[Elecraft] Comparing the K2 to other RIGs

[Bob Nielsen]

On Fri, Nov 29, 2002 at 08:32:02AM -0700, James R. Duffey wrote:
> In my experience, the now long discontinued TS-850 with 400 Hz CW filters in
> both IFs has a receiver comparable to the K-2 and should serve as a good
> comparision rig. At the price of used TS-850s, $700 or so, they are good
> value. Unfortunately, the ARRL testers did not perform the 5 kHz close in
> strong signal testing in those days. In my opinion, the two receivers are
> comparable and after I listened to the two, my interest in the K-2 solely as
> a step up in receive capability waned considerably.
> 
> Good audio DSPs can be had rather cheaply these days, the Timewave-59+ and
> NIR-12 are going for $100 to $125 used. They provide most, if not all the
> functionality that one needs. The advantages of implementing the DSP in the
> last - low frequency IF does not seem to me to be worth the price of a new
> rig. I understand the advantages of having filtering in the AGC loop, but
> implementing it in the last IF brings up all sorts of issues with what
> happens to the strong signals in previously filtering.
> 
> Just my $0.02 worth. - Dr. Megacycle KK6MC/5

Good point. Perhaps someone could report their experiences with the K2
and an outboard audio DSP unit.

Bob, N7XY