I really like my Icom IC-705. I like the user interface, the form factor, the wifi features, etc. I even like that it’s a QRP rig – limited to 5W on the internal battery and 10W with an external battery. But lately I’ve gotten the itch to add an amplifier to the mix. The Elecraft KXP100 is very attractive but very expensive. The Hardrock 50 looks great, but I waited to long to purchase and they are out of stock again. So I pulled the trigger on Micro PA50+. It’s a small 50W amp, made in China, that I can power with the same external batteries I use for my radio.
So far I’ve really enjoyed the new amp. I use it’s RF sensing feature so no control cabling is needed. If I run the IC-705 at about 3.5W the amp will put out 30W on 20m. It’s tiny, seems solidly built, does it’s job without having to faff around.