[Elecraft] S-Meter Sensitivity

[k6se@juno.com]

Well, after the discussion about S-meter sensitivity, I have to assume
that something is wrong with my K2.  The S-meter readings on my K2 appear
to be normal to me, but that's with the K2's preamp turned on.  When I
turn the preamp off (thereby losing 14 dB gain), the S-meter is very
stingy.

If I'm losing anything, I don't believe it's in the variable bandwidth
xtal filter because S-meter readings are the same in any mode whether I
use the K2's xtal filter or the KSB2's xtal filter (OPT1).  I don't
believe that the bandpass and low pass filters are the problem because
there's no problem with RF output during transmit.

That seems to leave only the mixer and post mixer amp as possible causes
of the problem.  The IF amp obviously is generating enough AGC to make
the S-meter seem ok with the preamp on, but I suppose the problem could
be there, too.  From the symptoms, it would appear that the 2nd xtal
filter and the product detector cannot be causing the lack of gain
problem.

Any ideas?

73, de Earl, K6SE
67 countries with K2 #2622 and counting.....