KD0GY

I've been a ham since 1967. My first rig was an Ameco AC-1, a 2 tube 15 watt 80/40 meter xtal controled CW transmitter kit I built myself, and a Hallicrafters S-76 receiver (it had a phono input for a turntable, and also served as my hi-fi!). Long before personal computers, I became facinated with teletype machines, and over the years reconditioned and used model 15s, 28s, and 33s, with various home brew TUs. I later bought a HAL RTTY keyboard, which I used with a homebrew "times square" type LED ticker display, and eventually became involved with the TRS-80, Apple IIE, and now PCs. In addition to RTTY, and then packet when it came on the scene, my interest in computers led me to become an early beta tester of computer music software, which I now have taught at several universities. At one time my career led me to perform music in various countries around the world, including islands in the Caribbean, and it afforded me a chance to enjoy my own little DX expiditions in places like Martinique, Gualaloupe, and St. Barts as well as Europe and Japan with my trusty TS-120 in my suitcare.

Currently, my station consists of an Icom IC-7300 (I love this thing!) and a restored Ten_Tec Century 21 (for old time's sake) running barefoot into either a ground mounted Butternet HF6-V verticle or a G5RV dipole up about 35 feet, with an MFJ-993B auto tuner, and an Azden PCS-6000H 2 meter rig into a Ringo Ranger. Power for both is provided by an Alinco DM 330MVT 30 amp switching power supply. I also have a Yaesu VX-170 2 meter handheld. In the car, I run a Kenwood 180s into whatever Hustler whip the band calls for. My ham shack is integrated into my home recording studio, so there are several muscular homebrew Windows and Linux PCs about to handle digital modes. Having the studio gear available 

also allows me access to a number of professional quality microphones and advanced VST speech and audio processing through the audio rack and patch bay, along with studio reference monitor speakers. My pride and joy are the wonderful Viboplex and Brown Brothers CW keys I've restored. My favorite straight key at the moment is a Navy flameproof CMI-26003A.

I'm semi-retired now, having been a professional musician my whole life. Over the years I've performed around the world in settings from symphony orchestras and chamber music ensembles to Jazz, Rock, Blues, Latin and Country groups. I've done motion picture work, and numerous radio and television spots. I've also done studio recording sessions for artists and producers such as Allen Toussaint, Ray Benson and Dr. John. I've appeared a numer of times on network television, and in addition to performing on upright and electric basses, 'cello, and tuba, I've also been a 

music director and have performed at venues such as the US White House, New York's Carnegie Hall, The Royal Albert Hall, Holland America's "Salute To Jazz" cruises, and Expo 90, in Osaka Japan. I hold advanced degrees in music, and  have taught at a number of universities as well. I've also given Jazz and bass clinics in the US, Europe and Japan.

I received my US private pilot's liscense in 1969 at age 16, and now have over 3500 hours as pilot in command. I enjoy nature photograhy, painting, and I also love to SCUBA dive and have a 2nd degree black belt in Taekwondo.

 Hope you're enjoying amateur radio as much as I am, and wishing you GL, good DX, and best 73.

Artie, KD0GY