Amateur Radio Kit Roundup – Updated 2/26/2013

Splinter Transceiver from BreadboardRadio.com

Splinter Transceiver from BreadboardRadio.com

Kit building appears to be on the rise again.  With so many people talking about it lately I attempted to research sources for kits, only to find out that there wasn’t a single-source for Ham Radio kit suppliers.

I decided to put together a good list of sources for kits that are currently available.  Many of these are for QRP operation, but a few are full-featured professional transceivers (Elecraft, DZ).  On the beginners side there are a few sources that stand out:  Hendricks has a great assortment of kits, including some SSB QRP equipment.  QRPme offers the inexpensive, easy-to-build tuna-can products, and I would like to make special mention of the Four State QRP Group NS-40 which has the coils etched right into the PC board!  What a great idea!  I’ve covered trasmitters, transceivers, and some receivers here.  Some accessories are mentioned in the source descriptions.

Revised 2/18/2013  Changes in Hendricks, YouKits, Tony Parks. Added CR KITS, and BreadBoard Radio.

Revised 2/20/2013 Added K5BCQ & K5JHF Kits

Revised 2/26/2013 Added Kit Radio Company, GQRP Club, Kenneke Comm., Walford Electronics, Kanga UK, QRP Project, Kits by EA3GCY, and OZ QRP

Enjoy, and feel free to add any corrections, or additions in the comments.  The list can always be found at RadioKitGuide.com–Neil W2NDG

 

-Hendricks QRP Kits http://www.qrpkits.com/

  • BitX20A/17A SSB Transceiver.  The BitX20A and BitX17A are complete SSB kits with board, all parts, digital display and custom powder coated and punched case that is based on the BitX20 that was designed by Ashlan Farhan.  Output is about 10 Watts.  $180.00 + S&H
  • PFR-3a 3-Band Portable Field Radio.  Bands : 40 meters, 30 meters and 20 meters. Tuning range: Full band coverage.  Mode: CW only.   $240.00 + S&H
  • NADC30/40 CW Transceiver.  Nearly All Discrete Component CW Transceiver for either 30m or 40m.  Tuning range ~ 60 kHz.  Power output: 3.5 watts.  Full Kit: $130.00 + S&H
  • Ft Tuthill 15 Meter CW Transceiver.   Two 60 KHz tuning ranges, ~ 21.000 – 21.060 and 21.075 – 21.135 MHz.  Power Output: 5 Watts.  Complete Kit (w/ case and digital dial) $130.00 + S&H
  • Ft Tuthill 160 Meter CW Transceiver.   Two 30 KHz tuning ranges, ~ 1800 – 1835 and 1830 – 1865 MHz.  Power Output: 5 Watts.  Complete Kit (w/ case and digital dial) $130.00 + S&H
  • DCxxB Board Only Trasceiver Kit.  These radios are the next generation of the popular DC40 transceiver that was also designed by Steve Weber.  The kit will come with 1 crystal for the band specified. 7.040 for DC40, 10.120 for DC30, 14.060 for DC20.  Board-Only kit with decals: $30.00 + S&H
  • Weber Tri-Bander.  The Weber Tri-Bander can be built for any three of these bands: 80, 40, 30, 20, 17, or 15.  5 Watts out on all bands at 13.8 VDC.  Built in Iambic keyer with 5 to 40 wpm code speed.  DDS VFO for rock steady stability with 50 Hz and 200 Hz tuning rates.  Many more features!  $200 + S&H
  • Scout Regen Receiver.  A simple 2 band regenerative radio receiver that is capable of receiving signals from 3.5 to 11 MHz.  A complete kit with L shaped aluminum chassis, quality doublesided silkscreened soldermasked board, all parts, hookup wire, board mounted battery holder.  This kit is ideal for the first time builder.  $50.00 + S&H
  • SMK-2 40m Surface Mount CW Transceiver.  The SMK-2 is a fully functional surface mount component 40 meter transceiver. It has an independently tuned transmitter and direct conversion receiver. Full break-in TX with sidetone, and a modest 350mW output. The crystal VXO on receiver allow about 3 kHz+ tuning range on the crystal frequency. It was originally conceived as the SMK-1, a platform to teach SMT construction techniques.  Transceiver Kit: $40.00 + S&H, Optional switched crystal board: $10.00 + S&H
  • -NOT DISCONTINUED AS PREVIOUSLY REPORTED- TwoFer Plus CW Transmitter.  The TwoFer Plus is a simple transmitter that will be offered on 40, 30, and 20 meters. The kits come with crystals in the qrp region of the band. It will put out approximately 1 Watt using a 2N3053 transistor for the final. It has a crystal based VXO that will give about 1.5kHz on 40, and 3kHz on 20. It also has a built in T-R switch on the board that mutes the receiver during transmit. We have upgraded the kit with a custom prepunched case that was designed by Ken LoCasale, WA4MNT. The kit comes complete, with all parts, connectors, case, knobs, wire, and our usual commercial quality double sided, plated through, silkscreened solder masked board.  $35.00 + S&H
  • -NEW- KD1JV Survivor 75m SSB transceiver.  There is a long story about the history of this kit on the website.  This is a re-design of the Epiphyte transceiver from Norcal.  10 Watts output, SSB, CW, and TUNE modes, Covers a user selectable portion of 75 Meters, either 325 or 175 kHz wide, selectable at build time.  All through-hole construction.  Requires 13.8 volts @ 2 Amps min.  Basic kit:  $100.00 + S&H, or Kit with Digital Dial, and Mic for $140.00 + S&H

-YouKits  http://youkits.com/.  YouKits also has the well-known HB-1B QRP rig (assembled) and some accessories.  Note: All kits are out of stock and discontinued except for the TT1A.  Two new kits are on the way.

