[arm-allstar] Newbie hardware node builder, looking for elmer that I can ask questions or advice.

[kd4ont]

I reached out to Peter, g7rpg. Waiting for a response. Is there someone that I could ask hardware software questions, when I see a road block, that wouldn't mind directing me to good solutions? I know asking "stupid" newb questions, out here, might be good, but bore the rest of you.
My first question is: with a g7rpg suggested mod for milliwatts output, with a 888s, what band split should I use that the rx would not be taken out by the tx. I know the 888s has a rx as big as a barn door. Would a cross band setup be better with these chinese radios at very low tx power?
I'm piecing together my first hybrid node. A tx rx and dtmf mic node. This is for only around the house setup. I want to be able to use the dtmf mic and speaker, like a base station, AND OR, use a mini repeater for wireless usage around the house.