[RTTY] AL-80B Or KPA500 for RTTY Contesting

[joeduerbusch]

Remember we all have opinions  Of course we always think what we have is
the best.

Saying that, I think the AL-80B is a great Amp.   Works well and doesn''t
have many problems.  It list for $1599 with discounts at some of the
dealers.
Last December I got a Elecraft KPA500 Amp.  I am using it with my Flex 6300
HF rig.  l could not be more happy with it.
I had been using a TenTec Centurion 422 amp (2 3-500Z tubes) for the last 8
years.  It has more power but I did not enjoy tuning it up each time I
changed bands..
The KPA500  no tune amp with auto band switching made my HF life more
enjoyable.  I am in most of the RTTY/CW contests and had no problem running
550 watts all day long.
Now the KPA500 cost $2099.95 in kit form, $200 more for a factory built
model.
What do you get over the AL80B for the extra money?  Solid state no
tune-up, auto band switch and very fast QSK break-in.

I think you would be happy with either amp.

Joe K0BX

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On Thu, Aug 4, 2016 at 6:32 PM, Thomas F. Giella W4HM <
thomasfgiella at gmail.com> wrote:

> I continue to upgrade my hamateur radio station for the upcoming winter
> RTTY contest season. Recently I sold my Icom IC-756 Pro 3 which had served
> me well for allot of years and purchased a new Icom IC-7600. I also have a
> new Icom IC-7410 that will also be put to use as part of a SO2R set up.
>
> I am now contemplating a new linear amplifier. I have been running the
> Ameritron AL-811H for quite a few years. I'm contemplating either a new
> Ameritron AL-80B or an Elecraft KPA500 for reliable output on high duty
> RTTY contesting. I usually use 400 watts max for RTTY contests and it's
> always been a very effective.
>
> Any comments on the two amplifiers especially their duty cycle stoutness
> would be much appreciated.
>
> 73 & GUD DX,
> Thomas F. Giella W4HM
> Lakeland, FL, USA
> thomasfgiella at gmail.com
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