I had the laserbeam filter unit installed in my 817nd for a while. It does work but has a couple of annoying side effects. Well, at least mine did.
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First, the metering for signal strength is thrown way off. Not the end of the world, but a bit nippy.
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Second, and most annoyingly, the filter creates ghost images of strong signals. These were a couple of kHz away from the actual signal. I can't remember the exact offset but it was a pain in the hoop to constantly flip the filter in and out of line to see if I was listening to a real signal or an image. This could partially be worked around by using the IF Shift on the radio.? The filter was installed exactly as per the instructions. I am very comfortable working with surface mount components and have confidence in my work. I even removed and re-installed it in case there was some hidden issue with my work but that made zero difference.?
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The second issue was annoying enough for me to eventually remove the filter and throw it in the bin. I approached sotabeams about the issue at the time but they were less than energetic in their response.
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I eventually managed to source a 500Hz Collins mechanical filter for a VERY reasonable price and use that in the radio. The difference is night and day!
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Given the current cost of mechanical filters, I'd go for the BHI option.?
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This is just my experience and I'm sure others are happy with the laserbeam. It is cheap after all.?
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Cheers,?
Ronan
MM0IVR?
