First thing I ask when considering a new rig is; What software does it work with? 'Cause a radio is just a radio until you can hook a computer up to it! There's a couple "dream" radios I'd like (example), but I don't want to lose 90% of my current choices by switching to Linux, GNU, or some other less-popular option. Be a Windows hater if ya must, but that's where the greatest selection is.
Correct,... the manual says 50w input, 20w output. I had new Drivers installed by Ten-Tec back about 5 or 6 years ago, & feeding a 40m OCF dipole using a LDG AT-11MP Autotuner, it shows 30w output @ 1:1 swr @ the point where the ALC red-light comes on. I back it down until the red-light goes out & still shows about 25-28w output. I have a Icom-735, Johnson Ranger-1/R390A, SWAN 500CX w/410 VFO, Heathkit HW-9(WARC) & an Elecraft K1-4,... the Century-22 has been/is my primary rig for over 6 years & its performance still continues to amaze me !! Ten-Tec only made 700 of them & I have #579-00591. Mine doesn't have the built-in keyer or the calibrator - but I only use a straight-key and/or bug anyway. For calibration I use a outboard Tristar F-250 Frequency Counter. In my (soon to be) over 59 years as a "CW Only" operator - It's my all-time favorite rig.
Like going to a buffet, falling in love with the pizza, and not eating anything else for decades. That sounds so limiting. Try something new, you might be surprised when you find a fresh favorite!
Perhaps surprisingly, it's not. There's a bewildering variety of options within the CW world. Straight key, bug, sideswiper, or paddle (single or dual lever?)? Into homebrewing? Then you will almost certainly build a CW transmitter at some point....in which case you will want to use it. Oh, and how's your "fist" these days? Could it use some work? What if you increased the tension on your straight key or tried a new spacing? CW is a separate hobby unto itself. That's why there are so many CW only ops.
Perhaps I bought the incorrect rig. Possibly I am also lazy. Although lacking in many features seen in most HF transceivers,the Alinco Sr8 T is the easiest for me to do quick function changes . How about a voice controlled function control. I realize that memory recall is probably best function if used. The size of unit being smaller is great for mobile or space restrictions but smaller is not better by itself.In fact bigger is often better .
Transmitter - Harris RF 745-02 Receiver - Icom IC R9600 Antenna - 7 to 30mc Log Periodic 80m unterminated Rhombics - 1 NE by SW, 1 NW by SE