  • -Coming Soon- TJ5A 5 Band SSB Transceiver.  1- 50 Watts.  No other info yet
  • Coming Soon- TJ2B SSB Handheld Transceiver.  This looks like an update to the TJ2A.  DDS Controlled, Mini LCD Display, 5 Watts, Dual VFOs, Selectable tuning rate (1Hz, 10Hz, 100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz, 100kHz), 40 memories.  They say it will be smaller than the TJ2A.  No other info yet.
  • TT1A 2 Band CW Tube Transmitter Kit.  This is a 2-tube 4-watt transmitter kit.  Comes with crystals for 40 and 20 meters, but can operate from 60 to 20 meters with different crystals.  Power supply kit coming soon, as well as custom case.  $129 + S&H

-MFJ http://www.mfjenterprises.com/

  • MFJ-8100K World Band SWL Receiver Kit.  Regenerative general coverage receiver covering 3.51 – 4.31 MHz, 5.95 – 7.40 MHz, 9.56 – 12.05 MHz, 13.21 – 16.4 MHz, and 17.6-22 MHz.  $79.95 + S&H
  • MFJ-93xxK QRP Cub Transceiver Kits.  QRP Transceiver available in 80, 40, 30, 20, 17, or 15.  Output 2 Watts (except 1 Watt on 17 and 15).

-Vectronics (MFJ) http://www.vectronics.com/Categories.php?sec=209.

  • Too many kits to list here.  They sell several different Transmitter, Receiver, and Transceiver kits, as well as shortwave converters for the car.  A couple of the items seem to be kit versions of MFJ products.

-Ramsey Electronics.    http://www.ramseyelectronics.com/

  • Similar assortment to Vectronics above, with several transmitter, transceiver and receiver projects.

-Genesis Radio (Australia).  http://www.genesisradio.com.au/order.html not all kits are available. Many are listed as sold out, but I assume will become available again. Prices are in Australian dollars.  This is the only one currently available:

  • G11 5 band SDR Transceiver Kit.  Power output 10 W. SMT components factory pre-assembled, buyer to assemble only large through hole components. Price in AUS$: $299.00 + S&H
  • –LIMITED AVAILABILITY–G59 All Mode 160-6M SDR transceiver kit.  The G59 is an all-mode 160-6m SDR transceiver with 10mW of output power. The output is boosted to 10W with the GPA10 linear amplifier.  Genesis kits are produced in batches of 50 units at a time. Current demand for the G59 is much greater than our production capability.  The best way to get a hold of a Genesis kit is to subscribe to our GenesisRadio Yahoo group and watch for announcements.  G59: $349.00 + S&H, GPA10: $129.00 + S&H

-Tony Parks, KB9YIG.  fivedash.com/  Tony seems to have partnered up with someone to get kits out faster.  The new website lists 4 kits available currently.  NEW:  Although this is not kit-related, Tony is offering an assembled version of the Softrock RX Ensemble II for $92.00

  • SoftRock RX Ensemble II Receiver Kit.  The SoftRock RX Ensemble II Receiver Kit includes the components for building the kit for LF, 180kHz through 3.0 MHz, operation or for HF, 1.8 MHz through 30 MHz.  $67.00
  • SoftRock Lite II Combined Receiver Kit.  The SoftRock Lite II kit now includes the components to build it for one of the following bands: 160m, 80m, 40m, 30m or 20m. This replaces prior Lite II kits that were set to a specific band when ordered. The SoftRock Lite II provides a simple to build SDR receiver with a fixed center frequency to be used with a sound card that can sample at 96 kHz, providing band coverage from 48 KHz below the center frequency to 48 KHz above the center frequency.  $21.00
  • SoftRock RXTX Ensemble Transceiver Kit.  The SoftRock RXTX Ensemble Transceiver Kit provides a 1 watt SDR transceiver that can be built for one of the following four band groups: 160m, 80m/40m, 30m/20m/17m or 15m/12m/10m.  $89.00
  • SoftRock 6m/4m/2m RX Ensemble Receiver Kit.  The SoftRock 6m/4m/2m RX Ensemble Receiver Kit may be built from the parts included in the kit for one of the three VHF frequency ranges.  $68.00

-Ten-Tec.  http://www.tentec.com/categories/Products-by-Area-of-Interest/Kit-Building/  Ten-Tec has 8 Radio kits available.

  • QRP Transceiver Kits (20,30,40, or 80 meters).  3 watts power output.  covers a 50 kHz segment determined by you at the time of construction.  With pre-labeled and painted case.  $124.00 + S&H
  • 9 Band Regenerative Receiver.  1.760 – 1.990 MHz, 3.3 – 4.150 MHz, 5.5 – 6.9 MHz, 6.9 – 8.5 MHz, 8.5 – 11 MHz, 10.1 – 13.2 MHz, 12.5 – 16 MHz, 14.7 – 18.5 MHz, 18.5 – 21.5 MHz  Integrated audio amp IC for clean robust audio from internal speaker or headphones.  includes parts, circuit board, assembly manual, battery holder, speaker, complete enclosure, and knobs.  $93.00 + S&H
  • 4 Band Regenerative Receiver.  5.9 – 6.4 Mhz, 6.9 – 7.4 Mhz, 8.5 – 10.2 Mhz, 11.5 – 16.5 Mhz.  Comes with finished front panel. No knobs or case.  $41.95 + S&H
  • Digital Readout Superhet Receiver.  100 Khz to 20 Mhz coverage.  This is the radio that Jay, KC2YSK built and wrote about in the Log previously.  Several option available to improve performance from 3rd parties.  $205.00 + S&H
  • Any Band Direct Conversion Receiver Kit.  Includes all of the parts and instructions to let you build the receiver (or change it to) ANY band of your choice (160, 80, 75, 40, 30, 20, 17, 15, 12 or 10 meters).  $39.00 + S&H

