[Elecraft] A suitable linear

[Lee Buller]

TR,
 
The subject of linear amps could be long and tedious.  There are some questions that need to be answered.
 
From your post, do you think that you want a solid state amp?  If so, then you are limited in choices.  Solid State amps that run over 500 watts get very expensive.
 
How much power do you want to run?  500, 1000, 1500?
 
How big a box do you want?
 
Do you have 220 available?
 
Do you have RG-8?  (This is not a joke, I saw a guy once trying to run an amp at 1000 watts with RG 58.)
 
You might have to opt for a tube rig that you will have to dip and load.  Most modern day amps really do not dip and load anymore, but have controls to tell you where the best load match is and then peak for maximum output.  
 
To go the cheap way, get an old SB220 which has plenty of power, but you will have to dip and load.  A tuner would be a good idea too.
 
If you want to go more modern...well...Alpha is the premier amp.  You cannot go wrong with an Alpha...even a used one that is reasonable shape.
 
 I really like the ACOM amps. ACOM's 1000 watt amp is a real dream.  I have operated this amp and it is great.  Tuning is a breeze...it matches a wide variety of loads without a tuner...and it can run off 120 volts at 20 amps.  Or it can run off of 220 at 10 amps.  And it will run from 50 to 60 cycles.  It has one 4CX800 tube and you cannot here the amp run.  You have to look at the controls to see that it is running because it is very quiet amp.  These amps are made in Bulgaria out of the same factory that built the Alpha 91B.
 
There is also Ameritron, but I would stay away form the AL82.  I have an AL80A which has one 3-500Z and runs about 800 watts on CW and more on SSB.  I hardly use it at all, but it works OK.  I got a good deal on it.  The AL80B is said to be pretty good too.  The AL1200 is a good amp as well.
 
Of course the price dictates a lot of my tastes.  Ameritron is affordable, but there are trade offs.  Alpha is the gold standard.  ACOM is also expensive as well....but it is a sweet amp.  I think they are as much as an Alpha but it sure has some nice features.
 
The ACOM is my pick....if I had the dollars....which I don't :>(
 
You could go used also, but "buyer beware."
 
Your mileage may vary.
This is my story and I am sticking with it.
 
Lee - K0WA
 


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