[AMRadio] Starting in AM

[Steve Belcher]

Dave,

As with any aspect of a hobby or interest, there are sub-categories. In 
Amateur Radio you have Contesters, DX'ers, CW operators, SSTV etc.,  aside 
from what your current interest is, you are exploring another aspect of 
Amateur Radio, while we have a main interest in our pastime, we often touch 
upon and enjoy the other aspects (modes of operation) it can provide

While diving in can be great and all of the ideas presented have good 
points, what is your interest in the AM mode? Keeping in mind it's not 
likely about about one thing.

If you are interested in tubes, then Boat Anchors are  away to go. Start off 
slow with a good BA receiver in the $200 range I have seen and sold a number 
of very acceptable SX101's HQ160's and others of that vintage. Also start 
with a forgiving transmitter such as a DX-60 or HT-40 these can often be 
found for less the $100 often with a VFO..  Moving up the food chain, a more 
robust  transmitters such as the Viking I and II's DX-100 are like the next 
step up in price range and able to be repaired by the fledgling AM'er..

If it's all about the AM Mode and tubes have little interest to you, then 
Class E offers many of the same rewards of Tube AM operation, but with 
modern components.

If you are more comfortable with Computers, then a Flex or SDR type of rig 
is the way to go..

If its just to get on,  then hit the AM Mode switch on your current rig dial 
down the carrier to 10-15 watts and join in.

I am about nostalgia, I enjoy the  laid back and old buzzard way of 
operation. It's what I grew up with.

Good luck, check out your local AM activity, just as you are doing here. 
You may want to log into the AM Fone website for other thoughts and ideas.

Steve - W1TAV



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David Rhodes" <der3113 at gmail.com>
To: <amradio at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Sunday, January 30, 2011 4:50 PM
Subject: [AMRadio] Starting in AM


>I have been a ham for 20 years, but have just recently developed an 
>interest
> in AM. My interest is in a boat anchor transmitter and receiver.  Any
> suggestions on equipment for a not too technical person like me, and where
> to find it would be appreciated.  Thinking about going to Dayton.  Dave,
> N7PEI
>
> -- 
>
> David Rhodes
>
> *
> *
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