I am a fan of solid state. I am not a fan of "solid stating" vacuum tube gear except that I have switched to solid state rectifiers to decrease the load on unobtanium transformers as well as reducing internal heat. Even so, some of my tube gear still runs with big, hot bottle rectifiers.
The latest consideration to "solid state" anything is my RAK-7. I need some replacement tubes for it. A single tube costs more than a whole crate full of transistors. I reviewed the cost of a full set of tubes for it and even though they cost more than transistors (FETs) I am going to pony up the money and get the tubes. I am sure I don't need all of them so I would have some spares if I bought a full set. There are only two types and the less expensive ones are a gang of four. Only two of the more expensive ones.
I gave away all on my LMs. I have new, solid state gear that can run circles around them and much more convenient to use. If I see one at a hamfest for cheap I might buy it for nostalgia and do any repairs that might be needed.
Somebody on here said they have several RAL receivers and I wonder if one of those could find its way to Michigan. Was it Ken? I spoke up for several over the years that were in driving distance but when I told them I would come and pick them up the sellers vanished. Probably scammers (shrug). I think my RAK is lonesome.
73,
Bill KU8H
Fact is, your tube stock is not going to last forever. Your stock will outlast your own tenure, but they're not immortal either.
Clearly, trying to improve with a 6AC7, installing a S meter, revamping an HRO with mini tubes, and so on, no one does that anymore, or needs to, it's pointless now, even if it made sense at one time.
-Hue Miller
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