Yes, I consider the 1-transistor driver to be a bit too big.
I explain to a customer he can choose who he wants to talk to. If you want loud audio, skip the driver. The wattmeter reading will be lower, but not enough to make the S-meter at the other end show any real difference.
If you want to talk to the wattmeter, go for it. Pushing an amplifier tends to reduce the audio level they will hear at the other end.
The size of your radio is a big part of this calculation. The bigger it is, the smarter it will be to skip the driver amplifier.
73
I'll stick with just my galaxy 2517 running 2watt dead key swinging 30
on my 50 amp power supply on 13,8 I get about 500ish peak and 14.8 close to 600 but that my meter.......552flWhat kind of power do you get out of the amplifier running like this? Carrier and pep.
on my 50 amp power supply on 13,8 I get about 500ish peak and 14.8 close to 600 but that my meter.......552fl
thanks for the replies everyone...think I'll stick with just my galaxy 2517 running 2watt dead key swinging 30...just sent if off for a power upgrade and eliminate the fuse holders in the rear and having fan installed over eat sink. Very happy with my Texas Star 500. Already installed new lens covers and LED bulbs with new faceplate. 552 Here in Florida