The point is how does one start. One the cheap side if you don't have all you
need you can always find a SK amp on ebay or in estate sales that can get you
started either with the parts collection or chassis what ever. you have to
brain storm a bit. Secondly, some will go the expensive route if they dont't
have the time or what it takes to make the chassis and panel they want. They
can draw it up and have a shop make it for them. you may think that this is not
done because it is cheaper to buy one but if you have the $ and want to make
your custom amplifier you can do it. I have sank $20k into my 1970 VW Beetle
restoration because I wanted the car my Wife and I dated in 40 years ago. And
rebuilt the way I wanted it with better than stock parts, more power and such.
You know Plasma Generators are a good start sometimes. If you can get one
that is single phase do what it takes to convert it to single phase (that is
another topic). I have several amps that could be starter amp.
Well, I know what it cost do do sheet metal forming, punching etc. I sure wish
I had a Strip-it with a good set of dies and a good shear but no room for it
and too many projects as it is.
73
Bill wa4lav
________________________________________
From: amps-bounces@contesting.com [amps-bounces@contesting.com] On Behalf Of
Bill, W6WRT [dezrat1242@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, January 29, 2010 11:49 PM
To: amps@contesting.com
Subject: Re: [Amps] Good amp to buy maybe build..
There is one primary question a person should ask themselves when
thinking of getting their first amp:
Do I really want to BUILD an amplifier or do I just want to HAVE an
amplifier?
Despite what you might think, it is actually cheaper to buy a
commercial amplifier than to homebrew. I know that sounds like heresy
to the dedicated homebrewer, but I believe it is true when everything
is taken into account.
For example, if you purchase all brand new parts, you lose right off
the bat. Manufacturers can buy parts cheaper than an individual can.
Just the cost of shipping all those parts one by one will kill you.
Second, you will not believe how many hours you will spend just
collecting the parts. Third, you will not believe how many hours you
spend actually building and testing the amplifier. Manufacturers have
the advantage here, unless you count your time as free.
And finally, a commercial amp will have considerable resale value if
it is a quality amp to begin with. If you ever try to sell your
homebrew, you will be lucky if you get back a fraction of the cost of
parts, never mind the value of your labor.
But in spite of all that, there is a powerful satisfaction in
homebrewing and that may outweigh all the other factors. It certainly
did for me and every time I look at my beautiful homebrew amp sitting
on my desk, I know it was all worth it.
Your call.
73, Bill W6WRT
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