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I buy, whenever possible, from my local dealer... KJI Electronics. I'd rather pay $10 more in total for an item locally, than $10 less from a dealer online... Supporting a local shop and instant gratification. How can you beat that?
KC2SRI
Posted by
KC2SRI
on January 29, 2008
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I buy, whenever possible, from my local dealer... KJI Electronics. I'd rather pay $10 more in total for an item locally, than $10 less from a dealer online... Supporting a local shop and instant gratification. How can you beat that?
KC2SRI
Posted by
KC2SRI
on January 28, 2008
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Local Store
|
My local ham store is Texas Towers. I've
done business with them for over 20 years.
It is a great place! Friendly and helpful.
On line I've bought a few things from
DX Engineering. No problems. Quick and easy.
Posted by
K5WZI
on January 27, 2008
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KComm
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Most of my purchases are for used gear. The guys at Kcomm usually have a good inventory of both new & used equipment, the used gear is checked out, in good working condition and any preexisting problems discovered after purchase are made right. What can I say about the new gear, you can talk to one of the seven hams, (how many years of experience) who work there about your intended purchases, you can look at the gear, talk to some of the hams who come in to do business, etc. The repair department is great, you get the radio repaired right and you don't get any unexpected surprises like a $495 repair on a $500 radio.
Posted by
N5YPJ
on January 27, 2008
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No Tax ???
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Upon further reading, I see a common comment: No tax over the internet. Hmmmm... If your state is like my state, of course you still owe that tax -- you need to declare the purchase and pay when filing. Everyone knows that, and everyone does that, right?
Posted by
K1VI
on January 25, 2008
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HRO mail order and over the counter
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My local store (22 miles) tends to give one the "can't you see I'm busy?" impression, similar to one reported above. So while I would like to go local, I have ordered several times from HRO and been very happy. Plus, I actually went to HRO Salem (110 miles) for their last "manufacturers day" and was very pleased to see a real, friendly, well-stocked store that even had a few stations on the air -- like the old days! Good for them!
Posted by
K1VI
on January 25, 2008
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No local dealer
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There are no local ham stores in my area. There is a store for buying coax and Amphenol connectors so when I need those items, I get them there. Radio Shack has short coax cables with connectors already installed which I have used in my station, but other than that, there's nothing else local. For anything else, I go to my printed catalog or the web site of AES, or the websites of other ham dealers like HRO or Memphis Radio. I used to buy things I needed at hamfests but the last few hamfests I went to had few dealers. Looks like the 'net and catologues are myonly choices.
Posted by
KB5IAV
on January 24, 2008
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Friendly dealer?
|
If my local dealer was actually friendly, my answer would have been different.
Paying Ohio tax does not bother me, nor the 45m each way drive to Cleveland. But to be treated like I'm bothering them or keeping them off the phone and having very short (kert) answers to my questions is an issue.
I know that mail-order is not friendly nor do you get answers (same as the local guys), but at least you save a little cash in trade for lack of a smile.
Wayne
Posted by
WS8RM
on January 24, 2008
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Henry Radio
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The greatest ham store I ever encountered was Henry Radio in West LA (50s & 60s). One could spend hours there spinning knobs on used receivers on display. This place was very helpful and had everything a ham might need. And while you were there, you could do a little "hangar flying."
Now I'm relegated to eBay, HRO, AES and Austin to name several. Using it is great but buying stuff is not the fun it used to be.
Posted by
K6GLB
on January 22, 2008
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local shops
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I would love to be able to walk into a store and get what I want when I want it. I have checked manufacturers websites for dealers of
their products and the only one ever listed in my state is down on the Ohio river. I live 2 miles from Lake Michigan.My guess would be that
the Internet stores are what have put the local shops out of business.It is nice to buy a radio from out of state and not pay sales tax.The companies I have dealt with on line have all given great service. I ordered an FT897 from AES in Milwaukee at 5pm and it was delivered the next day. Can't hardly beat that. Still wish there was a close by store to browse tho.
Posted by
KC9IRR
on January 21, 2008
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Cool Audio Gear
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I you are looking for some really cool audio gear for your shack (high end microphones, equalizers etc) the only place to shop is Sweetwater Sound in Ft Wayne, IN....great service and free shipping....plus if you are a musician, they have really cool guitars too.....
Posted by
RADIO123US
on January 21, 2008
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HRO is the Way to Go!
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Ever since AES started charging for shipping I have made the switch to Ham Radio Outlet. Don't know how they do it, but I have placed orders and received them the next day! Amazing!
Posted by
K1FBI
on January 20, 2008
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Burghardt is excellent!
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I've bought from Burghardt for 15 yrs...never an issue and
great to work with...service is the #1 priority with them.
73 Gary NL7Y
Posted by
NL7Y
on January 20, 2008
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Never EBAY
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I hate ebay, I have never gotten an even break there, either its misrepresented junk or delivery takes forever. Then when you gripe, the seller says your the lowest sob known to man. I Hate ebay!
Posted by
KD8Z
on January 18, 2008
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AES in Orlando
|
I always like to shop in person at the AES in Orlando, Florida. Not only do they have the radios in stock but all of the accessories as well. Yes, I attend several HAMfests and yes, I buy quite a bit. But I shop the dealers that I'm used to who can back themselves up in case of any problems.
Posted by
AF4KK
on January 17, 2008
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To KC2QPT
|
I was actually lamenting the demise of the ham radio shop. And I am not disparaging the use of the internet for those purchases. Yes, I am sad that most have no recourse but the internet for their radio purchase. And I don't and can't blame them. You and those folks have to get your equipment from somewhere. I know this.
I just wish there was more of a demand and more shops would open or stay open. But as it is, shops that have been in business for 30+ years are slowly going out of business. Just like the TV and radio repair shops, they too, have seen better days.
