn't justify keeping the 5k given I don't use it as I should.
Just a note on peaking the contour. I do use it this way round but then shift the peak to where the voice audio is lower to boost that bit of the range.
I noticed you just peaked where the noise was as that is where the voice was most intelligible also but with the downside this increased the noise as well.
Peak and then shift down away from the noise and this does bring the audio out whilst not enhancing the noise.
Pros and cons to both approaches though. One thing I sometimes do if I am dipping with the contour is to drop the notch at the other side of the signal and it kind of works like Icom's twin PBT.
I'll be watching more of your 10 vids for sure :)
You've done the unthinkable alright. I would not part with my FTdx5000MP. I even chose it over the FTdx101MP.
73, Doug
@@n4hnhradio I know - I think I commented on another of your vids I never would.
But, I needed $$$ and I just don't get much time on air and got a VERY good price for the 5k and sold it to a ham in Norway who really wanted it and would get lots more use from it than I.
This was a few months ago and I was just going to use my Kenwood TS830M as was enough radio for me.
But in the last couple of months I have learned CW and the 830M just is not well suited to 'modern' CW work so needed something newer. I could not quite afford a 5k so after much searching and thinking went for a 10.
If circumstances allow in the future I will have a 5k back in the shack though. Still, IMO, the best of the best :)
The FTdx10 is a phenomenal CW rig. You probably saw my video last week showing it and the 5000 both blocking CW signals only 40 Hertz away. And it ever so slightly edges by the 5000 on sensitivity. If you weren't benefiting from the simultaneous dual-RX and 200W, the FTdx10 will be all you need. There is a bit of a sacrifice in ergonomics but that is because the FTdx10 is basically a small version of a FTdx101D, minus the second receiver, dedicated RX antenna port, and the VC-Tune variable preselector.
73, Doug
@@n4hnhradio yes I saw that and it helped me decide on the 10 over the 3k or 7300. I do miss my 5k but it’s gone to a good home and one day I’ll have another :).
@@n4hnhradio Don't tell anyone but I think I actually prefer working the 10 than the 5k and I never thought I would say that. Really enjoying it. Like *really*. Can't put my finger on what it is but very happy so far :)
This was a great find! I love my first rig (FT-897D) but I'm looking for something newer and better. I hate the idea of having to bring 2 radios to cover all bands! Glad the 991 does so well compared to the HF only option!
The FT-991A is the one radio to have if you can only have one radio.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio for ARES the 897D has been awesome. Rugged and versatile and all in one. Great, "grab and go"...
@@Justin-bd2dg don't forget folks : 897D has much lower consumption on RX than the 991A. I had a 991 and still have the 897D because of this reason since I am using it on batteries when on holiday.
However, used only at home the 991A is a better option as it has a better filtering and the spectrum scope, no contest.
@@W-733_KWX how much lower? Have you taken actual measurements?
Bit late to this party!
A great review, picked up some useful info, I have the 99Ia and I noticed the 'watery' DNR, do you know if there is some kind of fix?
Apart from that a great little rig, Thanks and 73's
I don’t remember if I mentioned it in this video, but I know I have mentioned it ad nauseam in numerous videos that the DNR for the FT-891, FT-991, and FT-991A must be set at algorithm 9 or higher in order to avoid the watery sounding artifacts. In fact, algorithm 9 works very well. But don’t forget to use IPO, ATT and/or RF Gain to first minimize the noise in the front end of the receiver. You will see me teach this technique in numerous videos on the channel. Bear in mind that the techniques I teach on one radio can usually be applied to other radios, so I recommend watching videos from the FTdx10 playlist, the FT-891 playlist, and even the FTdx5000MP playlist.
The FT-891, FT-991, and FT-991A are seemingly maxed out on DSP memory, thus no further improvement is possible. The FTdx10 uses the same Texas Instruments DSP chip as the FT-891, FT-991, and FT-991A, but the DNR in the FTdx10 is the best. In fact, its DNR outperformed the FTdx101D or MP until those transceivers received a firmware update. Now they are at least equal.
I hope this provides some helpful insight.
73, de N4HNH
I recognize you give a thorough comparison. I recommend you add another way to demo the radios. Rather than trying to set both radios up to be compared with similar settings show how each radio can best be set up for optimum individually. That way we can see what optimization looks like on each radio and compare how weak signal operating or in close operating would go.
