Got new SSB rig...what do I do now?

[alhefner]

OK, I got my new 148GTL all installed. everything seems OK but the channels are pretty quiet. I would love to try out the SSB but have never used those modes before. What should a beginner do? Is there a certain channel and USB or LSB that would be best for starters or should I simply choose either USB or LSB and flip along the channels until I hear something and try to make contact?

[skipper309]

Turn to 38 LSB and throw out your numbers and state. 38 LSB is hopping when 11 meters is open. You may catch locals there depending on your location. Hell, give me a shout, I buzz by 38 LSB quite often.

Skipper 309
NJ

[Mikey B]

Jump on the key and start yellin! Have fun with the new rig man!

[alhefner]

Jump on the key and start yellin! Have fun with the new rig man!

That's just what I did! Made a couple of contacts. One at about 55 miles away the other about 30 miles off. I'll go back out later on and try again see if things improve as the night wears on.

[231]

Jump on the key and start yellin! Have fun with the new rig man!

That's just what I did! Made a couple of contacts. One at about 55 miles away the other about 30 miles off. I'll go back out later on and try again see if things improve as the night wears on.

Congrats' alhefner! That's exactly what you do...just go key up and talk to some folks. Typically you'll find most of the SSB users on channels 35-40 (both USB/LSB). I guess some areas go a bit lower, but those are the ones I've generally heard (and used) over the years.

In many areas you'll find groups of folks that are in there most every night (and often during the day) to chat with. I personally find it alot of fun to sit and rag chew with folks like that. My very first DX contact was on SSB at around 12 years old, believe me I was hooked! So be careful...

Best of luck to ya' and keep keying up!

[Mikey B]

Jump on the key and start yellin! Have fun with the new rig man!

That's just what I did! Made a couple of contacts. One at about 55 miles away the other about 30 miles off. I'll go back out later on and try again see if things improve as the night wears on.

There is nothing like a new piece of equipment, new features and enjoying using them is there?

[va236]

Congratulations on the new radio! I agree with what everybody else has said... check out channels 36,37,38,38,& 40. I hang out on 38 LSB most of the time, but I roam around sometimes too. Things have been kind of quiet in my neck of the woods lately, but I'm hoping that will change. I run a Galaxy DX959 in my truck, with a Wilson 1000 mag mount antenna.

Have a great day!
John