EMTECH NW80

The NW80, as purchased from EMTECH, is an outstanding little rig. With both the optional audio filter and the VBT, it's selectivity rivals anything available. It's strong points are it's powerful audio (This radio WILL really drive a speaker!), and excellent transmitter. (Watch the power, this little rig will put out 8W!). The ONLY negative is that it does drift a little from a cold start. I imagine this could be compensated, but it does steady down after about 30 minutes.

Circuit Board and Parts: EXCELLENT. Board is not as complicated as many, but is very rugged. It is also "roomy" enough for the inexperienced builder.

Documentation: EXCELLENT. Very good instructions lead you by the hand.

Complexity: MODERATE. The circuit board is not difficult. I also got the enclosure kit, which I would recommend. There is a fair amount of wiring to off-board controls. This unit is a 1 weekend project.

Operation: As I said, this is a hot little transciever. I also built in a TiCK keyer, hooking the audio up to the volume control. It worked fine.