[Elecraft] Chasing the numbers

[Vic K2VCO]

Gary D Krause wrote:
> Since the K3 is at the top of the list now and the K2 isn't far behind, 
> I've been wondering how the numbers really affect what we hear.  If a 
> ham were to sit down in front of all the top rigs, blind folded and not 
> allowed to touch them, would he or she be able to pick out the one with 
> the best receiver by just using his or her ears?  

The biggest issue is close-in dynamic range. When you notice this the 
most is in a contest, when you are trying to work a station surrounded 
by others. A receiver that's poor in this area will present you with 
pops and other noises in the passband when there are loud signals nearby 
which you may not be hearing. These noises cover up weak signals and add 
to operator fatigue.

Another situation is when there are a lot of CW signals at various 
pitches. A poor radio presents you with mass of distorted signals and 
it's hard to pick out the one you want. One of the things I really like 
about the K3 is that signals seem to stand out and you can use your 
'brain filter' to differentiate.

If you mostly ragchew with reasonably strong signals in uncrowded bands, 
it probably won't matter too much. But it's nice to know that the 
capability is there if you ever need it.
-- 
73,
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco