I don't think I fall in to the old fart category yet, but I don't like 
internal tuners either. I like external auto tuners, because I am slightly 
lazy, but would never complain about manual tuner and probably will get one 
for my TS-520. Really bring back the feel of the good old days with that 
radio. I like operating those radios for some reason. I hated even to sell 
my old FT-101E I had, but needed the money. This TS-520 will be sticking 
around though most likely, along with the newer radios I have. Even if I 
don't have room for them all anymore.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Howard Kaufman" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, February 04, 2008 9:09 AM
Subject: Re: Kenwood Ts-480S Was: deciding on an HT


> Remember, I am an old fart.
> The ts480 is a wonderful radio!!!!
> I don't like internal tuners, because the antenna has to be relatively 
> close
> to resonence.  They will extend the usable range of a resonnent antenna.
> They are not very efficient because of their small size.
> You youngsters seem to like no tuning no knobs to adjust, etc.  You are
> probably right about that.  I just preffer my old mfj 989 which has a 
> roller
> inductor, and will handle a killowatt.  Remember, I still use my Johnson
> Valiant, which has to be tuned both at the drive and final output 
> sections.
> What's a "pi network"?  You don't get anything above 6 meters with the 
> 480,
> but from there on down, it's a great radio.
> I have been trying unsuccessfully to get my d-104 to work on it.  The j-38
> naturally works fine!
>