The Yaesu FT-901 is a transceiver for operations in the 1,6-2 MHz (160m); 3,5-4 MHz (80m); 7-7,5 MHz (40m); 14-14,5 MHz (20m); 15-15,5 MHz (WWV/JJY timesignal receiving only); 21-21,5 MHz (15m) and 28-29,9 MHz (10m) shortwave amateur radio HF bandsegments.
Actually this radio is an upgrade of the FT-101ZD line so its construction (metal chassis, casing and die-cast aluminum front) is mainly equal as well as the solid state design combined with tubes in driver and final stage. The main difference however is that the FT-901 in its standard configuration is completely equipped with all plug-in circuitboards. Besides the set has lots of features such as a memo system storing the used frequency on demand (amateur radiosets were not yet equipped with built-in memos before) and a built-in electronic Curtis keyer and handles the AM, FM, CW, SSB and FSK modes on the above mentioned bands. Its passband tuning is continuously variable from 300–2400 Hz. The FT-901 is for the mentioned amateur bands only and has no general frequency coverage. Its frequency readout is in both analog and digital display modes.
Intended to be an improved FT-101ZD the FT-901 line was produced by the Japanese Yaesu Musen Corporation in the same timeline as the FT-101ZD line during 1979-1983 as
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The FT-901 all solid state receiver section is the single conversion type combined with Phase Locked Loop circuitry and 8.9 intermediate frequency. The transmitter section is a combined type. Solid state in the carrier, filter, noiseblanker and RF units. In the drive and PA units however electronic tubes are used. RF unit signal is fed to a 12BY7 driver tube and amplified to activate the two 6164B final tubes producing a clean 100W output.
Nice looking. When in good technical condition even after all those years very good tx and rx results. Clear digital readout display. Very clean tx and rx audio often described as near to hifi. A real HAM collectors item.
Note that this set is out of production for a long time so obtaining spare parts and certainly the accessories will not be easy. Large dimensions and a heavyweight. Known problems: the possibility of aged and deteriorated driver and final tubes (still available but expensive). Cracking sounds in all turn-type controls and switches (proper spray cleaning will do the job). The FT-901 is standard equipped with numerous whistles and bells which might be due to realignment or repair after all those years. You have to take it to an electronic shop in case you do not dispose of adequate measuring equipment.