A transmitter generates first and second constant-envelope radio frequency
(RF) component signals having first and second phase angles. The first
and second phases are controlled by a phase controller. First and second
nonlinear power amplifiers (PAs) are modulated by an amplitude-modulated
power supply signal as the first and second constant-envelope RF
component signals are amplified. The phase controller controls the first
and second phases of the first and second constant-envelope RF component
signals, in response to a power control signal, and, in so doing,
controls an effective load impedance seen at the outputs of the first and
second nonlinear PAs. By controlling the effective load impedance in
response to a power control signal, rather than in response to rapid
amplitude variations in an input signal envelope, the output power of the
transmitter is efficiently controlled over a wide dynamic range even at
low output powers.