G’day
For the last month or so I’ve replaced using my modern Elecraft K3 (digital
signal processed back-end) and High Performance Software Defined Radio (digital
down conversion at the antenna socket) for day-to-day operation with a Ten Tec
Corsair II.
Reintroducing my ears to the delights of entirely analogue radio – with what to
them is probably the best sounding analogue radio they’ve ever experienced –
has given me an idea about what Ten Tec could do to differentiate themselves
from today’s other ham radio manufacturers – and make themselves a lot of money
and friends.
The two Corsairs models are approaching their 30th birthdays and diminishing in
their numbers and serviceability. However, more and more radio amateurs are
looking to purchase one for their classic simplicity, kick-ass QSK and
easy-on-the-ear analogue sound, which can be considerably improved by carrying
out the modifications detailed by Barry N1EU on his Corsair wiki. Put in a N4YG
DDS VFO and then you have a transceiver with a two VFO and split frequency
capability.
What about Ten Tec going back to the future and producing a 30th anniversary
version Corsair, incorporating the above? No digital signal processing
whatsoever – just sound, classic analogue engineering. Keep the basic Corsair
architecture but have a switchable 2.8/500Hz filters in the 9MHz IF and follow
these with 2.8/500/250Hz in the second IF. Keep the wonderful audio/hang AGC
(or put in Omni-6 IF AGC and add the G3TXQ hang AGC modification) and use
OPA2134 quality op-amps in the audio chain. The basic design stays but modern
components would be used.
Totally keep the Corsair I look – dark grey front panel with four big red
digits and one green one for the smallest number of Hertz and an analogue ‘S’
meter. This is truly the BEST LOOKING radio ever!
No memories, no keypad, no menus – just a great, basic analogue ‘Harley
Davidson’ radio/easy chair aimed at us ‘old school’ guys and the increasing
numbers of young ones who buy vinyl records and appreciate classic cool. Heck,
WB6ACU would probably buy a truck load of this radio! It could even be produced
– and sold – relatively cheaply.
If you think this is a good idea, write to Ten Tec and let them know what we’d
like.
Vy 73
Steve, VK6VZ (also G3ZZD and VY2LF)
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