Yaesu FT-891
Wishlist
saved
Price History
General Information
The Yaesu FT-891 is a compact and versatile HF/6-meter transceiver designed for amateur radio operators who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. With 100 watts of output power, a robust suite of digital features, and a rugged build, it appeals to both mobile and portable operators. The radio covers frequencies from 160m to 6m (including General Coverage RX) and supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes. Its intuitive interface, built-in automatic antenna tuner (optional ATU-50 module), and advanced DSP filtering make it suitable for a wide range of operating scenarios. Despite its small size, the FT-891 delivers strong receiver performance and is a favorite among operators who need a reliable rig for field use or mobile installations.
How It Performs in Different Environments
Scenario - Base Station at Home
Pros
- Full 100W output power for strong signal transmission
- Easy integration with external antennas and accessories (e.g., amplifiers, tuners)
- DSP noise reduction enhances receive clarity in noisy environments
Cons
- No built-in antenna tuner (requires optional ATU-50 module)
- Smaller display compared to desktop models
- Limited front-panel controls may require menu diving for advanced settings
Scenario - Portable Station for Parks on the Air or Summits on the Air
Pros
- Compact and lightweight (13.2 lbs) for easy transport
- Efficient DC power consumption (2-30A) compatible with portable batteries
- Rugged construction withstands outdoor conditions
Cons
- Requires external power source (battery/solar) for remote operation
- Small screen can be hard to read in bright sunlight
- No internal battery; relies on external power
Scenario - Mobile Station in a Vehicle
Pros
- Designed for mobile use with 13.8V DC input
- Narrow filter options reduce noise in dynamic vehicle environments
- Compact size fits easily in tight spaces
Cons
- Heat dissipation may be challenging in confined installations
- Requires external mounting solutions for the control head
- Vibration in vehicles may affect connections over time
Specs
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Frequency Range | HF + 50/54 MHz (TX: 1.8–54 MHz, RX: 0.5–54 MHz) |
Modes | SSB, CW, AM, FM, Digital (via external interface) |
Output Power | 5–100 W (adjustable) |
Dimensions | 6.1″ (W) × 2.2″ (H) × 9.4″ (D) / 155 × 55 × 240 mm |
Weight | 13.2 lbs / 6.0 kg |
Power Supply | 13.8V DC ±15% (2-30A current draw) |
Receiver Sensitivity | 0.13 μV (SSB, 10 dB S/N) |
Filters | DSP adjustable (300–2700 Hz SSB, 50–500 Hz CW) |
Antenna Tuner | Optional ATU-50 (3:1 impedance range) |