As the title implies, I am looking to acquire a 1-3 W microwave amplifier in the 2-4GHz range for a fun project in quantum optics. I have a Mini Circuits ZHL-42W (not the + version) that can output almost 1 W, but in my experience that wont be quite enough for this particular application. The datasheet says don't supply it with more than 0 dBm, so I'm not super excited to push the input power beyond 0 dBm in order to squeeze more power out of the unit unless someone here knows that its likely to be safe to do so.
Almost everything I see on ebay for this power and frequency range is more than $400, and I was curious if anyone here might know of a good place to get one for cheaper than that. Any ideas are much appreciated.