
TK-20U Comparison
| photo | price | summary | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
![]() | $24.99 | Condition is Good, KENWOOD TK-20U Receiver Schematic only from Volume 1 Original, shipping cost = $4.84 | 97.5% |
![]() | $29.99 | Condition is Good, Kenwood TK-20U Receiver Schematic only from Volume 1 Original, shipping cost = $5.00 | 99.0% |

The Kenwood TK-20U receiver is a powerful and versatile communication device designed for professional use in various industries, including security, public safety, and dispatch services. This receiver is known for its excellent audio quality, which is made possible by its high-performance volume control circuit.
The volume control circuit is a crucial component of the TK-20U receiver, allowing users to adjust the audio level of incoming and outgoing communications to their preferred setting. The schematic for the volume control circuit provides a detailed overview of its design and functionality.
At the heart of the volume control circuit is an operational amplifier (op-amp) configured as a voltage-controlled amplifier (VCA). The op-amp receives the input signal from the receiver's audio output and amplifies it in response to the control voltage applied to its input. The control voltage is generated by a potentiometer or a digital volume control circuit, depending on the specific implementation of the receiver.
The potentiometer is a simple and effective means of volume control, allowing users to adjust the control voltage by turning a knob. The resistance value of the potentiometer is typically several kilohms, ensuring a smooth and precise volume adjustment. The wiper of the potentiometer is connected to the control voltage input of the op-amp, while one end is grounded, and the other end is connected to the positive power rail.
The op-amp amplifies the input signal, increasing its voltage level while maintaining its shape. The amplified signal is then fed to the output stage, which consists of a power amplifier and a speaker or headphones. The power amplifier delivers the required power to the speaker or headphones, producing the desired audio output.
The volume control circuit also includes various protection and limiting circuits to prevent damage to the receiver or the user's hearing. For instance, the circuit may include a limiting amplifier that clips the output signal when it exceeds a certain level, ensuring that the volume stays within safe limits.
In summary, the Kenwood TK-20U receiver's volume control circuit is a complex and essential component that enables users to adjust the audio level of their communications. The schematic for this circuit provides a detailed and informative overview of its design and functionality, including the use of an operational amplifier, a potentiometer, and various protection and limiting circuits.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Kenwood TK-20U Two-Way Radio Receiver
1. Pros:a) UHF Frequency: The Kenwood TK-20U operates on the UHF frequency band, which offers better penetration through buildings and obstacles compared to VHF radios.
b) Power Output: With an output power of up to 5 watts, the TK-20U has a longer range compared to lower-power radios.
c) Programmable: The receiver is programmable, allowing users to customize features like channels, codes, and power settings.
d) Rugged Design: The TK-20U is built to withstand harsh environments with its water-resistant and dust-proof design.
e) Loudspeaker: The built-in loudspeaker allows users to listen to transmissions without the need for headphones or external speakers.
2. Cons:a) Size and Weight: The TK-20U is larger and heavier than some handheld radios due to its powerful battery and robust design.
b) Cost: The Kenwood TK-20U is more expensive than some other handheld UHF radios on the market.
c) Battery Life: The battery life of the TK-20U may be shorter than that of smaller, less powerful radios due to its high power output and large LCD display.
d) Complexity: The TK-20U's features and programming capabilities may be more complex than those of simpler handheld radios, requiring a learning curve for some users.
3. Conclusion:The Kenwood TK-20U is a robust, powerful, and programmable two-way radio receiver designed for professional use in harsh environments. Its advantages include UHF frequency, high power output, programmability, rugged design, and loudspeaker. However, its drawbacks include its larger size and weight, higher cost, shorter battery life, and complexity.
Based on the above analysis, the Kenwood TK-20U is recommended for users who require a powerful, programmable, and rugged two-way radio receiver for professional applications in harsh environments. The extra cost and larger size may be worthwhile for those who need the added features and capabilities. However, for casual users or those who require a more compact and affordable radio, there are other options available on the market.
Details:
Item for sale is an original Kenwood TK-20U receiver schematic only from binder volume 1.
specifications vintamanual:
- brand: Kenwood
- mpn: Tk-20u
- part type: Receiver
- country of origin: Japan
- modified item: No
shipping vintamanual:
- carrier: usps
- type: fixed
- transit: 12-15 days
- class: standard
- service: usps ground advantage
payments vintamanual:
- wallet: apple-pay
- credit card: visa
- other
returns vintamanual:
- policy: no returns
offer vintamanual:
- started: december 27, 2025
- sold #: 10
- options: ship-to-home
- availability: in stock
- prices: $24.99–$29.99
- item condition: Good
- in stock #: 2
seller vintamanual:
- rating: 98.3%
- city: brighton, massachusetts
- # reviews: 56
general vintamanual:
- category: Electronics > Audio Video > Parts Accessories > Vintage Manuals
Similar Items:
- JL-990AV: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- KRC-511: RECEIVER CASSETTE PLAYER MANUAL, Kenwood
- LSK-704: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- LS-E9: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- KS-H52: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- JL-1090AV: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- JL-890: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- JL-804: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- JL-690: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- JL-504: MANUAL SPEAKER SYSTEM, Kenwood
- P-100: TURNTABLE MANUAL, Kenwood

