[Elecraft] Horrible Audio

[Brian]

My K1, #1205, has almost unbearable audio.  The audio is very muddy,
no clarity to it at all. It's like it's muffled almost.  This is with
the filters open in the widest mode. I've tried about 8 pairs of
stereo headsets, all sound about the same. Is this common?  I should
have spent more time using a K1 before blowing $500 on this one.

Also, the tuning knob, yuck. Are there any mods to improve the
movement so it doesn't feel like I'm tuning my tuna tin?

Tried to install the KAT1 tonight as well, that was futile.  I have
the Rev E RF board, so I am assuming I don't have to cut any traces
based on the errata sheet.  I removed the jumper from pins 2 to 10 on
J2 on the filter board, moved the jumper down by the antenna jack to
the ATU position.  I got to ATU menu and there is the dreaded "---"
and I can't make it go away.  I have checked the ATU board with a mag
glass and bright light until I am crosseyed.

Then the part that baffles me.  The KAT1 comes with a 3 hole and a 10
hole block.  These are already installed on the filter board (4 band).
The ATU doesn't want to fit correctly...or does it...is there supposed
to be a 1/4 inch gap in the jack and the pins?  The KAT1 doesn't fit
all the way down on the J1 and J2 with the metal standoffs in place.
Just how the heck  are you supposed to install those standoffs anyway?
It's worse than trying to balance a plate on the end of a stick.

I ended up pulling the KAT1 out and putting it back on the shelf until
some time I might find someone with one that works, and will allow me
to inspect the installation.

Any ideas anyone?

73 de KB9BVN


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 KB9BVN/QRP - New Whiteland IN - EM69WN
 QRP-ARCI #10223 QRP-L #1540 FIST #5695
   FISTS CC #764 - Proud Member ARRL
 HEATH HW-9 @ 2W or NORCAL 40A @ 1.3W
   INTO INFAMOUS AF4PS ATTIC DIPOLE
  SOC #400  AND  FLYING PIGS QRP #-57
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