[Elecraft] Re: K2 for Contesting/Dxing

[Dale Boresz]

Hello Johnny,

I have an IC-746PRO, which is pretty much the same critter as the 
756PRO-II, minus the color screen and real-time bandscope, but with a 
later generation DSP chip. Otherwise, the two have virtually identical 
specs.

My shack is set up in such a way that it makes it easy for me to 
instantly compare my K2 to my 746PRO whenever I encounter a very weak or 
difficult to copy signal. Not only have I never heard a signal on my 
746PRO that could not also be heard on my K2, but 99% of the time, the 
K2 produces significantly more readable and comfortable copy - 
regardless of band conditions. The 1% exception is when I am able to 
make use of the PBT of the 746PRO on SSB to help reduce QRM. But I don't 
often operate SSB, and the few times I do I still tend to use the K2.

So, what do I use my 746PRO for then, you may ask? As a second receiver 
to see what conditions are like on a band other than the one I'm 
currently on, and for a weekly sked on 2m ssb with a long-time friend. 
Don't get me wrong, I like the 746PRO very much, especially the 
band-stacking registers which allow me to instantly jump around to 
different spots on each band in order to get a quick handle on activity. 
But when it comes down to actually operating, I use the K2.

Your statement that: "No doubt, IC756pro2 is more sensitive than K2 " is 
what got my attention though, because my experience has been quite the 
opposite. If you don't already own the Elecraft XG1 test oscillator, it 
may be a good idea to build one, and test both receivers. If your K2 is 
not within a db or two of your 756PRO-II, then you should probably try 
to figure out why.

Best of luck,

73, Dale / WA8SRA



js wrote:

>Just a short note following my previous mail.  No doubt, IC756pro2 is more
>sensitive than K2.  However, in HF operation, sensitivity is always not the
>primary concern.  Selectivity and ability to survive in heavy QRM situation
>is more important.  Therefore, 756pro2 is my main operation rig in 6 metre
>because I need the extra sensitivity and band spectrum.
>
>  
>