Hobby Broadcaster Profile
F.S. Weller
KVWJ 1670 AM - Hyrum, UTFriend Weller could only be described as someone who has radio in his blood.
This broadcast veteran of 28 years has worked both sides of the microphone and is currently employed as the chief engineer in the public radio sector. He refers to himself as "one of those 'dangerous' engineers who are engineers by trade and not by schooling." Someone who was obviously destined to work in radio, he states "how many 4th graders draw wiring diagrams for fun?" If that isn't a sign of a future engineer, nothing is.
A self-proclaimed "terminal case", Weller's setup screams how serious he takes the hobby. His studio equipment includes a McMartin console, Technics SP10 MKII turntable, Gates cart machines, Revox open reel deck, Onkyo and Pioneer CD units and Marantz Cassette deck. His Deep Oldies format spanning the years 1954 through 1990 emanates from a Hamilton Rangemaster transmitter with assistance of ZaraRadio automation, Clockwheel music scheduler and Schofield M3U playlist splitter. Audio processing and off-air monitoring are accomplished via an Inovonics 235 AM processor and 525 modulation monitor.
"The best part is that I've only spent $1500 on all the gear" says Weller. The records were free and the building was recycled from a construction site pedestrian covered walkway. Various friends and neighbors have been involved with the station and it never hurts to have "lots of patience from my family."
Weller describes his Part 15 station as part of a "lifelong journey." Just being on the air is where he finds his fun with Part 15 broadcasting, especially when his neighbors want to take a peek or when the local scout troupe comes for a tour.
His talents go beyond his Part 15 hobby and engineering duties in public radio. Weller also teaches the only course on radio at the university where he's employed. His students have an excellent opportunity to learn from a seasoned radio professional while on the road to their future careers.
It's summed up perfectly by Weller's favorite quote from KHJ's legendary radio personality Robert W. Morgan: "I'd rather be on the radio than on anything else."
KVWJ Photo Tour