-Elecraft.  http://www.elecraft.com/

  • K3 Modular Kit.  The K3 is Elecraft’s top of the line.  Available in 10 and 100 watt versions and with a multitude of options.  The modular kit comes with mostly pre-assembled boards that need to be plugged in.  The K3 kit starts at $1549.95 and increases depending on what options you choose.
  • KX3 Modular Kit.  The KX3 is Elecraft’s newest transceiver.  Similar to the K3 in features, but in a compact portable package.  This is a modular kit like the K3 that requires you to assemble the pre-soldered boards.  Many options available.  Starts at $899.95
  • K2 Kit.  The K2 is available only as a full kit.  This is not a modular kit like the two above, but a full kit for the advanced kit builder.  The K2 is a full-featured transceiver available in 10 and 100 watt versions, and with many options.  Basic kit starts at $739.95
  • K1 Kit.  The K1 is a small portable CW transceiver available as either a 2 or 4 band rig.  You choose which bands you want at the end of the kit build.  Adjustable output from 0 to 5 watts.  The 2 band model starts at $299.95
  • KX1 Kit.  The KX1 is an ultra-portable CW transceiver.  Available with 2 bands in the basic model, and upgradeable to 4.  ! to 4 watt output.  Starting at $299.95

-Hamtronics.  http://www.hamtronics.com/menu_products.htm

  • Hamtronics offers a variety of VHF and UHF receiver and exciter kits as well as many other interesting items.

-Emtech.  http://emtech.steadynet.com/index.shtml

  • Emtech is currently out of stock on their NW-series radios.  Check back.  In the meantime, they have the excellent ZM-2 QRP tuner kit.

-JUMA.  http://www.jumaradio.com/juma/  All prices are in EUROS €

  • Series one kits.  Three kits available.  All DDS controlled, covering 80, and 40 meters.  RX1 Receiver, 74.80€,   TX1 Transmitter, 80.33€,  and TRX1 Transceiver, 169.00€.\
  • Series two kits.  Two kits available.  Both are high dynamic range, 10W output, SSB and CW transceiver kits, using quadrature sampling techniques for demodulation and modulation with low noise phasing. VFO is DDS controlled for a good frequency stability.  TRX2 2-band model (80 and 40) 395.00€, and TRX2A 80 thru 10 model with general coverage receiver, 499.00€

-North Country Radio.  http://www.northcountryradio.com/index.htm  NCR is a source for many amateur related kits.  Too much to list here, but they have several ATV related items.

-Radio Adventures Company.  http://www.radioadv.com/

  • R1 Code Practice Receiver.  High quality fixed frequency CW receivers designed for simple operation. Standard models are available for W1AW frequencies in the 80, 40 and 20 meter bands.  $29.95 + S&H

-Small Wonder Labs.  http://www.smallwonderlabs.com/

  • Rock Mite CW Transceiver.  The Rock-Mite is a crystal-controlled direct-conversion transceiver available for 80M, 40M, 30M or 20M.  $29 + S&H  some accessories available.

-Wilderness Radio.  http://www.fix.net/~jparker/wild.html

  • –OUT OF STOCK– Simple Superhet Receiver (SST).  The SST is an optimized, superhet rig with an extremely low parts count . This may be the easiest to build superhet ever, and it comes with a miniature custom enclosure.  2 Watts output.  $90 + S&H
  • Nor Cal 40a.  The revision B NorCal 40A is a third-generation 40-meter QRP transceiver kit, designed by Wayne Burdick, N6KR. The rig covers any 40KHz portion of the CW band, with a very stable VFO operating in the 2MHz range. The receiver is a superhet with crystal filter, AGC, and RIT.  3 Watts output.  $145 + S&H
  • –OUT OF STOCK– Sierra.  The Sierra is the only compact, low-current, multiband transceiver kit available. Designed by N6KR and extensively field-tested by the NorCal QRP Club, the Sierra has been completely upgraded for Wilderness Radio–including a painted and silk-screened enclosure and improved performance on both transmit and receive. Uses plug-in band modules for 80, 40, 30, 20, 17 and 15 meters.  1.5 to 3 watts depending on band.  LCD display.  Starts at $245 + S&H with 1 band module.

-Four State QRP Group.  http://www.wa0itp.com/4sqrpkitindex.html

  • Ham Can Transceiver.  A crystal-controlled CW transceiver, delivering 1/2 to 1 watts.  Easy thru-hole kit.  Crystal for 7122 included.  $30 includes shipping.
  • NS-40 Transmitter.  Ideal first kit.  There are only 14 electronic components, and NO TOROIDS or COILS of any kind to wind – NONE! All inductors are incorporated directly on the PC board as etched spirals.  5 watts at 13.6 volts.  $30 includes shipping.
  • SS-40 High Performance 40M Receiver.  The SS-40 high performance receiver is the latest design effort from Jim Kortge, K8IQY. SS stands for “Stable and Sensitive”. It exhibits the signature IQY extremely quiet amplifier chain. Disconnect the antenna and the receiver’s noise floor is almost undetectable. A matched crystal IF filter provides a steep sided 500 cycle bandpass and outstanding opposite sideband rejection. Covering the 40M QRP “watering holes”, a Super VXO provides 25-30 kHZ of smooth stable tuning, and no perceptible drift even from a cold start.. While easy to build, this is not a trivial kit. There are 150 parts, and when completed the resulting high quality receiver is a pleasure to use.  $60 + S&H

-Kanga US.  http://www.kangaus.com/products_by_type.htm

  • Several inexpensive kits for the radio hobbyist, mostly supplied as a “bag of parts” with a schematic.

