Hi Guys,
I plan to purchase a tube-type Auto-tune amp and am most interested in an
Alpha 9500 or an Acom 2000A. I'd prefer solid-state, but I want a 1.5kw
continuous duty rating at a reasonable price so that rules out solid-state
amps for the time being. ($10,500 is too expensive)
I have several questions before making the decision and your thoughts
would be greatly appreciated. Before I proceed with the questions, I'd like
to share that I'm a serious CW & RTTY contester and am looking for
reliability and stability at 1.5kw output all weekend long. Also, if I
purchase the
Acom 2000A I'll be sure to add the Optional Fan as I've heard they
overheat on heavy RTTY usage without one.
Here's my questions:
1) Several hams report the 9500 isn't always reliable at selecting the
correct antenna during band changes. Has that issue been resolved?
2) 2000A, when the transformer is removed, there are 3 small fuses located
on the center wall and near the bottom chassis. Two of them are 2-amp
fuses and the other is a 100 ma. fuse. Those fuses will be impossible to see,
test, or replace without removing the top cover and transformer. (major
time killer to remove the transformer during a contest) Have you ever had
any of those 3 fuses blow?
3) Will both amps hold up about the same with heavy use and in a salt air
environment?
4) Both manuals say the "brightness of the LED displays can be turned
down". I have extreme eye sensitivity to bright flashing lights, can the LED
display level be turned way down so the lights are barely visable on both
amps?
5) Which amp is easier to get serviced these days? Are repair costs about
the same?
6) Are the auto-tune features on these amps reliable?
If you prefer, you can send your comments to me off-list at:
_K9OM@arrl.net_ (mailto:K9OM@arrl.net)
Thank You & 73,
Dick- K9OM
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