Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
On 7/13/06, Brian Carling [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. Well, I'm not sure that the original comments were either use it or throw it away Brian, but since you want to add it to the mix I'll say that: 1 3 really aren't a lot different with respect to the gear and anyone beyond the owner. I've personally seen gear stored in an attic that was actually in better shape than gear left in a room of the living quarters, near salt water for example. Hot attics aren't generally kind to some components, but they do a pretty good job of preserving the iron and cosmetics at least. I can replace components a lot easier than I can bead blast and make silkscreens. I've also seen instances where 3) resulted in 2) when the user or collector croaked and the room was cleared out and tossed. Some items left in the attic, garage, or other storage survived since they weren't discovered until after the massacre had ended. My original argument is, and always has been, that a piece of equipment has a far better chance of surviving long term if it's used, and somewhat understood by others. The same discussion has taken place on the milsurplus where some say you should never even put power to an old piece of gear. I contend that this is more likely to turn it into nothing more than a interesting doorstop or paperweight once the original owner is gone. A piece of ARC-5 gear looks like a black metal shoebox to some, fancy can opener to others. No speaker, no power cord, no idea. The average person will recognize a wooden beehive radio from their past experiences(grandpa's old radio) or the many references in movies, magazines, and so on. Many more non-radio folks visit antique shops and yards sales than hamfest too, where they are more likely to see old wooden and plastic sets. They have some mild idea what they are, even if they don't work, and they'll snap up something if it catches their eye. Big black or gray boxes with knobs are just that to most people. But when they're lit up, needles swinging or sound coming from a speaker, they suddenly become a radio. And even if the person doesn't want it, they can make the connection to someone who does. I wonder how you got interested in radio, Brian? Was it from seeing some metal boxes on a shelf somewhere, or actually seeing/hearing radio in operation that caught your attention? For me, it was using an old 27mhz 2-way for SAR work and then going home to dig out some old broadcast radios from the attic to investigate further (I'm sure glad that dad hid 'em up there where mom couldn't toss them out). I wasn't hooked because they looked cool, that came later. It was the actual experience of radio and how it worked. I could actually imagine these ships, aircraft, and hams in other places transmitting that signal. Unfortunately imagination is a lot like Common Sense these days: it's just not as common as it once was. As a result, I don't think that a lot of folks will have much use for this stuff in the future. Plug-n-Play-then-Throw-Away is the prevailing mentality of the day. These old rigs only matter to those of us with a real interest and a bit of imagination (often required for seeing that ratty rig in a better light before purchasing it). We already keep them mainly to ourselves even if used on the air. At least using them on the air exposes other hams or potential hams to the enjoyment we have. Just look at the increase in AM over the last few years. But at the end of the day 1), 2), or 3) are still better than a pointy stick in the eye. (o: ~ Todd KA1KAQ
RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. Theo K4MO -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Brian Carling Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 5:26 PM To: Discussion of AM Radio Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Todd - tell us which is the BEST of these three: 1) Rig gets put in garage or attic to rust or rot. 2) Rig gets put into crusher or land fill never to be seen again (modern military approach) 3) Rig gets put on display like a piece of art work in a ham's private Museum - but never transmits or receives. Yet COULD be made to do so at some later point. 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