-Electronics USA.  http://electronicsusa.com/productsham.html

  • A nice collection of kits including keys, keyers, and clocks.

-Dan’s Small Parts and Kits.  http://www.danssmallpartsandkits.net/  Mostly parts here of interest to the radio hobbyist but there are some kits about ⅔ of the way down the page.  This seems like the place to get parts for some of these QRP kits above, like crystal-socket pins, and variable capacitors.  Great assortment of stuff!  In additon to the transmitters below there is an amp kit, an RIT, ans S Meter kit, and much more.

  • Little Joe Transmitter Kit.  A small kit with board and parts from the book QRP Classics.  Available for 80, 40, 20, and 10/15.  Does not include crystals.  $19.95 + S&H
  • -No Longer Available- Cubic Incher Transmitter Kit.  A small kit available for 40 or 80 meters.  Crystals not included.  Currently on closeout for $6.50 + S&H

-DZ Kit.  http://www.dzkit.com/

  • Sienna Transceiver Kit.  This is a high end, full-featured transceiver with many options.  The Sienna can be a full-control stand-alone rig, or a computer-controlled-only rig.  Available in 10 and 100 watt version.  Kits start at $2098 + S&H for the computer-only 10 watt model.
  • HT-7 7Meter AM Walkie Talkie.  The HT-7 is a simple AM handie-talkie that operates on the 40M AM calling frequency.  $149.99 + S&H

-Fox Delta.  http://products.foxdelta.com/  A great collection of ham radio kits.  Includes computer interfaces, APRS kits, and more.

-Oak Hills Researchhttp://www.ohr.com/

  • OHR 100A single band CW transceiver kit.  Offered in 80, 40, 30, 20, and 15 Meter versions.  Each can be aligned to cover 70-80Khz.  5 Watt output.  $149.95 + S&H

-QRPme.  http://www.qrpme.com/  Several kits and accessories here.  They also have an intriguing kit of the month club”  delivering kits to you every month.

  • Micro 80D.  Small tunable 80 meter CW transceiver kit.  $35 + S&H
  • Lil Squall Transceiver.  A version of the Pixie Transceiver.  A tinkerers delight. It fits in a small tuna can. Includes a socket for the FINAL transistor for easy experimenting with output power. Likewise, the feedback caps in the oscillator circuit also have sockets making it easy to experiment with new bands. The crystal also has a socket for easily moving the operating frequency about a band. Comes will ALL the parts necessary to complete the transceiver and a 7122 crystal for operating the Lil’ Squall ][ in an area where other minimalist rigs hang out, AND the ‘officially unofficial’ TUNA NET frequency for tuna can gatherings.  $35 + S&H
  • Super Tuna II+.  A version of the Sudden Transmitter from the GQRP Club. Transmitter section is comprised of an oscillator, buffer and final driver transistor. Produces 2 watts at 12.6 volts. Frequency dependent components are mounted on an easily changed band module. The basic kit comes with a band module for 40 meter operation.  $40 + S&H
  • Tuna Tin 2 35th Anniversary Isuue.  A re-issue of the original TT2 transmitter.  Parts are laid out on the board in the exact same way the schematic is drawn.  Simple, and easy to build.  Comes with crystal for 7.030.  $25 + S&H
  • EZ Build Two-Tinned-Tuna Transmitter.  EZ build version with no toroids to wind.  Several socketed parts for experimenting and comes with 2 crystals for 40 meters.  $30 + S&H
  • Sudden Storm Receiver Kit.  Great companion to any of the tuna can transmitters.  Comes with components for 40 meters but can be operated on 80, 30, and 20 using the upgrade kit.  $35 + S&H
  • Reggie II Transceiver Kit.  A lesson in minimalist design.  The Reggie uses the Limerick construction technique.  Output is about 100mW.  $40 + S&H

-Xtal Set Society / Midnight Science.  http://www.midnightscience.com/kits.html  these folks have an nice assortment of crystal and basic am and sw kits, but also have a few kits for hams, like a dummy load and attentuators.

-Radio-Kits.com.uk.  http://www.radio-kits.co.uk/  These folks sell a couple of radio kits (listed below), and a few neat accessories including a CW kit that will work with many SSB-only radios. All prices in British Pounds.

  • MKARS80 SSB Transceiver.  This kit is based on the same design that is used in the BITX20 from Hendricks, but modified for 80 meter use. Main changes from Ashhar’s original design are the inclusion of a frequency counter and a Huff and Puff frequency stabilizer.  Covers from 3.5 to 3.8 Mhz with about 5 Watts output.  This kit is a bargain!  Ranging from a basic no-case kit for £55.00 shipped to the USA, to full kit with connectors, knobs, and an undrilled case for £68.50
  • Hunter SDR Receiver / Panadapter.  This looks like an interesting and economical SDR kit, that can also be controlled by an existing rig for use as a panadapter. £87.00 shipped to the USA

-Radi0shop (eBay store)http://stores.ebay.com/radi0shop  This eBay store is selling a couple versions of the Pixie II transceiver.  They currently have 80 meter, and 40 meter versions.  Looks like a very simple build.  $39.00 free shipping.

