I don't disagree. I guess my main point is that the lack of Rx/Tx "balance" in my station is so obvious that the improvement in Rx is by far the most important. Once I improve my "ears" with the Rx array it will be interesting to see what I would need to do next, and whether further expenditure of $ should go toward expansion of Rx or Tx capability. If better Tx is the next step, then I'm sure 1500W will help; but I'd be interested in finding out whether going to a better Tx ant is next. If you look at cost/db then the amp is the winner I think. I would have to go to a phased vertical array to significantly improve the Tx antenna. I have the real estate, but I suspect cost may be a significant factor. Don't know what it is about Top Band but it seems to require just a bit more of everything (skill, excellent receiver, antennas, station design, etc) to be successful. Hope I'm still improving all of the above well into old age. I have noticed quite a bit more 160m activity this winter and dxpeditions seem to be concentrating more on 80 and 160. I expected to get 5 or 10 new ones on 160m this winter and just make DXCC but have 22 new ones. Even if conditions aren't actually significantly improved perhaps the anticipation of same has markedly increased activity. Either way I'm having a great time. Mike KD8RQE In a message dated 3/22/2017 11:55:35 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes:
Mike says: I wonder if 1500W would make a difference when I can hear better. I doubt it. What? Mike, 1500 watts is 5 db more signal than you have now. If you can hear better, such that you aren't getting out well enough why would you think 5 db more wouldn't benefit you? 5 db is HUGE. You have down lots and lots of radials, to make your transmitting antenna more efficient. Yes, by all means 5 db more transmit signal will be ....... wait, I already said that. Rick K2XT _________________ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband _________________ Topband Reflector Archives - http://www.contesting.com/_topband
