abr wrote:

If (when) I get my tech license, is there a band I
can work voice that will cover some distance, not just local (I live in
South Dakota) like other states or countries.

The only band that will allow you to do this with a tech license is the
6m (50 MHz) band, but since this solar cycle is quickly going to the
dumps, you may have to wait a while for plentiful dx on that band.

If you are serious about working dx, you will have to bite the bullet
and pass at least the general license test. Abundant dx can only be
found on HF.

Here's the band plan:

http://www.arrl.org/FandES/field/reg...ands_color.pdf

And............... what kind of a rig
would anyone suggest I start out with, used is fine with me as I am not
interested in spending a lot at this point.......

That depends entirely on which bands you intend to use.

and shoot me if you want
to, I am not really interested in learning code.

You don't have too many alternatives: either learn some code (it's
really not that difficult - it's been dumbed down to the point of
absurdity) or sit tight and wait for the FCC to eventually abolish the
code requirement for HF, like the increasing number of countries have
done lately.


73 .... WA7AA




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