David It depends on how much gain you feel you need. There are a bunch of simple one-band preamps that are very easy to build. Mine use a single 2N5109 transistor with a double-tuned input and single-tuned output for 160m. This is from Solid State Design for the Radio Amateur, from ARRL. Don't know if it is still available, and it's a bit dated now. But the info is still valid and works fine.
I also tried the emitter follower amp from the new Experimental Methods in RF DESIGN by Wes Hayward, W7ZOI, Rick Campbell, KK7B, and Bob Larkin, W7PUA. This is available through the ARRL bookstore. I wonder if your Australian ham organization might be reselling it? Great book. This little preamp works very well also. Anyway, my point is homebrewing a good preamp is pretty simple. An Altoids mint can makes a great container for the preamps. Good luck and 73 Bob N6WG _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: [email protected] You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
