I wanna Ten Tec Argonaut V and I want it now

I have the Argonaut V but don't think I'll invest in an amp since the difference between 20 and 100 watts wouldn't be all that great on my main mode of CW. On digital, generally Olivia, 10 watts seems to get out just fine with my antenna system.

If I worked much SSB with this rig, that might be another story.

If I had an Argo-V I would be tempted to build an HF all-band amp with a 3CX800A7 or similar tube. 20-25w drive for 800+w PEP output would do it.

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Originally Posted by W3WN

Ten-Tec is about to come out with a new linear for the Argonaut level rigs. It will be known as the Model 418, and it will provide 100 W output. I don't know if it will be rated for full output on AM (or RTTY or other full duty cycle modes), I haven't seen the final specs yet.

It is intended to match the upcoming Ten Tec 539 QRP rig. The 539 will be a 10 W out unit, so you'd have to dial the Argonaut V output back accordingly.

I believe the 418 will be coming out "soon", and that TT will be taking "pre-orders" on the 539 at Dayton this year. that was as of last October, so of course, schedules are subject to change.

Prototypes of both units were displayed at the 2011 Ten Tec Hamfest. I got pictures and descriptions of the on K4SWL's web site.

...on edit: Correction, the 418 WILL do AM & RTTY. See: http://qrper.com/2011/10/ten-tec-ans...att-amplifier/

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Thank you, that link is water to a thirsty man. I'll start saving my pennies for the TT 418. AM and SSB will be possible. The best part will be that my entire station will fit in my little oak secretary's desk!

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Originally Posted by W3WN

Ten-Tec is about to come out with a new linear for the Argonaut level rigs. It will be known as the Model 418, and it will provide 100 W output. I don't know if it will be rated for full output on AM (or RTTY or other full duty cycle modes), I haven't seen the final specs yet.

It is intended to match the upcoming Ten Tec 539 QRP rig. The 539 will be a 10 W out unit, so you'd have to dial the Argonaut V output back accordingly.

I believe the 418 will be coming out "soon", and that TT will be taking "pre-orders" on the 539 at Dayton this year. that was as of last October, so of course, schedules are subject to change.

Prototypes of both units were displayed at the 2011 Ten Tec Hamfest. I got pictures and descriptions of the on K4SWL's web site.

...on edit: Correction, the 418 WILL do AM & RTTY. See: http://qrper.com/2011/10/ten-tec-ans...att-amplifier/

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Wonder what the price range of the 539 will be. Didnt see any info. Now, I may just hold off on buying a 817 in Spain.

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Originally Posted by KB3LAZ

Wonder what the price range of the 539 will be. Didnt see any info. Now, I may just hold off on buying a 817 in Spain.

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It appears that the price range is vague but stated to probably be under 1000$ USD. Reading the Q&A, making my own assessment, and comparing the performance VS downfalls I am willing to bet it will be priced between the 817 and the K3X. It would not surprise me to see an 800-900$ price tag on it.

Likely no 60m, wont matter to me not being in the US. It seems that 160 is on the fence but antenna restrictions keep many off of 160 as it is. No 2m/70cm, again imo not a significant loss.

The up side from what I have read, roofing filters, DSP, and optional xtal filters.

I think if this comes in at under 900$ I will give it a whirl.

As for the amps...Qrp amps IMO are silly. If I wanted to run 100w I would just buy a 100w rig for less than the combo of the rig and the amp. Run qrp..turn down the power. But, that is jmo.

I don't think Ten-Tec wants to set a firm price until they're ready to go into production. Drop Stan Brock (I can't remember his call) an email at sales@tentec.com and see if he can give you a better answer.

It's nice to see that they're staying in the business. Elecraft and (to a lesser extent) Flex have become the hot topics in a lot of circles, but TT hasn't lost a step.

Especially now that another former Amateur radio company is going away... you did hear about Drake, right?

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Originally Posted by W3WN

you did hear about Drake, right?

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You talkin' about this?

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Originally Posted by KJ6BSO

You talkin' about this?

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Yup.

Didnt even know Drake was still in business in the first place, lol.

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Originally Posted by KB3LAZ

Didnt even know Drake was still in business in the first place, lol.

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The company was, just no longer in the ham market.