[TenTec] Station

[Mark Erbaugh]

I saw one reply that mentioned an Omni V. The Omni V is a great rig for
everything except the digital modes where it isn't stable enough until it
has warmed up for about an hour.  One one test, I measured a warm up drift
of about 100 Hz.  When the PSK31 band is crowded, that's enough to move you
right into an adjacent QSO (especially if you and the other party keep
chasing each other).

OTOH, while about 50% (or so) more, an Omni VI (any flavor) is much more
stable.

There was a suggestion to buy the rig you really want first. I would usually
agree with that as it has been my experience that almost every time I've
settled on and purchased a 'lesser' piece of equipment (both in ham radio
and other areas), I've eventually ended up buying my original one, either
putting my original purchase on the shelf or selling it at a loss.  However,
if you're just getting back into the hobby, I might recommend going less
expensive to get back in to make sure that this is still something you
really want to do. Depending on how long you've been away, you may not find
that ham radio is what you remember.  Maybe you should try and borrow some
equipment first to make sure you're still interested. If you find that you
are, then I would say to go and buy your dream rig.

You should take a look at the TenTec Jupiter. It's much more affordable than
the Orion and really popular.  If you have a computer that you can dedicate
(you'll need it for the digital modes anyway), you might want to look at the
Pegasus. While it's out of production, you can find them used.  It's
essentially the same radio as the Jupiter but without a front panel. All the
control is provide through a program that runs on your computer and connects
via an RS232 serial port.

One thing to consider about TT equipment is their 30 day return policy,
which extends to new and 'demo' equipment. It's not just hype. I've returned
four rigs under that policy. Interestingly, in 3 of the 4 cases, I later
ended up buying the same model again.

For non TT equipment, take a look at Icom. The 718 is their entry level rig,
but appears to have a lot of features, though I've never used one. If you
can live with 10 watts out, look at the 703 Plus (I do use this one). While
it's a QRP rig, it has an excellent receiver. You can always boost the
output power with an external amp. No disrespect intended to the forum as my
usage may be different, but I prefer it to the TT Argonaut V.

If you're interested in building your equipment, take a look at the Elecraft
K2.

73, GL, and welcome back,
Mark, N8ME

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Christine Visconti" <cvisconti at earthlink.net>
To: <TenTec at contesting.com>
Sent: Sunday, November 06, 2005 8:51 AM
Subject: [TenTec] Station


> I have been inactive for a real long time and would like to set up a
> station. I am interested in a mid power setup,( not necessarily
> state-of-the-art), digital, multiband, mainly CW that won't break the
> bank. Money is an issue.
> Does anyone have suggestions about a good "beginner" rig?
> Thanks all
>
> 73
> Lou, KD2MU
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