That’s exactly what I do. I do not try to run the radios barebones, without filters and DSP. I let each radio be the best it can be. In the case of Yaesu versus Yaesu, they all have similar filters and DSP. Every Yaesu is a variation of another. In fact, the FT-991A and FTdx10 borrow from the FTdx series radios, including the superheterodyne architecture. The FT-991A is triple superheterodyne, while the FTdx10 is dual superheterodyne, but the FTdx10 has an SDR stage. Beyond that, the radios are very similar. So it’s natural to set them up in a similar fashion.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio I’ve watched about 20 of the videos. What I see you do while doing setup is to stop and go on tangents about what other features can be engaged in the process of adjustment. Those are fine in and of themselves. It shows the range of settings available. However, the segues are so frequent it takes you 20 minutes to set up 2 radios. That’s about 10 minutes per radio for setup. I’m not a contested, but I couldn’t imagine a contester taking that much time to tune a station in. For example, perhaps a little intro: “Band conditions are good and but the waterfall display shows a crowded band. I’ll set the filter narrow. Now I’m ready to tune in. Watch how fast I can tune up on the FT-DX10” then rapidly pick a signal and with a couple of maneuvers get the station. Then repeat with the 7300. If these radios are that good it would seem you could get both tuned in on the same station in 15 seconds or so. Your discretion to put in the beginning, middle, or end.
I’m not contesting. I’m not in a speed test. I’m teaching new, and sometimes older, amateur operators how to understand the various features available to them with a modern transceiver. It sounds like you are already a radio Ninja. So, you might happier watching videos on a different channel.
@@n4hnhradio Ninja, me? Nah. I noticed your intimate knowledge of multiple radios, especially vis a vi the IC7300 and Ft-DX10. I’m excited about the proposed expansion of the bands for techs and wanted to upgrade to a waterfall display transceiver. It looks like operating such a transceiver would be more fun since it’s easier to find signals with one. I think ease of use is more important to me, which for me would be tune in and efficiently optimize for intelligibility. Given your skills I’m sure when you’re operating you can get right on a signal and bring it out with little fuss. I appreciate that your videos show the range of adjustments possible. I’m envisioning having either the 7300 or the ft-dx10, and am trying to learn what the style of operating is used on each in an average contact to help me decide. Then after I have one or the other I’d come back to your channel and study your technique on each, as you do pull out signals with aplomb. I think I’ve spent way more than my 2c on this. I appreciate your sharing your expertise. Be well. Steve, KD4TTC.
IC-7300 for casual rag chew operating. Rated 21 on Rob Sherwood’s list of receivers. FTdx10 for chasing weak ones or operating in crowded band conditions. Rated 3rd best receiver in the world in Sherwood’s lab tests. For the greatest all-around radio, FT-991A.
If you like the waterfall, the FTdx10 has a DVI output to directly duplicate its display on a computer monitor or TV. And the FTdx10 has both a waterfall and a 3-dimensional spectrum scope.
Great review, I have a 991a and so far so good. Comparing radio to radio on air seems to be the best way to give a good practical test.
One thing I'm sort of confused about is that I recently found the Sherwood site on receiver performance. The 991 is nowhere near the FTdx10 on the figures presented yet in this practical test it certainly holds it own, do the figures really matter?
The figures matter according to your operating style. Sherwood’s lab test measures the ability of the receiver to reject interference from 2kHz away, before it begins to degrade the quality of the signal you are trying to hear. Sherwood’s test is run in CW mode, using a 500Hz filter width. If you are using SSB, a signal 2kHz away will get through easily. There are tools to minimize SSB interference, such as Shift and Width. I teach that in many of my videos.
Sherwood’s lab test doesn’t take into account DSP, except when a transceiver, like a pure SDR, has nothing but DSP filters. But he doesn’t utilize any other aspects of DSP.
Yaesu transceivers have superior DSP to most. The FTdx10 and FT-991A both use the same DSP chip. However, the FTdx10 has advanced noise reduction algorithms that the FT-991A doesn’t have the memory capacity for. But, as long as you set the DNR in the FT-991A to level 9 (algorithm 9) or higher if needed, it works quite well. Algorithms 1 through 8 are not so good. All 15 algorithms in the FTdx10 are good.
