Posted by
P.B. Christensen on
Nov 17, 2010; 3:32pm
URL: http://elecraft.85.s1.nabble.com/OT-SPE-expert-1k-fa-tp5747993p5748148.html
Johnny,
It's definitely not "silk smooth." I am using a K3 with the SPE 1K-FA.
Overall, I'm happy with the performance of the SPE amp with some changes.
However, if you value QSK, be aware that QSK was not fixed until Rev 4 was
released at the beginning of this year. Older SPE amps require a new F/W
chip and a hardware PCB change. Still, the operation of the relays is
extremely loud -- too noisy IMHO for enjoyable QSK. Older SPE amps will
hot-switch, even at low keying speed.
It's possible to handshake the SPE amp and the K3 together to avoid
hot-switching, but be prepared for CW timing problems that must be corrected
with an external keyer. I devised my own silent, high-power QSK system
using an Ameritron QSK-5 and a homebrew optically-coupled interface. A
schematic can be seen on my QRZ.com page.
http://www.qrz.com/db/W9ACAlso, be prepared to see output power swing 10% based on the PA deck
temperature. This is a problem I've seen with most solid-state amps, even
amps that include temperature compensation circuitry.
Finally, the rotational fans go through several steps as PA deck temperature
changes, the last of which produces noise at a level that competes with an
aircaft jet engine. The state-of-the art in PA deck cooling has a long way
to go in order to match the best VT amps.
Despite these issues, the SPE amp has been reliable and it takes quite a bit
of mis-use to put it into a fault condition. 1KW is easily attained on all
bands.
Paul W9AC
----- Original Message -----
From: "Johnny Siu" <
[hidden email]>
To: "Elecraft" <
[hidden email]>
Sent: Wednesday, November 17, 2010 9:58 AM
Subject: [Elecraft] OT: SPE expert 1k-fa
Hello Group,
While KPA500+KAT500 are in the production plan, do any of you use SPE expert
1k-fa with your K3? How is the integration? Is it silk smooth?
I am thinking whether I should get the SPE or wait for the KPA500+KAT500
which
have been talking about for some years.
Price of SPE here is US$3,800 so I am also thinking of the price
differential
with KPA500+KAT500.
cheers,
Johnny VR2XMC
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