[Elecraft] My K2's SSB performance.

[Darwin, Keith]

Well, I finished the KSB2 option, turning my bare-bones K2 into a K2/SSB.  I was expecting mediocre SSB performance.  What I got was a pleasant surprise.
 
Modulation level - No problems driving the rig to full power output.  I don't have to shout, I just speak and the rig responds with RF output.  I did NOT change R14 either.  Left it at the OEM level.  I'm using a Kenwood MC-43s mic.
 
I went with 2.4 KHz crystal filter. It sure sounds better than my CW filter set to 2.4 KHz.  I just got done doing a bunch of A/B comparisons between the K2 and the 830s on 40 LSB.  The 830s is not as selective.  Even when I narrow the VBT, the skirts aren't as steep.  The K2 has a bit of a narrow sound but for general purpose use it will be great.  Wide enough to sound good, narrow enough to survive during a contest.
 
The other surprise was the compressor.  With a max of 4:1 compression I didn't expect much, but it makes quite a difference.
 
So, I find the K2 SSB has far surpassed my expectations for SSB performance.  This little rig smokes!
 
BTW, it took me 2 evenings plus a bit of time this morning to assemble, install and tune up the SSB mod.  Total time was about 6 hours.
 
- Keith N1AS -
- K2 5411.SBB -