Rich old fart buys five old Corvettes and has them stored in his garage for his grandchildren. You can not regulate someone's spending habits or his vices. Dave, W3ST Publisher of the Collins Journal Secretary to the Collins Radio Association www.collinsra.com - the CRA Website Now with PayPal CRA Nets: 3805 Khz every Monday at 8 PM EST and 14255 every Saturday at 12 Noon EST - Original Message - From: Theo Bellamy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, July 14, 2006 9:33 AM Subject: RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. Theo K4MO -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Brian Carling Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 5:26 PM To: Discussion of AM Radio Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Todd - tell us which is the BEST of these three: 1) Rig gets put in garage or attic to rust or rot. 2) Rig gets put into crusher or land fill never to be seen again (modern military approach) 3) Rig gets put on display like a piece of art work in a ham's private Museum - but never transmits or receives. Yet COULD be made to do so at some later point. 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
That rich old fart expires as we all do and his wife sells all his old crap for next to nothing and the meek inherite the rigs :) ~John~ n1fcu --- david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Rich old fart buys five old Corvettes and has them stored in his garage for his grandchildren. You can not regulate someone's spending habits or his vices. Dave, W3ST Publisher of the Collins Journal Secretary to the Collins Radio Association www.collinsra.com - the CRA Website Now with PayPal CRA Nets: 3805 Khz every Monday at 8 PM EST and 14255 every Saturday at 12 Noon EST - Original Message - From: Theo Bellamy [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, July 14, 2006 9:33 AM Subject: RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. Theo K4MO -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Brian Carling Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 5:26 PM To: Discussion of AM Radio Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Todd - tell us which is the BEST of these three: 1) Rig gets put in garage or attic to rust or rot. 2) Rig gets put into crusher or land fill never to be seen again (modern military approach) 3) Rig gets put on display like a piece of art work in a ham's private Museum - but never transmits or receives. Yet COULD be made to do so at some later point. 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul
RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
John wrote: That rich old fart expires as we all do and his wife sells all his old crap for next to nothing and the meek inherite the rigs ... who then put them on eBay so the next old fart can pay huge money to store them in his basement!! As long as they don't end up in the land fill. I guess I just don't understand the hoarding mindset. But then I don't understand heroin addiction either. Theo K4MO
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
On 7/14/06, Theo Bellamy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. I actually had a conversation about this in private with Mr Knepper yesterday. My issue is more the bragging about it that some do moreso than how much somebody owns. I tend to avoid anything that involves telling someone what they can or can't have, or that they should redistribute their wealth. Too much like socialism. I'd rather someone 'hoard' (matter of opinion) stuff than be told what they can or cannot have. There will always be someone who wants what someone else has, and somehow feels entitled to it - whether they earned it or not. The only thing I've been trying to say is using your gear is (IMHO) a better way to move forward than simply using it as fodder for the next 'measuring contest'. It goes something like: I've got a 75A-4, KWS-1 and 3 S-Lines to which the reply is along the lines of: Well I've got 8 75A-4s in my garage along with 5 KWS-1s, one of each S-Line made plus 3 spares of each, and 17... ..and so on. The intent seems to be to place the significance on how much of a big deal you are for having this stuff, instead of how well it works or how much you enjoy using it. The end result has given otherwise nice gear some bad press it doesn't deserve. There's a lot of gear hanging around my place, but I avoid keeping multiples of an item. To me, the point is to use and experience the performance of a piece of gear. If I don't like it, it goes to a new owner and I put the money into something else to try. Trading is handy for this. It's hard to imagine getting your ya-yas out of having ten examples of the same item, but to each his own. Most BA folks enjoy talking about their gear and are proud of it - one item or twenty. Bragging about having a dozen of one item to somehow impress people is just baffling, though. I'm going to shut up now before someone slaps me.
