In-Depth Review: Radioddity QT60 Pro 10 Meter Radio
The Radioddity QT60 Pro is a feature-packed 10-meter mobile transceiver that has quickly gained attention in the amateur radio community. Its robust design, diverse functionality, and affordability make it a compelling option for both novice and experienced ham operators. This review delves into its design, features, performance, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The QT60 Pro boasts a rugged and modern design with a large, vibrant LCD display that offers excellent visibility under various lighting conditions. The backlit display is customizable, allowing users to switch colors for enhanced readability or personal preference. The compact size makes it an ideal choice for mobile installations, fitting neatly in most vehicles without taking up excessive space.
The buttons and rotary knobs are well-placed and intuitive, with a satisfying tactile feel. Its robust metal chassis ensures durability, a critical feature for mobile use where bumps and vibrations are common.
Key Features
The QT60 Pro comes loaded with a suite of features designed to enhance communication and usability. Here’s a breakdown:
SSB, AM, FM, and PA Modes
This transceiver supports multiple modes of operation, including Single Side Band (SSB), Amplitude Modulation (AM), Frequency Modulation (FM), and a Public Address (PA) system. SSB capability is particularly valuable for long-range communication, making it a versatile tool for hams who want more than basic FM or AM functionality.High Power Output (60W)
With a maximum output of 60 watts, the QT60 Pro delivers robust signal transmission. This power is more than sufficient for DX (long-distance) communications on the 10-meter band, giving users excellent range and clarity.RX & TX Noise Reduction
The noise reduction feature significantly improves audio quality on both receive (RX) and transmit (TX). It filters out background noise, making conversations clearer and reducing listener fatigue during extended use.CTCSS/DCS Support
Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital-Coded Squelch (DCS) provide privacy and prevent interference from other radio users on the same frequency. This is especially useful in crowded bands or group communications.ASQ (Automatic Squelch Control)
ASQ enhances ease of use by automatically adjusting the squelch level to block unwanted noise while ensuring signals break through. It’s a helpful feature for mobile operators who don’t want to adjust squelch settings manually.NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts
Access to NOAA weather channels with alerts makes the QT60 Pro a reliable companion for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, or those in regions prone to severe weather.Large LCD Display
The display is one of the standout features, providing comprehensive information at a glance, including frequency, mode, signal strength, and other parameters.
Performance
The QT60 Pro shines in both transmit and receive performance. Its 60W output power delivers strong and reliable signals, making it suitable for both local and DX communications. The included noise reduction ensures minimal distortion during transmissions, and reports from other operators on the air indicate clean and clear audio output.
On the receiving end, the sensitivity and selectivity are impressive. Weak signals are picked up with minimal static, even in crowded band conditions. The ability to fine-tune settings such as squelch and gain further enhances its versatility.
SSB performance, in particular, is excellent, providing a significant advantage for DXing enthusiasts. The clear audio quality on SSB, combined with its high power output, makes it a strong contender in this price range.
Ease of Use
For a radio packed with features, the QT60 Pro remains user-friendly. The controls are intuitive, and the included manual is well-written, providing clear instructions for setup and operation. Programming frequencies and customizing settings is straightforward, even for those new to ham radios.
The large LCD display, combined with backlit buttons, makes it easy to operate the radio in low-light conditions, such as during nighttime mobile operations.
Value for Money
At its price point, the Radioddity QT60 Pro offers tremendous value. Its combination of features, performance, and build quality rivals more expensive models on the market. Whether you're a beginner looking for your first mobile transceiver or a seasoned operator seeking a reliable addition to your setup, this radio is a worthwhile investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
High power output (60W) for excellent range.
Multiple operating modes (SSB, AM, FM, PA).
Effective noise reduction for clearer audio.
NOAA weather channels and alerts.
Compact design with a durable build.
User-friendly interface and controls.
Affordable price point.
Cons:
Limited to the 10-meter band (though usable for 11-meter CB conversion in some cases).
May require a slight learning curve for newcomers to SSB operation.
Speaker audio quality is decent but could be improved with an external speaker.
Conclusion
The Radioddity QT60 Pro is a fantastic choice for amateur radio enthusiasts who want a reliable, high-performance mobile transceiver at an affordable price. Its combination of power, versatility, and user-friendly design makes it a standout in the 10-meter radio market. Whether you're using it for local contacts, DXing, or as an emergency communication tool, the QT60 Pro delivers in spades.
If you're in the market for a new 10-meter radio, the QT60 Pro deserves a spot at the top of your list. It offers everything a ham operator could need without breaking the bank.