My opinion? For contesting, crowded band conditions, or chasing weak DX stations, you want the FTdx10. For an all-around versatile transceiver, it’s hard to beat the FT-991A. The Swiss Army Knife of amateur radio. The one radio to own if you will own only one radio.
I wouldn’t trade an FT-991A for a FTdx10. I would save up and buy an FTdx10 in addition to the FT-991A. The FT-991A has 2m/70cm coverage. The FTdx10 does not. I would use the FT-991A for 2m/70cm and as a backup HF transceiver. I would use the FTdx10 as my main HF transceiver.
Hi great informative video , I wonder how’s ft991 compares with the Ftdx 10, 73 mark G8rde
The FT-991 receiver is the same as the FT-991A. I’ve used both. The big difference is the band scope/waterfall refresh speed.
73, de N4HNH
I’m a long term FT-991A user who just recently acquired a FTDx10. I’ve noticed the watery effect on the 991A. I always used it low because of this. So it’s great information to know going 9+ is also usable. One thing I’ve noted with the FTDx10 is the DNR seems to add a lot of reverb. Have you noticed this?
FT-891 and FT-991A both need algorithm 9. 1 through 8 contains the digital artifacts. The FT-710 is opposite. With the early firmware, you couldn’t use it above 3 without digital artifacts. As of the March 27, 2023 firmware update, you can use algorithms 1 through 7 without digital artifacts.
The FTdx5000MP, FTdx10, and FTdx101MP don’t introduce the watery sounding digital artifacts. They just continue to remove noise, all the way to algorithm 15. I only use algorithm 15 for CW, as shown in many of my CW videos. For SSB, I seldom exceed algorithm 5, maybe 7 to 9 occasionally, to pull out a weak SOTA activator or DX station. I always help the DSP first by minimizing the noise in the front end the receiver. Watch my video entitled, “S-meter to the Left.”
I covered the echo in a recent bonus video for the Patreon team. I will just say that it is always there, with any radio that has AGC for SSB. It helps with intelligibility, but we don’t notice it. The noise floor masks it. The DNR in the 5000, dx10, and 101 is so effective at removing noise that we are left with only the voice and the AGC tail.
Great comparison and content. I have the FT-991A, and frankly, for the $$$, I'm thinking it sounded better than the FT-10DX. Maybe it's the way you had your audio set up for the video, but the FT-991A sounded clearer to me with the exact same settings you entered into the FT-DX10. Comment on that, and let me know what you think, am I hearing an audio difference due to You Tube, or your setup on the FT-DX10 versus the audio setup on the FT-991A?
That all having been said, assuming I'm hearing the FT-991A better than the FT-DX10, the FT-991A is $600-$700 less expensive than the FT-DX10! I think Yaesu made a huge mistake when they designed the FT-991A, and made it a better deal for less money. Based on the performance, and the guts of the two radios in comparison, not to mention the added number of bands, the FT-991A is a steal.
I've had my FT-991A for only a few months. Your running through the settings was very helpful, as I've been too lazy to crack open the manual. I'll be playing with my FT-991A based on your video, until I find the time to review the manual in focused detail.
I am contemplating purchasing the FT-DX10, and running the FT-991A as my backup, and retiring my old Yaesu FT-847 (HF, 50 Mhz, UHF/VHF/Satellite Full Duplex transceiver, which was definitely ahead of its time). But, I want to retire the FT-847 mostly due to the FT-DX10 being state of the art, and the FT-847 being over 20 years old now, and susceptible to some design flaws that make it kind of ticking time bomb with respect to the power switch, and it's Hf receive performance being interpreted by some as less than stellar, and upgrade CW/HF filters are not longer being made for the FT-847.
I also would like having the bigger screen size of the FT-DX10 compared to the FT-991A, but also going this route because, as a backup, the FT991A is cheaper, and has more bands available than the FT-DX10. I figure I'll use the FT-DX10 as my primary HF rig, and the FT-991A as my backup (replacing the old FT-847), and at a much more reasonable price with the exact same, if not more, capabilities considering the VHF/UHF bands that are part of the FT-991A. The only thing the FT-991A doesn't have compared to the old Yaesu FT-847 is SAT dual receive capabilities.
Which of the two radios do you think is better for data modes, the FT-991A, or the FT-DX10, if at all, and why? Might be a good idea for another one of your You Tube comparison videos, with the high popularity of these two rigs these days!
