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Author Topic: QST paper quality  (Read 572 times)

WA2ISE

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QST paper quality
« on: April 15, 2022, 02:36:44 PM »

Yes, I did hear that the printer that does QST had an issue of getting the usual paper they use.  And that they'd use a lower grade of paper for the May issue. 

Well, I hope they go back to the better quality paper. 
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KB1NO

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #1 on: April 15, 2022, 03:13:28 PM »

I noticed that, but I actually prefer the new matte finish paper.   In my opinion, easier to read and possibly more recyclable. I hope they stay with the new paper.   
My collection of QST's has overwhelmed my storage ability, so I'll  be keeping 5 years and recycling the older ones unless I can find someone interested.
The last few issues have been arriving in an envelope.  They arrive in better shape than in the past, but I suppose the downside in increased mailing costs.
John, KB1NO
   
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W7CXC

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #2 on: April 15, 2022, 03:15:26 PM »

Also like the new paper ....less glare. At least it arrived.
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N4TD

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #3 on: April 15, 2022, 04:08:00 PM »

I too like the new replacement paper.  It's OK by me to keep using it.
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KD2HCU

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #4 on: April 15, 2022, 04:11:29 PM »

I find it easier on the eyes, no glare.
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AB4KA

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #5 on: April 15, 2022, 04:34:45 PM »

I'm ok with it.  As others have said, I find it a little easier on the eyes.  To be perfectly honest I've been reading it on my tablet as it is usually available earlier than the paper copy.  I even went so far as to toss the years of paper copies I've had on the shelf as I never looked at them and it's actually easier to search on the website and then find it electronically.
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K7AAT

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #6 on: April 15, 2022, 06:25:05 PM »

I must chime in here that I agree , too,  I think I like this new cheaper paper better.
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K9RJ

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #7 on: April 15, 2022, 07:19:56 PM »

I like the original paper. I find the matte paper harder to read, less contrast.
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N8AUC

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #8 on: April 15, 2022, 07:41:18 PM »

Glad to hear I'm not the only one that noticed it.
Hadn't heard about the supply issue for the original quality paper. But that isn't surprising these days.

I figured the change to the new paper was some kind of green-washing thing.
You know, "save the planet" and all?

I'm actually thinking of changing to get QST in electronic form as well.

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WA8NVW

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #9 on: April 15, 2022, 07:55:18 PM »

I'll join the rapidly growing list of QST readers who prefer the new lower-cost paper.  This is one of the better changes to the magazine in quite a while.  And I'll admit my eyes are getting worse as I get older.
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W7XTV

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #10 on: April 15, 2022, 08:18:26 PM »

I like the original paper. I find the matte paper harder to read, less contrast.

I agree.  It looks worse than cheap.  Not only is the contrast much worse, but the opposite page leaks through.  I understand why they had to switch, but it's not good quality for a major magazine.  I hope they're able to go back to the original paper as soon as possible.
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W0CKI

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #11 on: April 15, 2022, 09:16:15 PM »

Cheap,cheaper,cheaply,all of the aforementioned.
Gary W0CKI
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K1KP

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #12 on: April 16, 2022, 01:32:35 AM »

So I got an email from the League apologizing for the paper this month and explaining the issues. But when I got it in my hands, my first thought was how nice and thick this issue was. Turns out it's just the paper! QST has been getting thinner and thinner every month (notwithstanding the thick paper issue). Yet they turn down good articles that get published elsewhere!

Keep up the thick paper! Maybe folks will think they're getting more in the magazine.

-Tony, K1KP
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K4GTE

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #13 on: April 16, 2022, 04:11:32 AM »

The ARRL sent out an email explaining the paper change, temporary, due to availability. Thank a DC politician. At least they put it out, unlike CQ magazine, who can't seem to get any print issues out.
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K4FMH

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Re: QST paper quality
« Reply #14 on: April 16, 2022, 07:53:35 AM »

I'm delighted with the constructive responses here...I criticize the League when I think it constructively points out issues that a membership-driven (don't laugh) non-profit should do better at, etc. But this isn't something the ARRL can directly control through a policy change or more $$$ per se. It's a difference between the League's solvency and the well-noted financial issues that CQ has in it's print model.

I read all my ham radio mags digitally, at least first, the scan the print issue when it arrives later so I'm not phased by the lower quality paper.

73,

Frank
K4FMH
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