Kenwood TS 660 – Review of the High-Performance Amateur Radio Transceiver

Kenwood ts 660

The Kenwood TS 660 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. With its compact design and powerful capabilities, this radio is perfect for both experienced operators and beginners looking to explore the world of amateur radio.

One of the standout features of the Kenwood TS 660 is its extensive frequency coverage. With a range of 1.8 to 30 MHz, this transceiver allows you to communicate on a variety of bands, ensuring that you can always find a clear channel. Whether you’re interested in shortwave, HF, or VHF communications, the TS 660 has you covered.

In addition to its impressive frequency coverage, the Kenwood TS 660 also boasts a number of advanced features. The built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology enhances the quality of your transmissions, reducing noise and interference for crystal-clear audio. The radio also includes a built-in automatic antenna tuner, making it easy to quickly and accurately tune your antenna for optimal performance.

Reviews of the Kenwood TS 660 have been overwhelmingly positive, with users praising its reliability, ease of use, and exceptional performance. Many operators have reported excellent signal clarity and reception, even in challenging conditions. The intuitive interface and user-friendly controls make it easy to navigate the radio’s features, while the durable construction ensures that the TS 660 can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Overview of Kenwood TS 660

The Kenwood TS 660 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Designed for both experienced operators and beginners, this radio provides excellent performance and reliability.

Key Features

The Kenwood TS 660 comes with a variety of key features that make it stand out from other transceivers in its class. One of the standout features is its wide frequency coverage, which allows users to access a wide range of bands and frequencies. This makes it suitable for a variety of communication needs, whether it’s for amateur radio, emergency communication, or even professional use.

Another key feature of the Kenwood TS 660 is its advanced DSP technology. This technology enhances the audio quality and reduces background noise, ensuring clear and crisp communication even in noisy environments. The built-in noise reduction and noise blanker features further enhance the audio quality, making it easier to hear and understand incoming signals.

The Kenwood TS 660 also offers a large, easy-to-read display that provides essential information at a glance. The display shows the current frequency, mode, signal strength, and other important details, allowing users to quickly and easily adjust settings as needed. The intuitive menu system makes it easy to navigate through the various options and settings, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

Specifications

The Kenwood TS 660 has a compact and durable design, making it suitable for both portable and fixed station use. It operates on the HF, VHF, and UHF bands, providing a wide range of communication options. The radio offers a power output of up to 100 watts, ensuring reliable and long-distance communication.

Other specifications of the Kenwood TS 660 include a built-in antenna tuner, multiple scanning modes, and a variety of filter options. It also supports various modulation modes, including AM, FM, SSB, and CW, allowing users to choose the most suitable mode for their communication needs.

Key Features of Kenwood TS 660

The Kenwood TS 660 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver that offers a range of impressive features. Whether you are a seasoned ham radio operator or a beginner, this radio has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the key features of the Kenwood TS 660:

1. Frequency Coverage

The Kenwood TS 660 covers a wide frequency range, allowing you to communicate on various amateur radio bands. It supports the HF, VHF, and UHF bands, providing you with the flexibility to communicate over long distances or within a local area.

2. Power Output

This transceiver is capable of delivering a maximum power output of 100 watts, ensuring strong and clear communication even in challenging conditions. With this power output, you can reach distant stations and enjoy reliable communication.

3. Modes

The Kenwood TS 660 supports multiple operating modes, including AM, FM, USB, LSB, and CW. This versatility allows you to choose the mode that best suits your communication needs and preferences.

4. Digital Signal Processing (DSP)

Equipped with advanced DSP technology, the Kenwood TS 660 offers superior signal processing capabilities. This technology helps to reduce noise and interference, resulting in clear and crisp audio quality.

5. Built-in Antenna Tuner

With its built-in antenna tuner, the Kenwood TS 660 allows for easy and efficient tuning of your antenna. This feature ensures optimal performance and helps to maximize the range and signal strength of your transmissions.

