[Elecraft] Product Suggestion - 500W Dummy Load

[Jim Brown]

On Fri,9/18/2015 1:42 PM, Wes (N7WS) wrote:
> Actually, it you are talking about tube amps---typically the ones that 
> need tuning---then although it may seem objectionable, tuning into the 
> actual load, at the power level you are going to run is the 
> appropriate thing to do. 

Absolutely. The dynamic impedance of the tube varies with power level. 
Tube amps should ALWAYS be tuned at full power AND with the actual load 
attached. K6XX has observed that the distortion rises when the load is 
not matched to the amplifier. To do that without overstressing the tube, 
I always tune with dits.

I never tune with a dummy load except when testing a radio or amp. 
Instead, I have created a "cheat sheet" of amplifier tuning settings for 
every band and every antenna, so that when I start tuning, I'm close. I 
always find a clear frequency, send my dits, and get out of the way 
fast. :)

73, Jim K9YC