OK, it's a new model but only new to me. This is a used key I picked as a “Buy It Now” on eBay for $50.
Overall, it's quite a key. It took me some time today to learn its adjustments (for example, I didn't know the magnets were adjustable at first), but once I learned them it didn't take long to get it dialed in.
How does it compare with my Bencher BY-1? Well, I've still not got the tension as low as i like, or as low as I have with the Bencher. But I've got the BR adjusted pretty nicely. It's a workable paddle, and I'm tickled to finally have one.
I think I'll keep playing with the BR. Part of the problem — if you call it a problem — is that I'm not operating iambic paddles much these days. As the rest of my blog here will tell you,I spend most of my time on CW operating wth bugs.
The price was certainly “right” on the BR — I don't recall seeing one sell for $50 on eBay. More like $75 and up.
The key's physical condition is pretty good. The protective clear finish has chips on the pivot frame top. Nothing I can't live with for $50.
I tried the key out but have yet to make a QSO. I find that I tend to flub it up because I'm used to the “swing” of my bug fist. I send longer dashes than the keyer does, so I ocassionally wind up sending double dahs with the Brass Racer.
Well, that's all from the shack for tonight. As for CW, I'm still going to stick with my old Cedar Rapids Bug. Still has the feel that I like!
73 es CUL …. de KY4Z … SK dit dit ……….