The 599 Signal Report
by Ron-W2ELS
Welcome to The 599 Signal Report, the definitive podcast for the world of Morse code, aka CW.Join your host, Ron W2ELS, as we bring you a perfect "599" signal report of information—perfectly readable, strong, and with a crystal-clear tone.We'll cover everything from the fundamentals of learning CW and key operating techniques to interviews with legendary operators and the latest gear for your shack. Whether you're a seasoned CW veteran or a curious newcomer.Subscribe now and join the conversation!Keep our signal 599! Support the shack at https://ko-fi.com/599signal
Episodes
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Episode 37: Ragchew with Jay W6JY & Justin N9HO
In this episode, host Ron W2ELS sits down with Jay W6JY and Justin N9HO for an engaging and wide-ranging conversation exploring the ins and outs of the amateur radio ecosystem, modern open-source Morse code training tools, logging software, and getting started in the hobby! Here is a quick…
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Episode 36: My Favorite Things – QRP vs QRO
In this episode, host Ron W2ELS continues the "My Favorite Things" series by exploring the eternal amateur radio debate: QRP (low power) versus QRO (high power). Focusing on the raw, heart-pounding thrill of making Morse code contacts with just a few watts, Ron breaks down the portable gear that...
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Episode 35: Ragchew with Brett KE9BOS
In this episode, host Ron W2ELS sits down with Brett KE9BOS for an engaging and wide-ranging conversation exploring the ins and outs of the Vail community, open-source Morse code training tools, and getting started in the hobby! Here is a quick preview of what is in store: The Vail Ecosystem…
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Episode 34: Ragchew with Nick N2ETH
In this episode, host Ron W2ELS sits down with Nick N2ETH for an action-packed ragchew focusing heavily on the adventures of Summits on the Air (SOTA) and portable operations! Here is a quick preview of what is in store: Hear about Nick's passion for hiking and how SOTA reignited his outdoor...
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Episode 33: Year of the Club Series: Straight Key Century Club (SKCC)
As a part of the Year of the Club Series, in this episode of The 599 Signal Report, host Ron W2ELS sits down with members of the Board of Directors of the Straight Key Century Club (SKCC)—featuring Kathy W4CMG, Ron AC2C, Dave W1DV, and Bill KG7GNB—to discuss the rich history, vibrant community…
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Episode 32: Ragchew with Zeus K8CES
In this episode, host Ron (W2ELS) sits down with Zeus (K8CES) for an action-packed ragchew on everything Morse code, portable operations, and homebrewing! Here is a quick preview of what is in store: From picking up a casual walkie-talkie on a cabin trip to diving headfirst into CW and earning a...
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Episode 31: My Favorite Things – The Rig
In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) continues the "My Favorite Things" series by diving into the heartbeat of the amateur radio setup: the transceiver. He compares his go-to gear for different operating environments, breaking down why the Yaesu FT-710 serves as his refined high-performance SDR home base...
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Episode 30: Ragchew with Jack, W3CT
In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) sits down for an engaging ragchew with 35-year amateur radio veteran & YouTube Creator Jack (W3CT). Discover how Jack mastered Morse code using cassette tapes, why a cheap Baofeng and Parks on the Air brought him back after a 20-year break. Plus, hear how he acts as a...
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Episode 29: My Favorite Things – Choosing the Right Antenna for POTA
In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) kicks off the new "My Favorite Things" series by breaking down the backbone of any portable setup: the antenna. He shares his favorite antenna and compares the rapid deployment of a vertical antenna against the multi-band flexibility of an end-fed half-wave (EFHW)....
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Episode 28: Ragchew with Ryan, AC4NK
In this episode of The 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) sits down with Ryan (AC4NK) for an energizing conversation about hitting the ground running in the amateur radio world. Ryan shares his rapid progression from getting licensed to diving headfirst into Morse code (CW) and the thrill of...
