Kenwood TH-D74a - A D-Star Disappointment
This is my response to an email I received recently asking for my opinion regarding a comparison between the Icom ID-51a and the Kenwood TH-D74a. Hi Aaron, That really depends on what modes you are interested in. I came in via the D-Star route. i.e. Reading up on D-Star, Getting an Icom 880H and still "not getting it". It wasn't until I purchased a DHAP and then an Icom ID-51A that the light bulbs started turning on. FYI: Nobody tells you this BUT! the "To:: line in DR mode are for commands sent to the repeater or hotspot. This line tells your Repeater or Hotspot what to do. Once that lightbulb finally came on, D-Star really started to become "FUN"! D-Star really peaks my curiosity due to the Raspberry Pi, DVMega, and the ID-51A. I've been dong Linux for about 15 years, so finding another way of using Linux with ham radio really hits that sweet spot for me. YMMV!!! Having said all that, I am less than impressed with the Kenwood TH