Digital Upgrade

Always striving for improved digital modes, I was looking at upgrading my interface for ham radio. I currently use a RIGblaster Pro, purchased from West Mountain Radio back in 2007. While the original setup was fairly simple, I did have some configuration issues, which caused me problems, but all in all it has been a very good performer. I also picked up a Tigertronics SignaLink USB from DX Engineering earlier this year. Why? I am still not sure, thought it might provide a cleaner interface because of the on-board sound card. Unfortunately without configuring jumpers I could not transmit CW.

While shopping for the RIGblaster I also read about the US Interface Navigator. It received rave reviews and a solid 5 out of 5 on eHam.com reviews. Last week I started doing some checking and was rather impressed with the Microham Micro Keyer II. I read the reviews and even contacted a few hams who provided reviews because they owned a Yaesu FT-1000MP. While I could never get a straight answer as to “the best” I made my decision, figuring that I could not go wrong with either unit.

I decided upon the US Interface Navigator, based on it’s simplicity, on board sound card and price point. It was about $100 cheaper than the Microham product. I called Clint, KK7UQ who returned my call a few hours later. I was quite impressed with the fact I could call him back up until 9pm. So about 630pm I called and placed my order. We talked for a bit he thanked me for the order. I am sure I will be calling for technical support before I get on air.

I am looking forward to running on of the best interfaces in the hobby and hope this improves my reception quality for digital modes. As I understand it, the sound card is top notch and should have a very quiet waterfall for modes such as PSK31. It also incorporates K1EL’s Winkey, which will be useful when I configure the Win-Test software for contesting.