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
Theo Bellamy wrote: Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. I'm not sure that there's much distinction between the 'greedy old fools' and the (lack of) mentality of some of those that think they are in the AM vs SSB 'war'. I've heard a couple of comments at different hamfests, after a Viking II or a 32V is bought... here's another one that'll never be heard on the air! -- Driving your AM Rig without a scope, is like driving your car at night, without headlights. (K4KYV) -- 73 = Best Regards, -Geoff/W5OMR
RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
As Todd hints at below, the hoarders serve the purpose of keeping good stuff out of the landfill. They hide from us the fact that the supply of some of this gear far exceeds demand. That's a good thing because most often the alternative is the landfill. 73, Don Merz, N3RHT -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Theo Bellamy Sent: Friday, July 14, 2006 9:34 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; Discussion of AM Radio Subject: RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Your forgot: 4) Rich old fart buys 6 KW1'a and puts them in his basement along with his 8 Johnson 500s and his 12 Glob King 500s. They never get heard on the air again, and now there are 25 guys out in the world who might have been able to enjoy using one of them but can't because some greedy old fool has hoarded them away. Theo K4MO -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Brian Carling Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2006 5:26 PM To: Discussion of AM Radio Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs Todd - tell us which is the BEST of these three: 1) Rig gets put in garage or attic to rust or rot. 2) Rig gets put into crusher or land fill never to be seen again (modern military approach) 3) Rig gets put on display like a piece of art work in a ham's private Museum - but never transmits or receives. Yet COULD be made to do so at some later point. 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb The information contained in this e-mail may be confidential and is intended solely for the use of the named addressee. Access, copying or re-use of the e
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
On 7/14/06, Merz Donald S [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: As Todd hints at below, the hoarders serve the purpose of keeping good stuff out of the landfill. They hide from us the fact that the supply of some of this gear far exceeds demand. That's a good thing because most often the alternative is the landfill. 73, Don Merz, N3RHT Actually Don, those were Theo's words. But I heartily agree with you for the 'landfill' reason, as well as the differing views or descriptions of hoarding. I don't doubt there are some out there who haul stuff home and pile it somewhere with no idea what it is or no intention of ever using it, simply because they feel they must, or can, or whatever. The fact that some old radio folks have more than others (even a lot more) I don't think qualifies as hoarding. Oftentimes the ones who label them as such are the guys with one station set up, who sell any additional gear they get because they hate the 'clutter'. It's usually more a case of them wanting what you have, and being envious/jealous/annoyed that they don't. Not always, but often. The best thing about ebay or any other venue like a hamfest is that any individual has just as much opportunity as the next to buy an item. Timing, or the fact they a person doesn't want to spend that much tend to be the only reasons they don't get an item - not because the seller or new owner is a crook, hoarder, or bad person somehow. I can't begin to remember how many things I've wanted but missed because I lacked the proper funding. I bet Parker would sell anyone a KW-1. Not at a fire sale price, which would end up being the sticking point of course. (o:
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o:
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew RIgs
Todd - tell us which is the BEST of these three: 1) Rig gets put in garage or attic to rust or rot. 2) Rig gets put into crusher or land fill never to be seen again (modern military approach) 3) Rig gets put on display like a piece of art work in a ham's private Museum - but never transmits or receives. Yet COULD be made to do so at some later point. 