[Kenwood] TS-850S or TS-870S

[Rob Atkinson]

If you are an audiophile it's no contest--the 870 wins hands down.  I 
say this partly because the ham who asked said he operates 99% ssb.   I 
do not contest these days and have never used my 870 in one.  Therefore 
I can't comment on its contest performance but if you are a ssb 
ragchewer and want a single box with a front panel (i.e. not a computer 
controlled SDR rig) then it will be your dream rig.  I heard an 870 
went for $1700 on ebay last week.   That's more than I paid for mine 
NEW in 2004.   I wouldn't take $2500 for mine now--I mean it.   As far 
as ssb audio is concerned the stock Mk V field is not only in the same 
ballpark, it isn't even in the same town.   For dx chasing and 
contesting, that may be an entirely different matter.

73,

rob / k5uj


On Monday, July 9, 2007, at 12:08  PM, Scott Manthe wrote:

>
> If you're an audiophile get the TS-870 or Mark V Field. If you like to 
> contest, get the Field or the TS-850.
>
> I've owned all three rigs and the Field is by far the most capable rig 
> of the three, although for sheer performance, many would argue for the 
> TS-850. I wouldn't.
>
> Personally, I would consider those rigs in this order: Mark V Field, 
> MP (If it's a late production model), the TS-870 and the TS-850.
>
> Kenwood's lack of interest in the amateur radio market, especially HF, 
> troubles me, so I've tended to stay away lately, and I find the Yaesu 
> a better rig anyway.
>
> From comments on the reflector, I see Kenwood has begun circulating 
> the rumor that they're going to start production on a new "high 
> performance" hf rig again. Their North American amateur sales manager 
> told me the same thing 6 years ago, so I'm not sure I'd hold my > breath.
>
> 73,
> Scott, N9AA
>
>
> Dale LaFrance wrote:
>>
>> Hello all, I'm looking to hear from owners of both of these radios, 
>> the TS-850S and the TS-870S and get your honest opinion on your likes 
>> and dislikes of both. I run a Kenwood TS-940S now and looking to get 
>> another radio.
>>
>> I would like to upgrade from the 940 and was wondering which of these 
>> radios would be the best choice. In other words, the biggest 
>> improvement from the 940. I operate 99% SSB just so you know. I have 
>> also been looking at the Yaesu FT-1000D or MP or Field, although the 
>> 1000D would be the more expensive of the group. Any thoughts?
>>