I recently stumbled upon the Active Antenna Amplifier (model AAA-1C) by LZ1AQ. At 87.00 EUR, it’s a pretty affordable and flexible solution for those who would like to design or use a loop antenna.
According to the website, it packs a lot of features:
- 4 remotely switched modes (Loop A, Loop B, crossed parallel loops A&B and dipole)
- Each mode can be switched immediately
- Good sensitivity and a flat frequency response
- High dynamic range
- Protected input from strong signals
- High immunity to local noise with balanced amplifiers and balanced feed line
- Balun transformer coupling for common mode noise reduction
- Extensive documentation manuals with detailed description how to build your own small antennas
The amplifier is described as a kit because you must mount the board, wire up the antenna and set up remote switching yourself. It appears the SMT board comes pre-populated, though so I’m not sure if any actually soldering is required (perhaps someone can verify).
Click here to download the mounting instructions (PDF).
I’m tempted to purchase one this winter for use on mediumwave.
Click here for more info about the AAA-1C at LZ1AQ’s website.
Have any SWLing Post readers built and used this amplifier? Please comment!