[Elecraft] Getting ready to order K2

[Mark Bayern]

You'll need the SSB module for the digital modes. Keep it on the list.

The KAT-2 (auto tuner) also adds a real bridge and a second antenna
connector. If you have an antenna that is matched on all freqs you
plan on running, and only plan on having one antenna, the KAT-2 won't
do anything for you. However, if you'd ever like to be able to easily
switch between two antennas, or you'd like to experiment with other
antennas, the KAT-2 is a great thing to have.

I'd 'leave behind' the noise blanker and the DSP. The noise blanker
gets mixed reviews on this list, and the two I have have never blanked
any noise at my QTH. (Maybe I just have the wrong kind of noise?).

Mark  AD5SS

On 6/12/07, Brian Lloyd <brian-wb6rqn at lloyd.com> wrote:
> So after all this discussion of the K3, here I am getting ready to
> purchase a K2.
>
> As I think I have mentioned before, I am setting up a science and
> technology center in our school, Granite Bay Montessori School.
> (http://www.gbmontessori.com) We have received a grant from the ARRL
> to help populate the center with equipment including an amateur
> station. We have been asked for a list of what we would like and I
> have decided to go against the flow and request a K2 kit. (They were
> recommending we choose either a Yaesu FT-897, an Icom IC-706mkIIg, or
> a Kenwood TS-570SG.)
>
> My plan is to have the all the kids work on the kit so that they have
> the feeling of both participation and accomplishment. I also plan to
> use the assembly and testing procedures to help cement what they are
> learning about electricity.
>
> The radios mentioned above all fall into the sub $1000 range so that
> is a calibration point for what I think we can get away with
> spending. So my question here is, if you were going to outfit a K2
> and try to keep the price "reasonable" what would you get and what
> might you leave behind. As I see it, the absolute must-have items are:
>
> 1. the K2 itself (duh);
> 2. the SSB module.
>
> After that it becomes a bit fuzzy. For instance, I would like
> opinions as to the need for the KPA-100. Note that if I don't opt for
> the KPA-100 I *will* get the KIO-2. Since I expect to be using this
> rig mostly in in the classroom with a matched antenna (I am leaning
> toward the GAP Titan DX as I have one and like it), I probably would
> not opt for the KAT-2. What about the DSP module?
>
> The kids are learning the code and I hope/expect that there will be a
> fair amount of CW operation. (The kids actually think that learning
> the code will be a cool thing in and of itself. I am using the Code
> Quick system with them.) I also expect some SSB and digital (AFSK,
> PSK31, MFSK, SSTV, etc.) operation.
>
> Anyway, I solicit the input from the folks on this list. You have a
> lot of experience with the product and can help me make the right
> decisions.
>