Well, what a truly interesting discussion. A lot of it very informative
(especially about SDR Receivers) . . . and certainly a lot of possible
benefits will be very subjective. As a former Sound Engineer I am very aware
that different people hear things very differently.
Having worked DX on 160m for over 50 years, I have NEVER tried copying a
weak DX station on a Loudspeaker . . . I would always put the headphones on,
as it focuses the sound directly in your head. But I do appreciate that
using a pair of tuned loudspeakers on either side may enable you somehow
phase out the noise as you move your head around.
I have always lived in an urban environment, which never used to be a
problem (once TVs were turned off) . . . but with all the terrible hash from
all the poorly-designed switch-mode PSUs in the neighbourhood, it's really
difficult these days.
I use my trusty FT-930S, which as well as the Variable-bandwidth on CW, I
also have 250Hz Crystal Filters in both main I.F.s. But the '930 also has a
superb tuneable Audio Filter for CW, and you can adjust the audio frequency
that you prefer to hear. (for me this is usually around 800Hz). It's
interesting how effective this can be in making weak signals copiable.
Regarding speeds on CW . . . I agree with earlier comments that sending
really fast can make copying DX signals really difficult on 160m ! It may be
fine on the higher bands, where signals are stronger, but it's really
annoying on Top Band.
Sadly DX Propagation has been very poor on 160m for weeks . . . and if the
band does actually open, often there is no activity on CW. So it would be
good if more stations make the effort to come on.
73 All ! Roger G3YRO
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