Kenwood TS-480
Key Specifications
- Bands
- 160m–6m (HF + 50 MHz)
- Power
- 100W SSB/CW/FM/FSK, 25W AM
- Frequency Range
- Rx 0.13–30 MHz & 50–54 MHz; VFO 30 kHz–60 MHz
- Receiver
- Double Superheterodyne + DSP
- MSRP (USD)
- Discontinued (originally ~$1,400)
- Type
- hf transceiver
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The Kenwood TS-480 brought Kenwood's TS-series HF tradition into a compact chassis aimed at operators who wanted 100 watts, built-in antenna tuning, and natural phone audio without flagship pricing or footprint. It shares the audio heritage described in the history of Kenwood — voice communications engineered with hi-fi sensibility rather than afterthought DSP processing. In 2026 used-market pricing, the TS-480 frequently competes with the Yaesu FT-891 and entry-level used Icom IC-7300 units for General-class buyers on modest budgets.
Overview
Kenwood positioned the TS-480 as a capable daily HF transceiver for phone, CW, and digital operators who valued approachable front-panel ergonomics. Double superheterodyne architecture on HF delivers dependable sensitivity across 160 meters through 6 meters. Kenwood's DSP provides noise reduction, notch filtering, and configurable bandwidth without overwhelming the operator with menu depth.
The built-in automatic antenna tuner operates on receive and covers 160 meters through 6 meters — practical when switching between wire antennas across bands during setup or field tests. USB audio connectivity supports Winlink, FT8, and logging workflows without separate sound card interfaces. Memory channels with alpha tagging help organize net frequencies and DX targets.
Operators upgrading from HT or mobile rigs often choose the TS-480 for Kenwood transmit audio character and traditional knob-based operation. Those wanting larger displays and dual receivers step to the Kenwood TS-590SG or Kenwood TS-890S. Multi-band VHF/UHF/HF needs may point to the Kenwood TS-2000 instead.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frequency coverage (Rx) | 0.13–30 MHz, 50–54 MHz (VFO 30 kHz–60 MHz) |
| Frequency coverage (Tx) | 160m–6m amateur bands |
| Modes | SSB, CW, AM, FM, FSK |
| Output power | 5–100W (SSB/CW/FM/FSK), 5–25W (AM) |
| Receiver architecture | Double superheterodyne + DSP |
| DSP | IF DSP NR, notch, multi-filter |
| Antenna tuner | Built-in (160m–6m, tunes on receive) |
| Memory channels | 100 with alpha tags |
| Connectivity | USB audio, RS-232C |
| Power supply | 13.8 V DC ±15% |
| Current drain | Rx ~1.2A, Tx max ~20A |
| Dimensions | 240 × 94 × 238 mm |
| Weight | ~4.5 kg (9.9 lb) |
Operating Notes
Phone operators often praise TS-480 transmit audio — natural and warm without extensive equalization. CW and digital operators benefit from narrow DSP filters and straightforward USB audio routing. The compact chassis fits smaller shack desks and apartment installations where larger flagships dominate visually and thermally.
The built-in tuner tunes while receiving — helpful when evaluating wire antenna changes. Cooling is adequate for typical duty cycles; contest operators running sustained transmit may prefer rigs with more aggressive thermal design.
Used buyers should test all bands and modes they plan to use, verify display readability, confirm USB audio function with their PC, and inspect for cosmetic damage around connectors. The TS-480 holds reasonable resale value when maintained — see vintage Japanese radio values for broader Kenwood collector context.
Who It's For
The TS-480 suits General-class HF buyers seeking used Kenwood value, phone operators who prioritize transmit audio, and operators with limited desk space who still want 100 watts and built-in tuning. It aligns with our best HF transceiver under $1,000 guide when used examples price competitively.
Less ideal for operators who need dual independent receivers, large spectrum displays, or multi-band VHF/UHF/HF in one chassis. Portable battery HF belongs to the Icom IC-705 or Yaesu FTX-1F Field.
Related Reading
- Kenwood TS-590SG — larger HF step-up
- Kenwood TS-2000 — multi-band HF/VHF/UHF
- Yaesu FT-891 — compact Yaesu alternative
- Icom IC-7300 — SDR touchscreen alternative
- Kenwood brand page — full Kenwood coverage
The TS-480 extends Kenwood's TS-series compact tradition — Japanese HF engineering sized for operators who measure success in clear Sunday morning net audio.