I suppose my beef is with those that will not support their local shop in favor of the internet just because they can save 5 or 7 bucks. This I know because I also sell new ham gear at hamfests. I often hear that line I quoted in my original post. And that's ok as well.
Best of 73!
Luis KD5KJD
Posted by
KD5KJD
on January 16, 2008
|
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AES Las Vegas
|
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I find the best deal on what I'm looking for, then call AES and if they are more expensive on the same item I ask them to meet my best price, and they always will. No tax and I get my item in 36 hours or so if I order in the morning. Very helpful staff too. HRO Burbank have a poor attitude and although they are close enough for me to drive to, I won't do business with them. cheers.
Posted by
KG6BRG
on January 15, 2008
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AES Las Vegas
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I find the best deal on what I'm looking for, then call AES and if they are more expensive on the same item I ask them to meet my best price, and they always will. No tax and I get my item in 36 hours or so if I order in the morning. Very helpful staff too. HRO Burbank have a poor attitude and although they are close enough for me to drive to, I won't do business with them. cheers.
Posted by
KG6BRG
on January 15, 2008
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Ham Radio Shopping; etc.
|
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HRO and AES. Also it depends on HRO.they can usually give the best deal; unless you can get it cheaper from AES out of state(no sales tax). I shop between them. Only difference may be Texas Towers, but again-- it depends on shipping if from out of state(compare with sales tax if in State/HRO). Also, I agree HRO will tell it like it is!!
Posted by
AA7QQ
on January 13, 2008
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eBay
|
I assembled my whole shack from eBay and did it for under $2k.
It helps to know how to fix the gear, but if you can do that the deals are phenomenal.
Posted by
KV1M
on January 13, 2008
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to: Luis Kd5KJD
|
Luis you wrote It's pretty sad to see that most of the
purchasing public is using the internet.
What are we to do? I live in Albany NY (the capitol of NY
State) and there are no radio stores in this area. We have
to travel for about 2-3 hours to go to one. At the price of
gas it cost more to visit then it does to order it on-line. I
would surely support a local vendor if anybody would
establish a store. No mom and pop stores here either.
Hamfests generally present JUNK. I like going to Hamfests
but only to visit others as the products offered by other
hams is generally junk at these get togethers (garage sale
stuff, more then operational radio equipment). It is my
experience anything worthwhile is usually found in the
local clubs where you know each other or at one of the
large distributors (new in the box). I would support mom
and pop stores but selling radios is tough business and I
imagine not to profitable. I like HRO in Salem NH, Cal is
very knowledgeable. 73's from Albany KC2QPT
Posted by
KC2QPT
on January 13, 2008
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Hamfest for me
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I look for deals at hamfest. New radios are too expensive.
Posted by
KB9SDS
on January 12, 2008
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R&L and Universal
|
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We are VERY fortunate here in southern Ohio to have R&L close by - very decent folks, always helpful, and good inventory. I always buy from them if they have what I am lookin for - and they usually do. Universal up in Columbus are good folks too, and I have purchased stuff from them when I was in the neigborhood.
Posted by
WA8FOZ
on January 11, 2008
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All of Above
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i buy mine all of above well almost all of above , depand on my mind if i needed that bad.
73
Jackie
KG4ORX
Posted by
N4MJG
on January 11, 2008
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Amateur Electronic Supply
|
Most of the gear I buy from ham stores comes from Amateur Electronic Supply. They are very reliable. Their web site is excellent and easy to order from. Almost every time they ship what I want from one of their stores the same day. Packing is very good. I have never had to return anything from AES. With some other vendors you never know for sure if there is a problem until it is too late. I also order direct from individual U.S. manufacturers with good results.
ZS6SIG
Posted by
NV7E
on January 11, 2008
|
|
HRO San Diego
|
My major purchases are at HRO in San Diego, about a 15 minute drive. Jerry, Tom, and Jose have been a great help in helping choose between my "short list" candidates. They haven't steered me wrong. I like the interaction and re-assurance I get by talking with them in person. I don't really trust phone conversations because you cannot read the body language.
I recently purchased my first HF amp and had trouble understanding the tuning process. I came back to the store and Jerry arranged an identical amp and HF radio and showed my how to do the tuning- I think he spent an hour with me.
The HRO guys have occasionally steered me away from brands or models I thought were the right ones. I have yet to be disappointed with their recommendations in this situation either.
Cables, connectors, and piece parts are fine via Internet, but for the key items I think patronizing the ham store works best for me. I might pay more because of sales tax, but the benefits are worth the cost to me.
Posted by
WD6S
on January 10, 2008
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Ham Dealers...
|
Wow....
It's pretty sad to see that most of the purchasing public is using the internet. I can't blame them, although I wish I could. But can't. Those big power house dealers offer free shipping, NO tax, far more choices in accessories, a catalog PLUS a website, and really good prices.
The local dealer trying to keep up is at a disadvantage. Most hams think that radio sales is where the money is. After throwing in shipping (yes, storefront dealers have to pay shipping on their orders from Yaesu, Icom and the others), there is very little if anything to be made on a radio's sale. Throw in a seasonal sale or an advertised lower selling price AFTER ordering at a higher cost and the dealer makes even less! Actually? In some cases, the dealer loses money trying to match the HRO/AES price point. Hamfests are trying to lure the few remaining dealers out there. Hamfest attendance seems to be down. What's a ham to do?
What I have heard both at hamfests and in some radio shops is this little gem: 'Oh hell! I can get it cheaper on the internet!' And you wonder why your local dealer is slowly carrying less and less accessories and radios for you to buy? Of course when the local 'mom n pop' shop closes its doors, the guys who belly-ached about the price now gripe about the store's closing. Of course they also gripe when there are fewer hamsfests to go to or if there is one, the lack of new gear to be had... It's a tough life all the way around.
