Yaesu FT-891

HF/50 MHz 100 W All Mode Transceiver

• Rugged construction in an ultra compact body 6.1″ x 2.0″ x8.6″ (155x52x218 mm)
• Stable 100 W Power Output with efficient Dual Internal Fans
• Legendary Yaesu Receiver Design
• Triple conversion with a 1st IF frequency of 69.450 MHz
• 3 kHz roofing filter equipped as standard
• Detachable front panel for convenient mounting and operation
• Large dot matrix LCD display with Quick Spectrum Scope
• Ease of Operation
  • Large diameter Main Tuning Dial (1.6″ / 41mm) with Torque adjustment
  • Pop-up Menu for quick and easy operation
  • Multi Function Knob
  • Large Transmit / Receive indicator
  • Three Programmable Front Panel Function Keys
• Specifically designed External Antenna Tuner FC-50 (option)
• Support Active Tuning antenna systems (ATAS-120A, ATAS-25 Option)
• USB port allow connection to a PC with a single cable (CAT, PTT, RTTY)

100 W Reliable High Power Output

The FT-891 provides stable 100 W (25 W AM) high power output. High reliability is assured by the transmitter careful circuit design with efficient thermostatically-controlled dual internal fans and the diecast chassis.

IF DSP provides effective and optimized QRM rejection

The 32 but high speed floating point DSP (max 3000 MIPS) provides effective cancellation/reduction (DNR) of the random noise that is frequently frustrating in the HF frequencies. Also the AUTO NOTHC (DNF) automatically eliminates the dominant beat tone. The CONTOUR and the APF are very effective receiver noise reduction tools in the HF bands operations. The YAESU original DSP QRM and noise reduction functions are provided.

Yaesu FT-891: Pros and Cons Analysis

The following summary is based on a compilation and analysis of personal user reviews sourced from the internet.

Pros

1. Compact and Portable Design: The FT-891 is praised for its rugged, small form factor, making it an excellent choice for portable and mobile operations, including POTA and SOTA activities.
2. Excellent Receiver Performance: Many reviewers highlight the radio’s receiver sensitivity and effective noise reduction, which provide clear and enjoyable audio.
3. Power Efficiency: Its moderate power consumption, particularly on RX (under 1A), makes it suitable for battery-powered setups.
4. Good Audio Quality: Users frequently commend the radio for its crisp TX audio and reliable performance with the included microphone.
5. Affordability: As a budget-friendly 100W HF transceiver, the FT-891 delivers solid value for its price, especially for new operators.
6. Customization Options: Programmable buttons and DSP features like DNR and contour settings allow for flexibility in operation.
7. Build Quality: The radio is robust enough to handle outdoor environments and mobile use.

Cons

1. Menu-Driven Interface: The most common criticism is the heavy reliance on menus for essential functions, which many find unintuitive and challenging, especially during mobile operation.
2. Lack of Integrated Antenna Tuner: The absence of an internal ATU is seen as a drawback, requiring users to rely on external tuners.
3. Ergonomics: The small size limits the number of physical buttons, forcing frequent navigation through menus for adjustments.
4. Scope and Display: While functional, the scope is basic and lacks modern features like color, averaging, or waterfall displays.
5. Inconsistent DSP Performance: While some find the DSP effective, others consider it overly aggressive or heavy-handed.
6. Band/Mode Switching: Users dislike the lack of quick controls for switching between USB and LSB, requiring deep menu navigation.

User Highlights

• What Users Liked Most: The FT-891’s portability, affordability, and receiver performance make it a standout option for operators needing a compact and efficient transceiver.
• What Users Disliked Most: The menu-heavy interface and lack of user-friendly controls for mobile use are the primary frustrations.
• What is Missing: An internal antenna tuner, intuitive ergonomics, and modern display enhancements (e.g., a better scope or waterfall) are commonly noted omissions.