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Boatanchor Transmitter - Took the Plunge!
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 |