[TenTec] New Rig Suggestion

[Pete Juliano]

Hi Ten Tec User,

The posts have been many and so this is indeed a hot subject. I just couldn't resist adding my nickels worth

Responsible manufacturers such as Ten Tec are faced with a real problem in producing that $500 rig. Today parts and labor costs almost preclude any profit level with such a low price and a relatively small market. Just look at the latest offering from Ten Tec for a network analyzer --it is just a single board and some software and the cost is around $650. For comapnies to stay in business there needs to be a profit --hard to do at $500.

New hams also face a dilemma. That under $500 recycled rig most likely will need some tinkering and many of the newbies just do not have the experience to bring these gems back to life. Many of the manufacturers of these super bargains are no longer in business so tech support is minimal or non-existent. 

Fortunately for us Ten Tec rigs can be fixed and there is a helpful tech support organization to assist you. So finding a reasonable shape used Ten Tec rig is probably one of the better solutions. A Triton IV, Omni or Corsair is a great first rig --and you can still fix them yourself or have Ten Tec do it. Too bad the Triton IV can't be built today for under $500.

The thread goes on.

73's
Pete W6JFR