The Yaesu FL-50B is the improved version of the FL-50 from the late 1960s, adding an optional VOX circuit while retaining the same 50 W PEP output on 80 to 10 meters in AM, SSB and CW. It uses a 12BY7A driver ahead of the 6JS6A final and, at roughly 7 kg, is noticeably lighter than its predecessor. Sources disagree on the exact release year, so it is estimated here as the late 1960s based on multiple references.
Highlights
Successor to the FL-50 with an added optional VOX feature50 W PEP output on 80-10 meters (5 bands)12BY7A driver, 6JS6A final amplifierLighter than the FL-50 (approx. 7 kg vs. 10 kg)Exact release year unclear in sources (estimated here as late 1960s)Companion transmitter to the FR-50B receiver