Zao.jp.  http://zao.jp/radio/order/  Zao has one kit currently available.  He is also the source for the pre-built Soft66 SDR radios (currently selling new version LC4) which is one of the lowest-priced pre-built SDR receivers on the market.  Getting it running is a challenge I hear, but performs well for the money once you do.

  • Soft66Lite.  Small monoband SDR that can be built for different ranges depending on the bandpass components installed.  Easily switchable by plugging in homemade bp modules setup on IC sockets.  $18 shipped to USA

Amateur Radio Kits.inhttp://cqbitx.blogspot.com/

  • BITX Kits.  I won’t list the kits individually because the website is a bit confusing.  They seem to have several different options from a basic kit with just the board and specialty components only for $18 to a deluxe complete kit with digital readout for $85
  • AVALA SDR board only.  There are a few sites supporting this SDR.  Not sure if I’m ready to tackle something like this, but it does look interesting.  Board only:  $10

-HSC (Halted Specialties Company).   http://www.halted.com/  HSC is a great source for components, but they also sell a Pixie II Kit w/o crystals.

  • Pixie II Kit.  This includes the components for 80 and 40 meter versions of the famous Pixie II kit.  It does not come with crystals, but HSC has them available individually or in a 6-pack.  $9.95 + S&H

-Breadboard Radio.  http://breadboardradio.com  Breadboard radio makes a few nice kits, all with a wooden breadboard –like base that the PC board attaches to when finished.  In addition to the kits listed, there are a few “coming soon” items.  A transmitter called the Wood Chip with variable RF output, VXO, T-R switch, sidetone, and more.  Designed to be a good companion to the Sawdust receiver below.  Also a new Tuner-dummy load-SWR meter combo, and 2 kits that have yet to be described planned for release later this year.

  • The “Splinter” QRPp Receiver / Transmitter.  Direct conversion receiver that tunes about 100khz of the 40 meter band.  Has bandpass filter with attenuator, 2 stage audio amp with RC filtering.  Drives standard stereo headphones.  Also receives SSB.  The crystal controlled Transmitter puts out about 450 mW.  Has SPOT function.  Two position crystal switch.  One crystal is soldered in (7030kHz) and one socket for extras.  Sidetone oscillator, and VXO (about 3kHz).  Built in key, or jack for external.  Complete kit: $54.95, with free shipping.
  • The “Sawdust” Regen Receiver.  Tunes about 75 kHz of the 40 meter band.  CW, and SSB.  Will drive headphones or small speaker.  Fixed regen.  Can also function as a code practice oscillator.  Easy to build.  Complete kit: $24.95 with free shipping.

-CR KITS  http://www.crkits.com/  US distributor: http://www.QRVTronics.com  .  CR Kits makes the KN-Q7A Single band SSB Transceiver Kit, and the CRK-10 CW Transceiver Kits (which are currently sold out and being revised)

  • KN-Q7A SSB Transceiver Kit.  A popular 40m or 20m single band SSB transceiver kit designed by BA6BF. 8~10 watts PEP output (5 watts PEP for 20m). Sensitive and selective receiver. Multiple frequency options.  4- 40m ranges available, and 1- 20m range.  $120 + S&H

K5BCQ & K5JHF Kits http://www.qsl.net/k5bcq/Kits/Kits.html  These Hams from the Austin QRP Club offer a page of accessories and support kits.  The most interesting thing on this page is the SDR2GO Kit.  This is a replacement for the computer and soundcard in a standard I/Q SDR setup.  You are meant to use this with an existing SDR board (like Tony Parks’ RXTX Ensemble) to create a complete standalone SDR.  They even have a graphics display kit option.  There is also a 20 Watt amp, an Si570 Controller with display, a programmable keyer, and much more.  Very reasonable too!

-Kit Radio Company http://www.kitradio.co.uk/  KRC Offers mostly Shortwave receivers, but also has an 80 Meter direct conversion receiver, as well as some accessories.  Prices are in British Pounds.  Not sure about shipping costs outside of the UK.

  • KRC-1, 4-Band Superhet.  Comes in 5 easy-to-build stages: 1) MW TRF receiver driving an earphone, 2) Audio amplifier providing speaker output, 3) The TRF receiver is converted to an IF amplifier, 4) Mixer/oscillator converting the receiver to a 4 band superhet, 5) BFO to enable CW/SSB reception.  Built on two circuit boards and comes with a pre-cut and labeled case.  Runs on 6AA batteries (included).  £65.99 + S&H
  • KRC-2, Regenerative SW Receiver.  1 – 30 MHz in 3 bands.  Easy build.  Very sensitive.  Nice case and all accessories included.  Runs on 6AA batteries (included).  £54.99 + S&H
  • KRC-4, Beginners TRF Receiver.  2 bands: 800 kHz to 1.6 MHz, and 4 to 8 MHz.  Uses a reflex circuit and only one transistor.  Band selection is achieved with 2 plug in pre-wound coils.  Will drive an earphone with only a few feet of wire as an antenna.  Includes earphone, 3 AA batteries, and engraved front panel.  £24.99 + S&H
  • KRC-5, 80 Meter Direct Conversion Receiver.  Designed around the SA602 and LM386 chips.  Receives CW and SSB from 3.5 to 3.8 MHz.  Includes earphone, 3 AA batteries, and engraved front panel.  £25.99 + S&H

 

GQRP Club http://www.gqrp.com/sudden.htm.  This QRP club from the UK, offers some of its designs in kit form.  They have Limerick-style construction transmitters and receivers, as well as a matching tuner. Prices are lower for members, and anyone can join.  Prices are in British Pounds.

