joseph2020
Member
Has anyone here owned or used a Kenwood TS520 rig. I may have a chance to get one soon. Any reviews / real life experience with this rig? Thanks in advance
I agree, that's good advice. I like those old rigs because it's what I can understand, and, if need be, I can learn to fix or maintain myself.Might be some caps that need to be replaced, alignment, and finals replaced. But for a 30+ year old rig, it's probably as good as they get.
have a TS520S that I inherited about 23 years ago and used aboard our sailboat for several years. The S model has the analog dial and is a solid state (transistorized) rig except for tube finals and driver.
what the heck is a "chopper"? Is it an inverter?unless you have the "chopper" accessory.
Quesrion #1 Does this mean I need to re-zero every time I power up the ts520?older analog radios would drift somewhat as they warmed up, some worse than others
I got my license last July (KD0PDX), so I got that covered!I'm assuming you are going to get a license so will be transmitting
I am looking at antenna tuners, and just received the 2012 MFJ catalog. On that wire antenna...about how long do you think I would need?spend the money on an "antenna tuner" and throw up a wire antenna. This combo will get you on the air on pretty much any band that the radio will cover
With my financial situation I have no choice but to build all I can myself. I did build for 2 meter, one a J diple using twin-lead, the other one made from a old school rabbit ears, and they both work pretty well.so don't just throw money at it ... learn how to build it.
Currently,I am focused on learning how to use the 520. I also like the idea of being able to work on the rig myself when I have to (no unsoldering ICs or SMT parts). The 520 (not S) does have the 12 volt capability built in (dc-dc converter, like a chopper). Digital modes such as PSK31 are down the road for me at this time. Right now what I really want to learn is how to operate this radio in an efficient manner. Thanks again Kermit, feel free to keep those comments coming my way. Your responses are always welcome.start saving up for a later model solid state digital radio.
I need to get the tuner..that would be the best solution. With a tuner SWR is matched as a "side effect" of the tuning. Thanks for that great advice, Kermit.. The bridge tells you if they match, and a tuner makes them match.