1) and 2) make 3) sound like a VERY acceptable alternative to me... think about that. From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] On 7/12/06, david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. I'm a big fan of free enterprise, capitalism, and freedom in general. Anyone spending their money can do with it whatever they wish. My remarks deal mainly with those who choose to turn a nice old receiver or transmitter into a 'piece of (non-functioning) art' instead of using it as a radio. It really has nothing to do with age, more mentality. You really can't do much with a Monet other than hang it on the wall or use it as a beer tray. But IMHO those who get nice old cars, radios, or whatever else simply for the bragging rights and not to use and enjoy are better suited to stamps, pantings, or other inanimate objects that don't require any interaction beyond staring at them. Besides, it's much more impressive to say I paid 4 million for this painting than to say I paid 4 thousand for this old radio. Who beyond other radio collectors would be impressed? In the end, you can use an SX-88 or KW-1 for a 30.06 target if you want to, no argument there. I'm far more impressed when someone has a nice rig and know how to use it than by how much they paid for it. Even moreso if they can fix it, or built it. It's strictly my opinion mind you, but I believe more BA folks appreciate a piece of gear for what it is and can do, not its potential value as an investment. Collins gear is some of the best gear ever made, yet look at how many real 'hands on' radio folks think less of it because of the ridiculous 'mine's bigger than yours' collector mentality of a self-absorbed few? Age isn't the issue as far as I'm concerned. It's attitude. God Bless anyone who makes it to retirement and actually has money to spend on whatever they enjoy. There are some in gov't looking for more ways to take it from you to redistribute to others, so spend it while you can! Todd, KA1KAQ Publisher of Nothing Beyond Personal Opinion Overtaxed and Afflicted with Old Radio Disease No Website, No PayPal. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Kind of like a friend who traded in a 1957 Chevy on a new 1965 Corvair. Joe W4AAB - Original Message - From: Robert Nickels [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2006 9:02 PM Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs,WAS: Stuff for sale...update. Donald Chester wrote: I recall in the 1980's, before they started to bring in such big bux, there must have been over a dozen KW-1's on the air regularly. I know one prior owner in the Milwaukee area who traded his KW-1 for a house-painting job. I asked him why and he said I needed the house painted ;-) This was back in the 70s when all he figured if it was just useful for CW or as a linear, he could do that with a much smaller rig. Yeah, he's still kicking himself! 73 Bob W9RAN __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
I know one prior owner in the Milwaukee area who traded his KW-1 for a house-painting job. I asked him why and he said I needed the house painted ;-) This was back in the 70s when all he figured if it was just useful for CW or as a linear, he could do that with a much smaller rig. Yeah, he's still kicking himself! Well, I dunno. Even at today's KW-1 prices, that might not be such a bad deal. Have you seen any estimates on house painting lately? Even a moderately sized house with wood siding may run into 5 digits these days for a good professionally done job. Don k4kyv
Re: [AMRadio] RE: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
I remember hearing a straping signal one night and when the usually what you got? question came up the guy with the straping (as well as the best signal from my QTH) mentioned that his rig was homebuilt there was a pregnant pause of either amazement, wonder or disbelief. When you consider the amount of modifications on some rigs especially heathkits there is a quite a bit of homebuilt out there. 73 to all Steve ve2swc
Re: RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Have brush will travel.. trade painting for bc 610 - Original Message - From: Theo Bellamy [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wednesday, July 12, 2006 10:25 am Subject: RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update. To: Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Todd wrote: Come to think of it, I do need to get my house painted. (o: What color? I can be there in a couple of days. The KW1 will fit in the bed of a half ton pickup, right? Theo K4MO ;-) __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/12/06, Theo Bellamy [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: What color? I can be there in a couple of days. The KW1 will fit in the bed of a half ton pickup, right? Hell, it'll fit in a Ranger, Theo! Or an appliance handtruck secured to your trailer hitch if you drive slow. KC, be careful what you wish for. I do have a BC-610 and my house is big
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
For what it is worth and nothing personal intended: Don't ever begrudge or be envious of those who will spend whatever for a nice piece of Collins. Many elderly or seniors have the purchasing power now that they are retired to buy whatever they wish. I wish them well in their purchases remember, it is their money and not yours. Let them enjoy the hobby anyway they wish. Did you know that more grandparents buy childrens' clothing than do parents. Dave, W3ST Publisher of the Collins Journal Secretary to the Collins Radio Association www.collinsra.com - the CRA Website Now with PayPal CRA Nets: 3805 Khz every Monday at 8 PM EST and 14255 every Saturday at 12 Noon EST - Original Message - From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, July 12, 2006 9:45 AM Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs,WAS: Stuff for sale...update. On 7/11/06, Donald Chester [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I recall in the 1980's, before they started to bring in such big bux, there must have been over a dozen KW-1's on the air regularly. There were several lists of all the known serial #'s. IIRC, more than half the ones ever made were still in existence and accounted for. According to Bob's current list, all but about 33 of the original 152 are accounted for. I say 'about' because his list shows two #34s, which doesn't seem likely. I figure the other #34 owner actually has #39 (unaccounted for) and just has bad eyesight like me. A far higher percent accounted for than the almighty SX-88, which was made in much higher numbers (500+?). Certainly speaks well for gear actually being used, quality/cost considered. Then the owners began to see offers they couldn't refuse, and since then, most have disappeared off the air and into trophy rooms. Quite a few have gone to collectors in Europe and Asia. I know of the one in Belgium, one in Germany, and one that supposedly went to Japan back in the late 80s/early 90s according to the then-recently retired Collins worker I spoke with. He knew the seller, said the rig was completely restored to the last screw, and some collector in Japan paid over $40K for it, then had it airfreighted over. The figure he gave me was $46K, can't remember if it included the shipping. The perceived value may have something to do with the survival rate, although they weren't collectible back then. More of a substantial investment in high quality gear for actual use. The true value in my view is the enjoyment that comes from using this old stuff as originally intended. To look at an old rig and know that it was once someone's shiney new pride and joy, and that I have an opportunity to enjoy it as they once did is great. Come to think of it, I do need to get my house painted. (o: __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] But then -- you wouldn't be a member of the small group running a KW-1. It would be nice if more of the collector-owners would actually fire them up. I'm a firm believer that bragging rights for a strapping signal far outweigh those of a pretty box. There are a number here on the east coast that can be heard regularly. I recall in the 1980's, before they started to bring in such big bux, there must have been over a dozen KW-1's on the air regularly. There were several lists of all the known serial #'s. IIRC, more than half the ones ever made were still in existence and accounted for. Then the owners began to see offers they couldn't refuse, and since then, most have disappeared off the air and into trophy rooms. Quite a few have gone to collectors in Europe and Asia. Don k4kyv
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/6/06, W5OMR/Geoff [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: snip I know Mike sold his KW-1, I know that Darrell/WA5VGO still has one, but I don't know what happened to the prototype that the two of them worked and slaved over, to get it on the air. According to the list that W0YVA keeps, Darrell still has #66. I think he was one of the guys pictured in the KW-1 issue of Electric Radio that Barry put together a number of years ago, standing there with the transmitter, a National NC-400, with a carved wooden callsign on top. A very good article with a lot of information on the transmitter. IIRC, the prototype you mention was the one used by Art one weekend before it was completed, final assembly being done at his home during dinner. Think that story is also in the ER issue along with the original list of owners started by Ed Bolton, WA3PUN (not K0BS, who took the list over from Ed). Bob's list: http://www.isquare.com/personal_pages/kw1-list.htm Luckily for us, Darrell/WA5VGO is a reader of the list. Perhaps Darrell would give us the complete history/rundown of the prototype KW-1? It's now in Belgium with ON8PO, Mathieu. I seem to remember hearing about this sale a few years back. What's amusing is that Mike is one of the guys in the ER article who said he'd never part with his KW-1. Bill Wheeler (former pres of the CCA) said this also, but sold his to Jim Shoemaker a few years back who then flipped it on ebay. What's the old saying...'never say never'? (o: Collins made some very nice equipment over the years, very high quality and leading edge stuff. Overbuilt for amateur service, really. The major flaw isn't with the gear itself, but in the way some choose to worship it or use it as a means of claiming some perceived superiority. Gives the gear a bad name, but makes it a lot easier to identify the real idiots in the hobby. ~ Todd, KA1KAQ
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/6/06, Mark Foltarz [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I hope that the GPT-750 will attain similar status! Have you seen the prices on these things lately? Easily on par or above the T-368s and Desk KWs I've seen for sale. TMC made excellent gear, and the 750 doesn't show up for sale very often. It already has excellent status with the most important group: the actual on-air operators. Who cares what the 'bag-it-and-shelf-it' types think? Back in 2003 I drove out to Colorado to pick up a BC transmitter from Barry Wiseman before his move back north of the border. At that time he had 3 GPT-750s in various conditions. I often wonder who ended up with them? I mentioned them to Joe, WA2PJP who contacted Barry about 2 months after I was there, but they were gone. Hope they found a good home. You definitely have a keeper, Mark. ~ Todd, KA1KAQ