The FT-991A is a fine radio. If I could only have one radio, it would be FT-991A. The FTdx10 has better DNR and the receiver is more selective. Of course the display is superior. In crowded band conditions, like contesting or an emergency, the FTdx10 will be superior. It is the number two receiver in the world. I know Sherwood lists it as 3rd, but read the footnotes. The Flex 6700 he tested was a one-off. It’s actual RMDR is 99dB, not 108dB. The FTdx10 is consistently 107dB.
I don’t think the receive audio is much different between the two. The external speaker helps of course. It makes any radio sound more like a base station.
I don’t know much about digital. I’m not into digital at all, except dits and dahs. I know that Yaesu added a mode preset for digital in the newer release of firmware for the FTdx10. It could already operate digitally. The preset saves a couple of menu adjustments.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio Thanks again, great content, and I appreciate your comments!
Did they skip the back light buttons on the FTDX-10 due to the large screen maybe? I noticed the waterfall was still visible as you navigated vs the 991A which barely had any waterfall at all even once you close the buttons?
I’m not sure. I imagine cost is a factor. From my conversations with people at Yaesu, they seem to put more emphasis on performance, versus convenience, while trying to keep the price competitive.
73, de N4HNH
now having both the ft-991a and the ftdx10, I could not ask for a better pairs of radios.......still waiting on Yaesu to release the update v1.10.
Watch my newest video.
if you were using CAT control with the ft991a could you visualize things like the contour on the PC screen the way you can on the 10dx ?
It would depend on the software application you use for CAT. I’ve not tried one with the FT-991A. I no longer have the loaner. You might want to look at WIN4Yaesu.
The 991A is also a C4FM radio.
The FTdx 10 has the same receiver ss the FT101mp which Sherwood Engineering says is the best receiver ever built.
It is virtually the same receiver as the FTdx101D or MP, with extremely minor differences. It only has one receiver, no VC Tune, and no dedicated receive antenna port. That’s why it costs so much less. But number 3 on the Sherwood list is still very good. And if you read the footnotes for the Flex 6700, the one Sherwood tested was a one-off. No Flex Radio since has achieved more than 99dB RMDR. The FTdx10 achieves 107dB RMDR. So, technically, the FTdx10 is number 2.
73, de N4HNH
The receiver block diagram is the same as for the FTdx101D, except for VC-tune. According to Yaesu they are the same receiver architecture. There may be some “ever-so-slight” variances in execution, but the receiver architecture is from the FTdx101D. Like the Yaesu engineer told me, the slight variation is not discernible in on-air operating.
Wow! You have no idea.
Now I know why my ancient FT847 is so noisy. It lacks the tools needed to clean up the signal. I can probably do many of the audio tricks using VSTs and pushing the audio through the front of my DAW and lining up the right parametric EQs and notch filters.
Radios between 1979 and 2003 were almost exclusively up-conversion (Intermediate Frequency of 40 to 70MHz) and their PLL (Phase-locked Loop) oscillator circuits produced a noticeable amount of what is called phase noise. The phase noise adds to the noise floor.
The up-conversion receivers were cheaper to build. No preselector was needed to block image frequencies, since the IF was significantly higher in frequency than the 1.8 to 29.7MHz HF bands. But roofing filters at 40 to 70MHz were expensive and less effective than roofing filters in the 8 to 10MHz range.
When Ten-Tec introduced a return to down-conversion, with their Orion, around 2003, other manufacturers started to fall in line. But not all manufacturers included a preselector, such as in the FTdx5000, TS-990S, or the option for an external preselector, as is the case for the FTdx3000D (mu-tuning preselector).
But at least the roofing filters for down-conversion are more effective and less costly, and they are included in many of the current breed of down-conversion receivers. Couple that with the improvements in local oscillators so that phase noise is limited and you have receivers with a lower noise floor. You can also pay extra for even tighter roofing filters to further stack the deck in your favor. This is especially important for contesting or operating in emergency conditions, when the bands are crowded.
My FT-890 noise floor isn’t great, so the DSP-59+ is a must. When I turn on my FTdx5000MP and tune to the same frequency, the noise floor is significantly lower, such that DSP noise filters become icing on the cake.
