[Elecraft] K2 SSB version?

[Don Wilhelm]

Fred,

What specifically are you referring to?

As is, the KSB2 offers excellent carrier rejection and a good filter for the
transmitted SSB signal to provide excellent undesired sideband suppression.

One must align the SSB FL1 filter properly if the full capabilities are to
be realized - you can find information on how to do that on the Builders
resources page at the Elecraft website www.elecraft.com, Tom Hammond's
website www.n0ss.net and in the K2 dial calibration article on my website
http://w3fpr.qrpradio.com .

I must admit that the K2 SSB does have a couple of drawbacks in the VOX
arena - the VOX is not as sensitive as some would like, and there is no
anti-vox circuitry in the KSB2.  The mic gain is also somewhat limited - it
works fine with high output (-40 dBm output) mics, but there are many mics
that only produce output in the -50 to -60 dBm range and do need a preamp to
bring the output up to the level required for full drive to the K2.  Stewart
Baker has developed some additions to the KSB2 that directly address the
VOX/Anti-VOX situation.  For those using PTT, I have trouble believing that
there is any problem with the K2 SSB operation.

I do not regard the above situations as deficiencies, but rather a statement
of 'the way things are'.  I do hope Elecraaft will again sell a hand mic and
desk mic that have output levels compatible with the K2, but in the
meantime, most mics designed for use with Icom transceivers will meet the
output requirements of the K2.  Lower level output mics may need a preamp.
The mods to increase the input resistance of the mic AF circuit are only
'band-aids' IMHO.

73,
Don W3FPR

> -----Original Message-----
>
> Elecraft Inc. -
>
> Does Elecraft have any plans to upgrade the K2,
> for better SSB operation?
>
> I probably lean more towards SSB voice, vs CW.
> I know the K2 is an outstanding CW rig, even in
> QRP mode - but it seems evident that the K2 is
> lacking or secondary, when it comes to robust
> SSB operation.  I don't want to buy/build a
> standard K2, and modify it myself for better
> SSB operation.
>
> Does Elecraft have any plans, to enhance or upgrade
> the K2 - for a SSB VERSION?
>
> I'm sure there are bits and pieces of all sorts of
> modifications one can attempt, on a standard K2 -
> to make it operate better on SSB. This is not
> what I am requesting.
>
> I'd like to build a K2SSB rig, and buy/build
> an external 100W amp.
>
> I know of late - several serious K2 owners - have
> suggested some great ideas for an Elecraft K2SSB
> rig.
>
> I'd like to know if Elecraft Inc's has plans, if any,
> to enhance the K2 or create a K2SSB rig, etc.
> - any time soon?
>
> Thanks,
> Fred
> N3CSY
> K2 54xx 6/2006
>
>