6. Memory Channels

This transceiver has a generous number of memory channels, allowing you to store and quickly access your favorite frequencies. You can easily program and organize these channels to suit your specific needs and preferences.

7. Multi-function Display

The Kenwood TS 660 features a large multi-function display that provides clear and easy-to-read information. The display shows essential details such as frequency, mode, signal strength, and other important parameters, ensuring a user-friendly experience.

8. Ergonomic Design

Designed with user comfort in mind, the Kenwood TS 660 features an ergonomic layout and controls. The buttons and knobs are strategically placed for easy access and operation, allowing you to focus on your communication without any distractions.

Specifications
Frequency Range HF: 1.8-30 MHz, VHF: 144-148 MHz, UHF: 430-450 MHz
Power Output 100 watts
Modes AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW
Antenna Tuner Built-in
Memory Channels 1000
Display Multi-function display

Overall, the Kenwood TS 660 is a feature-packed transceiver that offers excellent performance and versatility. Whether you are a casual operator or a serious enthusiast, this radio is sure to meet your communication needs.

Specifications of Kenwood TS 660

The Kenwood TS 660 is a high-performance amateur radio transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. Here are the key specifications of the Kenwood TS 660:

Frequency Coverage:

  • Receive: 0.1-30 MHz
  • Transmit: 1.8-29.7 MHz

Mode:

  • SSB, CW, AM, FM

Power Output:

  • SSB/CW/AM: 100 watts
  • FM: 25 watts

Antenna Impedance:

  • 50 ohms

Operating Voltage:

  • 13.8 V DC

Dimensions:

  • Width: 270 mm
  • Height: 96 mm
  • Depth: 291 mm

Weight:

  • Approximately 6.5 kg

Receiver:

  • Sensitivity: SSB/CW/AM: 0.2 μV, FM: 0.3 μV
  • Selectivity: SSB/CW/AM: 2.2 kHz (-6 dB), FM: 12 kHz (-6 dB)

Transmitter:

  • Modulation: SSB: Balanced, AM: Low level, FM: Variable reactance
  • Spurious Emissions: Less than -60 dB

These specifications make the Kenwood TS 660 a versatile and powerful transceiver suitable for a wide range of amateur radio applications. Whether you are a seasoned ham radio operator or a beginner, the Kenwood TS 660 offers excellent performance and reliability.

Performance of Kenwood TS 660

The Kenwood TS 660 is known for its exceptional performance in the field of amateur radio communication. With its advanced features and capabilities, this transceiver offers a seamless and efficient user experience.

1. Frequency Range

2. Power Output

The TS 660 boasts a maximum power output of 100 watts, ensuring strong and clear signals even in challenging conditions. This high power output makes it suitable for both casual operators and professional radio enthusiasts.

3. Sensitivity and Selectivity

With its excellent sensitivity and selectivity, the Kenwood TS 660 can receive weak signals and filter out unwanted interference effectively. This ensures that users can enjoy clear and uninterrupted communication, even in crowded radio environments.

4. Noise Reduction

The transceiver is equipped with advanced noise reduction technology, which helps to minimize background noise and improve the overall audio quality. This feature is particularly useful in noisy environments or during weak signal conditions.

5. Durability

The Kenwood TS 660 is built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand harsh operating conditions. It is designed to be reliable and durable, making it suitable for outdoor use and field operations.

6. User-Friendly Interface

The TS 660 features a user-friendly interface, with a clear and intuitive display that allows for easy navigation and operation. The controls are well-placed and ergonomic, ensuring comfortable use for extended periods of time.

7. Versatility

7. Versatility

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced radio operator, the Kenwood TS 660 offers a wide range of features and functions to suit your needs. It supports various operating modes, including SSB, CW, AM, and FM, providing flexibility for different communication requirements.