 

  • GQRP Club “Limerick Sudden” Transmitter Kit.  Designed to match the Limerick Sudden receiver kit. The circuitry is a VXO, followed by a buffer and the PA is a 2N3866. The output is around 2 watts, the VXO & buffer are keyed by another transistor and there is muting on the RX antenna feed. There are 4 toroids to wind – a coupling transformer, and the 3 inductors of the 7 element low pass filter.  The kit uses the “Limerick” method of construction, as used in the earlier receiver. The pads are actually etched on the board (like surface mount), and the interconnections between them are PCB tracks, hidden under the solder masking. No “through hole” connections are made, although “through hole” components are used. Available in 40 Meter version, more to follow.  The kit includes all components, the complete case, and knob.  £42.00 + S&H
  • GQRP Club “Limerick Sudden” Receiver Kit.  Built around two integrated circuit chips; the SA602 and the LM386. Both lend themselves to simple receiver construction.  Uses same method of construction as above, and is available in 160m, 80m, 40m, 30m, or 20m versions.  Includes all components, complete case, and 9V battery.  £42.00 + S&H

-Kenneke Communications LLC http://www.kenneke.com/index.html.   Kenneke Communications, LLC offers Unique Electronic and Hobbyist Plans, Electronics Items, Kits, Surplus Radio Electronics Amateur Radio Kits, AM/FM Low Power Broadcasting (FCC Part-15) Supplies.  They have another version of the Pixie II Transceiver kit, as well as some other interesting radio-related kits.

  • Pixie II CW Transceiver Kit.  A very simple and inexpensive transceiver kit that can be built to operate on any one band from 10 to 160 Meters.  Several crystals also available as well as a 7MHz VFO kit, a connector kit, and more.  $29.95 including shipping in the USA.

-Walford Electronics http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~walfor/.  An impressive list of kits designed by UK Ham, Tim Walford (G3PCJ), as well as accessories.  Ships internationally.  All prices in British Pounds

