I want to know what are the possible side effects of choosing a level 23 mixer when, for example, a level 10 mixer would work? Besides paying too much.

 

Hello,

What kind of signals need to be mixed?
What are the signal levels?
What are the frequencies to be mixed?
Do you want a passive mixer or an active?

Did you think of the SRA-1H+, a level 17 mixer?
(see datasheet)

Greetings,
Bertus

 

I want to know what are the possible side effects of choosing a level 23 mixer when, for example, a level 10 mixer would work? Besides paying too much.

Higher level mixers give you better dynamic range, which translates into less susceptibility to overloading, and generally, more linear operation, all around. The downside, as you've suggested, is the cost of the mixer as well as the cost of the extra L.O. oscillator power required. That being said, if you UNDERDRIVE a dbm, ALL meaningful specificatons deteriorate very rapidly! Do NOT use a 23 level mixer if you don't plan on driving it at near spec.

Eric