Yaesu FT-847 Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

The Yaesu FT-847 has long been regarded as one of the most versatile all-mode transceivers on the market. Its ability to handle HF, VHF, UHF, and satellite communications in a compact package has attracted attention from amateur radio enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you’re chasing DX contacts or trying your hand at satellite communication, the FT-847 offers a wide range of features to cater to a diverse set of needs. But after years on the market, does this radio still live up to the hype, or have more recent models surpassed its capabilities?

In this review, we’ll break down the performance, key features, ease of use, pros and cons, and how it stacks up against competing models. Our goal is to help you determine whether the Yaesu FT-847 is worth the investment in 2024, especially as technology continues to evolve in the amateur radio world.

Overview of the Yaesu FT-847

The Yaesu FT-847 was designed with versatility in mind. Released in the late 1990s, it was marketed as an “Earth Station” transceiver, providing users with the ability to operate across multiple bands, including HF (High Frequency), VHF (Very High Frequency), UHF (Ultra High Frequency), and satellite frequencies. It quickly gained popularity due to its all-mode capabilities, compact design, and rugged build, making it a popular choice for both home stations and portable use.

One of the standout features of the FT-847 is its ability to handle both traditional ham radio operations and satellite communication, a unique offering for its time. This versatility makes it a solid choice for operators who want to experiment with different modes and bands without switching between multiple radios.

Key Features:

Multi-band operation (HF/VHF/UHF)
Full duplex operation for satellite communications
Digital signal processing (DSP)
100 watts on HF/6 meters, 50 watts on VHF, 50 watts on UHF
Compact design, making it portable
External tuning options for satellite enthusiasts

The build quality is one of the Yaesu FT-847’s strengths. It has a durable metal case, making it resistant to wear and tear, even with heavy usage. Despite its age, many of these units have stood the test of time and continue to function reliably today.

Performance Breakdown

HF Band Performance

On the HF bands, the FT-847 delivers a respectable performance, especially considering its age. The transceiver offers 100 watts of output power on the HF and 6-meter bands, providing strong signal strength for voice, CW (Morse code), and digital modes. For casual DXing and day-to-day HF operation, the FT-847 performs well.

Its receiver sensitivity is good, but not exceptional compared to more modern radios. While the FT-847 picks up most signals without issue, some operators report a bit of struggle with extremely weak signals, particularly in crowded bands. Still, for the average amateur radio operator, the HF performance remains satisfactory.

VHF/UHF Bands

On VHF (2 meters) and UHF (70 centimeters) bands, the FT-847 continues to shine. It offers 50 watts of output power on both bands, making it a solid choice for local communications, repeater work, and even long-distance contacts via tropospheric propagation.

One of the standout features of the FT-847 on these bands is its ability to handle full-duplex operation, meaning you can listen and transmit on two different frequencies simultaneously. This feature is especially useful for satellite operation, where you need to uplink on one frequency while receiving on another.

Satellite Operation

The FT-847’s full-duplex capabilities make it one of the best options for satellite enthusiasts. Unlike many other transceivers that require additional hardware to handle satellite work, the FT-847 can do it right out of the box. You can monitor the downlink frequency while transmitting on the uplink, which is essential for keeping track of your signal’s strength and position during satellite passes.

It also features CAT control (Computer-Aided Transceiver), which can be connected to satellite tracking software for automated Doppler shift correction, making satellite operations smoother.

Receiver Quality

The receiver on the FT-847 is competent, though not groundbreaking by modern standards. Its selectivity and sensitivity are adequate for most operations, though some users may notice increased noise or difficulty filtering out nearby signals in very crowded band conditions. The DSP (Digital Signal Processing) helps reduce background noise, but it’s not as advanced as DSP systems found in more recent transceivers.

Overall, the FT-847’s receiver quality will suit most users for casual operation, but dedicated contesters or DXers might find it lacking when compared to more advanced radios.

Features and Functionality

DSP Technology

One of the FT-847’s major selling points when it was released was the inclusion of DSP technology. This feature allows operators to filter out unwanted noise and signals, making communication clearer, especially in noisy environments. However, compared to modern DSP systems, the FT-847 is a bit basic. While it does a good job of reducing background noise and enhancing signal clarity, it can’t match the sophisticated noise reduction found in more contemporary radios.

Tuning Options

The FT-847 offers both manual and automatic tuning, giving operators the flexibility to switch between modes and bands easily. The automatic tuning feature is relatively fast, but many users still prefer manual tuning for finer control. The frequency range is wide, allowing users to explore various bands without the need for external transverters for VHF/UHF operation.

Unfortunately, the FT-847 does not come with a built-in antenna tuner, which can be a drawback for users who rely on automatic tuning to match their antennas. An external tuner is recommended for those looking to optimize their transmission efficiency on various bands.

Memory Functions

With 78 memory channels, the FT-847 allows users to store frequently used frequencies for quick access. These memory slots are easy to navigate, and the radio’s user interface makes it simple to recall and program frequencies. This feature is particularly useful for those who operate on multiple bands or frequently use local repeaters.

Display and Controls

The Yaesu FT-847 comes with a clear LCD that shows the necessary information, such as frequency, mode, and signal strength. The controls are intuitive, with large knobs and buttons that are easy to operate, even in low-light conditions. However, some users have noted that the screen’s backlighting can feel outdated compared to more modern radios with advanced color displays.