I sometimes wish this wasn't such a niche market and that there were more ham radio dealers in more towns. Some hams don't have a ham store in the entire state. Sadly, as time goes by, there are fewer stores and fewer repair shops.
I can't make hams support their local dealer. Hams have budgets, too. Although, I will try to remind these folks that the local shop is the place to get some advice, meet new people, get a piece of gear fixed, get their hands on some gear, and even buy or sell a piece of gear every so often.
Here in Houston, we may not have the best shop in the state, but it is our only LOCAL shop. Hams drive here for miles to come to this shop. Once there they meet and talk to George or Charlie KG5RQ, the guys who keep ham radio gear available to locals along the Texas Gulf Coast. Saturday has been a good day to come in and just visit, talk to a few folks or Elmers (we call them the Spitters and Whittlers Club), get opinions and even buy.
Sadly, the ham radio shop may be going the way of the Drive-In theater. I hope not. I like a store that caters to the love of my hobby.
Best of 73!
Luis Kd5KJD
Posted by
KD5KJD
on January 9, 2008
|
|
Ham Dealers...
|
Wow....
It's pretty sad to see that most of the purchasing public is using the internet. I can't blame them, although I wish I could. But can't. Those big power house dealers offer free shipping, NO tax, far more choices in accessories, a catalog PLUS a website, and really good prices.
The local dealer trying to keep up is at a disadvantage. Most hams think that radio sales is where the money is. After throwing in shipping (yes, storefront dealers have to pay shipping on their orders from Yaesu, Icom and the others), there is very little if anything to be made on a radio's sale. Throw in a seasonal sale or an advertised lower selling price AFTER ordering at a higher cost and the dealer makes even less! Actually? In some cases, the dealer loses money trying to match the HRO/AES price point. Hamfests are trying to lure the few remaining dealers out there. Hamfest attendance seems to be down. What's a ham to do?
What I have heard both at hamfests and in some radio shops is this little gem: 'Oh hell! I can get it cheaper on the internet!' And you wonder why your local dealer is slowly carrying less and less accessories and radios for you to buy? Of course when the local 'mom n pop' shop closes its doors, the guys who belly-ached about the price now gripe about the store's closing. Of course they also gripe when there are fewer hamsfests to go to or if there is one, the lack of new gear to be had... It's a tough life all the way around.
I sometimes wish this wasn't such a niche market and that there were more ham radio dealers in more towns. Some hams don't have a ham store in the entire state. Sadly, as time goes by, there are fewer stores and fewer repair shops.
I can't make hams support their local dealer. Hams have budgets, too. Although, I will try to remind these folks that the local shop is the place to get some advice, meet new people, get a piece of gear fixed, get their hands on some gear, and even buy or sell a piece of gear every so often.
Here in Houston, we may not have the best shop in the state, but it is our only LOCAL shop. Hams drive here for miles to come to this shop. Once there they meet and talk to George or Charlie KG5RQ, the guys who keep ham radio gear available to locals along the Texas Gulf Coast. Saturday has been a good day to come in and just visit, talk to a few folks or Elmers (we call them the Spitters and Whittlers Club), get opinions and even buy.
Sadly, the ham radio shop may be going the way of the Drive-In theater. I hope not. I like a store that caters to the love of my hobby.
Best of 73!
Luis Kd5KJD
Posted by
KD5KJD
on January 9, 2008
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|
eBay, AES and Austin Amateur Radio Supply
|
|
Usually I will buy my gear on eBay or through AES if I don't mind a short wait on it. But if I have to have it NOW, I just make the 1 hour drive to Austin Amateur Radio Supply and bring my newly-purchased toys home to play with immediately. That's what I did with my new Icom T90A and my Yaesu FT857D; I had to have them right then!
Posted by
WR1TX
on January 7, 2008
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HRO, Gigaparts, AES
|
I'm a true ham and buy from whatever vendor stocks it for the lowest price (shipped). Often times HRO wins as they don't charge freight on orders over $100 and they have a massive inventory. Gigaparts is not far behind, with somewhat less of an inventory and no freight charges for orders over $200. AES probably gets one in five orders - their prices usually aren't competitive after freight is figured in. I just ordered a Kenwood TS-480SAT and discovered it was $25 cheaper at Texas Towers than HRO - Doh! - I need to give them a try sometime.
A few things to look out for:
- Gigaparts will often have 10% off sales on accessories or products made by a particular manufacturer.
- Gigaparts has also had a couple promotions where you get 10% off if you use the onine check-out and pay with PayPal.
- AES has a "SuperFest" every year. If you call in you can sometimes find okay deals during SuperFest. (They also carry Antenex - Yeah!!)
- R&L has "Customer Appreciation Days" where you can also find okay deals if you call in.
It seems like no matter where I order stuff from it shows up in the same time-frame (three business days from ordering date). I have noticed that all the vendors mentioned above are getting lazier in their packing techniques - often times just throwing the product in a box barely big enough, then throwing a few peanuts on top. It's amazing they do not have more shipping damages.
73,
Dan / ab0re
Posted by
AB0RE
on January 6, 2008
|
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MARTIN LYNCH & SONS U.K.
|
: BEST IN THE U.K. A LOCAL HAM STORE TO ME BUT THEY PROVIDE A VERY FAST RELIABLE DELIVERY SERVICE IF NEEDED.A HONEST OPINION ALWAYS AVALABLE ON PRICE,REPAIRS,UPGRADES,PART EXCHANGE.AND IF THEY DONT HAVE ANYTHING AVALABLE THERE GET IT. M3OPT
Posted by
2U2DP
on January 6, 2008
|
|
Internet Purchasing
|
|
As an 'oldie' have always been very wary about purchasing radio gear over the internet, especially using ebay, as I like not only to see what I am getting but also have some say if things go wrong. My recent acquisiton of a new FD-160 VHF hand held transciever from Hong Kong has however changed my view! An excellant and fast service and the item really was fantastic value for money. Time to get into the twenty first century!
