Congrats Eric!  Nowadays insurance and large companies will push the 
frustration factor to where some may give up and the companies win.  As for 
a good HF station, you can't go wrong with the Kenwood TS-570 S or G model. 
It is a simple radio to operate.  I have used one for many years and have 
had no problems with it.  When I explored which radios to get, I would see 
what kind of guides or manuals were available out there.  At that time, 
Handihams had more manuals and tutorials on the Kenwood line.  Now that has 
changed and manuals are all over the internet.  The TS-570S or G models has 
a built in Antenna tuner which eliminates a tuner.  There are some good 
folks on this list that will steer you in the right direction and if you go 
with a company that sells used radios, you might get a small warranty with 
it.  Happy hunting and Go DXing...Gary KB2YAA

-----Original Message----- 
From: eric oyen
Sent: Wednesday, March 26, 2014 9:08 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: best radio for the blind under $800?

hello everyone.

well, it looks like I finally won against UPS. I should be getting my =
funds in 10 days. Now, all I need is a blind friendly HF radio. Newer =
would be better, but I will only have about $800 to spend. Land Air =
Communications in NY has a few kenwood models with the speech chip. =
Unfortunately, no ts-590 in stock. He has a few 940's and a 540 (among a =
few others). I would like some input from you guys on what would work.

I am looking for one that can use the speech module (vs or vg series) =
and doesn't require computer control.

anyone have suggestions? I would like to stick with the kenwood line if =
possible. if not possible, then going with one of the other rands that =
can be easily computer controlled (as well as read) would certainly be =
helpful.

thanks,

Eric


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