[BC] How would you build it?

[Rob Atkinson]

>When I threw out the question, I had in mind to build a single unit, in
>part with the goal of inspiring and educating the builders.

Excellent goal

>One challenge is parts. Where can you get modulation transformers and
>reactors these days?

Hamfests.  Some parts are FS on-line but you have to know where to
look.  It helps to have friends.  There are vintage ham AM email
lists.  Not all hamfests are created equal.  So, expect to travel.
Almost forgot--classifieds in back of Electric Radio magazine.   There
are a few good fests around Chicago every year.  Dayton of course.
But you won't find everything at any one.  Estate sales.   Gary I'm
sure remembers the unforgettable W0ZUS estate sale what, two years
ago?   I'm still kicking myself for not being there.  20V, RCA BTA1
etc. for a few hundred bucks each.  You all currently in broadcasting
probably have connections right?   Let's not forget folks like Mark
Persons and Mike Patton.   $urplus $ales in Omaha, Fair Radio in
Ohio....I'm probably forgetting some sources.   The mod. reactor can
be tough to find but they're out there.   I remember one hamfest a few
years ago I was walking around and after a couple of hours I came
across a 500 ma 30H reactor sitting on the ground unsold.  I couldn't
believe it.  I think I paid $20 for it.  30 H has its limits but I
wasn't about to let it go.

>And to throw in another layer of complication, what if you weren't allowed
>to use anything made in China?

For a tube rig, not that big a problem.  There are still enough parts
out there to get something built, but some things like really good
turns counters are getting tough to find, as are good audio
inter-stage transformers like the UTC LSs.  The audio nuts have
discovered them so they're sky high when they show up for sale.  Ditto
for tubes like 6B4Gs.   But, these problems can be worked around.

Rob A.