[Elecraft] Volume increase wanted

[N2EY@aol.com]

Folks,

K2 #2084 seems to be a bit low in this regard, too. The problem seems to be a 
slight lack of overall gain. 

With most rigs I've used, one cannot turn both the RF and AF gains all the 
way up while AGC is off and a decent antenna connected, and still hear 
oneself think. The amplified noise is just too much. This reserve gain is 
missing in my K2. Direct side-by-side comparisons this FD with another K2 
showed the other K2 to have a bit more overall gain. 

Most of the time there is plenty of gain, but sometimes (noisy environment, 
quiet band, small antenna) one years for a touch more gain. The audio amp can 
really rattle the cans on a loud signal, so it's not a question of the rig 
not being able to put out lots of audio.

#2084 is pure stock, with KAT2 and KAF2 options and no mods, not even xtal 
grounding or the 2nd filter mod. Never had a problem with noisy AF pot. Most 
operating is done "AGC OFF", with the AF wide open and RF used for gain 
control. 

At some point I will do a point-by-point signal/voltage check. One suspect is 
L34, which does not seem to peak. 

I found that my pair of Sennheiser HD-490s need more audio than a cheap pair 
of noname Walkman type cans for the same perceived loudness. So the '490s 
have been relegated to music use (they do sound good!) and the cheapies or 
the speaker do the job on the air. The little K2 speaker makes lots of sound 
- an external speaker isn't any louder.

More ideas and experiences as they happen

73 de Jim, N2EY