  • The Berrow CW Transceiver.  A new specialist 1.5 W CW TCVR for any single band 20 – 80m that has a direct conversion receiver with the local oscillator derived by mixing the VFO with the output of a crystal oscillator and digital dividers for the chosen operating band – this provides genuine VFO operation, good stability and avoids chirp.  For setting up the VFO, you will need a counter or general coverage RX. The supply range is 9 to 16volts and the kit includes all parts to build it in a small upright but it can easily be installed in a case.  £59.00  + S&H
  • The Brendon Phone (DSB) Transceiver.  A phone transceiver project aimed at builders with limited experience where ease of assembly is important; the PCB has been laid out with plenty of space and it includes a small front panel.  It is normally supplied for 80m using a ceramic resonator VFO giving coverage of the lower half of the phone section of the band.  Consult with Tim for other bands.  The transmitter uses double sideband modulation, with a suppressed carrier – this is fully compatible with other stations using single sideband!  The robust IRF510 RF output transistor is mounted on a heatsink to make it more tolerant of abuse, and produces 1.5W of RF on a nominal 12 volt supply. The transmitter RF amplifier has its own RF drive control preset to ensure that the output stage does not limit on speech peaks. A double half wave filter removes the unwanted transmitter harmonics. The rig’s TR relay is controlled from the mike’s PTT switch and mutes the RX during transmission. There are many options for experiment and it can also drive the 10W Linear RF amp described in the Accessories section. The main PCB is double sided 100 x 100 mm. It needs an 9 to 16 volt supply. Price is £49 + S&H
  • The Bridgewater Superhet Receiver.   A sensitive phone superhet RX for any single band 20 – 80m. You decide which band to use it on when you get the kit!  The RX has supply protection and the kit includes a small PCB front panel. The main PCB is 100 mm square and can be easily boxed if you prefer. If you want to use it for CW, then add the Mini CW kit; for AGC, add the Mini AGC kit. The RX only price is £59.00 + S&H
  • The Burnham SSB Transceiver for Bridgewater.  This is the transmitter for the Bridgwater RX. Together they form a single sideband phone TCVR for any single band 20 – 80m. The TX has a speech amplifier suitable for dynamic microphones.  The Burnham output stage uses a robust IRF510 (with heatsink) that feeds the transmitter low pass filters and provides up to 1.5W pk of SSB output. There is provision also for driving the 10W Linear amplifier if you wish to add that. Like the RX, the TX can also be used with the Mini CW kit. The Burnham is a 100 x 80 mm PCB which must be mounted immediately behind the Bridgwater. This TX can only be used with the Bridgwater RX, so there is only one (discounted!) price for both – £84 + S&H\
  • The Brue CW Transceiver.  A builder friendly design with several advantages over earlier versions of direct conversion projects for those wanting to work CW. The parts are now laid out with more space making it much easier to build. It is a single band rig, normally for 80m (For bands other than 80m, up to 20m, you can fit a suitable QRP calling frequency crystal instead of the ceramic resonator but the tuning range will only be a few KHz).  Transmitter output is 1.5W using a 13.8 volt supply. It can be easily mounted in your own case if you prefer. There are many options for experiment and it can also drive the 10W Linear RF amp. The main PCB is doubled sided about 100 x 100 mm. It includes protection for reversed supplies which should be between 9 and 16 volts.  Price is £44.00 + S&H
  • The Tone Superhet Receiver.  An entry level superhet receiver project.  The Tone is for 80m phone operation. It has a 5 crystal ladder 6 MHz IF filter and double tuned RF filters to reject unwanted signals. The audio output stage can drive a small loud speaker or modern Walkman type 32R phones.  The receiver has reversed supply protection and can run off 9 to 15 volt DC supplies. While designed for phone use, it can also be used for CW, where the advantage of single sideband reception will be especially apparent – the band will appear far less crowded through elimination of the unwanted CW sidebands. For CW use, add the Mini CW kit; for AGC add the Mini AGC kit. The Tone kit includes all parts to build it in a small upright format. The matching SSB phone TX is the Parrett (below). The new 3D counter is recommended for those wanting a frequency readout. The Tone price is £44.00 + S&H
  • The Parrett Transmitter.  This is the matching transmitter to go with the Tone RX. It is also a superhet and provides single sideband phone operation on 80m. The RF output power is nominally 1.5 Watt when used on a 13.8 volt supply. The TX uses the VFO and CIO oscillator signals from the Tone to make operate on the desired frequency so that together they become a transceiver. (Hence the Parrett cannot be used on its own.) The TX has the same supply range as the RX and can share the supply protection.  The design also allows for use with the Linear RF amplifier for a higher RF output. The Mini CW kit can be added to provide all the facilities for CW operation. The Parrett is normally mounted immediately behind the Tone receiver (above). The Parret price is £35.00 + S&H but when ordered with the Tone, the combined price is discounted to £75.00 + S&H
  • The Cary Regenerative Receiver.  A new design of the old Regen concept but with an improved physical arrangement that makes it more easily used as a self contained unit! In its simplest form it is a single band receiver for either 80 or 160m, or the bottom part of Medium Wave band.  The kit includes a small speaker to get you going and it runs off a 9 volt PP3 battery or an external 12v supply.  For more advanced constructors, it can be converted to 3 band operation on 20, 40 and 80m. The basic 80/160/MW kit costs £34.00 + S&H. The 3 band optional extra kit is £6.00
  • The Yeo Direct Conversion Receiver.  An entry level direct conversion receiver that is capable of serious communication use! The kit includes parts so that you can make it for an any single amateur band 20 to 80m; this is done with alternative capacitor combinations and changes to the VFO inductor. There is a double tuned RF filter to remove out of band signals and the audio response is designed primarily for CW but is wide enough for phone also.  The kit includes a PP3 battery holder but can take any supply voltage between 9 and 16 volts DC – it includes reversed supply protection! The kit includes a small PCB mounted speaker (to get you going) but is able to drive an external 8R proper speaker or headphones.  Price is £33.00 + S&H
  • The Kilton CW Transmitter.  A simple CW transmitter to go with the Yeo receiver. It is normally ‘crystal’ controlled for use as a ‘seperate’ whose tuning is NOT linked to the receiver. It can do any band in the range 20 to 80m using your actual crystal or a ceramic resonator. It is supplied with a 3.58 MHz ceramic resonator for 80m use, which can be pulled or tuned down over about 50  KHz with the on board tuning trimmer. When a crystal is used, the pulling tuning range will be very limited. It produces 1.5 Watts on a 13.8 volts but can use a supply in the range 9 to 16 volts. When you order it with the Yeo or Cary RX, the relay is included and that can be mounted on the RX PCB. The circuit does not provide receiver sidetone.  The price is £19.00 + S&H
  • The Kilmot Phone (DSB) Transmitter.  This is the phone transmitter to go with the Yeo receiver! It provides double sideband (DSB) suppressed carrier phone signals which are fully compatible with any other station using upper or lower single sideband transmission – this approach makes everything rather simpler! Like the Kilton, it is normally ‘crystal’ controlled for use as a ‘seperate’ whose tuning is NOT linked to the receiver. It is intended really for use on 80m where the 3.69 MHz ceramic resonator gives a tuning range of about 50 KHz (down) using the on board tuning trimmer. (Other bands have to use crystals which makes its use very challenging!) On 80m it produces 1.5 Watts on modulation peaks with a 13.8 volts supply but can use anything in the range 9 to 16 volts. The output low pass filters are included together with provision for T/R relay control by your mike’s PTT switch. Owing to lack of PCB space the T/R relay is not included, except when you order it with the Yeo or Cary RX, where there is space for the relay to be mounted. It is intended for use with the common sort of dynamic microphone.  The price is £24.00

-Kanga Products UK http://www.kanga-products.co.uk/.  Kanga Products, UK is a separate company from Kanga US, although they have some similar products.  Kanga UK has several interesting kits, as well as accessories.  Ships worldwide.  Prices in British Pounds

