[Elecraft] My K3's Very Quiet

[drewko]

Regarding the preamp: MDS measurements show a better (S+N)/N with the
preamp on, approx 4 db improvement in MDS on my K3 on 40m. A similar
improvement is obtained by setting the ATU to BYPASS. 

The macro to toggle Preamp+Bypass is SWH19;SWT24; for anyone who wants
to try it. It may be useful for weak signals. You do have to remember
to toggle it (the ATU) back on when you transmit though.

73,
Drew
AF2Z


On Sat, 19 Dec 2009 10:27:16 -0600, Ed W0SD wrote:
>
>It has been my experience over the years to "NOT" use the pre-amp on any 
>HF radio unless you are out of audio gain.  The FT-1000D did not have  a 
>pre-amp and the only place for me it was lacking was 10 meters.  For me 
>I just don't hear more at 10 meters and down  with a pre-amp.  For me it 
>just brings the noise up with the signal.  The only place I have seen a 
>big benefit from a pre-amp is above 28 mhz.  Obviously the K3 benefits 
>from a pre-amp on six meters.
>
>Ed W0SD