I keep hearing about all the HF privileges you get with General class, but I want to understand specifically what opens up. As a Tech I can already do voice on 10m in the 28.3-28.5 MHz segment when the band is open.

What additional HF bands and privileges do Generals get? Is the upgrade really worth it for someone mainly interested in voice operations?

• Which bands are most useful for DXing?
• What about digital modes on HF?
• Any power increase?

Huge difference! General gives you extensive HF privileges 160 through 10 meters, allowing worldwide communication in various modes. You also jump from 200 watts to 1,500 watts PEP on HF. 20 meters is arguably the best DX band and you get full access.

Generals can operate all digital modes on HF, including FT8 which has become the most popular mode on HF. You'll get 40m, 20m, 15m voice privileges plus additional bands like 160m, 30m, 17m, and 12m. For DX work, it's absolutely worth upgrading!

The power increase alone makes it worthwhile - going from 200W as a Tech to 1,500W as General is significant for HF work. Plus for emergency communications, having access to most HF bands is almost a necessity depending on propagation conditions.