[HBR] Building the HBR

[Bill Cromwell]

Hi,

I've been stewing over the HBR for several years. If I make one it might
really be an HBR "inspired" receiver. I would stay as close to the
original radio as possible but make some concessions to newer parts. The
newer parts would include miniature or subminiature tubes. It's a huge
mistake to try and stuff transistors into stages designed for tube use
so that isn't even on the table for an HBR. Obviously a lot of changes
and it won't really be an HBR at all. The HBR "evolved" over several
years. Maybe some more gentle evolution is in order.

The power supply would most certainly be a separate item for several
reasons. The heat, weight, and bulk are removed from the radio along
with a possible source of hum. A separate power supply can also be used
to operate other gear. The separate power supply seems like a no-brainer
to me. The only downside is involved in portable operation with an extra
box to drag along. I have a full size pickup truck so that's not an
issue <evil grin>. My own HBR would most likely just stay home.

I have and have had several radios that use a good, sharp filter at the
first mixer AND some that aren't so sharp and located further down the
chain. They're all usable...just different. Q-multipliers here n there
do work.

Finally, I want to assemble some measurement gear and do the work to
compare some of the different circuit configurations like that pesky
pullen rascal. In my case that will involve some more home brewing. I
have started playing with some home made test and measurement gear and
it's fun/interesting/educational. If I succeed I'll post whatever
results I get. I'm clear on the concepts involved with transferring a
standard. I'm glad I have been following this list for a while. I
thought I would have to move on to satellites or something to keep the
hobby fresh and vital. I wonder how the old technology would stack up on
satellite communications...

73,

Bill  KU8H