1) If you're into AM, then go for a quality mic. Make certain the rig is
aligned to give the best audio quality signal you can send.

2) For a good signal, I'd recommend a vertical, with lots of radials. You
can homebrew one or buy one on-line. I've used an 18AVT for 80m and 40m.
Some claim that verticals are more noise sensitive...but that's only if
you're listening to DX-lightning strikes. A low dipole, even one at
half-wave up, will have lots of high-angle...means you'll hear lots of
close-in stations but also close-in static sources. It's probably a
coin-toss.

3) and, keep you're hands off the high voltage!

Good luck!
+++


geojunkie wrote:

I posted several weeks back about the idea of a HAM newcomer setting
up a vintage station. I came away feeling that it was going to be a
challenge, but is certainly doable.

I am working on sourcing some code training software, and have been
doing a lot of listening with my SX-71. AMing appeals to me on the
surface... it seem more gear oriented, and mostly (only?) vintage. No
matter how well I dial in SSB, it just lacks fidelity compared with
the AM, at least on my receiver. But, I have a long way to go with my
listening.

I saw what seemed to be a reasonable deal (except for shipping) on a
working and mint looking Viking Invader 2000 ssb/cw/am, and bought it.
I have been into tubes from an audio standpoint for most of my life
and happened across a pair of NOS 4-1000a tubes a while back. I had
envisioned someday doing something homebrew with them. Well the
Invader uses a pair of 4-400s, so I will get a taste of what that
might entail. It is running 2200 plate volts, and I have read they
glow orange. Anyway, probably a dumb reason to pick a particular
transmitter, but the 4-400s, the condition, the power capabilities,
the looks all sucked me in. So tell me, am I in way over my head or
can I handle this beast?

Dumber questions.... what else am I going to need to set up my
station? I already have the SX-101a, the Invader 2000, and lots of
test equipment... scope, signal and sweep generators, VTVM w/ HV
probe, etc. I konw I need a key and a mic and to set up a proper
antenna and that is all I know. What else should I be trying to
accumulate while I work on my license? If this is the wrong place to
be asking these questions, somebody set me straight. Thanks for your
help.

Dan