  • Finningley 80M SDR Reciever.  This kit was produced for the Microwave Roundtable earlier this year. Kanga Products have kindly been given permission to re-produce the kit. This simple SMD kit is a great way to get into Software Defined Radio.  £16.50 + S&H
  • G0NQE 80M SDR Reciever.  The G0NQE-Acorn SDR receiver was designed for a Pontefract Radio Club project. It was built by a number of club members in February 2011 and was a great success. The kit covers 2 switched sections of the 80m phone band, and comes complete with all PCB components plus external components and screen printed PCB, made provision is made to add switchable bandpass filters, with a change of crystals the Acorn SDR can easily be made into a multiband receiver.  £19.95 + S&H
  • Junk Box Special Transmitter.  A small CW transmitter from the famous George Burt GM3OXX of Edinburgh, Scotland. This unit will work on any band from 3.5MHz through to 24MHz (where the output is very low). Providing up to 7 watts output on the lower bands. Supplied with a 80m crystal (3.560 MHz), if a different band is required please advise at time of ordering.  £17.95 + S&H
  • Sudden 2 Receiver.  Available for 80, 40, or 30 Meters.  Based closely on the original SUDDEN but with the following differences: Tuning is by variable capacitance diode, removing the need for an expensive tuning capacitor. The SA602 mixer/oscillator chip is fed from a 5 volt regulator, so a 9v or 12v supply can be used. The audio amplifier circuit, based on an LM386, now has hiss-reducing components. The audio gain control, RF attenuator and tuning control are mounted on the PCB. The kit is supplied with Toko 10K coils, but the board can also be used with toroidal coils if Toko coils become obsolete. The PCB has a solder mask and the component positions are marked in white screen printing. There is provision on the board for a switched-bandwidth audio filter and a mute circuit with adjustable sidetone bypass.  £28.50 + S&H
  • The Apell Budget Key Transmitter.  This is another unit from the pages of SPRAT, the journal of the G-QRP Club. Designed by Johnnie Apell SM7UCZ. Supplied with 80m crystal (3.579), other bands can be provided but you will need to change BPF.  £11.95 + S&H
  • Foxx-3 Transceiver.  The FOXX-3 is the latest version of the ever-popular FOXX. Designed by Derek Alexander, it incorporates a sidetone oscillator, changeover relay and low-pass filter. It fits inside an Altoids (TM) mint tin and all connections are made via vertical connectors which are concealed when the lid is closed. The connections are as follows: antenna via 50 ohm BNC, power via 2 pin 0.1″ header, headphones via 3.5mm mono or stereo jack plug or 2 pin header, Morse key via 3.5mm mono or stereo jack plug or 2 pin header. We also supply a small PCB-mounted switch which can be used as the key for ultimate portability. All you need to add are a 12 volt DC supply, headphones and an antenna and tuner. Available for 20, 30, 40, or 80 Meters.  £29.95 + S&H

-QRP Project (Germany) http://www.qrpproject.de/UK/indexuk.html.  Many kits here, but also a very confusing website, with much of the links to German pages that need to be translated.  Quite a few kits though.  All prices in Euros.

-Kits By EA3GCY http://www.qsl.net/ea3gcy/index.html.  This is the home of the ILER transceiver kits, as well as the ILER DDS-VFO (currently out of stock).  Shipped worldwide from Spain.  All prices in Euros.

  • ILER QRP SSB Monoband Transceiver Kit.  Available for 20 or 40 Meters.  Covers 60 – 100 Khz segment of the band chosen.  Several coverage options available.  12-14 VDC.  Output 4 – 5 Watts.  Requires dynamic mic.  77,50€ + S&H

OZ QRP (Australia) http://www.ozqrp.com/index.html.  Owned by Leon Williams (VK2DOB).  Offers the MST (Minimalist Sideband Transceiver) as “short-form” kits (PCB plus specialized and hard to get parts).  Ships worldwide.  Prices in Australian Dollars.

  • The MST (Minimalist Sideband Transceiver).  Complete SSB transceiver on a single PCB (just add a VFO).  Superhet receiver using a 4 pole 10MHz crystal filter.  5W PEP minimum power.  Front panel LED transmit power and modulation indicator.  Simple and easy to build using all through hole components.  DDS VFO available as an add-on kit.  PCB Only $AU 15.00 + S&H, MST Kit $AU 35.00 + S&H, MST + DDS VFO $AU 75.00  + S&H
Neil Goldstein, W2NDG, is a regular contributor to AmateurRadio.com and writes from New York, USA. Contact him at [email protected].

12 Responses to “Amateur Radio Kit Roundup – Updated 2/26/2013”

  • jeff taylor:

    I don’t have a callsign as of yet. I am a beginner without a license exploring the possibilities. I’ve built two computers and I was interested in building a radio from a kit.

    Thanks very much for this post! Just what i needed.

  • Ira N2IS:

    What an effort, Neil. CONGRATULATIONS
    This list should satisfy kit builders for days/weeks.

  • Thanks Ira! What I really want to do now is organize it a little better. I might migrate it into a Wiki-style page, or a searchable database. Not sure yet, but I’ll need a host, etc, etc. What amazes me is that every time I think there are no more sources, more pop up. I have 2 more to add from yesterday and today.

  • Steven [ NX3M ]:

    Nice collection of amateur radio kits ! Good job and thank you for the effort !

  • James Puah:

    Nice site. Summary of the many ham kits source.

    James Puah 9V1JP

  • Sean Connelly KD8BQA:

    Quite an undertaking, Neil!!

    How about SDR.kit as an addition to the list?

  • Donald West KB5PWL:

    March 1, 2014
    Just went to Kanga and they don’t have any kits.
    KB5PWL

  • Matthias DF6OA:

    The best I have seen the last years.
    Thank you very much from a kit builder.

  • Kym Pepper:

    Thought-provoking discussion ! I am thankful for the specifics – Does someone know where I might acquire a template 2013 IRS 990-EZ form to type on ?

  • Edward Green KC2GZQ:

    I have had my ham license for many years now, but where I live I cannot use my equipment. I gave away everything I had about six years ago. Being on a limited income limits what I can do as well. Your page got me interested again in my hobby. Never really built anything much before and now it’s my only reality if I want to start again. BEST ADVICE EVER to start by building test equipment first and low power makes it more affordable. I have yet to begin, but now I can plan how I intend to start. And … reading these articles and relearning my CW is where I will start for now while I wait to begin building. SO, THANK YOU for the BEST ADVICE and all your work to put tis listing in one place.

  • Steve N3BPM:

    Really nice article. Some great info for Hams to find small projects.
    I have been looking for a 10 meter Beacon transmitter project.
    Are there any 10 meter beacon kits available on the market?

  • Steve, I think that this is what you may be looking for. Hans’ kits are great and he ships quickly:

    https://www.qrp-labs.com/ultimate3/u3s.html

    73!

    W2NDG

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