The Extra is on my to-do list. I have been studying the General. So far its been more rules and regulations. I'm looking forward to the electronics section. I have an associate degree in electronics technology so I should do well in that area. Anyway, I'm lovin it.
As far as a station goes, I'm hoping to buy one radio to use in the car
and the house; HF/UHF/VHF in the house and 2m/7cm in the car. I also plan to do some Storm Spotting and emergency comms, so I'm also considering a handheld a little later. I really like everything I've read about the FT897D, haven't "touched" it yet though.
Of course I'm partial to the rig but don't forget to give the Icom 706MKIIG or a IC7000 a look see as well.
I have a lot more research to do on antennas before I make a decision on them
.
There is definitaley a lot to learn. That's part of the fun though.
Mark