Having read Michael W4HIJ e-mail is humbling - but certainly a testament to his dedication to getting on hamsats.
I've been fortunate to own equipment able to work AO-10 (TS-180+432 transverter plus IC-211), AO-40 (FT-847 plus stuff) and AO-27 with my FT-817/Arrow (not duplex). Having extensive experience with the Heo's before using the FT-817 was certainly useful for working simplex. It's doable with care, but so much nicer if one has duplex to monitor the downlink. Using two Baefeng or equivalent brings the cost within range for most on FM-Leo's which predominate at present.
I have been retired six years on only social security income so sympathetic on the subject of costs. Recently this has improved for us so easier, now. I recently considered radios for duplex-sat 144/432 operation and was considering a FM dual-band mobile radio (new) but the cost after acquiring a couple accessories ran to $350. That seemed a bit excessive for "just FM". So I did a little looking around and found a used FT-736R for $550. That gets me back into being able to run all the sats (again). I already have my AO-40 antennas and rotator so not having to spend on that makes is easier, for sure.
Also at nearly 72 years I'm not so interested in waving an Arrow outside (but still have the Arrow).
I have accumulated a lot of ham gear over the last 25-years (so cost has been spread out) but have more invested than most. Fortunate to do that in my last years of employment (could not do it in the early years). Michael is a real inspiration - you'll get there!
Lately in discussions with P4 group on designing the "new sat station".
73, Ed - KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com "Kits made by KL7UW" Dubus Mag business: [email protected]