The problem with some of the newer radios is that the receive audio sounds so processed. It lacks the rich organic sound of the older receivers. The FTdx5000MP produces receive audio that doesn’t sound so processed. This is especially important for voice modes. I think the FTdx5000MP represents the perfect marriage between superheterodyne and DSP. That is why it is still my personal favorite to date.
Now, to be fair, over time your ears will adjust to the point where you will be happy with the processed sounding audio. And that will be fine as long as you don’t go back and listen to a vintage radio again.
73, de N4HNH
I know you advocate the 991a if all bands is desired but what standalone uhf/vhf radio would you recommend if the dx10 was chosen as your hf rig? Thx.
I like the FT-991A as a VHF/UHF base station, plus it can serve as an HF backup. I don’t own one but I would like to. My friend has one sitting next to his FTdx101MP. His FT-991A is his VHF/UHF base station and his HF backup, since it can be powered from a battery during emergency conditions.
I don’t have a VHF/UHF base station. I use a Yaesu FT-2980 VHF mobile as a base station. It can be seen in various videos. There is also an FT-2980 playlist. The reason I like the FT-2980 is it outputs 80W with no fan noise. A number of us in North Georgia operate 2-meter simplex. We seldom use a repeater.
I have an ICOM ID-880H dual-band radio in my truck. I would never consider it as a base station. The fan turns on the moment you transmit and stays on for a while. That isn’t so bad while driving but it would be annoying as a base station. The ICOM rigs I’ve seen seem to all run the fan at full speed when you transmit, and they continue to run for minutes afterwards.
Yaesu cooling fans tend to only turn on when necessary, varying the speed according to the temperature. I prefer that.
I have a Yaesu FTM-400 on the way. It was donated by a viewer. I will no doubt shoot some videos about it. It has a separate control head, so the radio could be located away from my operating desk, to minimize fan noise.
One of my friends has a Kenwood TM-D710GA mobile in his truck. I really like it, but I’m not sure how it would be as a base station.
Personally, if I were you, I would use the FT-991A as my VHF/UHF base station.
@@n4hnhradio thank you very much!!
It seems very odd that Yeasu didn't incorporate back lit keys on this rig. Is there a logical reason that its not desirable? Enjoying watching this series - very enlightening! Thanks.
I don’t know. That’s a question for Yaesu. They backlit the 991A and 450D. Maybe they assumed this would be a base station on a desk with a lamp. Backlighting would have been nice though.
@@n4hnhradio I think Yaesu had the back lighting incorporated into the FT-991A because they believed it would be purchased more often for mobile use than as a base station, and that's why they also incorporated VHF/UHF into the FT-991A as well, and not into the FT-DX10 radio. I believe from a marketing standpoint they intended the FT-DX10 to be primarily a part of their economy base station sales.
I think they were snookered when everybody figured out how close the FT-DX10 and the FT-991A really are with respect to performance, noise handling, etc...and for the price difference, lots of HAMS bought the FT-991A as an economical base station, rather than what Yaesu originally intended would be the bulk of their sales designed more for mobile use in the FT-991A.
When they finally figure it out, I would not be surprised that the next round of radios will correct this marketing error in some way, with one or all three of these three models being marketed differently, firmware updated, changed to a "b" or "c" suffix, basically redesigned to target the markets that Yaesu wants to market these radios to, etc...but were snookered, and most certainly in some way so as to separate the FT-991A from the FT-DX10.
I think that probably the FTDX101 series will be obsoleted, and something marketed between the high end and the FT-DX101, after all, the FT-DX101 series is getting a little long in the tooth, and the next generation might be on the drawing board as we speak, while Yaesu corrects it's marketing errors with respect to what they must have originally intended for the FT-991A.
Simply put, the FT-991A is a steal, and they'll figure that out at some point, and they'll correct it. Might be a good idea to grab one before they figure out that they gave away the store when they built the FT-991A.
Every €30.- China Handheld has backlit buttons! I really don‘t understand where the problem is? It‘s so usefully and i missed it also on my FTDx 3000. That’s history now: The 991a (use it portable) and at least the Flex M Modell, as my station transceiver (which is besides in the same price range as the DX101) have this both, for my opinion, „basic feature“.
Great video Doug. Since the time when you made this video 2 years ago, has Yaesu upgraded the DNR in the FT-991A so it is usable below 9? Thanks
Not that I’m aware of. I doubt they can. The advanced algorithms require more memory. Only the FTdx5000, FTdx101, and FTdx10 have enough memory for the advanced algorithms. But, with DNR set to algorithm 9, the FT-991A and the FT-891 will beat just about any other transceiver on the market today, except for the aforementioned transceivers.
