[Elecraft] K3 S meter and AGC on/off

[Steven.Zabarnick at notes.udayton.edu]

One unique feature of the K3 is that the S meter operates even when AGC is
turned off. Lately I've taken to operating often with AGC off to maximize
weak signal performance (using the RF gain to control volume), but have
noted that the S meter reading is a strong function of whether AGC is on or
off. When AGC is off the S meter readings are lower, while when AGC is on
the readings are higher by about 2 or 3 S units. This is with the RF gain
in the full clockwise position.

My K3 S meter is uncalibrated and operating using the default OF and SC
configuration settings.

Any thoughts on why the meter reads differently between AGC on and off?

Steve N9SZ
K3 1672