Posted by
G3PSR
on January 5, 2008
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HamFest price
|
- 'And the "HamFest" priced items are NO MORE!'
I don't think the prices have not gone away. I've noticed a few dealers at are fest that were still higher than HRO's regualr price and HRO still had specials going at the hamfest only. I think I got my FT-2800M for $119 with free ship.
I'm not going to say HRO is the cheapest but they might cut you a deal to compete with an online source. I'm in the market for a MFJ-259B or 269B. I think I saw one at Bernhardt(sp?) for $239 while at HRO I saw it for $269. Now GA has 7% sales tax so in this case I may actually buy online even though I normally buy at HRO.
KI4YMD
Posted by
K3DC
on January 5, 2008
|
|
Local yard sales...
|
...held by the surviving relatives of a silent key are the best places to find amateur radio equipment, often at a considerable savings from the going market price.
I'm more into vintage amateur radio equipment so other than wire antenna construction supplies, I don't purchase much new these days.
Online auction sites strike me as not much more than exhibitions of shill bidding, a great place to sell, but a lousy place to buy! I'll keep them in mind when I'm ready to sell out.
There are still good things, reasonably priced, to be found at the hamfests. One has to sort the wheat from the chaff at these events.
73 es gud hunting
Doug
KA3TGV
Posted by
W3DBB
on January 5, 2008
|
|
Local yard sales...
|
...held by the surviving relatives of a silent key are the best places to find amateur radio equipment, often at a considerable savings from the going market price.
I'm more into vintage amateur radio equipment so other than wire antenna construction supplies, I don't purchase much new these days.
Online auction sites strike me as not much more than exhibitions of shill bidding, a great place to sell, but a lousy place to buy! I'll keep them in mind when I'm ready to sell out.
There are still good things, reasonably priced, to be found at the hamfests. One has to sort the wheat from the chaff at these events.
73 es gud hunting
Doug
KA3TGV
Posted by
W3DBB
on January 5, 2008
|
|
Point, click: HF!
|
I'm an eBay sucker :P
Yeah S&H charges but usually comes cheaper than the local ham store! Hey, us college kids can't have the TenTec Orion II with fluid motion SteppIRs ya know! Gotta get it cheap somewhere, lol.
Posted by
KB3OAD
on January 4, 2008
|
|
Dayton
|
|
I either order it on-line from a number of places if I need it now (since there aren't any stores around me), or I put it on the Dayton list and get it then. The best deals are found at Dayton - new and used - for nearly everything.
Posted by
KC5R
on January 4, 2008
|
|
HRO
|
|
I have purchased three radios from HRO in Salem,NH and they are very quick and courteous and very helpful.
Posted by
KC2AFG
on January 4, 2008
|
|
On-line Internet Shopping
|
I shop on-line because there are no retail ham radio
stores in the area (Seattle, greater Puget Sound area). The
closest retail that covers HF equipment is HRO in Portland,
Oregon (actually, Tigard). I do make a trek down there a
couple of times per year.
However, when I order on-line, I almost always order
from HRO because their service has always been excellent.
I usually wait until I have more then $100 to spend so I
get free shipping. Indeed, often when I have ordered from
HRO and the order was serviced by HRO out of Portland,
Oregon I receive the delivery the very next day. Now, that
is great service for regular ground shipment.
I have ordered from other vendors on the Internet for
parts such as Mouser, DigiKey, and some of the various
vacuum tube suppliers. I have never had a bad experience
with any on-line vendor.
Posted by
K7PEH
on January 3, 2008
|
|
Burghardt
|
|
This is a reliable company which will take the time to go over any details of your potential purchase. Their service dept. is excellent. This is as close to dealing with a "home town" store that I have experienced in recent years. They are very pleasant to deal with and I heartily recommend giving them a call.
Posted by
W2DAP
on January 3, 2008
|
|
HRO San Diego
|
|
Though I live 1100 miles away I continue to deal with HRO San Diego as I have for 27 years. Tom and crew are helpful and prompt in shipping. On those rare occasions when I have had a problem with a new rig there is never a hassle.
Posted by
N7WR
on January 3, 2008
|
|
Associated Radio
|
|
the great local people at the local ham shop
Posted by
KC0YDZ
on January 2, 2008
|
|
Universal Radio
|
|
Best place to buy equipment. Great Website and Catalog. Combined with an old time business attitude in todays world, which was originally started by F.R. "Gibby" Gibb W8IJ, in 1942 as Universal Service and is now known as Universal Radio in 2006. I bought my first rig from Universal Service back in 1966 and still purchase equipment from them to this day. The folks there are top notch Hams.
Posted by
W8GCD
on January 2, 2008
|
|
Universal Radio
|
|
Best place to buy equipment. Great Website and Catalog. Combined with an old time business attitude in todays world, which was originally started by F.R. "Gibby" Gibb W8IJ, in 1942 as Universal Service and is now known as Universal Radio in 2006. I bought my first rig from Universal Service back in 1966 and still purchase equipment from them to this day. The folks there are top notch Hams.
Posted by
W8GCD
on January 2, 2008
|
|
Universal Radio
|
Bought virtually everything that I have ever owned from Michigan Radio in Detroit. Unfortunately they went belly up a few years ago. As most of our family get aways are trips to Ohio I have found myself making almost all my new purchases at either the Dayton Hamvention or at Universal Radio in Columbus. Great store that Universal!! Fred and Barb Ostermann have built up a great business based on service, reasonable prices, sales types who who have a clue as to what they are doing, a service department, and on and on. An old time radio store in the 21st century. And the absolute best web site and best printed catalog available. Good work Universal Radio!
