[TenTec] General coverage RX/XCVR suggestions?

[Bwana Bob]

Al:

The Ten-Tec 1254 kit is a very nice receiver. The 4 kHz filter is a 
compromise, though, a little wide for SSB and a little narrow for AM. 
However, there are inexpensive filters on the market which you could add 
with a little relay or diode switch. Check out the Kiwa Electronics web 
site. They have several filters that would work.

For the best broadcast band and general shortwave reception, you nee a 
big old boatanchor, like anything from the Hammarlund HQ series.


			73,

			Bob WB2VUF

Al Gulseth wrote:

> OK folks,
> 
> I need some input here. I'm looking for a reasonably priced general coverage 
> rig (either receiver or transceiver). The intended uses would include both SW 
> BC and ham band listening, with good CW performance a must. Also, the XYL is 
> a KC Royals fan (with no local affiliates -- all the stations are "secondary 
> coverage" situations), so good performance on the AM BC band would be a plus. 
> I would also prefer "user-serviceable" solid state (i.e., no surface mount).
> 
> In looking at the possibilities, I have come up with the following list among 
> the Ten-Tec offerings: a few other alternatives I am considering are listed 
> at the end. Your comments/suggestions concerning my assessment of these is 
> requested (list is in alphabetical order):
> 
> Argonaut V: positives: compact size, good performance based on reviews. 
> Drawbacks: not easily user serviceable, stretches the budgeted range.
> 
> Delta II: positives: reasonably compact size, fits target price range, good 
> performance from my contact with one some time back. Drawbacks: lack of 
> availability?
> 
> Paragon: positives: excellent performer based on "hands-on" experience, good 
> availability (several currently listed for sale in various places). 
> Drawbacks: larger footprint, stretches the budgeted range.
> 
> RX-320: positives: excellent performer according to reviews, small footprint.
> Drawbacks: not stand alone (requires control computer of some sort or 3rd 
> party "front panel" at extra cost).
> 
> SP-325: positives: excellent performer, reasonably priced. Drawbacks: limited 
> availability, possible service issues due to obsolete parts, large footprint.
> 
> T-kit 1254: positives: small footprint, well within budget range. Drawbacks: 
> not as versatile in filtering etc.
> 
> Other possibilities outside the TT product line I am considering include the 
> Drake SSR-1 or SW series and possibly some of the Ickesu (AKA Yaecomwood) 
> offerings.
> 
> Any comments or suggestions?
>