Exploring The Vibroplex Original (#955)

I have the Original Vibroplex and want to explore it. We will look at the Vibroplex and go over how it work. Watch to learn more about this nice device.

Edited by Aidan Jakeman

Twitter: @dcasler

[dwyn]

I don't know which I am most excited about, this video? Or the follow-up video you are making to talk walk in the inventor's footsteps! GLORIOUS!!!

[btaylor]

I have the gold anniversary bug that I originally purchased in the late 60s. Love this piece. I was QRX for several years in the 80s and the bug was packed away. After I relocated from from Glendale ( you know that place) I broke it out and it needed rebuilding. I contacted Vibroplex, sent it in for repair and got it back in beautiful shape. They even replaced the gold plate on the top of the base. Great people and a great bug. Thanks for the memories! I did get hold of someone on YouTube that has a mod for the spring that can slow it down since my speed is not what it used to be. Works great. Bob WB6TIS now in the Idaho Falls area.

[Martin_Lynch]

Excellent video Dave, very informative and easy to digest. Keep up the good work. 73 de G2ML

[frederickhart]

Dave, really enjoyed this video on the Vibroplex keyer. Have a Blue racer at the operating desk here and several other Vibroplex products. Enjoy them all. CW has always been my favorite mode. The fascination of Morse code got me started in Ham Radio, and continues to provide hours of exciting contacts, domestic and DX. CW the intentional language. 73 from AAØJK Arvada, Colorado. (CFII A&P)

[stevewarner]

Dave. I love to use and collect Vibroplex bugs. Mr Martin did telegraphers a great service when he invented them. The first step to adjusting a bug is to use the screw so the pendulum just touches the damper. Then make your other tension and gap adjustments.

73
WA9SWW . .

[davidwaddingtontherapist]

Dear Dave, thank you so much for giving me an insight into how to setup and use my brand new 2024 Vibroflex Original key. I have wanted one since I did my morse training as a boy soldier in 1994 but when it arrived I didn't have a clue how to set it up and thought it might become a very expensive paper weight. Then I discovered your YouTube channel and can't wait to start practicing. 73's and kind regards. David G4TPA.

[patlawler]

I just remembered I have a Vibroplex (circa 1970s)! I look forward to bringing it out of storage.

[casimir]

It is true that we easily recognize the OM's who use a VIBROPLEX and when they know how to use it well, it is pleasant music to the ear but a little special for decoding. For my part, like you, I'm too used to paddles (SCHURR, HI-MOUND, BENCHER). But it is true that the VIBROPLEX is endearing and sounds good. Thanks for the video.73/F8MGW

[BartVanAllen]

Most fascinating -
Thanks Dave, can't wait for the second part and an example of your mastery of it (Hi)
AA7VA

[kendebusk]

I started with a J-37, but not too long after that, I got a paddle set, which I loved. I'm not sure I will ever be fast enough to use one of these!

[david_WQDF]

Looking forward to the history of the vibroplex

[glenmartin]

I enjoyed seeing the Bug. Thanks.
Could you elaborate about the E and I 90% phase shift for the HWD. N0QFT

[AlreadyThere]

I was pretty good with one of those when I was a Novice. When they came out with the electronic keyer I got one and never looked back. They are difficult to master and I can tell when most people are using them.

[rfphill]

Dave, did you track down that 4th patent? I'm a patent attorney and would be happy to help if you're still looking.

AE0QH

[countrichardvonfalconstein]

I started out with a straight ket. Then I went to a Vibroplex it Dom time to learn but we'll worth it. I never used paddles. My transmitter is a Viking Valiant. 73

[EIDP-Real-Hams-Use-Vibroplex]

Been using a Vibroplex for years now - My Vibroplex collection is small, my favourite Vibroplex is my Blue Racer. Once you learn to use a Vibroplex correctly you will likely never return to use any other key.

[Bill-HRT]

Very informative, Dave. Thank you. 73 de K0WHW Bill

[Satchmoeddie]

I really want a McElroy bug style key, rather than another Vibroplex. I think the higher end McElroy bugs are vastly superior to the Vibroplex keys. If you cannot use a bug, the McElroy has a pair of cast lugs on the main pivot and sometimes (depending on the model) two more lugs on the aft mass damper assembly that allow the McElroy to simply be flopped over onto it's left side and very easily used as a high quality straight key. Gravity disengages the spring dits and you just use it as a straight key. If someone walks in and wants to use the McElroy as a bug again, flip it 90 degrees to the right back on its base and it's a working bug again.

[RB]

That is the worst code practice oscillator I have heard in a long time. I absolutely love Vibroplex keys.

[jamilsouzagodoisouzagodoy]

Este cara fala mais que o "Homem da cobra"!!...