Lazy - Most modern amps being "linear" are not the way to go for AM as
they have poorer efficiency than the older Class C amps with high level
modulation. If you want an AM transmitter check out the ARRL handbooks
and ham ads for the 1950 to 1970s when AM was king.

Higher power on 160 is nice as the band can be noisy and the higher
power is needed to over come the noise level at the receiving end. BTW
- a way around this is to limit the receive bandwidth as with CW or
other slow speed forms of modulation and some most interesting work has
been done with very low power levels.

A problem you will find with older AM gear is that the manufactures
didn't support 160 meters years ago. The band had been taken over by
the government's LORAN A service during WWII and partly given back to
the hams with a 50 watt power lamination depending on where you lived.
Most hams didn't attempt to use 160 and this limited store bought
equipment.

If you have the room and technical ability might consider converting a
salvaged AM broadcast transmitter. They are available as most stations
are removing them to upgrade to much more efficient solid state units.

Good luck in your quest

73 Bob W7AVK

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Lazy Senior wrote:


Ok, the Modern Amp seems to be the way to go with an old AM xmtr, mainly
because they have 160 mtrs (THE band where higher power is almost
necessary)and also I can call a 800 number and get one fast.

Which amp is best for my circumstance?

I have a Ranger running 40 watts AM for drive.I want legal limit AM or
close to it with a modern Amp that can take it and not burn up because
of the duty cycle. Suggestions under $2500 new price please.

Which amp tube would be best for AM - 572's - 811's - 3-500's or the
high gain ceramic tubes?

Thanx

Lazy Senior