[Boatanchors] [QRP-L] Hollow State QRP Transmitter Kit

[L L bahr]

First off, let me say I have a ton of tube gear.  I also build tube rigs such as an AC-1 clone, Philmore NT-200 clone, and a Paraset and others of more power so I am interested in low power tube gear.  That said, you are not offering a clone and thus just have a new type tube rig of simple design. I for one am really not much interested in a new 6V6 rig.  If I was to build one, it would be first class and most likely of my own design unless your rig was much less expensive then what I could build up myself. I am saying this as I suspect others may feel the same way or be in the same position. I would suspect you are thinking of a price of around $175.  So to put $175 towards a new non nostalgic pee wee 6v6 rig,  I'd much rather invest my $175 in buying a boat anchor such as a Globe Scout or DX-60 with restoration parts or build up a classic clone of some vintage rig if I wanted to build or work on a tube project. You don't mention what this transmitter will look like.  The looks will be a big part of the interest in your transmitter.  There is one kit offered now with a tube but it uses modern looking parts and is in an unorthodox looking cabinet.  For many this is a BIG turn off as many want a "vintage" look. I just think $175 is more then the masses will pay for a non clone 5 or 6 watt output CW transmitter.  In my opinion, your market for real buyers is going to be extremely small.  If someone was wanting to build a hollow state low power rig, his investment would be much more valued by putting their money into say a PARASET project or Philmore NT-200 clone project.  I'm not saying you won't sell some of your transmitters, but I think you market is really going to be small unless you have some dynamite looking kit at a "I can't pass this up" price.  What I am saying is you are competing for discretionary dollars in my opinion, with a very limited set of potential buyers with a very limited appeal product.  With the "overhead" you mention,  your selling price may well have to be around $225 which makes the kit even less desirable.  This is just my realistic take on your venture. I think you are chasing a very very small buying segment.  If it were me,  I'd pick out a reproduction clone for my kit.  I have built a great Philmore NT-200 clone (6V6-6L6-5Y3).  This would be a much more useful and valued project as nobody has taken it on as a kit project to date and the cost would not be too much higher.
 

For your information,  my HAMECO AC-1 design as shown in the AC-1 group graphics section included a real SO-239 RF connector, ground lug, fuse holder, 1/4 inch key jack, and AC line cord clamp all mounted on the rear panel.  The front panel is silk screened over a Hammertone finish. 

Lee, w0vt