Remote Station Mark 1 (Maestro) — RS1M
The 1 ZULU Remote Station Mark 1 (Maestro) is a premium version of the RS1 — a complete, turn-key remote HF communications system enhanced with the FlexRadio Maestro C operator console for full tactile control.
It’s a fully-engineered deployable station, designed for operators who want broadcast-grade remote HF performance with the realism and precision of a physical control surface. RS1m brings together power, networking, radio, control, and environmental systems into a single integrated package — ready for installation and remote operation from day one.
What You Get
Every RS1m system is supplied fully configured, tested, and on air before delivery. Your package includes:
- FlexRadio 8400 HF Transceiver and 8400 ATU
- FlexRadio Maestro C Console (3rd Gen) for hands-on operation
- DX Commander Antenna system, tuned for multi-band performance
- Victron 100/30 MPPT Charger, 300 Ah LiFePO₄ battery, and dual 400 W solar panels
- Starlink Mini satellite link with weather-proof interface cabling and power supply
- Raspberry Pi 3B+ control node with redundant Ethernet, AWS cloud VPN gateway, and remote management suite
- Outdoor-rated equipment enclosure, fans, lightning arrestor, and all DC cabling
- Full monitoring and telemetry stack (battery voltage, solar input, temperature, uptime)
- Rack and mounting hardware for a clean, field-deployable installation
From solar input to RF output, everything is integrated, delivered, and owned outright by you.
Operating Your RS1m Remotely
The RS1m package includes the FlexRadio Maestro C console, giving you the classic ham radio experience with knobs, dials, and a full-colour touch display. It provides a truly tactile interface for operators who prefer the feel of a traditional HF rig — ideal for those in nursing homes, offices, or caravans who still want that hands-on experience.
However, the Maestro is entirely optional — all RS1m owners can also operate their system using:
- SmartSDR for Windows (free from FlexRadio)
- SmartSDR for macOS (small cost on Mac App Store)
- SmartSDR for iPad and iPhone (mobile operation)
This flexibility means RS1m users can switch seamlessly between console and software-based operation from anywhere, at any time.
Ownership Model
From day one, you own 100 % of the hardware — including the Maestro C console. There are no rentals, no shared resources, and no vendor lock-in. All configuration data and VPN keys are handed over at commissioning.
Pricing (AUD)
| Option | Up-front | Monthly | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Option 1 – Outright Purchase | $15,525 | $279 | You purchase and own all equipment, including Maestro C. Monthly cost covers link, hosting, and site rental. |
| Option 2 – Finance (Lease-to-Own) | $500 deposit | ≈ $483 / month | Ten-year finance plan. After 10 years, you own all equipment outright. Includes $279 ongoing OPEX. |
Finance Calculation (approx.)
- Amount financed: $15,025 (AUD 15,525 – 500 deposit)
- Term: 10 years (120 months)
- Interest rate assumption: 8 % p.a.
- Monthly repayment (equipment only): ≈ $204 AUD
- Add OPEX ($279 / month) → ≈ $483 / month total
(Finance figures are indicative only and subject to credit approval.)
Remote Location and Deployment
RS1m is designed for installation at a dedicated, interference-free remote site with consistent solar exposure.
A typical remote site rental allowance is already included in the $279 monthly operating cost. This covers approximately $83 per month (around $1,000 annually) for secure, maintained site access through 1 ZULU’s network of partnered landowners.
For customers who already have a suitable private location — such as an acreage, farm, or other low-noise property — the system can be installed there, and the monthly cost can be reduced accordingly.
If a location is required, 1 ZULU can arrange hosting via its network of approved Australian landowners, ensuring stable, long-term installation and connectivity.
Typical Use Cases
- Remote HF operations with true hands-on control from any location
- Training and demonstration systems requiring physical interface familiarity
- Field deployable command stations or club operations
- High-fidelity DX or contest stations with immediate operator feedback
Summary
The RS1m delivers everything in the RS1 package — plus the FlexRadio Maestro C console for a complete desktop experience. It’s turn-key, owned, and fully supportable — built to 1 ZULU’s naval-grade standard of maximum readiness and watertight integrity.
Sales Enquiries
For all RS1 and RS1M sales or technical enquiries, please contact Ian directly at ian@iangilchrist.net to discuss configuration options, pricing, or site arrangements.