Not sure what you mean on the 440 about a sighted person to program it. 
It is just a small board you install in the radio as well as putting a 
couple plugs together on thee top board.  Some people aren't comfortable 
doing such things, but I've done a few over the years, llittle screws to 
mount the board and all that.
73
Butch
WA0VJR
Node 3148
Wallace, ks.


On Thu, 6 Mar 2014, Colleen Roth wrote:

> Hello,
> I know that some people still like to get a Kenwood 570. You can still buy these radios.
> I have a Kenwood TS440. This Radio accommodates a Speech Chip.
> You do need a sighted person to program it.
> I also have an Icom706. I can't remember which model I have. The one I have also has tccy meters.
> It does have a Voice Chip available.
> I think you can get it to voice more than the Kenwood TS440.
> Colleen, N8TNV;
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: eric oyen <[log in to unmask]>
> To:  [log in to unmask]
> Date: Thursday, Mar 6, 2014 12:37:34 PM
> Subject: need to find a replacement radio
>
>>
>>
>> Hello all,
>> well UPS pulled a fubar. I had the UPS store package and ship per the =
>> instructions given from land air communications. What arrived was a =
>> punctured box that had been severely abused. The radio I sent was able =
>> to power up and work when I sent it. THat was not the case when it =
>> arrived. The power connector had been pushed inside the radio, and the =
>> front faceplate got scratched. Hal tried to power it up only to have the =
>> fuse blow immediately.
>>
>> So, I am now without an HF radio. I have already filed for the claim to =
>> get a replacement and need to find a radio that is more blind friendly =
>> for about $600. Something like a ken wood or similar. Anyone have good =
>> suggestions?
>>
>> comeric
>
>