Ease of Use

User Interface

Despite being an older model, the Yaesu FT-847’s interface is surprisingly user-friendly. The layout is logical, and even first-time users will quickly become familiar with the controls. The front panel has dedicated buttons for each function, minimizing the need to navigate through complicated menus.

Learning Curve

The FT-847’s learning curve is moderate. For basic operation on HF, VHF, or UHF, most users will find the radio easy to get started with. However, the more advanced features, such as satellite operation or configuring the DSP, may require a bit of study. The included manual is thorough and will guide users through the various operations, though some sections may feel a bit technical for beginners.

Instruction Manual

The instruction manual provided with the FT-847 is comprehensive. It covers everything from basic setup to advanced features like satellite tracking and CAT control. While the manual is a helpful resource, it can be a bit overwhelming for newcomers. Fortunately, there are many online forums and resources where experienced operators share tips and troubleshooting advice for the FT-847.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

Multi-band operation: Covers HF, VHF, and UHF bands, making it an all-in-one solution.
Satellite-ready: Full duplex operation for satellite communications without extra equipment.
Compact and portable: Its size and durability make it a great option for portable or field use.
Good power output: 100 watts on HF and 50 watts on VHF/UHF provide strong transmission capabilities.
User-friendly interface: Intuitive controls and clear display for easy operation.

Cons:

No built-in antenna tuner: Requires an external tuner for efficient operation on HF bands.
Outdated DSP: Noise reduction capabilities are behind modern radios.
Limited digital modes: Not as many digital features compared to newer transceivers.
Old-fashioned display: LCD screen feels outdated compared to modern transceivers with high-resolution displays.

Comparison with Competing Models

When comparing the Yaesu FT-847 to other similar transceivers, such as the Yaesu FT-857D or the Icom IC-910, it holds up fairly well, though it’s clear that the FT-847 is starting to show its age.

The Yaesu FT-857D, for example, offers a more compact and portable design with a wider range of digital features, including support for modern digital modes. However, the FT-847 still has the upper hand when it comes to satellite operation, thanks to its full-duplex capabilities.

The Icom IC-910 is another competitor that excels in VHF/UHF and satellite operation. However, it’s more expensive than the FT-847, and some users prefer Yaesu’s user interface and build quality.

Ultimately, the FT-847 remains a solid option for those who prioritize satellite communication and multi-band versatility but may fall short for operators looking for cutting-edge digital features and advanced DSP capabilities.

User Feedback and Reliability

One of the key strengths of the Yaesu FT-847 is its reliability. Users who have owned this transceiver for years often praise its durability and long-lasting performance. Despite being over two decades old, many FT-847s are still in regular use, with minimal maintenance required.

Most feedback from long-term users is positive, especially regarding its satellite capabilities and multi-band operation. Many operators report that the Yaesu FT-847 continues to be a reliable rig, even after years of use. Its rugged build and stable performance have earned it a loyal following in the ham radio community.

However, some users have noted that while it’s reliable, the FT-847 can feel somewhat outdated when compared to more modern transceivers, especially in terms of digital features and user interface advancements. The lack of newer features such as integrated digital modes (FT8, PSK31, etc.) or an advanced noise reduction system may limit its appeal for operators who prefer those functionalities.

The radio’s performance has stood the test of time, especially for satellite enthusiasts, but it’s clear that newer rigs can offer better receiver performance, easier integration with computers and logging software, and enhanced DSP features. Still, as a solid, multi-band workhorse, the FT-847 has maintained a positive reputation.

Is It Worth the Hype?

Now to address the question at hand: Is the Yaesu FT-847 still worth the hype?

If you’re a satellite operator or a ham radio enthusiast looking for a versatile transceiver that covers HF, VHF, UHF, and satellite bands in one unit, the FT-847 can still be a great investment. Its full-duplex capabilities, strong power output, and durability make it an attractive option for those who enjoy experimenting with different modes of communication. Satellite users, in particular, will appreciate its seamless operation without the need for additional gear.

However, for operators who prioritize modern features like built-in digital modes, advanced DSP, and a more sophisticated user interface, the FT-847 may not live up to the expectations set by newer transceivers. If you’re looking for cutting-edge technology, this radio might feel outdated in today’s ham radio landscape.

Ultimately, the FT-847 is worth considering for its unique set of features, especially if you’re interested in satellite work or need a reliable, multi-band rig for HF/VHF/UHF operation. While it may not offer all the bells and whistles of newer radios, its reputation as a solid, durable transceiver remains well-earned.

Conclusion

The Yaesu FT-847 has earned its place in the ham radio world as a versatile, multi-band transceiver capable of handling HF, VHF, UHF, and satellite operations. Its rugged build, full-duplex satellite functionality, and solid performance on multiple bands make it a popular choice, especially for satellite enthusiasts and those who prefer an all-in-one solution for multiple modes.

That being said, the FT-847 does show its age, particularly in terms of DSP, display quality, and modern digital features. Operators who value cutting-edge technology and enhanced user interfaces may find newer transceivers like the Yaesu FT-857D or Icom IC-910 better suited to their needs. However, for those who prioritize reliability, versatility, and satellite operation, the Yaesu FT-847 continues to hold its own.

In the end, the FT-847 is a radio that’s still “worth the hype” for the right user. If you understand its strengths and limitations, and those align with your operating needs, this transceiver can still provide years of reliable service.

Yaesu FT-847 Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

Overview of the Yaesu FT-847