FLEX-1500 successor?

Hi Richard,

You know, when the Aurora was announced there was a YouTube interview with Steve Hicks where he described it and its underlying technology. It's probably around here somewhere. And during that interview someone commented that it's polar modulation technique would be perfect for a small portable radio. Steve's response was something like, "Oh gee. I never thought of that." and I swear there was a slight tinge of humor/sarcasm in his voice when he said it. I remember thinking "I'll bet there's a small portable battery powered Flex in the works that can be used for QRP but will have the added capability for higher power if desired". Who knows … ?

73 Russ KR6W

I can't believe people downvoted this. Apache Labs just brought back the ANAN-10E, and there are other rigs like the Square SDR, and Brick SDR that have a market. My first Flex was a 1500, not because I necessarily wanted QRP, but because it was a way to own a Flex on a limited budget. Why not have an entry level rig - especially at a sub $1000 price point to get people in to Flex. It worked for me, I went from a 1500 to a 6400, and now an 8400. I'll probably end up with an Aurora eventually. I'd love a rig using polar modulation. Anything in the 20-50W range that could be used for POTA/off-grid, or anywhere where size, efficiency, and budget is a concern.

I see it's been a while since anyone posted here. But I have something to add. When I look at the spread of new radios, I come away with the distinct feeling that ham radio equipment has become a luxury market. Thank goodness there a radios like the new Yaesu FT and FTdx series as well as the renown Icom IC-7300. Both Flex and Elecraft have simply abandoned the entry level market. It seems to me that new hams that still work for a living and have houses, families and the usual domestic expenses have a very limited choice. To me it seems that SDR technology ought to be providing less expensive solutions then what came before. I don't understand why Flex only has expensive products. The Aurora is a spectacular transceiver. Really cutting edge. I would need to take out a second mortgage to buy one. So if the market has a lots of people with big budgets available, then those of us that are not wealthy will never see this incredible new technology.

So, if I may be so bold, FlexRadio ought to consider a new series of radios. Call it the 7000 series with an entry point below $1500. In addition, perhaps FlexRadio might consider taking the assume 500 watt power stage of the Aurora and putting it into a separate stand alone amplifier that is a more reasonable in price. That way owners of the 6000 and 8000 series transceivers might be able to have the pleasure of adding this great, new technology to their station.

I am still using a 6300 transceiver. I bought it used because of my limited ham radio budget. I am always delighted with its ease of use through SmartSDR and its general performance. I don't feel limited in any way. I would truly love to add a nice 500 watt amplifier to my station with that wonderful Aurora technology.

So, my encouragement to new hams is buy some older used equipment from a trusted source. I started with a BC348 surplus receive from a B29 bomber to Flex owner today. After a hiatus, I bought a 7200 just to get back into radio, sold it working to a new general license that still uses it .