Ham Radio Extra Class Practice Test 2026 - Free Extra Class License Exam Questions and Study Guide

Single Sideband Modulation (SSB) is the preferred method for voice communications in amateur radio because it is a more efficient form of amplitude modulation. In SSB, only one of the sidebands is transmitted (either the upper or lower sideband), while the carrier frequency is suppressed. This results in a significant reduction in bandwidth and power usage compared to conventional amplitude modulation, making it ideal for long-distance communications.

Additionally, SSB provides improved signal clarity and reduced interference, allowing operators to communicate effectively even in crowded frequency bands. This efficiency and effectiveness make it the dominant mode for voice operations in amateur radio. Other modulation types, such as amplitude modulation or frequency modulation, while still in use for specific applications, do not match the efficiency and propagation capabilities of SSB for voice communication in the amateur radio context.