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Author Topic: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?  (Read 247 times)

2E0ILY

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Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« on: May 13, 2020, 05:09:13 AM »

   

    During the virus lockdown I have been using a Yaesu FT-7800 to access local repeaters here in the UK for a natter. I am thinking of putting up a big 2 metre Yagi I have had knocking about for years and trying SSB. There's a clean looking 2 meter, 70 cms and 23 cms TS790e for sale over here and I am wondering if these are still a viable thing? They don't seem to have a lot of output power.

    I think the "e" model will not, without a diode mod, accept repeater tones, but will they all save repeater in and out frequencies in memories?

    Any comments welcome including an idea as to what one is worth, many thanks.
     

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Best regards, Chris Wilson.

N6MST

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #1 on: May 13, 2020, 06:36:14 AM »

Depends on the asking price, operating condition, and how much you want to work V/UHF sideband. It does FM so your repeater activity can still be had (maybe sell the 7800?) and with a good antenna 30-ish watts can do plenty. You can work digital modes with a 790 as well so that could be fun and of course CW is always fun. If there is decent activity in your area and the price is right, I would go for it.
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WA9AFM

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #2 on: May 13, 2020, 08:25:39 AM »

The TS-790 was a decent satellite and terrestrial comm radio.  It's architecture was similar to the Yaesu FT-736.  As mentioned, if it's in good shape physically, all the features work, and the price is right, go for it. 
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AA2UK

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #3 on: May 13, 2020, 08:35:45 AM »

I found the TS790 to be superior to the Yaesu FT736. The RX on the 790 was the best I ever used until the new Icom IC9700 came along. So if the price is right and the rig works I think you will really like the 790.
Bill AA2UK
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AF5CC

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #4 on: May 13, 2020, 10:27:44 AM »

Plus the TS790 does dual receive whereas the FT736 doesn't.  The QST review of the TS790 gave it high marks!  Plus they are just nice looking radios!

73 John AF5CC
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2E0ILY

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #5 on: May 14, 2020, 09:02:16 AM »

Thanks for the replies, I am tempted to make an offer on the basis of the positive comments, I appreciate you all taking the time to give your opinions, cheers.
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W2NAP

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Re: Is the TS-790e still a worthwile purchase?
« Reply #6 on: May 14, 2020, 10:41:41 AM »

make sure it has the tone board installed. IIRC tone was an option on the 790 so if you buy and it don't have the tone board good luck getting one.
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