What is the primary modulation type used for most voice communication in amateur radio?

The primary modulation type used for most voice communication in amateur radio is Single Sideband (SSB). This modulation technique is favored because it is more efficient than Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM) in terms of bandwidth and power usage.

SSB transmits only one of the sidebands (either the upper or lower) and suppresses the carrier frequency, making it possible to convey the same amount of information while using less power and occupying less bandwidth. This efficiency is particularly advantageous for long-distance communication and weak signal conditions often encountered in amateur radio operations.

While AM and FM are used in some amateur communications, SSB's efficiency and clarity in voice transmission have made it the standard in HF (high frequency) communication. Continuous Wave (CW) is primarily used for Morse code transmissions and is not considered a voice communication method.