[Heathkit] SB-230

[Tom LeClerc W1TJL]

On 10/25/06, Richard <theprof at texoma.net> wrote:
> I am trying to finish my SB-104 station.  I started it in 1976 when I built
> the SB-104.  I even did the "A" upgrade.  The only thing I am missing is the
> SB-230 amplifier.

Way to go!  I did the same thing built every last piece including the
SB-230.  It's really the only piece I have left - use it nearly every
day and it still has the original 8873 and still puts out 600 to 800
watts - almost like new...

> I know the horror stories associated with the high dollar tube.   For now I
> would be happy with one that is intact except for a bum 8873 as I do not
> have a lot of disposable income.

I see them on ebay occasionally without a tube or with a bad tube and
there have been some mods out there to swap the tube out for something
easier to find.  But as you said, on eBay you usually end up paying
top dollar.

I expect you'd pay 200ish with a bad tube and 300 to 400 with a good
tube.  Problem is even if it's working well you can never tell if the
tube was abused.  If you keep the grid current low and don't abuse it
it will last a long time and I'm (actually my SB-230) is proof of
that...

73, Tom W1TJL

-- 
Tom LeClerc, Amateur Radio Station W1TJL
 (past calls WB1CBY, /VE8,XL8,VO1)

          LeClerc Consulting
         email: w1tjl at arrl.net
        PC/Network Consulting