The Mirage exclusive Active-Bias™ system keeps the SSB voice crisp and clear at the bottom of the band. While other amplifiers with the conventional bias set up produce splatter and/or distortion as the power changes.
With a built-in low noise 20 dB GaAs FET pre-amplifier you will receive all signals better than ever before. These amplifiers include an excellent 1 dB noise figure for pulling out the weak signals on most 2 meter antenna system. It produces the best results with directional beam antenna.
It offers protective features found in expensive commercial amplifiers. The high SWR and high input power keeps it running smoothly, All Mirage amplifiers have these built-in protection circuits. They automatically bypass your amplifier to prevent damage. They have LED indicators that alert you to a fault condition.
An internal RF sensing system that automatically keys the bypass relay. It disconnects the pre-amplifier and places the unit into the transmit mode when the switch is on. Well designed switches and time delays provide smooth transmit to receive switching. The rear panel RCA phono connector can provide direct key switching.
Extra heavy duty heat sinks span the depth of the amplifier. And a six pin Rolex connector allows these amplifiers to be remotely controlled.
Specifications
- Solid state amplifier
- 2 meter band
- 144-148 MHz
- 160 watts RF output
- 50 watt max input
- Pre-amplifier
- 20 dB gain
- 1.0 dB Noise figure
- RF Sensing
- RCA phono jack Key
- 6-pin Molex connector
- 13.8 Vdc
- 25 Amp
- UHF female
- 5.500″ x 3.000″ x 12″
- 5.00 lbs.
- 5W in = 51W out
- 10W in = 117W out
- 15W in = 125W out
- 20W in = 130W out
- 25W in = 135W out
- 35W in = 144W out
- 50W in = 166W out
My Mirage B-5018-G 2 Meter Amplifier Experience
I always avoided these brick amplifiers until this model came out and I decided to try one. I like this one because the input goes to 50 watts and I have no way to over drive it with the FTM 400XDR.
Some people have trouble with this amp but you don’t hear if they drove it hard, or always used it on FM. Maybe their amperage was low and causing damage. I have used mine for over 4 years on SSB, It is well grounded, and on a 60 amp linear power supply. My SWR is always low and I constantly check it.
I am not saying it is the best or the worst amp, and I am not saying everyone that had trouble misused or abused it. My experience is still good, and I would tell someone to make their own decision depending on how they want to use it.