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Episode 27: Year of the Club Series: Long Island CW Club (LICW)
Join host Ron (W2ELS) for a deep dive into the Long Island CW Club (LICW). In this episode, Ron sits down with club founders and key members Howard (WB2UZE) and Mike (N1CC) to explore how the club grew from a small local initiative to a global community with over 8,000 members across 72…
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Episode 26: Year of the Club Series: Rochester Amateur Radio Assoc (RaRa)
In this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) kicks off the Year of the CW Club series — inspired by the ARRL naming 2026 the Year of the Club. The first spotlight shines on Ron's home club: the Rochester Amateur Radio Association (RARA), callsign K2JD. Founded in 1931 with roots…
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Episode 25: Getting Ready for the 2026 World Soccer Tournament Special Event with KD2GUT
In this episode of The 599 Signal Report, host Ron W2ELS sits down with Caryn KD2GUT, the New York/NJ W2C coordinator for the 2026 World Soccer Tournament special event amateur radio station, to discuss all the excitement building around this massive global sporting event. Whether you're a…
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Episode 24: Keeping it Real with TJ, K9KJ
In this episode of The 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) sits down in the shack with YouTube creator and passionate CW operator TJ, K9KJ. From avoiding Morse code in the 80s to chasing adrenaline-fueled pileups today, TJ shares his journey, his unique "kitchen table" learning style, and why he...
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Episode 23:Ragchew with Bryan W1WC
In this episode, host Ron (W2ELS) welcomes Bryan (W1WC) to discuss his rapid transition from a casual ham to a dedicated CW (Morse Code) and POTA (Parks on the Air) enthusiast. The "Insurmountable" Goal: A self-taught operator, Bryan mastered CW in just two weeks to meet a personal challenge:...
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Episode 22:Starting Over: Learn CW
This episode is the final installment of a three-part series about starting a ham radio and CW (Morse code) journey from scratch, hosted by Ron W2ELS. After previously covering licensing and building an $800 station, this episode focuses on mastering Morse code itself. If you found value in this...
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Episode 21: Starting Over: $800 do it all Ham Radio Shack
In this episode 2 of a 3-part starting over series of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron W2ELS cuts through the gear hype and reveals his complete $800 "do it all" ham radio station—the exact setup he'd build if starting from zero today. Affiliate Link https://www.radioddity.com/?ref=599Signal If...
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Episode 20: Start Over Guide:Ham Radio Licensing
In the first episode of the three-part "Start Over Guide" series, host Ron W2ELS shares key strategies for getting an FCC amateur radio license more efficiently. The episode emphasizes that practical on-air experience is where the real learning happens. If you found value in this Podcast, buy me…
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Episode 19: Interview with Tim K5OHY
Host Ron (W2ELS) interviews Tim (K5OHY), a West Texas ham radio operator who first got licensed at 13 with his father in 1996. After two hiatuses, Tim returned to the hobby in late 2020, diving into CW, Parks on the Air activations, antenna building, and YouTube content creation. He discusses QRP...
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Episode 18: Ragchew with Forrest KI7QCF
In this episode of The 599 Signal Report, Ron (W2ELS) sits down with Forrest (KI7QCF) to trace his rapid evolution from a dormant technician to a high-speed CW community leader. Forrest shares the "script method" that moved him from a practice oscillator to his first on-air contact in just 90…
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Episode 17: Get Started in CW with Mike N2MAK Part #2
In Part 2 of this collaboration between Host Ron W2ELS and Mike (N2MAK), the focus shifts from learning resources to actually getting on the air with CW. Ron walks through the structure of a typical POTA CW exchange — calling CQ, sending your call sign, exchanging signal reports — and emphasizes...
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Episode 16: Get Started in CW with Mike N2MAK Part #1
Episode 16: Getting Started in CW (Part 1) Host Ron (W2ELS) of the 599 Signal Report podcast collaborates with Mike (N2MAK), a ham radio YouTuber, for a two-part series on learning Morse code (CW). Mike's 2026 goal is to complete a Parks on the Air (POTA) activation using CW only. Check out Mike...
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Episode 15c: Interview with Jim WB0RLJ
In this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron W2ELS, interviews Jim WB0RLJ, about his journey in amateur radio, starting from his childhood experiences with his father at Field Day, through his break and subsequent return to the hobby. Jim discusses his love for Morse code, detailing the...
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Episode 14: Interview with Ed W4EMB
In this episode host Ron W2ELS interviews Ed W4EMB who was inspired by his Father and Gordon West's study materials to pursue amateur radio while in the military. He mastered Morse code through the Long Island CW Club, progressing from a student to an instructor to mentor others. Ed is a…
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Episode 13: Interview with Stu KM3STU
In this episode of the 5 9 9 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) sits down with special guest Stu (KM3STU), an instructor at the Long Island CW Club. They discuss Stu's journey into amateur radio and Morse code, overcoming "key fright," the supportive LICW community, and the excitement of Parks on…
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Episode 12: Interview with Bruce N9WKE
In this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) interviews Bruce (N9WKE), the inspiring host of the dit dit.fm podcast and a passionate CW (Morse code) operator. Bruce shares his journey into CW, the impact of organizations like CW Academy and the Long Island CW Club, and offers...