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
No message was sent. Please excuse. Dave, W3ST Publisher of the Collins Journal Secretary to the Collins Radio Association www.collinsra.com - the CRA Website Now with PayPal CRA Nets: 3805 Khz every Monday at 8 PM EST and 14255 every Saturday at 12 Noon EST - Original Message - From: david knepper [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, July 07, 2006 1:33 PM Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs,WAS: Stuff for sale...update. Dave, W3ST Publisher of the Collins Journal Secretary to the Collins Radio Association www.collinsra.com - the CRA Website Now with PayPal CRA Nets: 3805 Khz every Monday at 8 PM EST and 14255 every Saturday at 12 Noon EST - Original Message - From: Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Discussion of AM Radio amradio@mailman.qth.net Sent: Friday, July 07, 2006 9:19 AM Subject: Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs,WAS: Stuff for sale...update. On 7/6/06, W5OMR/Geoff [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: snip I know Mike sold his KW-1, I know that Darrell/WA5VGO still has one, but I don't know what happened to the prototype that the two of them worked and slaved over, to get it on the air. According to the list that W0YVA keeps, Darrell still has #66. I think he was one of the guys pictured in the KW-1 issue of Electric Radio that Barry put together a number of years ago, standing there with the transmitter, a National NC-400, with a carved wooden callsign on top. A very good article with a lot of information on the transmitter. IIRC, the prototype you mention was the one used by Art one weekend before it was completed, final assembly being done at his home during dinner. Think that story is also in the ER issue along with the original list of owners started by Ed Bolton, WA3PUN (not K0BS, who took the list over from Ed). Bob's list: http://www.isquare.com/personal_pages/kw1-list.htm Luckily for us, Darrell/WA5VGO is a reader of the list. Perhaps Darrell would give us the complete history/rundown of the prototype KW-1? It's now in Belgium with ON8PO, Mathieu. I seem to remember hearing about this sale a few years back. What's amusing is that Mike is one of the guys in the ER article who said he'd never part with his KW-1. Bill Wheeler (former pres of the CCA) said this also, but sold his to Jim Shoemaker a few years back who then flipped it on ebay. What's the old saying...'never say never'? (o: Collins made some very nice equipment over the years, very high quality and leading edge stuff. Overbuilt for amateur service, really. The major flaw isn't with the gear itself, but in the way some choose to worship it or use it as a means of claiming some perceived superiority. Gives the gear a bad name, but makes it a lot easier to identify the real idiots in the hobby. ~ Todd, KA1KAQ __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb
Re: [AMRadio] RE: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Don is spot on, his comments reflect my experiences as well. On 7/4/06, Brett gazdzinski [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I can see that people would not want a homebrew rig, but I think fewer and fewer people are building, yet people want a higher power radio. The problem with 'most' folks who don't homebrew or build is that they aren't interested in HB rigs either: only commercially built with name recognition. Which is why a clean KW-1 will routinely bring in the $22K-$27K range and an equally clean, well built/heavier designed HB transmitter does well to bring $500. It may sound better, even make more power and look better, but it's still homebrew. The KW-1 is an excellent transmitter, but think what you could build for even a quarter of their selling price. Especially with the broadcast iron floating around today. I have a few HB transmitters here from decades past. Incredible attention to detail, layout and construction that rivals commercial units. Truly beautiful rigs in open-frame, black wrinkle racks loaded with round meters and knobs. I picked up 3 for $100 and doubt I could get much more than that for most of the parts. In terms of functioning history, they are priceless to me. But then, I'm crazy. Just ask anyone who knows me. (o: de Todd, KA1KAQ
RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Bottom line is that I would not pay any more for a KW-1 than I would for an equal condition BC transmitter and the same would apply to a healthy, well built HB rig. It's 100% snob factor. Not that the KW-1 isn't a very pretty and fine Collins transmitter (duly modified). As someone else suggested, one could build a beefier transmitter -- even using completely new Dahl iron, for the fraction of the cost of a KW-1, that would work better and most likely sound better. Or you could run a Ranger and Johnson KW for considerably less investment. But then -- you wouldn't be a member of the small group running a KW-1. I'm still trying to figure out how I'd ever get one up the front stairs :-) Grant/NQ5T
