[Milsurplus] RAL-8 ????

[Kenneth G. Gordon]

> Seeing the request for RAL-7 stuff here reminded
> me I've been meaning to ask about a RAL-8.
> Had one given to me less power supply a while back
> and was just curious if it's basically a "Newer"
> version of the RAL-7 you guys have talked about.

I think the only difference between the RAL-7 and the RAL-8 is that
the RAL-8 has fibre signs instead of brass ones (to label the
controls, etc), and is made by Magnavox, instead of either Andrea
Radio Corp, or RCA.

Usually there was very little difference between the various models
that late in their production.

For instance, the ONLY difference between the RAL-6 and the RAL-7 is
the antenna connector and input section. The RAL-7 used a concentric-
line type, while the RAL-6 used a larger version of those push-on
types like on the ARC-5 transmitters.

The RBL is another rig somewhat like the RAK/RAL series in that the
RBL-4 was made by National, while the RBL-3 was made by Wells-
Gardner.

As I remember it, there were very few of the RAL-8s made, but TONS of
the RAL-7s built.

> Looked interesting but I've never tinkered with
> this kind of gear before.

Once you get it operating and get used to it, you will be most
pleasantly surprised at what an excellent receiver it is! I used an
RAL-7 for many years as my main station receiver: up through 1978 as 
I remember it. I just loved it! Signals sound "cleaner" from the RAL-7,
more transparent somehow. I never could adequately describe it. I
think it has to do with the fact that internally generated noise is
VERY VERY low when compared to even the best superhet.

As far as sensitivity is concerned, the method used by the Navy to
measure sensitivity in those days obviously yields data that is
considerably different than modern methods. I could hear just about
everything on my RAL-7 that my hot-rodded SB-101 could hear, and I
know the signal level required for MDS for THAT rig was something 
less than 1 microvolt.

The RAL-7 is a VERY quiet receiver, and the audio filters (there are
two) in it are really superb. The so-called AGC is really only an
output limiter and after trying it several times, I never used it. It
is pretty worthless.

It requires VERY little for the power supply: 180 VDC at about 40 mA,
90 VDC regulated at 1 mA (!), and 6.0 VAC at a couple of amps. The
original power supply weighs about 65 lbs, has a 300 watt ballast tube
in it (!), and is MONDO overkill for use in a ham station.

I kept the ballast tube switched off (there is a switch in the PS to
do that), and never had a problem.

The ballast tube is needed aboard ships with huge AC motors rotating
turrets back and forth, etc, either relatively large drops in line
voltage periodically. 

In a ham station, you don't need it.

> I believe the manual
> was with it so at least that will be a plus.

Well, the manual is easy to find, if you ever need one.

> Anyway for now it's packed up so won't be a project
> for a while but just thought I'd ask.

Oh, you ought to drag it out and fire it up just to take yourself back
in the time-machine. It is really a fine fun experience.

Speaking of audio filters for the RAL, I have to send one to Marty asap. 
I finally found one.

I think he wants one of my AM-8(*)/TRC-1s too.

Ken W7EKB