@@n4hnhradio Thanks Doug
I just checked Yaesu.com. The last firmware update was V01-12, on 6/24/2020. I would say that the FT-991A is as good as it can get, which is plenty good. It’s still the one radio to own if you can only own one radio. It’s the Swiss Army Knife of transceivers.
@@n4hnhradio Thanks for looking in to that Doug. I bought the FT-991A a few weeks ago because of the great reviews on your videos and the fact that I will only have one radio for a few months for home and field use. Hoping to get the FT- DX10 soon for a home base station, again because of the great reviews in your videos. : )
I still stand by that advice. Adding the FTdx10 later is perfect.
I do not know if you will even see this.. 2yrs ago you made this great vid. But removing the 70/2 bands out of the comparison and with the 710 now out, out of the three would you still pick the 991a? Thanks Doug.. Or any that answer
If I’m seeking the best doomsday radio for emergency communications, I still choose the FT-991A. If I’m not interested in an all-in-one radio that covers HF plus 6m, plus 2m, and 70cm, I go for the FTdx10. The FTdx10 has more roofing filter options and improved DSP.
@@n4hnhradio Your amazing..Thanks Doug for the replay..Have a great weekend.
You’re very welcome! 73, Doug
@N4HNH Radio 991A still very impressive 😉
It appears that you have two radios running simultaneously on a single antenna. If that’s the case, how are you doing that, a y-connector, a switch, something else? I know you can run two antennas into one radio with a switch. If you’re using a switch, is it the same type of stwtch you’d use to run two antennas into one radio - just turned around?
It’s an antenna switch reversed. I show it in one of the early comparison videos. It’s an unusual switch. Not what you might expect.
I removed the mic so I don’t accidentally transmit a radio with the other powered up. Normally I would never have two radios on simultaneously. That could damage the receiver of the other radio.
73, de N4HNH
Thank you Doug, I’ll search it out
I show it in this video: ua-cam.com/video/xDkKRaC_6uA/v-deo.html
Here in 2023 with the FT-991A likely to go out of production soon is there any compelling reason for a newcomer interested in base/car trunk portable/POTA use cases to grab one or just go ahead and get the newer FT-DX10..? I don’t see the VHF/UHF difference to be the major driver. I might miss backlit buttons though, but could live without them I think. Great videos you make..! BTW… in my part of the world the price difference between these two radios is $100…
It depends. If your intention is emergency communications, the FT-991A is the ultimate full-featured “doomsday” transceiver. If you can only own one radio, the FT-991A is the one radio to own. But, if VHF/UHF all-mode isn’t of paramount importance, the FTdx10 is the better choice. Its receiver performance is #2 in the world.
@@n4hnhradio I forgot to add that I have a FT-818ND and a couple of HT’s already… so the case for the FT-DX10 makes more sense is the gist of your guidance I think for my situation. I totally get your points on this. I guess it’s good to have options. Your content is awesome I watched a few of your FT-DX10 series last night. Oh I’m in Perth, Western Australia… everything is far away from here so Rx performance is paramount. Not so much VHF/UHF traffic locally though.
It's worth the extra $500 just for that pseudo-analog S-meter!
- How's the AM transmit quality?
Does it follow suit with the trusty old FT-990 and have close to 100% or is it a nasty 25% Double Sideband sounding POS on AM like the 991?
I haven’t tried AM but AM is by nature double sideband. My FT-891 does well on AM. I can’t imagine the AM audio being worse than my FT-891.
I think I would pick the 991a because it has backlit buttons.
The 991A is still a great radio.
So which one is the best for HF?
The FTdx10.
Ma cosa è quel passaggio veloce sul waterfall al minuto 15:20?
That is a signal sent out by the Ionosonde system. There are receivers in various locations. The receivers provide the data for propagation analysis. Those sweeping signals are usually between 160 and 20 meters.
73, de N4HNH
Questo è un segnale inviato dal sistema Ionosonde. Ci sono ricevitori in varie posizioni. I ricevitori forniscono i dati per l'analisi di propagazione. Questi segnali di spazzamento sono di solito tra 160 e 20 metri.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio molte grazie per la risposta molto tecnica e completa. 73!
