The QYT KT-8900D: A Compact and Affordable Dual-Band Radio with Surprising Features

Note: In the image above, the custom car mount shown is not a stock item—it’s a custom-built addition!

Introduction:

This is not a new product to me, in fact I was one of the first people in the UK to own the QYT KT-8900D, I purchased it with the programming cable, in about 2017 maybe even before that. I bought it because it was tiny and offered a lot of features and a small price tag. It has been in a box in a cupboard for 5 years and Yesterday I pulled it out for the first time. It was Dead! It comes with a Cigar socket charger for mobile, so the first port of call was checking that. Sure enough there was my problem, the solder on the Earth connector had disappeared! So five minutes later it was back together and in the car. Also note this is an older radio, but the fact it was a budget item and still works is awesome.

Note in the picture above the custom car mount, this is not a stock item, I built this!

General Specifications:

• Frequency Range:
  • VHF: 136-174 MHz
  • UHF: 400-480 MHz
• Channel Capacity: 200 channels
• Channel Spacing: 25 kHz, 20 kHz, 12.5 kHz
• Channel Step: 5 kHz, 6.25 kHz, 10 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 15 kHz, 25 kHz
• Working Voltage: 13.8V DC ±15%
• Frequency Stability: ±2.5 ppm
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 140 x 43 x 172 mm
• Weight: 1030 g

Receiver Specifications:

• Sensitivity:
  • Wide Band: ≤0.25 μV
  • Narrow Band: ≤0.35 μV
• Channel Choice:
  • Wide Band: ≥70 dB
  • Narrow Band: ≥60 dB
• Intermodulation:
  • Wide Band: ≥65 dB
  • Narrow Band: ≥60 dB
• Spurious Rejection: ≥70 dB
• Audio Response:
  • Wide Band: +1 to -3 dB (0.3 to 3 kHz)
  • Narrow Band: +1 to -3 dB (0.3 to 2.55 kHz)
• Signal to Noise Ratio:
  • Wide Band: ≥45 dB
  • Narrow Band: ≥40 dB
• Audio Distortion: ≤5%
• Audio Output Power: ≥2W ±10%

Transmitter Specifications:

• Output Power:
  • VHF: 25W
  • UHF: 20W
• Modulation Type: FM (F3E)
• Maximum Deviation:
  • Wide Band: ≤5 kHz
  • Narrow Band: ≤2.5 kHz
• Spurious Emission: ≤-60 dB
• Adjacent Channel Power:
  • Wide Band: ≥70 dB
  • Narrow Band: ≥60 dB
• Audio Response:
  • Wide Band: +1 to -3 dB (0.3 to 3 kHz)
  • Narrow Band: +1 to -3 dB (0.3 to 2.55 kHz)
• Audio Distortion: ≤5%

Key Features of the QYT KT-8900D

1. Compact Design: The QYT KT-8900D is known for its small size, making it ideal for installations in vehicles with limited space. Its compact form factor allows for easy mounting under dashboards or in tight spots.
2. Quad Watch: This feature enables the radio to monitor four frequencies simultaneously. While it sounds impressive, some users find it less practical in real-world use due to its limitations with certain repeaters.
3. Affordability: Priced around $99, it’s a budget-friendly option for beginners or those looking for a secondary radio.
4. Loud Audio: The top-mounted speaker delivers clear and loud audio, which is particularly useful in noisy environments like vehicles.
5. DTFM Mic: The stock microphone is a backlit (bright) DTFM mic, making it easier to change channel whilst mobile.

Performance Insights:

1. Durability: Users have reported mixed experiences with the KT-8900D’s durability. Some have encountered issues such as intermittent failures after about a year of use, often attributed to poor soldering1. This can result in the radio showing a signal but not producing audio.
2. Heat Management: The radio can overheat during prolonged use at high power, potentially damaging the final amplifier. It’s recommended to use it at medium power or within repeater timeout limits to avoid this issue, or upgrade the fan!
3. Software and Programming: The programming software can be buggy, but many users have found workarounds online. The radio is also compatible with CHIRP, which offers more customization options.

Build Quality Observations:

1. Components: The choice of RF final components has been criticized. The stock components are often under powered for the radio’s intended use, leading to failures. Some users recommend replacing these with higher-rated components for better performance.
2. Physical Build: Issues like knobs falling off and poor build quality have been noted. These problems can be frustrating, especially when using the radio in a mobile environment1.

User Feedback:

1. Positive Experiences: Many users appreciate the KT-8900D for its affordability and functionality as an entry-level radio. It’s seen as a good starting point for new amateur radio enthusiasts.
2. Negative Experiences: More experienced users often find the radio lacking in long-term reliability and build quality. The durability issues and software bugs can be significant drawbacks for those expecting a more robust device.

However I have never had issues with software or prolonged use (also having aircon circulating into and around the unit helps)

Conclusion:

The QYT KT-8900D is a decent choice for beginners or those needing a budget-friendly secondary radio. However, its long-term reliability and build quality may not meet the expectations of more experienced users. If you’re looking for a more durable and reliable radio, you might want to consider investing in a higher-end model. If you see

Would you like to know more about any specific aspect of the QYT KT-8900D or have any other questions? 

1: eHam.net Review

2: eHam.net Review