[Amps] Grounded B+ amplifier

[Bill Turner]

Years ago I recall reading about an amplifier where the B+ supply was
grounded and the cathode was "hot" with the B- supply.  I'm wondering if
that might have some advantages for high power amplifiers.

Specifically, the pi-network output could be simplified by eliminating
the plate choke.  Here's how the output would look:

http://www.dslextreme.com/users/teeaye/B+.jpg

Believe it or not, this is a pi-network output circuit, just redrawn.
The same component values would be used as with a conventional circuit.

I see some drawbacks:  

1.  The filament transformer would have to be insulated for the full
plate supply voltage.

2.  Likewise, the grid current meter would be at the full plate supply
and would have to be carefully insulated from the chassis.  Metal case
meters would not be a good idea.  In fact, everything in the
cathode/grid circuit would have to be well insulated, such as the zener.

3.  Switching between standby and operate modes would require a
well-insulated relay, perhaps a vacuum type or reed relay.  

4.  The load capacitor would have it's frame grounded as always, but the
tune cap would have to be insulated on both sides.

And there may be others, but eliminating the plate choke with it's nasty
resonances would be a big plus.  While it appears at first glance that
the coupling capacitor is gone, it's function is actually shifted to the
B- connection at the cathode.

Comments are welcome.

--
Bill, W6WRT
QSLs via LoTW