Rob:

The 4CX800A tubes are far more cost effective than the 3CX1200A7.
I bought a tested pair of 4CX800As from Alpha for $221; the new
prices for the 3CX1200A7 are ~$800. The 4CX800As seem tough
and work well in my Alpha 91b amps.

I've used the AL-1200 (we have one at the PJ2T contest station). The
3CX1200A7 is an "instant on" tube (like the 3-500Z), and requires
nearly 100W drive for full output. It's considerably noisier than
the Alphas. The AL-1200 is a BIG package.

The Alpha 91b/99 requires a 3 minutes warmup time, and requires
about 45 watts for full output. I consider this lower drive requirement
a plus, since it means that my transceiver runs cooler during a contest.
The Alphas have much better circuitry to protect me from errors made
when I'm tired and/or in the 'heat of battle'. It's considerably better-
built mechanically than the AL-1200.

There are other manufacturers making amps with the 4CX800A, and
any of these would be a good choice.

Jeff K8ND


"Rob" wrote in message
. ..
Barry wrote:

Take a look at the Acom. I have the 2000A and run RTTY full power in
contests. My coax gets warmer than the amp :.) It uses the Svetlana
4CX800A tubes, which are reliable, readily available and inexpensive.
If you don't want to spend the big bucks for autotune, etc. look at
the 1000.
Barry W2UP

Thanks. First time I have heard about Acom. It looks like they make very
high quality amps (like the Aplhas).

I have aasked for prices since there doesn't seem to be any on the Acom
web
site.

I noticed the Alpha 99 also uses the 4CX800A tubes.
Which tubes are better -- the 3X1200A7 or the 4CX800A?

Rob