[ARC5] ARB Modifications

[Kenneth G. Gordon]

On 2 Nov 2012 at 10:46, Tim wrote:

> I think that anything with a micro processor or LCD display is doomed....
> Tim N6CC

I agree. I have been an IT Professional for over 30 years, and in my carefully considered and 
experienced opinion, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that you are correct.

Both Bill and I have and use the RAK. I also have and use an RAL. In fact, I have several of 
each. My second good receiver was an essentially-NIB RAL-7, for which I traded a BC-
348/BCB-ARC-5-"Q-5er" combo so I could work 15 meters. This was in 1957 or 1958.

The RAL-7 became my main station receiver for at least the next 12 years.

To my mind, the RAL is the finest HF TRF receiver ever built.

My RAKs exhibit RF selectivity second to none: the "other side" of zero-beat simply isn't 
there.

Other VLF receivers I have here are the RBL (a National-designed receiver that is essentially 
a cheaper version of the RAK with a direct readout dial, but it is far less stable than the RAK), 
an RCA-designed and built RBA (supposedly the last-word in VLF TRF receivers), and an R-
389. I used to have three SP-600-VLF-31s, but had to sell all I had, along with the other two 
R-389s I had at that time. I also have one Mackay 128AY.

The RAK would make an excellent "Q-5er"....although it IS a bit big...the RAL would also be 
good.

Even so, the BC-453/R-23/ARC-5s are absolutely superb receivers at MF. and they are a 
LOT smaller.

Ken W7EKB