On Tue, 11 Nov 2003 09:34:18 -0800, Paul Clay
wrote:

Michael Waldrop wrote:

An inexpensive solid state rig for "AM" use
is the Yaesu FT-757GX or GX II. There
are a number of them around for about
$300.00 without the power supply (FD-700/757
heavy duty power supply). Any 13.5 VDC 20amp
power supply will work with this rig and the power
supplies, FD-700/757, are cheap as well. If you
don't mind the size and weight there are a number
of other trasmitters, ie Hallicrafter HT-32/A,
HT-37, Heathkit DX-40, DX-60, DX-100
etc that will give you excellent "AM" results. The latter
rigs would need an outboard receiver capable of "AM",
not zero beating an "AM" signal although that
can be done. The HT-32A is an excellent "AM"
transmitter, I used one for years before selling it
because of shipping weight and desk space.


I have an Icom R-75 receiver that I plan on using. I like the idea of going
with an old Heathkit because of their relatively small size, simplicity, and,
yes, a bit of the nostalgia factor. But I've noticed that some of those units
in good condition are going for almost $100 (more, if they've got a VFO, which
I would have to have). I was surfing the net and saw a used Icom 735, which
would interface very nicely with my R-75 (doesn't the 735 come with ICOM's CI-V
equipment link?), for $250; yes, that's more money, but then I get FM
capability, a built-in backup receiver, etc.

As far as Heathkits go, the DX-60 was a relatively simple am-cw
transmitter. About 60 watts, screen modulated. The Johnson Ranger,
with 75 watts, was plate modulated, and had much richer audio,
although much more complexity. It sounded as strong as other AM rigs
running hundreds of watts.

A Heathkit DX-100, if you can handle the weight and size, would be
ideal; plenty of power, no amp needed, and a built-in vfo.

I have an Icom 735 -- never tried it on AM. It does have the ci-v link
on the back. Rated at about 25 watts on AM. Not sure whether many
people will be able to hear you at that level, though -- most of the
AM'ers I hear on 75m are using amplifiers to cut through the static
and hash.

Try 3885 khz at about 5 a.m., any morning. A lot of these guys have
several AM rigs sitting around, gathering dust, and you could probably
pick one up for a song.

Good luck...

Bob
k5qwg