[Elecraft] K2 Rec Low Audio Output and AGC Adj

[W7is at aol.com]

I've noticed a larger number of posts regarding low audio output with  the 
K2.    
I'm sure there are various reasons for low audio.   Such as  wiring the 
speakers
 wrong etc..    Poor soldering etc.  
I have two K2's and both of them had to be hooked up to external
amplified speakers in order to provide a comfortable room listening volume. 
Especially when the signal levels on the bands were very low. 
 
Per page 47 of the assembly manual,  you set the AGC threshold by  reading 
the voltage
on Pin 5 of U2 and adj R1 for 3.8V (suggested setting that will be adjusted  
later
to suit the operator).    But there is nothing in the  manual to indicate 
what AGC 
setting is best.  Then I decided to search this forum regarding  adjusting 
the AGC. 
Others were setting the AGC threshold by listening on a quite band and  while 
turning
the AGC on and off,  adjust R1 for no difference in the received audio  
level.    
Turning the AGC on and off by holding down Pre/ATT and AGC simulaneously. 
Or you can use a program like Ham Radio Deluxe that provideds a  single
button to turn AGC on an off via software commands.   After  your done 
setting the 
AGC threshold, its necessary to  re-adjust the S meter alignment. 
 
Others have said to hook your rig to a dummy load while adjusting the AGC  in
this way.   I completed the AGC adjustments when  20M had a very low noise 
level
during the evening hours.    Now I have more than enough  room filling vol 
without
needing amp spkr's and typically run the audio around the 10 O'clock  
position.   
Others go to great lengths to say to adjust it with the Pre-amp  off etc .... 
  
Since I never turn the Pre-amp off and I run the RF gain control at max at  
all times,
 its a non issue for me.....   
 
I'm sure each person has there own particular operating requirements.   And 
have their
own way to adjust the AGC that suits them.     The way  I did it, I cant be 
happier
with the performance the K2 now.  Room filling volumn using the  internal 
speaker
and the AGC still does the job on strong signals in a way that I'm happy  
with.  
 
Frank W7is