[Amps] Options for the AL-1200

[Dennis W0JX]

Re tube changes for the AL-1200:
 
1.) See N9ADG's website. About four years ago, several hams put the GS-35b into their 
     AL-1200's. This seems to work ok except that the cooling is below minimums and a 
     bigger (noisier) blower is required along with a different filament transformer and bias 
     circuit;
 
2.) Another workable option is to put in an 8877. You will need a filament transformer 
     change, socket, and chimney, and you will need the timer and grid current trip curcuit to 
     protect the 8877. You might need to tweak the tuning/ and or components of the tuned 
     input circuit;
 
3.) IMHO, swapping to a pair of 3-500's is a great option although they need more drive than 
     the 3CX1200A7. However, you will retain the "quick on" feature of the amp and the tubes 
     are cheap! You will need a new filament transformer, sockets, chimneys, and 
     suppressors;
 
Luckily, all of the necessary parts for the above (except the GS-35b option) are available from Ameritron at very reasonable prices. 
 
73, Dennis W)JX/8