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Are the variable pots on the Texas Star amps really that bad? Would it just be better to just go with the non-variable models? I would like to run a Texas Star 250 on my Astron RS35M (if possible), and the variable model would allow me to keep the wattage/amps down to acceptable levels. What watt/amp output/draw numbers would you see on the non-variable model?
If I go this route, I wont need to buy another power supply in addition to the amp.
Thanks for the input!

IMO, it's easier to just reduce your drive level to achieve the desired output from an amp like that.

Drive level would be kept to a minimum with a Cobra 2000GTL as the driver.

The pots are fine if you keep the AM dead key at 1.5-2 watts and max peak input to 20 watts. People always ASSume since it's a Hiiiiii Driiiiiive they can dead key 4-10 watts into it. Then they wonder why they burned up the pot or keying transistor.

Your Cobra 2000 will work great. The Texas Star 250 will run fine wide open on a 35m power supply too. Sounds like your good to go.

i hear that the variables in these sometimes fail also. But i would just keep your drive levels low and let it swing from there. No sense in burning up the input section because you feel like throwing a fat deadkey.
73's
Red on the pile wavin

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Mobile 95T/Wilson 1k Mag/4 Mrf 455's

As far as output PEP between the variable and straight pushbutton models you will see the same power out of either or remember its the same
2 / 2sc2290 layout or board its justv that one has the knob and one just uses the pushbuttons the transistors is rated at 80 watts a peice and that dont change its what they are period.

I have 4 Texas Star amplifiers 2 500 1 400 and 1 1600 the 400 and 500's are pushbutton the 1600 has 2 rocker switches (ON/OFF AM/SSB0 the power on the 1600 is also controled by drive or input power.

You have to remember that running these on the lightside keeps them clean across the band and like with anything if you treat it mildly or dont push it or beat the piss out of it well... the lifespan is greater and more trouble free.

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""""was not thinking of a cber sat with his makita screwdriver winding round the presets untill his meter said s9+60db from a guy on a handheld 15 miles away""""

Thanks all!
I went with the DX250 (non-V) Got my Cobra 2000GTL D/K set at 2W swinging to 18W AM, 22W SSB.