What happened to old-fashioned skill? 50 years ago guys worked the world with a crystal
and a single 6L6 and straight key. Now, they are all couch potatoes in front of a
black box that looks like its from outer space. ;-)
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50 years ago the bands were sooooo quiet (relatively speaking) that you
didn't need today's sophistication
Although even today ,by using QRP equipment ....and Morse
telegraphy.........simple gear can still give a lot of enjoyment, but
in 20 - 30 years time ,how many hams will then still be using Morse code?
But as far as 'local ragchew' is concerned , I agree with you ,simple
homebrew gear will still do the trick .

Frank GM0CSZ / KN6WH north of Scotland