
( Brand: Kenwood ), ( Model: TS-520 ), ( Type: Base Station ), ( Supported Modes: Ssb ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: Japan )
The Kenwood TS-520 is a powerful and versatile HF/VHF transceiver designed for amateur radio enthusiasts. This transceiver features a high-quality direct sampling SDR (Software Defined Radio) architecture, which provides excellent receiver performance with wide frequency coverage from 160m to 6m (1.8 MHz to 50 MHz) for HF bands, and VHF bands from 6m to 70 cm (50 MHz to 450 MHz).
The TS-520 boasts a high-resolution color LCD display with a large 2.4-inch screen, providing an intuitive and easy-to-use interface for accessing all of its features. The display is also customizable, allowing users to adjust the layout and information displayed to best suit their needs. The transceiver also features a high-quality built-in speaker, as well as a 3.5mm headphone jack for private listening.
In terms of performance, the TS-520 features a high-performance RF filter and a built-in automatic notch filter, which helps to reduce noise and interference, improving signal clarity and readability. The transceiver also features a high-quality direct sampling receiver with a dynamic range of 107 dB, providing excellent sensitivity and selectivity. The transmitter is also powerful, with an output power of up to 100 watts on HF and 50 watts on VHF, allowing for long-range communication.
The TS-520 also features a built-in digital voice recorder, which allows users to record and playback conversations, as well as a built-in CAT control interface, which allows for easy integration with third-party software for logging, contesting, and other applications. The transceiver also features a built-in memory keyer, which allows for easy automated message sending.
Overall, the Kenwood TS-520 is a high-performance and versatile transceiver that is well-suited for both beginner and advanced amateur radio operators. Its direct sampling SDR architecture, high-resolution color display, and powerful transmitter make it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality HF/VHF transceiver for their amateur radio setup.
Pros of buying a Kenwood TS-520:1. Excellent audio quality: The TS-520 is known for its clear and powerful audio output, making it ideal for both casual and serious amateur radio enthusiasts.
2. Versatile frequency coverage: The TS-520 covers a wide range of frequencies, from 160 to 6 meters, making it suitable for various types of amateur radio communications.
3. Digital mode support: The TS-520 supports digital modes such as PSK31, RTTY, and CW, allowing you to communicate with other radio operators using digital techniques.
4. Built-in CAT control: The TS-520 has a built-in CAT (Computer Aided Transceiver) interface, which allows you to control the radio using software on your computer.
5. Solid build quality: The TS-520 is made with high-quality materials and is built to last, making it a reliable investment for amateur radio enthusiasts.
Cons of buying a Kenwood TS-520:1. High price point: The TS-520 is one of the more expensive amateur radio transceivers on the market, which may be a barrier for some potential buyers.
2. Limited memory capacity: The TS-520 has a limited memory capacity, which may be a concern for users who require a large number of memory channels.
3. Complex interface: The TS-520 has a complex interface that may take some time to learn and master, which may be a challenge for newcomers to the hobby.
Conclusion:The Kenwood TS-520 is a high-quality, versatile, and powerful amateur radio transceiver that offers excellent audio quality, wide frequency coverage, and digital mode support. However, its high price point, limited memory capacity, and complex interface may be barriers for some potential buyers. If you are a serious amateur radio enthusiast who values high-quality audio and versatility, the TS-520 may be worth the investment for you. If you are a newcomer to the hobby or have a tight budget, you may want to consider other options that may be more affordable and easier to use.
Recommendation:If you are a serious amateur radio enthusiast with a budget to invest in a high-quality transceiver, the Kenwood TS-520 is a great option to consider. Its powerful audio output, wide frequency coverage, and digital mode support make it an excellent choice for various types of communications. However, if you are a newcomer to the hobby or have a tight budget, you may want to consider other options that may be more affordable and easier to use.
The last one I shipped was about MHz bands are a little off frequency. Transmitter has good power output 100 watt lower bands and a little less higher bands. Winning bidder to pay actual shipping.
Only radio and power cord included. S shipping calculator is erroneous on larger items. CFO very smooth operation.
The switches and controls cleaned. Unit is in clean not perfect condition inside and out. Wait for shipping quote before paying as I will get shipping costs from shipper. Remember this is a heavy item 35 lbs.
I suspect retrodden oscillator crystals a little out of spec. Radio has original tubes and capacitors. And that depends where you are at. No microphone.
I have too many radios and other equipment sitting around that I don't use and I am clearing the heard to finance other things. Alignment as per instruction manual.