Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2020 — I admit that I’m a huge fan of the Vibroplex Co., going all the way back to its origins in New York. There’s probably some scholastic debate over the true origins of the way a bug works (Did Horace Martin copy another maker’s design?), but we know whose design has stood the test of time.
And I’ve been a big fan of the company since Scott Robbins purchased the company 10 years ago. In a move that (to me) resembles MFJ’s growth, Vibroplex continues to add products to its line-up — it is way more than just a company that produces Morse code keys.
The latest addition to the company’s products it carries is the GHD line of code keys.
GHD is a well-known Japanese manufacturer of a high-quality Morse keys. For years, MorseExpress was one of the best ways to buy a GHD key, as they carried GHD bugs, iambic and straight keys.
Beginning this month — August 2020 — Vibroplex is GHD’s exclusive distributor in the U.S. and Canada. Right now, Vibroplex carries two GHD straight key models, six iambic keys, and one single-lever paddle. The MorseXpress web site lists straight keys and accessories that Vibroplex does not have, including plexiglas dust covers. Because GHD keys are so beautifully chrome plated, I can’t imagine having one of those keys without a dust cover to protect it.
Anyway, kudos to Scott Robbins, W4PA, for picking up another line of keys for distribution by Vibroplex.
HOW DID I FIND OUT? How did I find out Vibroplex was now handling GHD keys? (One hint: It was NOT the ARRL website!)
My second online home-away-from-home, eBay. Vibroplex has its GHD keys listed on eBay. But don’t expect to find bargain basement buys on GHD keys; GHD keys are precisely engineered keys that are among the highest quality available. Even on the used market, they bring some major bucks. But of course, its important to remember you get what you pay for.
I have just one GHD key in my key collection, one of their iambic keys. I would love to buy one of their bugs.
GHD’s basic bug is the GHD GN206W. What a beauty! The second GHD bug I would love to have is the GHD GN209W AutoKey — a dual pendulum fully automatic bug. Of course, the “plain” bug (on the MorseXpress website) sells for $329.95, while the AutoKey sells for $549.95.
The thought crossed my mind that while I’m raising money to buy a new rig, maybe I should add in a new GHD key? Sounds tempting!
As odd as it sounds, I think I would opt for the “plain” bug; its a key I would actually use. If I bought the AutoKey, I think I would probably be tempted to leave it boxed as a part of my collection. In the end, those boxed keys add to my collection, but I deprive myself of the enjoyment of putting them on the air.
Decisions, decisions. Hi!
73 es CUL … de KY4Z … SK SK ….. (dit dit) …