Posted by
VE3ES
on January 2, 2008
|
|
HRO ANAHEIM
|
|
I think Bob took a big "hit" when Dale Piedfort retired from the Anaheim branch of HRO; irregardless, the staff is still good and I try to give this store my patronage whenever possible; I feel strongly that if you are in the store and going into "kick the tires" of the product you are interested in, and are spending the time and getting expertise of someone on commission, you have a morale obligation to patronage that dealer, even if the price may be slightly higher from another on-line soure.IMHO, WB6MYL
Posted by
WB6MYL
on January 2, 2008
|
|
|
I just bought an HF rig and I bought it from a dealer in Toronto. Drove 2 hours there and back rather than ordering it online and having it shipped. I wanted to see the radio in person before I bought it.
I would buy off the internet, in fact I just ordered an interface for my rig off eBay.
Small items, I would not hesitate to order them off the net. Baluns, mics etc.
Posted by
VE3FMC
on January 2, 2008
|
|
Ham shopping
|
I voted Internet, As most of my new purchases come from the online stores, Gigaparts seems to have about the best prices on new radios, Texas Towers has a great selection of specialized tower parts, LMR coax, etc.
While I like going to ham swapfests in person, They are really becoming few and far between.
Used equipment deals are best found nowadays on the classified section right here on Eham! MUCH safer to buy used equipment from a fellow ham than from Ebay!
Posted by
K9KJM
on January 1, 2008
|
|
Associated Radio
|
For those of us that are fortunate enough to have a local ham radio store I believe you should support it by buying from them. Not only are you are supporting the store but it is a good place when asking for advice. I buy all my equipment from Associated Radio here in Overland Park, KS. Besides being a good place for equipment they are there to give advice and since they are all hams and have been in the business for a long time they know what they are talking about.
My 2cents.
WØCBF
Posted by
W0CBF
on January 1, 2008
|
|
Where do I buy radio gear
|
|
Like to buy new stuff at HRO Portland Or. Because of the distance away that turns into an telephone/mail order/online purchase.Can't do that to often as radios and related stuffs are very expensive. My experience online has been okay(used gear) but it could have been better. Be careful about what your "used radio saleman" doesn't tell you, versus what he does tell you. Hamfests, around here anyhow (Spokane Wa) vendors don't think it's worth while to bring equipment and radios to local hamfests so I don't buy there. What happened to bring it and they will buy it? Vendors, be careful, your lack of enthusiasm is showing. 73 Tom
Posted by
N7TIM
on January 1, 2008
|
|
Where do I buy radio gear
|
|
Like to buy new stuff at HRO Portland Or. Because of the distance away that turns into an telephone/mail order/online purchase.Can't do that to often as radios and related stuffs are very expensive. My experience online has been okay(used gear) but it could have been better. Be careful about what your "used radio saleman" doesn't tell you, versus what he does tell you. Hamfests, around here anyhow (Spokane Wa) vendors don't think it's worth while to bring equipment and radios to local hamfests so I don't buy there. What happened to bring it and they will buy it? Vendors, be careful, your lack of enthusiasm is showing. 73 Tom
Posted by
N7TIM
on January 1, 2008
|
|
On-line vs. local "Candy Store"
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I have purchased from AES and HRO. I do not live near AES, However they (AES) offer great on-line support. My local "Candy Store" hangout is HRO in Oakland. I want to say thank you to Mark (Oakland HRO) for offering great customer service.
I have to admit I have purchased other (ham radio)items on -line that are not offered at HRO or AES.
As long as a company offers great customer service. I will shop them again!
73, Steve
Posted by
KI6ADA
on December 31, 2007
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Gigaparts.com
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http://www.gigaparts.com/radioindex.php
This is my FAVORITE inter-net source for ham gear. They are often less expensive that the other stores mentioned in these comments. I have NEVER had any problem with them. Which is more than I can say for two of the other more popular sources mentioned on these pages.
Posted by
N4VNV
on December 31, 2007
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KJI
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I either got to Gene's store or buy from him at Hamfests. Him and Randy have a great knowledge of what they are selling you to meet your needs. There is no "pressure selling" when you deal with KJI.
Posted by
W1KMA
on December 30, 2007
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No Local Store
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My local store is the sales magazine from HRO and AES. I wish we had a store here in Sacramento.
Posted by
KG6AMW
on December 29, 2007
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Where you find it...
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The lion's share of my ham purchases have in recent years been online, whether from eBay, eHam, QTH.com, QRZ.com, and even one item from craigslist! I find it is very convenient, I can usually find good deals on what I want (I don't always need brand new) and as someone else pointed out, if the deal smells fishy I just don't go through with it. I've also sold quite a bit online and have made several new friends this way. Of course a local Hamfest is always welcome!
As for retail stores, I prefer dealing with R&L Electronics. They usually have the best prices and have been great folks to deal with, whether in person, on the phone or online. I've also had good experiences with Memphis Amateur Electronics, C.T. Morgan in Chattanooga, and Gigaparts. On the other hand, I have had the opportunity to visit several of the AES and HRO stores around the country. The prevailing attitude I have found with them is that if you aren't there to buy big ticket items they really don't want to talk to you. Too bad, because when I am ready to buy a major item I will not go to the "big boys".
Posted by
K4JC
on December 29, 2007
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not exactly any of the above...
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I have HRO and Juns nearby. I won't patronize HRO anymore because of their employees' hostile attitudes. I would like to patronize Juns, but they are upstairs in a building with no handicapped access. I'd buy mail order but I like to really get a good look at the equipment and try it out whenever I can.
So, for me, on my annual excuse to go to Las Vegas I always make sure to drop into AES with a shopping list. The only other time is at a ham convention where Juns or someone non-HRO has something I want to get.
