[Elecraft] K2: SSB sensitivity and S-Meter readings OK?

[Christoph Rheker]

Hello All,

last weekend I have build the SSB Option, almost finished just need
to Mic connection done.

After playing a few hours with the RX, there is something strange:

The S-Meter readings in SSB (using the Opt-1 filter) are much weaker
compared to the S-Meter readings I get in CW mode.

Example:
In CW mode, a station produces similar S-Meter readings in both the K2
and my Kenwood.

In SSB Mode, a station that's S9 on the Kenwood is only abt
S5 on the K2.

When receiving a station in CW mode on the K2 and than switching
to SSB mode, the S-Meter goes down.

Another interesting thing is:

When an Antenna is connected but no signal present, the S-Meter
reads S0 in CW, but S3 in SSB mode. That was at midnight on 
20m, so the band was really quiet. Hmmm..!?

When no antenna is connected it reads S0 in both modes.

I did the S-Meter calibration agn for HI and LO using CW
Mode but it didnt correct it.

I am not sure if the SSB sensitivy is bad, or if just something
is wrong with the S-Meter readings.. in both modes, CW and SSB
I can hear the natural background noise so the sensitivity seems
OK. But I didnt measure it, it's just unscientific observation..

Any idea is appreciated!

73 de Chris, DL4YAO