[Elecraft] K3 : SSB modulation

[Bill W4ZV]

Laurent HAAS - F6FVY wrote:
> 
> After using mostly these rigs for SSB contesting in FY5KE or in other 
> places, we are still facing a lack of "dynamics", "punch", 
> "penetration", "power", whatever you call it. In other words, when 
> comparing this rig to our radios we previously used (TS-850), with the 
> same microphone (Heil HC-4 element) and the same output RF power, the K3 
> is clearly way behind in term of "average power" we can read on the Bird 
> wattmeter wired on its RF output. Even if observing the wattmeter needle 
> is not a very scientific measurement (we admit it), various comparative 
> reports on the air do confirm our feeling.
> 

1.  The plain HC4 (non-electret) cartridge should be set to FP.H or rP.H
(tap 1 to toggle L<>H while in MIC SEL) with no bIAS (tap 2 to toggle
on<>off while in MIC SEL).

2.  Set CMP = 0.  Adjust MIC for 5-7 bar peaks on the ALC meter when using a
normal contest voice.  Set CMP = 23 or your listening preference in MONitor.

With PWR set max CW (110W), I measure 92.9W in TUNE while using a factory
calibrated LP-100A (so maybe I need to calibrate my K3 again).  When
speaking in a contest voice, I measure ~90W peaks (sometimes up to 94.5). 
The audio sounds punchy but clean and the meter indicates output peaks are
where they should be.  I don't use any EQ with my HC4.

Since you're a multiop, you might want to consider LOCKing your MIC, CMP,
and PWR settings in CONFIG:PWR SET (toggle 1 to lock<>unlock), or at least
provide some training on point #2 above to your operators.

73,  Bill

73,  Bill

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