Note
The Yaesu FT-891 is a highly popular, ultra-compact HF and 50 MHz radio. Specifically designed for mobile installations, field operations (like POTA/SOTA), and space-conscious shack setups, it packs a full 100 watts of output power into a remarkably small footprint. It was introduced as a modern, DSP-heavy successor to Yaesu's older generation of ultra-compact 100-watt mobile rigs (like the FT-857D). Initial ads framed the rig as the modern evolution of mobile HF operation, showing off its crisp dot-matrix display and highlighting the new 32-bit IF DSP and standard 3 kHz roofing filter.
– Frequency Coverage: Transmits on 160–6 meter amateur bands. The general-coverage receiver spans $30\text{ kHz}$ to $56\text{ MHz}$.
Power Output: Adjustable up to 100 watts on SSB, CW, and FM (25 watts on AM).
– Receiver Design: It utilizes a triple-conversion superheterodyne architecture with a 1st IF frequency of $69.450\text{ MHz}$. This is paired with a 3 kHz roofing filter equipped as standard, providing excellent close-in signal rejection.
Features & Capabilities
– Effective QRM & Noise Rejection: Powered by a 32-bit high-speed floating-point IF DSP (up to 3000 MIPS). This includes Digital Noise Reduction (DNR), an Auto Notch Filter (DNF) to eliminate dominant beat tones, and Contour/APF tools for cleaner HF reception.
– PC Connectivity: A built-in USB port allows direct connection to a computer using a single cable for CAT control and PTT/RTTY control.
– Advanced Keying: Supports advanced electronic keying (4 to 60 WPM) with FULL BK-IN support.
– Programmable Keys: Three programmable front-panel function keys can be customized to the user's personal preferences.
– Advanced 32-bit Floating Point DSP: The digital signal processing is the standout feature for a rig this size. It offers highly effective QRM (interference) rejection via variable IF width, IF shift, digital noise reduction (DNR), and an adjustable audio notch filter.
– Detachable Front Panel: Perfect for vehicle mounting; the compact control head can be separated from the main body using the optional YSK-891 separation kit.
– Ergonomics & Display: It features a large, crisp dot-matrix LCD screen with a quick-access multi-function dial. The large main tuning knob is smooth and has adjustable torque.
– Native USB Port: Unlike older mobile rigs, it includes a built-in mini-USB port that simplifies computer connectivity for CAT control and firmware updates, though an external audio interface (like a DigiRig or Signalink) is still typically used for digital modes like FT8.
Operational Considerations
While it offers incredible performance per dollar, its ultra-compact form factor means most advanced settings are nested within a multi-layered menu system rather than dedicated physical buttons. Additionally, because it puts out 100W from a small chassis, the internal dual-cooling fans run frequently under heavy duty cycles to manage thermal dissipation.
Specifications
For specifications, see attached image.