Thanks for that video, but!
How a transceiver A/B comparison becomes more usefully?
- Use external, equal loudspeaker, on each transceiver.
- Switch each 5 second, between A and B transceiver.
- Switch during the same station is talking.
- Don't talk yourself during the test.
Maybe you will find some more facts?
Best Regards
Mark
I’m not testing receiver audio. I’m comparing receiver sensitivity and selectivity. And, I’m using the radios as delivered by the manufacturer.
Have not used 991a this technology is not what use to kw 850 and was liking why do get up the new technology. I get must up on win 10
Looked FTDX-1200 and 1300 5000. At the same time for portable operating,
The FTdx1200 and the FTdx5000 are too big for portable operating. The FT-891 is what I use for portable operating. I have even used it as a base station. I show it being used as a base station in some of the videos.
73, de N4HNH
Well ok if you have both you should demonstrate what the shift adjustment can do for resolution on the 991A , yep sorry the 991A is just as good plus has uhf vhf just a smaller screen. The FTDX10 is a nice display but not a better radio.
I like FT-991A. If I could own only one radio, it would be FT-991A. But it is because it is more versatile. The FTdx10 is the better HF receiver. It is down-conversion with super tight filters. Is doesn’t make the FT-991A look bad though. FT-991A still beats many popular transceivers on receive, including the ever popular IC-7300. That’s just an objective reality.
But the FTdx10 has the advantage of tight crystal roofing filters and more advanced DSP. It actually uses the same Texas Instruments TMS320C6746 DSP chip as the FT-991A. I don’t know why Yaesu doesn’t update the FT-991A with the same DSP algorithms that the programmed into the FTdx10. They updated the FTdx101D and MP after the FTdx10 hit the street with better DSP. The FTdx101D and MP also use the Texas Instruments TMS320C6746 DSP chip. The April 2021 update gave the FTdx101D and MP the same DSP as the FTdx10.
73, de N4HNH
Regarding the fT-991A - Does Yaesu even listen to our bug findings or update requests. Seems they run under the old school take what your given and don't complain mentality. My issue or bug I found is and heard easily while monitoring the TX out via another radio. Setup the EQ with the EQ enabled and all. Transmit from the FT-991a USING the hand mic using the PTT and you hear the EQ settings you had setup and enabled. Now, switch over to VOX operation and listen to second receiver again and you will hear you EQ settings FLAT as in NO EQ enabled. Bottom line using VOX you will not be able to get the EQ'd audio out only flat and if EQ is OFF or disabled. I run VOX on SSB a lot. I wrote and then called Yaesu repair and they verified issue but still no fix after more than one year...thus my point are they listening? Thanks, Paul
Yaesu USA might listen but the Japanese decide what gets fixed. It’s a cultural thing. We are spoiled brat demanding Americans who think we know it all. And that’s not just a Yaesu attitude. It’s a cultural issue across Japanese industry. I think the only way the bugs get fixed is when an employee at Yaesu, ICOM, Kenwood, or Alinco happens to be a ham and the bug annoys them.
Yaesu USA recommends that we use the Contact Us page at Yaesu.com to send our requests, because those posts are seen in Japan. When Japan gets the same requests from a multitude of customers, that carries more weight of influence than when they hear it from the Tim, John, or Rodger at Yaesu USA.
How do we solve this? We could buy American. Elecraft would appreciate our business. But are we willing to pay $5,000-6,000 for an American-made HF base station?
I never tried VOX with the FT-991A. But I know it works with the FTdx5000MP and the FTdx10. I get stellar TX audio comments when using my Heil Pro Set Elite 6 headset and VOX.
tO REDUCES the FLICKERS, try to use slower shutter speed. example: 1/30s
Thank you, 73
The colors were all wrong with slower than 1/90. It’s okay. I’m not trying to make a Hollywood production.
If the color is wrong, try adjusting white balance, color temperature or ISO settings. . Now we can master the bideography too. :)
Thank you for the fine video but the icom 7300 is nowhere in the same league as the ftdx10. After going to a local HRO yaesu just totally blew away the 7300 (hearing is believing). I have the 991a which has the hf, vhf, digital and uhf modes which makes it a great buy but the receiver is the weakest of the 3. After my warranty has expired I will convert to an sdr with the panadapter as described by a ham in Brazil (per video on the internet and github)
Just FYI…there is no SDR that beats the FTdx10 either.