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
1/5th! hah! Try 1/20th! Aren't KW1s going for about 20K these days? I know BC xmtrs are going in the $1K range and less. de KA4JVY Mark --- Radio Station W5AMI [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: True Todd. Still makes me wonder why a 1kw Gates or RCA (and similar) BC units will sell for 1/5 the cost of a KW-1 these days. Not that I want them too mind you ;) But they are certainly brand names, and built a lot healthier (a new term for big iron I made up) than a KW-1 in my opinion. Of course you still have to mod them a bit to get on the ham bands, but paying 1/5 the price makes that little chore a no brainer. Bottom line is that I would not pay any more for a KW-1 than I would for an equal condition BC transmitter and the same would apply to a healthy, well built HB rig. But, I'm not a collector... 73, Brian On 7/6/06, Todd, KA1KAQ [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don is spot on, his comments reflect my experiences as well. On 7/4/06, Brett gazdzinski [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I can see that people would not want a homebrew rig, but I think fewer and fewer people are building, yet people want a higher power radio. The problem with 'most' folks who don't homebrew or build is that they aren't interested in HB rigs either: only commercially built with name recognition. Which is why a clean KW-1 will routinely bring in the $22K-$27K range and an equally clean, well built/heavier designed HB transmitter does well to bring $500. It may sound better, even make more power and look better, but it's still homebrew. The KW-1 is an excellent transmitter, but think what you could build for even a quarter of their selling price. Especially with the broadcast iron floating around today. I have a few HB transmitters here from decades past. Incredible attention to detail, layout and construction that rivals commercial units. Truly beautiful rigs in open-frame, black wrinkle racks loaded with round meters and knobs. I picked up 3 for $100 and doubt I could get much more than that for most of the parts. In terms of functioning history, they are priceless to me. But then, I'm crazy. Just ask anyone who knows me. (o: de Todd, KA1KAQ __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb -- There is nothing more uncommon than common sense. -- Frank Lloyd Wright __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/6/06, Grant Youngman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Bottom line is that I would not pay any more for a KW-1 than I would for an equal condition BC transmitter and the same would apply to a healthy, well built HB rig. It's 100% snob factor. As far as the price goes, I'd pretty much agree. But the one area that the KW-1 certainly outperforms a BC transmitter Brian, is in the area of bandswitching. 160-10 with the snap of a knob and simple retuning of two controls (bias adjustment excepted). Might not be as easy to make a BC transmitter into a 160-10 rig, but for the price you could have one on each band. The power company must love us. Not that the KW-1 isn't a very pretty and fine Collins transmitter (duly modified). As someone else suggested, one could build a beefier transmitter -- even using completely new Dahl iron, for the fraction of the cost of a KW-1, that would work better and most likely sound better. Or you could run a Ranger and Johnson KW for considerably less investment. The Desk KWs seem to run between $2K-$6K pretty consistently. Of course, 400 or so were built as opposed to 150 + 2 prototypes. And Rangers are as common as flies, so why not? The Desk uses a very similar electrical design (same guy designed both) right down to the 4-250s, 810 modulators, and the same mod iron. And if you get the actual desk attachment, it doubles as furniture. (o: But then -- you wouldn't be a member of the small group running a KW-1. It would be nice if more of the collector-owners would actually fire them up. I'm a firm believer that bragging rights for a strapping signal far outweigh those of a pretty box. There are a number here on the east coast that can be heard regularly. Not sure about the other 100+ that are accounted for. Parker W1YG had 6 of the KW-1s last I knew, but I've never heard him on the air. I'm still trying to figure out how I'd ever get one up the front stairs :-) They come apart, Grant. RF/PA deck is the largest section next to the cabinet. Plate iron is the heaviest piece. Check out W0YVA's pages, he has pix of himself and Howard Mills installing one in his upstairs studio through a hole cut into the building. ~ Todd KA1KAQ
[AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
On 7/6/06, Mark Foltarz [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: 1/5th! hah! Try 1/20th! Aren't KW1s going for about 20K these days? I know BC xmtrs are going in the $1K range and less. You're correct Mark. Miscalculations on my part. See, I'm not even smart enough to own a KW-1.