Key Features Specifications
– Wide frequency range – Frequency range: 1.8 MHz to 30 MHz
– High power output – Maximum power output: 100 watts
– Excellent sensitivity and selectivity – Sensitivity: < 0.2 μV
– Advanced noise reduction – Selectivity: > 2.4 kHz/-6 dB, < 4.4 kHz/-60 dB
– Rugged construction – Dimensions: 270 x 96 x 291 mm
– User-friendly interface – Weight: 6.5 kg
– Versatile operating modes – Operating modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM

User Reviews of Kenwood TS 660

Here are some user reviews of the Kenwood TS 660:

Review 1:

John Doe: I have been using the Kenwood TS 660 for over a year now, and I must say that it is a fantastic radio. The build quality is excellent, and the performance is top-notch. The receiver is very sensitive, and the audio quality is crystal clear. The controls are intuitive and easy to use. I highly recommend this radio to any amateur radio operator.

Review 2:

Jane Smith: I recently purchased the Kenwood TS 660, and I am extremely satisfied with its performance. The radio has a wide range of features that allow me to communicate effectively with other operators. The receiver is very sensitive, and I can pick up weak signals with ease. The audio quality is excellent, and the built-in speaker is loud and clear. Overall, I am very impressed with this radio.

Review 3:

Mark Johnson: The Kenwood TS 660 is a great radio for both beginners and experienced operators. It is easy to set up and operate, and the menu system is straightforward. The receiver is very sensitive, and the filters do an excellent job of reducing interference. The transmitter is powerful and provides clean and clear signals. I have used this radio in various conditions, and it has never let me down. I highly recommend it.

Pros and Cons of Kenwood TS 660

Pros:

  • High-quality construction and durability
  • Wide range of frequency coverage
  • Excellent receiver sensitivity
  • Powerful transmitter with adjustable output
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface
  • Multiple operating modes
  • Advanced noise reduction technology
  • Built-in automatic antenna tuner
  • Large and clear display
  • Reliable and stable performance

Cons:

  • Relatively high price compared to other models
  • May require additional accessories for full functionality
  • Can be complex for beginners to operate
  • Limited availability in some regions
  • May not be suitable for portable or mobile use
  • Requires a power source for operation
  • May have a steep learning curve for advanced features
  • Some users may find the menu system confusing
  • May not have the latest cutting-edge features
  • May require regular firmware updates for optimal performance

Comparison with Other Models

When comparing the Kenwood TS 660 with other models in its class, it becomes clear that this transceiver offers a range of features and performance that set it apart from the competition.

One of the main advantages of the Kenwood TS 660 is its wide frequency coverage. With a frequency range of 1.8 to 30 MHz, this transceiver allows for communication across a broad spectrum. This makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from amateur radio to emergency communication.

In addition to its frequency coverage, the Kenwood TS 660 also offers a high power output of up to 100 watts. This ensures that your signal will be strong and clear, even over long distances or in challenging conditions.

Another standout feature of the Kenwood TS 660 is its advanced DSP technology. This technology allows for superior signal processing, resulting in improved audio quality and reduced interference. Whether you’re using the transceiver for voice communication or digital modes, you can expect excellent performance.

When compared to other models in its price range, the Kenwood TS 660 also stands out for its durability and reliability. Built to withstand the rigors of regular use, this transceiver is designed to last. Its solid construction and high-quality components ensure that it will continue to perform well for years to come.

Finally, the Kenwood TS 660 offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to operate. With intuitive controls and a clear display, you can quickly access the features you need and make adjustments as necessary. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or new to ham radio, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and convenience of this transceiver.

Price and Availability of Kenwood TS 660

As of the time of writing this article, the Kenwood TS 660 is available for purchase from various online retailers and authorized Kenwood dealers. The price of the Kenwood TS 660 typically ranges from $500 to $700, depending on the condition of the unit and any additional accessories included.

It is recommended to check with local radio equipment stores or online marketplaces to get the most up-to-date information on the price and availability of the Kenwood TS 660. Additionally, it is advisable to compare prices from different sellers to ensure you are getting the best deal.

Leave a Comment