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Episode 11:Buy Once, Cry Once: Investing in Lifetime CW Gear
We all start with affordable, entry-level gear, but sometimes you crave excellence. In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) explores the "Buy Once, Cry Once" philosophy when it comes to building your CW station. We contrast inexpensive keys with investment-grade paddles like the Begali Pearl and Bencher...
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Episode 10: Interview with Cathy W4CMG
In this episode of the 599 Signal Report, host Ron (W2ELS) welcomes his first guest, Cathy (W4CMG), for an in-depth conversation about her journey in amateur radio. Cathy shares how her interest in ham radio began in childhood, her experiences learning Morse code (CW), and her involvement with...
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Episode 9:CQ POTA! Your First CW Activation
Ready to become a Parks on the Air (POTA) activator? Ron (W2ELS) walks you through the practical steps of setting up and operating your first CW activation. Learn why CW is the most efficient mode for portable, low-power (QRP) operation, how to use simple gear like vertical antennas, and the best...
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Episode 8: POTA Hunting on CW: Expert Tips from the Activator
You've made your first POTA contact—now learn how to master the pile-ups! Ron (W2ELS) shares expert CW advice from veteran activator Jim, WBØRLJ, whom he has worked over 30 times. Learn the crucial on-air etiquette, including how to avoid the dreaded "blob" by using split frequency (XIT), when to...
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Episode 7:Fast, Fun & Easy CW QSOs: Making Your First POTA Contact
CW doesn't have to be intimidating! Ron (W2ELS) breaks down the simple, fast, and formulaic exchange used by Parks on the Air (POTA) operators to prove that you can get on the air today. Learn the minimal information required (your call sign, 599, and your state), the standard three-part sequence...
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Episode 6: Essential Tools for Learning/Mastering CW: Apps, Websites, and Simulators
You've got the key and the keyer—now get the training tools! Ron (W2ELS) walks through the essential apps and websites you need to master Instant Character Recognition. We cover gamified learning, structured training, and specialized real-world simulators like. Stop counting dits and dahs and…
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Episode 5: Learning the Right Way: The Power of Instant Character Recognition
What's the secret to copying Morse code at high speeds? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) reveals the most crucial learning technique for any aspiring CW operator: Instant Character Recognition. He breaks down why you should never count dits and dahs and instead train your brain to hear each character...
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Episode 4: The Brains Behind the Key: Keyers and Practice Oscillators
What makes your dits and dahs sound so perfect? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) explains the technology that drives your key. We'll break down the difference between electronic keyers, both standalone and built-in, and the simple but essential practice oscillators, or "noise makers." Ron shares his...
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Episode 3: First CW Key: Straight Key, Paddle, or Bug?
What’s the first piece of gear you need to get on the air with CW? In this episode, Ron (W2ELS) guides you through the three main types of Morse code keys. He breaks down the classic straight key, the modern paddle, and the enigmatic bug, explaining how each one works. Ron also shares his…
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Episode 2: Journey to the Extra Class and the Allure of CW
Join your host, Ron (W2ELS), for a personal story of discovery. In this episode, Ron shares his journey from a graduate school graduate with no ham radio experience to becoming an Amateur Extra Class licensee in less than a year. He recounts the chance encounter that sparked his interest and the...
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Episode 1: The Dots, The Dashes, and The Dash-ing Legacy of Morse Code
Welcome to the very first episode of The 599 Signal Report! In this inaugural transmission, we're going back to basics. Many of you might have heard of Morse code, but in a world of high-speed internet and digital communication, why on earth are thousands of people still enthusiastically sending...
About this show
Welcome to The 599 Signal Report, the definitive podcast for the world of Morse code, aka CW.Join your host, Ron W2ELS, as we bring you a perfect "599" signal report of information—perfectly readable, strong, and with a crystal-clear tone.We'll cover everything from the fundamentals of learning CW and key operating techniques to interviews with legendary operators and the latest gear for your shack. Whether you're a seasoned CW veteran or a curious newcomer.Subscribe now and join the conversation!Keep our signal 599! Support the shack at https://ko-fi.com/599signal
Hosted by
Ron-W2ELS
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