VHF / UHF

My base station rig, which can quickly double as a mobile/field rig, is the Yaesu FT-8800R.  It is a joy to use!  It is a true dual band, dual receive. 

According to Yaesu: 

"The FT-8800 series provides extended receiver coverage beyond the Amateur bands, so you can keep informed of communications activities in the public safety, commercial, aircraft, and government communications ranges.  The FT-8800 series operates as two radios in one, with either 144 MHz or 430 MHz as the "Main" TX/RX band, with simultaneous monitoring of the other band.  Each band has its own Volume and Squelch controls, and you can configure your FT-8800 series for VHF-VHF or UHF-UHF operation, too!  To get your message through when it counts, the FT-8800 series puts out a full 50 Watts of power on the 144 MHz band, and 35 Watts on 430 MHz.  A thermal sensor monitors heat sink temperature, engaging the rear panel’s cooling fan only when needed." Click here for a PDF review of this rig. 

For an antenna, I use a dual band ground plane vertical made by Lakeview in South Carolina, the makers of "Ham Sticks."  It is outstanding, and less expensive than the other brand names.  My power supply is an Astron SS-25M.

HF

I am saving towards a Yaesu FT-450AT and Heil headset.  I am also learning CW, and have a great set of Bencher BY-1 paddles.  Am probably going to invest in a G5RV because of space.

According to Yaesu: