[MRCA] Radio Shack Mini Amp/Spkr

[B. Smith]

       As I am sure everyone is aware Radio Shack is undergoing some 
reorganizing while they are in bankruptcy. Before major changes take 
place I would recommend that members consider purchasing one of their 
Mini Amplifier/Speaker units.  Stock number 277-1008. These small 
speaker amplifiers  are self contained and run off of an internal 9 volt 
battery. They make excellent "field speakers" and are really handy on 
the work bench for trouble shooting.  An excellent addition to an 
emergency "GO" kit.

        Over the years that I have utilized these mini amp/speakers, the 
overseas manufacturers  have improved the audio response and gain of the 
circuit and changes have been reflected in the latest model "C".  The 
unit makes and excellent microphone preamp etc and is perfect for 
boosting the handset audio of the military sets.  I often paint the 
ribbed enclosure  OD or black to match the equipment in use. On the 
early models  the schematic was pasted inside the rear cover military 
style but they no longer do this and the schematic is not included in 
with the latest model. But  -    -    -    I have the schematics for the 
latest "C" model.      :-)
        My only criticism of the unit is that it does not have a DC 
"blocking" capacitor for use on vacuum tube equipment trouble shooting 
but this is easily  done by adding a 10uF cap  in the input lead when 
necessary.

Photos and especially the posted video clips show the amp/speaker in 
action during the anniversary Moose and Squirrel net last November.
http://k4che.com/MSnetnov14/MSNov14.htm

Z