Posted by
AD7DB
on December 29, 2007
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Buying
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I think from who you buy from is much more important than where you buy. I haven't had a local retailer close by for 10 years. But I wouldn't buy much because of his business practice like selling rigs as new when they were returns from his buddy's that 'borrowed' new equipment for months and later returned.
Alex....
Posted by
SSB
on December 29, 2007
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There's a reason....
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There's a reason why I use ALL of the sources.
Ham radio is not only my hobby, but a part-time business for me. So I'm shopping for quality stuff at the lowest price, whether it's for me or for my customers.
73, Bill - WA8MEA
http://HamRadioFun.com
Posted by
WA8MEA
on December 28, 2007
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INTER-NET BECAUSE
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The Ham Radio Stores (There are none in KY) bring very little equipment to the hamfests anymore. And the "HamFest" priced items are NO MORE! If the Louisville area had a Ham Store I would buy there. I wanted to open a store here in 1984 but could not find any investors to go in with me. The nearest ham store is in Evansville IN, some 135 miles from me. Too far for these old bones.
Posted by
N4VNV
on December 27, 2007
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R&L or Texas Towers are best
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The best website in the business is Universal-radio.com, I always do all my research there and make my purchases from R and L or Texas Towers. I have found the Service from R and L compliments nicely the website at Universal! LOL
Posted by
N8TG
on December 27, 2007
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R&L or Texas Towers are best
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The best website in the business is Universal-radio.com, I always do all my research there and make my purchases from R and L or Texas Towers. I have found the Service from R and L compliments nicely the website at Universal! LOL
Posted by
N8TG
on December 27, 2007
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R and L Electronics, OH
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I use the internet to deal with R and L. I used to live in Ohio and not that far from them and just a little closer to Universal Radio just outside Columbus, OH. I am now in an area with no "local" Ham Radio dealers so have to mail-order or internet-order just about anything I need.
Posted by
KF7CG
on December 27, 2007
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Orlando Hamfest and HRO
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I'm only 2 hours from Orlando so I like to shop at the hamfest there. I can see a lot in one location, get competitive prices and see my radio friends too. What's not to like?
In between, I make frequent trips to North Georgia so I've dealt with the folks at HRO Atlanta, too. I agree that they do a nice job and I've always had a postitive experience with them.
73
Posted by
WD4AOG
on December 26, 2007
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HRO Anaheim
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Always fun to see all the new goodies, they have the IC-7800 set up and the FT-2000 with DMU. Knowledgeable staff and good stock on main items needed. Competitive pricing. Prefer to support my local ham radio store if possible.
Posted by
W6VA
on December 26, 2007
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RadioWorld Toronto
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I walked through the doors of my local ham radio store for the last time. They offered me $50 trade-in value for a hand-held in excellent condition that they sold me a few years ago for $350. These days ham radio is a small and diminishing part of their business, which is increasingly GPS, FRS, marine, and even astronomy. Now I shop online (great service from WB0W), on eBay (but only from 99%+ vendors!) and local swap shops and hamfests, and of course Dayton when I can get there.
Posted by
VE3LNY
on December 26, 2007
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Last parts I bought came from eBay.
Posted by
W7ETA
on December 25, 2007
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HRO Anaheim
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New gear and accessories from HRO Anaheim only! Janet and the guys are great to deal with - phone and in-person are faster than email.
My philosophy on ham radio and instrumental music - if you want to HAVE a local store, then buy your gear from them!
Posted by
KQ6Q
on December 25, 2007
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HRO in SD
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The San Diego Ham Radio Outlet gets the lion share of my biz - knowledgable and friendly service.
Posted by
KI6CFW
on December 25, 2007
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Websites
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With my schedule I find it easier to order online at nights. I usually order through Universal, mainly since they have a website where you can find what your looking for.
I have many times wanted to order items online through Burghardts, HRO and AES but have a hard time with their websites.
Call me different but ease of use gets my vote and money.
Posted by
WN0R
on December 25, 2007
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Ham Stores
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I don't live within driving distance of any Ham store so I shop online and get their catalogs to shop from also. I don't always buy the cheapest price. I call them and just kind of get a feel of if they are user friendly or not. If they don't care about you before the sale, they sure won't care about you after the sale. Friendliness and good communications are worth more than a few bucks savings. NU0R Bruce
Posted by
NU0R
on December 25, 2007
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HRO-Atlanta
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I have also had gud service from Dale in Atlanta...He has gone the extra mile for me also
Trip - KT4WO
Posted by
KT4WO
on December 25, 2007
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Burghardt Amateur Center - 17 years Great Service/Sales
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On-line, no other choice than to go direct with Burghardt Amateur Supply in South Dakota.
I have been dealing with them for over 17 years and all my "BIG" ticket items came from them (IC-751A, TS-850S, FT-1000MP Mk-V, ICOM 7800) and some VHF gear as well.
Great post sales service/support and down right fair prices and excellent shipping options.
Jim is great to deal with!
Posted by
NM6E
on December 24, 2007
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FT-2000 GOOD
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I purchased FT-2000. I give all 5 balls for this unit!
Posted by
OH1LA
on December 24, 2007
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HRO Phoenix and AES online
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We go to Phoenix once every two years and I always stop by the HRO store. I have purhcased a number of items there and have always been pleased with the service and personal friendly atmosphere of the store. Gary is great to business with. I also buy online from AES as well as HRO.
Richard
W7KPQ
Posted by
W7KPQ
on December 24, 2007
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ONline
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I can't even get HRO to return an email. I live 180 miles from the nearest HRO (or any other ham store). Their hours are 10:00 to 5:30. I can neither call them before nor after work, so I email them with inquiries. I don't get a reply. So far, I've found Associated Radio in Kansas to be the most responsive and accommodating. Kinda ironic. I live in Arizona!
