[TenTec] Fragile Radios

[Martin AA6E]

John,

I used my TS-520S from the 1970s straight through to ~ 3 years ago, when 
I got my Orion.  The Kenwood is still working fine after 30 years.  I 
think you hit on a problem with essentially all current ham gear.  How 
likely is it that it will be working in 2037?  Trouble is that 
microprocessors and similar circuits go out of date a lot faster than 
the components of the '520 and similar tube/transistor gear.

For current and many non-current products, people report good experience 
with TT support.  But even TT can't replace some of the oldest components.

You might want to consider TT's used/demo offerings which are announced 
here from time to time, or contact them.  Safer than eBay, but not cheaper.

73 Martin AA6E

John Huggins wrote:
> Hello all.
> 
> I have been trolling Ebay for used TenTec gear and have scored an Omni C 
> Series C.  This is to be, I hope, a step up from my trusty, but 
> cumbersome, Kenwood TS520SE (tube finals).
> 
> I am also paying close attention to more recent gear that pops up.  I 
> actually put a bid on an Omni VII that was advertised with a 
> malfunctioning power button (stuck on), but otherwise working.  I logged 
> on this morning to find the auction ended and my bid removed.  Reason?  
> The radio was having more problems.  The honesty of the seller is 
> greatly appreciated.
> 
> So this makes me wonder if the newer radios are more delicate than ever 
> being more like computers and less like radios we grew up with.
> 
> Since the TenTec warranty is for the original purchaser only and since 
> TenTec, I hear, does a great job of standing behind their product when 
> troubles arise, is it foolish to buy any used TenTec that is still under 
> the warranty to only the original purchaser?
> 
> John
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