@@n4hnhradio thank you for your response. The ftdx10 should be Sherwood’s number 1
The FTdx10 is officially listed as number 3, but it should be number 2. The Flex 6700 that was sent to Rob for evaluation was a special version for the test. Read Rob’s footnotes. This “special” version tested at 108dB for RMDR. But Rob subsequently tested several production models and none exceeded 99dB. The FTdx10 comes in at 107dB, and it is bested only by the FTdx101D or MP.
RMDR is an important test to be sure, but I don’t make a buying decision based solely upon RMDR. Rob’s RMDR test is conducted in CW mode, with a 500 Hertz filter, against a strong signal 2kHz away. He doesn’t use the DSP filtering in the superheterodyne receivers. I have a couple of videos that show the FTdx5000MP (101dB RMDR) neck to neck with the FTdx10 on CW, blocking signals 100 Hertz away. In fact, when I enable the Super Narrow APF option in the FTdx5000MP, it beats the FTdx10 by a small margin. Of course my results are based upon actual operating. I’m not conducting a lab test.
73, de N4HNH
Thank you so much. Now comes to the decision of trading my 991a
Tough choice. The FT-991A is a fine transceiver.
73, de N4HNH
If its all about intelligibility the 991a sounds better to my ears..I expected better from the dx10
The FT-991A is no slouch. It has the same DSP chip as the FTdx10. The main improvement in the FTdx10 is its receiver selectivity and the waterfall display. Though they both use the same DSP chip, the DNR algorithms are more improved in the FTdx10. But, other than DNR, the DSP is about equal between the two radios.
The receive audio in the FTdx10 can be customized to your own liking. It is the first Yaesu radio to feature a 3 band receive EQ. Even the FTdx101D or MP doesn’t have this ability.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio...I have the ft891 for portable work, purchased that on the basis of your tutorials, thank you, it's pulling double duty in the shack at the moment , and it's good don't get me wrong, a really capable radio, especially in cw, it's just the fiddly interface that makes me long for something more 'base station'..here in the UK there is currently a yaesu rebate on the DX10..and it's my birthday tomorrow!! 😄 The trigger finger is getting real twitchy!! I'm gonna sleep on it overnight, see if the xyl confiscates my credit card!! 😂.. Thanks for the reply 👍
I understand your dilemma. I am wondering if the sale price of the FTdx10 will be over once the FT-710 becomes available. I suspect it to be priced closer to the price of an IC-7300.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio the current rebate scheme is on until the end of September 2022. So the 710 will be released while the cash back deal is still on..there is £85 ($100) off the price of the dx10..I'm guessing the 710 will come in at £1300 so there won't be much price difference between the two models..in general there is a price drop 12 months after release so making the 710 that bit cheaper than the dx10...not sure I'm wild about the idea of a fully sdr radio..and the hybrid dx10 has been through its breaking in period so I'm leaning more that way. I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on the 710 when you eventually get your hands on one 😉
I would like to shoot a series about the 710, but I don’t need one. If Yaesu will send me one, I will do a series. But I don’t think Yaesu likes me pointing out negative things. And I won’t give them a free pass.
The scoop over here is that the 710 will be priced about the same as the 7300. But that isn’t official from Yaesu. That’s the opinion of some industry analysts. What we do know is the the 710 receiver will “not be contest class”, so, while it may beat the 7300, it will not beca match for a FTdx10.
73, de N4HNH
Not for nothing but the only thing I can say is that you certainly made sure your voice was loud and clear. I thought this was about the radios.
I’m sorry you couldn’t learn from the video. You will probably be happier watching a different channel.
73, de N4HNH
Signals are muffling. To much DSP artefacts. That's no fun to listening...
Backlit keys on 991 doesn’t hurt….
Very poor video as it was extremely dark ..you could hardly see the rig .. maybe turn a light on next time.
I’m sorry you didn’t learn anything. I guess I wasted my time. I darkened the room so the displays were easier to see. I personally don’t care about the displays though. Hearing should take precedence in a receiver comparison. This is radio after all, not TV.
@@n4hnhradio no problem .. with your reply but I think most people would like to have seen the rigs side by side .. for a size comparison and workability .
I’m fairly certain that size and workability has been covered ad nauseam on other channels. I’ve seen the videos.