N7MQP
Posted by
N7MQP
on December 24, 2007
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As In All Things
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I do try to use local stores, particularly large purchases because then, even if the gear was made in the Far East, at least some of the money ends up in the local economy. Plus, I like to see what I'm buying if possible.
These days buying online is often the only way to get a good deal on components. And, where would we be without eBay :)
Charlie
Posted by
M0WYM
on December 24, 2007
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HRO Atlanta
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HRO-Atlanta has been fantastic to deal with.
Dale is SUPER, he goes the extra miles for you! A Customer for many many years.
The BEST of the Rest!
HRO - Leads the Way....
Some of their competitors could learn from them.
Posted by W5LXG on December 19, 2007
Posted by
N2WB
on December 23, 2007
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Jun's and HRO
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I've used Jun's and HRO and had zero problems with both. Of course, some of my purchases have come from the Eham classifieds.
Posted by
W3TUA
on December 23, 2007
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All of the above, but
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...I prefer to buy locally if possible and use HRO for most purchases since I can drive to two of them easily.
For Ten Tec, there's no choice: It's go direct.
If SteppIR had a stocking distributor, their sales would likely triple.
Ditto for Force-12: They do have some product in distribution, but only a fraction of what they offer and everything else has a lead time that's too long for me to wait, ever.
WB2WIK/6
Posted by
WB2WIK
on December 23, 2007
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HRO Anehiem
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Buy MOST everything from Janet at HRO in Anehiem,California.GREAT service & GREAT prices EVERY time,year after year after year!I will buy some small items at Orlando Hamcation every year but the BIG ticket items come from HRO "ONLY"!Thanks Janet & HRO for NEVER letting me down!!!
Posted by
W4KVW
on December 23, 2007
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Ham Radio Shopping
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AES Milwaukee,
They have excellent service, even tracked me down once at work to let me know they were sending a replacement part for an
antenna I ordered and received incomplete. When I arrived at home there were 2 phone messages for me to call them. To me that's great customer care. In general I've been satisfied with other suppliers of Ham related merchandise over my 30 year ham career, the latest Tigertronics, excellent customer service.
de K2JX
Posted by
K2JX
on December 23, 2007
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GigaParts
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I purchase all my equipment from GigaParts. Nice folks, quick shipping and best of all...better prices than all others.
Posted by
WY4J
on December 23, 2007
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HRO Atlanta
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Mark, Dale, Josh, Denise, and the whole team at HRO Atlanta are always willing to assist. Been doing business there for nearly 20 years. The crew in Denver are awesome, too... AES has the best catalogs and I can't say anything negative about them. Their booth at Dayton was always busy, as was HRO. Take your pick.
Posted by
WA4HKY
on December 22, 2007
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Burghardt Amateur Center
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I'd have to mirror the last comments. great service, freindly customer service/repair work. Very knowledgable staff willing to take the time to talk with you before you buy.
Posted by
N9MSH
on December 22, 2007
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Burghardt Amateur Center
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Fast service, fair prices, nice folks. Whether buying new or using their repair service you can't beat Burghardt.
Posted by
KE8IC
on December 22, 2007
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On-line internet shopping
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I order online. I've been more than pleased with HRO. What I can't get from HRO, I order from other sources online. When you buy locally, you burn gas and pay sales tax. When you buy online, you pay for shipping. Most of the time, shipping costs less. HRO doesn't charge for shipping provided your purchase is over $100 (very easy to exceed when buying ham gear).
Posted by
AG4RQ
on December 22, 2007
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HRO Atlanta
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HRO Atlanta is my first choice followed by AES Orlando. Of course, a Hamfest can still be a great source for goodies and small piece parts. I NEVER buy from eBay.
Posted by
KG4RUL
on December 22, 2007
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Universal Radio-Ohio
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I buy my gear from Universal Radio in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. They are always helpful and the prices are FB too. Also I really enjoy visiting with the kitty kats they have there. I either purchase from them via the internet or stop in by deliberately going out of my way to see them with my needs.
It is always worth the trip.
de K2ANE
Posted by
K2ANE
on December 21, 2007
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KJI Electronics in NJ
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I buy all my gear and custom cables from KJI Electronics in NJ. Gene is great guy and takes very good care with his customers.
kc2sdg
Posted by
KC2SDG
on December 21, 2007
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Best Stores Ever!
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Make mine AES with a twist.
Posted by
K4FRC
on December 21, 2007
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HRO
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Me? Always HRO in Salem, NH no one else...as Salem is about 80+ Miles north east one way from me so I'll download their catalog and order the item on the phone and have the brown trucks deliver it by 9AM next morning... even if I happen to order by 3PM , I still get it the next day same time. Good folks they are!! Merry Christmas all!!
Posted by
NG1I
on December 21, 2007
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whoever is available
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Who ever has the item I need in stock but mostly HRO Atlanta
Posted by
AE4NR
on December 21, 2007
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Ham Radio Shopping
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I drive 1.5 hours to HRO in Delaware. Nice guys. Very helpful.
Posted by
K3DLB
on December 20, 2007
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Elecraft
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Some of my favorite ham gear is in kit form carefully packed in anti-static bags by Christine at Elecraft.
Posted by
NI0C
on December 20, 2007
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AES
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AES rocks! Great service.
/end/shameless/plug
Posted by
K5PHW
on December 20, 2007
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ebay all around
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I bought my entire station (transceiver, PS, speaker, tuner, desk mic and antenna) on ebay. 6 items from 6 different sellers. Been ebaying since '98. More than 400 transactions, 382 feedbacks, very few bad experiences.
73
Happy Holidays!
Posted by
KB8QLR
on December 20, 2007
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AES Las Vegas
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I get great service on most stuff from AES Las Vegas, but I bought my rig locally from HRO. I wanted it NOW!!!!
