[K3PZN-List] Quasi-Vintage Rigs?

[Curt Milton]

I am contemplating upgrading my station by replacing
my 100 w rig (TS-140) with something higher
performance.  In addition to considering mid-price
rigs (IC-746 and TS-2000), i am also wondering about
the nicer rigs of the recent past.  And I have 2 kids
in college so maybe I should consider other options.

I read/hear nifty things about the FT-990 and TS-850,
and the measured performance (lower phase noise and
higher blocking dynamic range) would be a significant
upgrade.  And overall I think I like these rigs more
than the newer ones, based on what I am perceiving. 
(I know one shack I can visit to try a FT990 owned by
a coworker - guess I need to try a TS-850 some day).  

Are there any issues with "old age" for these 20+ year
old rigs?  I have heard that care is needed to replace
batteries - do these only store short-term memory and
not rig "firmware" ?  The shaft encoder on my TS-140
reverses direction occasionally and the audio drive
pot is a bit flacky, but otherwise this rig may last a
couple more decades.  Any other wear issues to be
alert to?  

Just looking for data, so I can be ready if an
opportunity to buy ever presents itself.  

Replies off list welcome, if anyone else wants similar
data I can send what I learn.  

73, curt

PS - if there is any interest in re-populating either
of our repeaters during normal commuting hours, i am
game!  until then, i have been camping on 147.135
where i regularly chat with some interesting folk.  


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