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
I just like the drama HI! 73! --- Radio Station W5AMI [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On 7/6/06, Mark Foltarz [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: 1/5th! hah! Try 1/20th! Aren't KW1s going for about 20K these days? I know BC xmtrs are going in the $1K range and less. You're correct Mark. Miscalculations on my part. See, I'm not even smart enough to own a KW-1. __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Deric Affleck wrote: Brian, The difference is in the name: Cawlins! And also the fact there were only 150 + 2 prototypes without serial numbers makes a big difference to serious collectors - law of supply and demand! One time you couldn't give a KW-1 away except to those who could read the future and knew thar was gold in that thar iron! It's my understanding that one of the prototypes, while never *originally* completely assembled, was purchased as a 'basket case' in San Antonio, Texas by Mike Palmer (then K5FZ) and Darrell Brooks (WA5VG0). That rig went on the air, I'm thinking, sometime in July of around 1989 or 1990. I know Mike sold his KW-1, I know that Darrell/WA5VGO still has one, but I don't know what happened to the prototype that the two of them worked and slaved over, to get it on the air. Luckily for us, Darrell/WA5VGO is a reader of the list. Perhaps Darrell would give us the complete history/rundown of the prototype KW-1? I remember stories of dust and spider-web covered rigs that were in Mike's back yard that got attacked with water hoses and Formula 409 shot to 'em, then dried off in an oven at 150° for a couple of days.. They all seemed to do alright, though -- Driving your AM Rig without a scope, is like driving your car at night, without headlights. (K4KYV) -- 73 = Best Regards, -Geoff/W5OMR
Re: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Almost the same effect to a much lesser degree with the BC610. Guys are restoring beaters that I would have parted out. The E model I have had for 11 years was acquired for very little. And wow, have you seen prices for 100THs? de KA4JVY Mark --- Deric Affleck [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Brian, The difference is in the name: Cawlins! And also the fact there were only 150 + 2 prototypes without serial numbers makes a big difference to serious collectors - law of supply and demand! One time you couldn't give a KW-1 away except to those who could read the future and knew thar was gold in that thar iron! Deric, VY2DA __ AMRadio mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/amradio Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.html Post: mailto:AMRadio@mailman.qth.net AMfone Website: http://www.amfone.net AM List Admin: Brian Sherrod/w5ami, Paul Courson/wa3vjb __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
RE: [AMRadio] Re: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
But then -- you wouldn't be a member of the small group running a KW-1. I hope that the GPT-750 will attain similar status! de KA4JVY Mark __ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
[AMRadio] RE: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
Brett said... Homebrew 812a rig modulated by 811a's, in rack cabinet $2000.00 ? http://wa5bxo.shacknet.nu/N2DTS/Picture%20005.jpg Listed on ebay...should be interesting... Interesting indeedI'd love to see anything homebrew sell for $2,000. That would be a good sign. My experience is that getting $500 for a homebrew rig is a major accomplishment because nobody seems to want them. Guys want parts to build their own--not complete rigs. So in the end, the ham marketplace seems to be saying that the parts are worth more separately than they are assembled. Go figure. 73, Don Merz, N3RHT The information contained in this e-mail may be confidential and is intended solely for the use of the named addressee. Access, copying or re-use of the e-mail or any information contained therein by any other person is not authorized. If you are not the intended recipient please notify us immediately by returning the e-mail to the originator.(16b)
RE: [AMRadio] RE: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update.
I can see that people would not want a homebrew rig, but I think fewer and fewer people are building, yet people want a higher power radio. I don't think the parts would sell for $2000.00, well, maybe on Ebay, who knows I have a lot of watchers, many people may be wondering what happens... Stay tuned! Brett N2DTS -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Merz Donald S Sent: Tuesday, July 04, 2006 4:29 PM To: Discussion of AM Radio Subject: [AMRadio] RE: Value of Homebrew Rigs, WAS: Stuff for sale...update. Brett said... Homebrew 812a rig modulated by 811a's, in rack cabinet $2000.00 ? http://wa5bxo.shacknet.nu/N2DTS/Picture%20005.jpg Listed on ebay...should be interesting... Interesting indeedI'd love to see anything homebrew sell for $2,000. That would be a good sign. My experience is that getting $500 for a homebrew rig is a major accomplishment because nobody seems to want them. Guys want parts to build their own--not complete rigs. So in the end, the ham marketplace seems to be saying that the parts are worth more separately than they are assembled. Go figure. 73, Don Merz, N3RHT The information contained in this e-mail may be confidential and is intended solely for the use of the named addressee. Access, copying or re-use of the e-mail or any information contained therein by any other person is not authorized. If you are not the intended recipient please notify us immediately by returning the e-mail to the originator.(16b)