Posted by
N6NKN
on December 20, 2007
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mail order
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shop around for best prices. Price of gas negates any issues on shipping. Really it is cheaper for me just to get on phone and order through the mail. Internet auctions result in gear worth actually 50% of new going for just under new prices. If I want a good deal I will simply browse all the ham radio classifieds until I find one. Just say no is the rule when you suspect foulplay
as you are dealing with a stranger. Some of whom are not even hams and dont even know how to turn on the equipment! Especially those who specialize in liquadating estates
of deceased hams. Watch out for these vermin!
Kind of like the local tinkers you may know. Would not be suprised if some of this equipment is not stolen.
Posted by
KD7IIC
on December 20, 2007
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AES Orlando
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In person I bought from AES Orlando, FL, friendly and polite, specially from Eddie Vallejo, the last store tour was amazing , thanks again Eddie. The Charity crew does a good job.
Posted by
HC2S
on December 20, 2007
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where i buy
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i did buy some stuff on ebay, but never again(too many crooks). after i got my general, i bought several hundred dollars from R and L. but there attitude over the phone has got me to looking for some place else. i do not expect to be treated special but if i am a money spending customer, i expect someone to spend time to answer an occasional question. when i go to the closest ham shop (70 miles) in person, i usually leave more confused than when i arrived. i read all the reveiws i can and try to make up my mind before i talk to any salesperson, they are not always the best source of help. i would order from gigaparts,but when they have a sale, they require paypal that leaves us poor people with cash out of luck. i am not able to travel very far to ham fests(and love going to good ones), so my options are fewer than i wish. enough rambling 73 N5ZTP terry
Posted by
N5ZTPN5ZTP
on December 20, 2007
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Radio World
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When in the Las Vegas area, stop by Radio World in Boulder city. This place is PACKED wall to wall with all kinds of Ham, RF and comm stuff, new and used. Dave and his wife are very friendly. "Best Little Radio Shop...by a Dam Site!"
Posted by
WB9YCJ
on December 19, 2007
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Marketing Tool
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Golly gee! eHam.net puts advertisements up as ham articles and marketing tools as survey questions! Will pop ups be next on the eHam.net web site?
Posted by
AI2IA
on December 19, 2007
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AES Milwaukee
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I buy 90% of my stuff from AES. Never a Problem, always friendly and polite.
Sometimes by phone Sometimes by Web site.
Posted by
KA5ROW
on December 19, 2007
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AES
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For me AES is relatively local, but just enough of a ride (15 to 20 minutes) away to keep me from hanging out there every day.
Posted by
N9TGW
on December 19, 2007
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eBay hard to find stuff available there
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I agree with above post have gotten a lot of "whatever" I need from eBay no complaints so far, but you just gotta do your homework i.e. check sellers feedback, etc. If you do that you are generally safe. I have purchased from HRO in DE (online) no complaints there and also Universal in OH again no complaints.
Posted by
W3END
on December 19, 2007
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GigaParts
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Have ordered $4000 of new equipment from them in the last 5 years. Always excellent service.
Posted by
N0FPE
on December 19, 2007
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AES Las Vegas
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A great team of guys who will bend over backwards to see that your order is filled and SHIPPED the same day. I live in the Boonies, CO and they're the closest. Most shipments are 2 days regular UPS.
I always buy my main stuff from them over the internet or by phone!
Keep up the good work in LV!
Posted by
WY7I
on December 19, 2007
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Find a Good Value
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I try to find local hams that want the latest thing. The item may be only a few months old, but the price is only 60-80% of retail, if that. The classifieds here work well for me. Some hams buy equipment just to check it out and then turn around and sell it after a short of amount of time because something new comes along or they do not like it. Now if I could only find that Alpha 87A! I found one, but I had the flu and could not come over and it got sold out from underneath me! Oh well, next time.
I hate retail prices!
Posted by
KB6QXM
on December 19, 2007
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AES
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ORDERED ALL MY STUFF FROM THEM. VERY PLEASED WITH THEIR SERVICE.
Posted by
K9EEH
on December 19, 2007
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Durham Radio - Whitby Ontario
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Great people to deal with. Stop in when passing through (abt 2 hrs from me)or see them at the flea markets.
Posted by
VE3TMT
on December 19, 2007
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HRO Anaheim, CA
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These people rock! They are willing to explain to me the pros and cons of the purchases I want to make, plus they will take back something not working without complaint.
A big plus for a newbie Amateur!!
Posted by
KI6JUX
on December 19, 2007
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eBay
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What? No choice for eBay?
No worse for the buyer than buying used gear at a Hamfest...actually better, cause sellers strive for positive feedback.
If I had a good storefront local to me, I would surely patronize it.
Posted by
AC7NA
on December 19, 2007
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Great Stores
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Texas towers... AES... get just about all my business between the two. Never a problem in over twenty years either.
Merry Christmas
John WR8D
Posted by
WR8D
on December 19, 2007
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HRO Favorite Store
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HRO-Atlanta has been fantastic to deal with.
Good prices as they "meet competition" when needed. Several times, I have been dissatified with my selection of purchases.HRO has pleasantly allowed return of the equipment without complaint. Their staff has always been pleasant and knowledgeable. Some of their competitors could learn from them.
Posted by
W5LXG
on December 19, 2007
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AES Las Vegas
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There are no ham stores located close to my location so I usually order Mail Order or over the internet.
One of my favorites is AES. They ship out the same day that I order it and delivery time is only 1-2 days. Cheap prices and no sales tax. Free shipping on major purchases like a rig.
Posted by
AD6WL
on December 19, 2007
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Texas Towers
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Best prices, free shipping, no sales taxes....no brainer!
Posted by
KB2HSH
on December 19, 2007
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