[Elecraft] Getting started on K2

[Bill Smith]

Just got my K-2 S/N 04401 finished with MUCH help from Steve Banks K0PQ (2 
broken transistors, 1 backward diode on SSB board, many cold solder joints, 
etc.) and Gary.  I got my Tech 2 years ago, but hope to get past the 5 wpm 
hurdle with the help of the FISTS disk and about 1 week intense practice.  I 
have limited funds, but need some equipment, having only used a 2 M HT.
I need to get a few items:
   1. Need a mic.  What works best with the K-2?
   2. What PSK31 equipement would work?  The West Mountain Radio RigBlaster 
looks good, but is a little pricy.  Is it worth the outlay?
   3. Other equipement?  I bought the Noise Gen and the Dummy Load from 
Elecraft, so I hope to have them put togehter soon (my electronics knowledge 
is very limited).  I built a 68 ft dipole for $60.00.  40 DB better than the 
35 foot wire I had strung on my ceiling!
   4. Down the line: general coverage receiver: I have a Yeasu FRG-100.  
Sounds mediocre, no comparison with my K-2 as receiver.  Is it the Yeasu, or 
is the K-2 that good?
Options on my K-2 are K2IO, NB, ATU, SSB.
I live in NE, but I am going to the Denver Hamfest on the 20th of August.  
Hope to learn some things there, and possibly pick up some items.
Thanks for any and all recomendations!
Bill Smith
KC0TBO