"I have another which looks exactly the same, but its sound is not as good. Once again, I think this has more to do with parts used in batches."
The clue between those two units would be C301. If there is a .1uF NP cap at C301, then it's the better TH V5. If C301 has a .47uF tantalum (green) then it's the older version of the V5.
Either of those are perfectly fine under the current certification as C301 has nothing to do with the modulator circuit or the finals. C301 merely couples audio to the op amp IC which drives the modulator/current amplifier circuit.
RFB
"Those so-called mods are not illegal until the FCC says they are."
Indeed. It would be foolish for any of us, or anyone else to suggest otherwise, legal or illegal.
" If your Talking House has an FCC certification ID, then it's certified, until the FCC states otherwise."
For now. The hard evidence clearly shows modifications done to circuits that are not supposed to be modified. Anyone can clearly see it by simply opening up their iAM unit and a THV5 unit and see those modified circuits..to which Part 2.1043(a) says those circuits cannot be modified without resubmitting the unit for re-certification.
By definition, that means the iAM should be marketed under it's OWN unique certification since the iAM is a modified TH V5 unit.
"Don't let speculation from others worry you."
This isn't speculation AR. This is cold hard undeniable fact that can be validated by simply looking at the two units and noting both carry the same certification number, and no official OET documentation that the modified unit was approved to continue to be marketed under that same TH V5 certification.
The scales of the evidence do not side with the throw it to the wind prospective with this issue.
What I suggest is those who are thinking about buying an iAM unit, might want to do some homework first and consider a TH V5 unit instead..until the question of this matter is officially resolved by the FCC and OET, and not members of some forum or group of over excited end users.
RFB
I shucked the talking house mod since my wife talked to her cousin up north who has one of the newer TH-4.6? She is bringing it down Thanksgiving, free of charge (she used to be in real estate...). So 880 (Liberty Radio) will be up before I get the Ramsey AM25 built! Thanks for all of the great information and help...
Solar Radio Day and Night is attracting more good luck with a new transmitter being delivered right to the door.
KSOL is a moving force BEFORE it is a moving force.
"The clue between those two units would be C301. If there is a .1uF NP cap at C301, then it's the better TH V5. If C301 has a .47uF tantalum (green) then it's the older version of the V5."
Good info ... I'll take a look. Thanks!