LNR Precision MTR-3B
I recently scored on eBay something I'd been keeping my eyes peeled for. The LNR Precision MTR-3B is an ultra-compact, low power, 3 band CW transceiver. Peter, VK3YE, often discusses the serendipity of simple equipment, and the MTR series of radios are a prime example. They benefit not from the features they include, but rather those that they omit. No volume control, no front panel knobs, no complex filters to adjust. Just a truly pocketable radio with a solid 2-3 watts of output power and adequate receiver performance for super low power operation.
The MTR-3B came in a variant with a small 7-segment, single digit display - and later with a monochrome LCD for displaying more detail. I was only able to find the first model, which I'm happy with. The bit that will get modified right away, however, in the antenna connector. The original MTR-3b uses an 'RCA' style phono plug for the 50 ohm antenna connection. Later models were available with a BNC. All of my antennas and coaxial cable for portable use have been made with BNC connectors, so although the RCA jack is smaller and lighter - I will be converting my MTR to BNC very soon.
This radio is about the size of a deck of playing cards, and weighs very little. The flat front panel allows for better pocketing or packing than its contemporaries such as the QRP Labs QMX (a radio which I love dearly as well). I plan on making the MTR my "always with me" radio, something that can just live in the car with a few 9 volt batteries and a simple end-fed wire. That way, whenever the desire to get on the air should arise, I can hop right up and make some CW contacts without much difficulty.
Very excited to make some QSOs on the trail with this one. Dit Dit.