[Kenwood] Most rugged HF transceiver

[Bill Cromwell]

John asked about:

I am interested in what people would consider the most rugged Kenwood HF
or
HF/VHF transceivers (new or used).  By rugged I mean able to withstand
the
most abuse (environmental, not operator induced).  This would include
being
slapped at times, hit with thrown object, and everything else that might
occur in a chaotic enviroment.  So, which rigs would withstand this
environment with the least chance of being damaged?  A low price point
would also be good in case it was damaged, one would not be out a lot of
money.

John AF5CC

*******************

Hi John,

In my opinion those would be any of the hybrid radios. I have a set of
the original twins - T599 and R599. The hybrids include the 520, 830,
and several other models. Ken has good information about those here:

http://www.k4eaa.com/

I have seen that some of those that use PLL synthesizers have problems
that can be more difficult to repair. All of them have tube final and
tuber driver stages in them. Except for those that have PLL synthesizers
they have discrete components that can be replaced by people with
ordinary ham radio skills. Even those gave been repaired by hams. When I
got my twins the transmitter had been butchered by some previous owner
but I had no trouble getting it back in service in a matter of hours!

It has been exposed to Field Day operations - that should tell you
something.

Good luck with your search

73,

Bill  KU8H