[TenTec] New ham looking at Pegasus

[Ken Brown]

Hi all,

I have been following the discussion of what transceiver a new ham might 
want to purchase. Someone else has already pointed out the economic 
advantage of buying used vs. new radios. I agree with that and would 
like to add my two cents: My recommendation is a mid range (not top of 
the line) JA rig from the 80's or 90's. Something all solid state, with 
general coverage receive, and a built in antenna tuner. The mid range 
rigs are usually smaller and therfore suitable for portable or mobile 
operation. Most of them have enough of features that you can learn the 
basics about how things work. Then after using that rig for a while you 
will be more qualified to make your own personal choice about buying a 
more expensive, top of the line rig. Then the first rig becomes your 
backup/ emergency / portable/ mobile rig...As I write this I am thinking 
about my Kenwood TS-440SAT. Icom and Yaesu also made rigs that would do 
the job. I am not well enough versed in the particular models to name 
one. Also some of the more recent mid-range Kenwoods would be good. I 
see radios in this class for sale, used in good to excellent condition 
for around $400 regularly. I would recommend against any of the 
detachable front mini-mobile rigs because too many of the essential 
functions require  multiple keystoke sequences to control. To learn the 
basics it is better to have the controls easy to play with.

Have fun, Ken N6KB