[Amps] Step Start circuit - needed or not?

[Chuck Chandler]

I'm the new owner of a Heathkit SB-1000 amp, running it on 120 VAC.  It is replacing my AL-811.  When I bought the 811 I also bought an Ameritron Inrush Current Protector, and have always used it to turn the amp on and off.

Now with the SB-1000 and reading recent posts on-line, I am wondering if I need the inrush current protector?  I am considering installing a step start circuit inside the SB-1000, which will do the same thing... but I am not sure it is necessary.

I'm reading that the turn-on surge is only likely to really stress the power switch, and the SB-1000 switch is rated at like 18A, well over the normal current, but who knows how high it spikes when the caps are getting that first cycle?  And, of course, that's only for a very brief time.

So, is a step-start of some type really needed?  If so, why don't more amps come with it?  


73 de Chuck, WS1L

Oak Grove, MS - EM51
ws1l at comcast.net