The long-awaited Yaesu FTX1 Optima has finally arrived in ham shacks across America, but does it live up to the hype? We've spent days testing Yaesu's latest flagship and share our unfiltered experiences that left us reaching for our trusty FT-891s instead. From PTT issues that drop mid-transmission to strange menu bugs and disappointing receiver performance compared to the FT-710 and FT-DX10, we dive deep into what went wrong and whether firmware updates can save this premium-priced radio.

In a surprising market development, we explore the news that SteppIR has announced their exit from the amateur radio consumer market by August 2025. Their CEO cites an aging ham population moving to stealth antennas as HOAs restrict traditional towers. Is this the beginning of a larger trend in ham radio manufacturing following MFJ's recent exit, or simply market evolution as the hobby changes?

Summer is here, and that means Field Day is just around the corner! Whether you're a newly licensed ham nervous about your first HF contact or an experienced operator looking to test emergency preparedness, we share why Field Day (June 28-29) offers something for everyone. From operating tips to overcoming microphone fright, discover why this annual event remains amateur radio's most beloved gathering.

The amateur radio landscape continues to shift, with new technologies promising innovation while established companies retreat from changing markets. Through it all, what matters most is finding the gear and activities that spark joy in your radio journey. What's working for you this summer?

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The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/

Is the Yaesu FTX-1F a True Game Changer? Plus Dayton Hamvention 2025

Yaesu has shaken the amateur radio world with the release of their new FTX-1F series, particularly the Optima model with its revolutionary modular design. We explore the groundbreaking features that have hams reaching for their wallets—from the detachable QRP head unit that can operate standalone, to the 100-watt amplifier attachment that makes this one of the most versatile radios ever produced.

Rory takes us through his Michigan QSO Party adventure in Oscoda County, where he activated a rare county from a cozy Airbnb near Luzerne. Despite challenging band conditions, he managed to work over 40 Michigan counties and came away with a respectable score. His experiences highlight the perfect use case for Yaesu's new offering—a radio that can transition seamlessly from powerful base station to lightweight field unit.

With Hamvention rapidly approaching, we share our strategies for making the most of ham radio's biggest event. From forum recommendations (don't miss the POTA sessions!) to flea market tactics and practical advice about staying comfortable in the heat, we offer insights that will help first-timers and veterans alike. We'll be camping at Caesar Creek in the D-E loops and would love to meet listeners who are attending.

The FTX-1F Optima's impressive feature set includes dual antenna ports, built-in antenna tuner with memory, and modern USB-C connectivity for both data and power delivery. While not perfect—no true dual receive for satellite operations and no separation cable option for mobile installation—the radio represents a significant leap forward in transceiver design that may influence the direction of amateur radio equipment for years to come.

Grab your comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and shopping list—we're heading to Hamvention! We'll be recording short segments throughout the event to capture the excitement and innovation that makes this gathering the highlight of the ham radio calendar. Whether you're chasing the latest gear or hunting vintage treasures in the flea market, we hope to see you there.

Short show intro audio clip

Short outro audio clip

The Everyday Ham Podcast is hosted by James Mills (K8JKU), Jim Davis (N8JRD), and Rory Locke (W8KNX) – three friends who dive into the world of amateur radio with a casual, lighthearted twist.

Follow us at: Website: https://www.everydayham.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everydayhampodcast/