Pat:

The MFJ QSKBox that Bob (K8LR) mentioned might be a possibility, but I don't
know too much about it.

Perhaps others on the list do, though.

Tom Behler: KB8TYJ


-----Original Message-----
From: For blind ham radio operators [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
On Behalf Of Pat Byrne
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2014 11:44 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Amplifier Question

Another thought from the guy who has never owned an amp; is there any sort
of after market solid state replacement for the offending relays?
Pat, K9JAUAt 09:16 AM 2/23/2014, you wrote:
>Hi, all.
>
>
>
>Well, I'd now like to tap into the wisdom of the group on an issue I 
>don't know a whole lot about, so please bare with me.
>
>
>
>As I think many of you know, I use an Ameritron AL811H tube-type 
>amplifier with my TS590 HF setup.  I also have an ARB704 buffer box in 
>the circuit, to protect the relay circuit in the TS590.
>
>
>
>I'm actually very happy with the setup, although tuning the amp can be 
>a bit tricky at times, even with the TW1.
>
>
>
>Anyway, the AL811H has a relay circuit that is rather noisy when keying 
>and unkeying.  This is apparent on SSB, and even more apparent on CW.  
>In fact, the noisy relay circuit is one of the main reasons I don't 
>like to use the amp when in CW mode, due to the constant and rather
annoying relay chatter.
>
>
>
>My question is this:  Do solid-state amplifiers have relay circuits in 
>them that are as noisy, or do they tend to be quieter?
>
>
>
>There is no way I have the money in my budget right now to purchase a 
>solid state amp, since I believe they can run into the thousands of 
>dollars, but I'm wondering if this might be something for me to think 
>about in the long term?
>
>
>
>I'm looking forward to all of your observations and suggestions.
>
>
>
>Tom Behler:  KB8TYJ
>
>