you could always try the TS-480. I have one here and It works nicely. I haven't figured out all the controls on it yet (I only got the silly thing about 3 weeks ago). Like the 590, its a more recent vintage and can also be computer controlled (haven't tried that yet).
-eric
n7zzt
On May 19, 2014, at 9:04 AM, Steve Forst wrote:
> Richard,
>
> I have both in the shack, and a large number of folks on this list have,
> or have had both of these rigs. I'm sure you will get a lot of input
> on this, but it all comes down to what you want to do in the hobby.
>
> The 2000 came out as you might guess, in 2000, and while some internal
> changes have been made over the years, it is not the latest technology.
> I think the 590 came out in late 2010, for whatever that's worth.
>
>
> You can't use the new VGS-1 in the 2000. Won't fit, won't work.
>
> The 2000 is very accesible despite the older voice board, and the 590
> speaks a bit more. Since this is all new to you, you will have a steep
> learning curve with either one, but lot's of help on this list.
>
>
> The TNC in the 2000 is kind of limited, but it is there. Although I
> think the need for control software is a bit overblown, the free 590
> software works well with JAWS. The free software for the 2000 is
> only for menus and memories, but there is other stuff out there that
> works. Jim in Texas from this list has been working to get his radio
> control software working better for the 2000.
>
> I know you want to work all bands and get involved in all aspects of the
> hobby, but few if any hams really do that. You would be happy with
> either radio.
>
> Again, what do you want to do? Work local repeaters? or only Work
> stations across the country or around the world? I know you mentioned
> some big antenna projects. Realistic, or just caught up in the moment?
> Big antennas need big supports which means money and labor. If you
> are going to stay a Tech, the 2000 may be better. Unless you upgrade,
> or learn morse code, you have serious limitations on the HF bands that
> may not make the 590 practicle now. Of course, you may be rich, then
> you can buy one of each.
>
> 73, Steve KW3A
>
> On 5/19/2014 11:22 AM, Richard B McDonald wrote:
>> Hi!
>>
>>
>>
>> I am trying to decide which is a better rig for me between the Kenwood
>> TS-2000 and the Kenwood TS-590. This breaks down into two considerations:
>> 1) "accessibility" since I am blind and 2) radio functionality.
>>
>>
>>
>> As far as accessibility, from what I have read the TS-590 seems to be a bit
>> more accessible. However, this difference seems to be small. One thing I
>> read from a accessibility review
>> <http://active-elements.org/2012/12/01/kenwood-ts-2000/> of the TS-2000 is
>> " The TS-2000 was fitted with the optional VS-3 voice chip. The VS-3 has
>> been superseded by the excellent VGS-1 on newer Kenwood's, but gave
>> unparalleled access to Kenwood radios when introduced." Does this mean that
>> the VGS-1 chip can be used in the TS-2000 to get its better performance.
>> Also, both rigs have a computer control software interface option. How
>> accessible are they with JAWS? Any comments about the accessibility
>> differences of these two rigs would be greatly appreciated.
>>
>>
>>
>> As far as radio functionality, the TS-590 seems to be a better HF rig (160 -
>> 6 meters); but that is all its got. On the other hand, the TS-2000 has a
>> far more broader range of capabilities: 160 meters - 70 cm; 23 cm option,
>> TNC, and on and on. From what I have read, the TS-2000 is a very good HF
>> rig; and the difference between it and the TS-590 here are not all that
>> great. So, what are your thoughts about the radio functionality between
>> these two rigs?
>>
>>
>>
>> Many thanks!
>>
>>
>>
>> 73,
>>
>> Richard
>>
>>
>>
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