Finally upgrading from my Technician license setup to General class and need advice on HF transceivers under $1500. Considering the IC-7300 at around $1070, but also seeing good things about the newer Xiegu models and some Yaesu options. Based on more than 120 responses, the usual transceiver suspects led the pack of the most-used rigs for Field Day 2024: Icom IC-7300 HF Plus 50 MHz Transceiver and the Icom IC-7300, available for around $1,069.95, connects to a computer without an external interface.

Primary use will be ragchewing on 20m and 40m with some digital modes like FT8. Not interested in contesting at this point. What would you recommend for a solid first HF rig that won't break the bank?

The IC-7300 is absolutely the gold standard for first HF rigs - fantastic waterfall display, built-in USB interface, and rock-solid performance. IC-718 HF All Band Transceiver: "A great workhorse," per one Field Day participant. Worth every penny of that $1070.

Don't overlook the Xiegu G90 - it's only around $400 and covers 160-10m with decent performance for a new General class op. The Ten-Tec Century 21 and Xiegu G90 were among other models mentioned. Saves you money for a better antenna system, which is honestly more important than the rig itself.

Consider the FT-891 if you want Yaesu reliability in that price range. I've worked 100+ countries on 100 watts with mine. The IC-7300's waterfall is nice but not essential for casual HF operation - either radio will serve you well for years.