[Amps] HF-2500DX Has time told the story? ? ?

[Robert Chudek]

I might purchase a used QRO HF-2500DX (sn 5411). QRO is closed for the holidays (until Feb 2006!) so I have a few questions "you guys" might be able to answer for me...

But first, upon researching the AMPS archive I found a lively debate regarding the design and reliability of this amplifier back in 1997. That's quite a long time ago for a piece of electronic hardware now-a-days. Also, during my radio career I homebrewed 811's, 572's and 4-1000's. I thought I knew what I was doing. I also purchased the NCL-2000, AL1200, AL1500, TL922, IC-2KL, and a pair of Alpha 87A's. I thought I knew what I was doing.

Now that I have read a lot of the AMPS archive, it's apparent that I don't have a clue! So...

My first question: Can someone estimate the build date of this amplifier by the serial number (5411)?

My second question: Has QRO addressed the alleged design issues such as not enough Pi-C for 40m and 160m operation, their quality of construction (classified as "junk"), and tune-up & operation procedure (classified as "lousy"), etc...

I will certainly be able to open the cabinet and determine the quality of construction myself, but my research conflicts with the notion the 2500 is "junk".

The tune-up procedure "issue" seems to revolve around the lack of an internal power output meter and not using the traditional "tune, dip, load, and peak" process. Different doesn't necessarily mean "lousy" in my book.

Here's my amplifier goals:

1) Reliability
2) Full legal power output
3) RTTY contesting
4) 160m and 40m no compromise operation
5) Relatively quiet
6) QSK

Like any mechanical/electrical device in life, there will be a full spectrum of user experiences. I've had my share of both ends of the spectrum. I want to avoid the bottom this time!

Thanks in advance for insight into this specific product.


73 de Bob - K0RC

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