[Elecraft] NG0R - KSB2 low audio level

[Don Wilhelm]

  John,

Welcome back.

What microphone are you using?  And what is the compression set at?

In my experience, the K2 SSBC parameter should be set at 2:1 or higher 
(I actually prefer 3:1) no matter what the microphone.  The SSBA menu 
parameter will (of course) depend on the microphone being used - SSBA = 
1 for high output microphones and either SSBA = 2 or 3 for low output 
microphones).

Bottom line - I would look at the mic levels first.  If the compression 
level does not even things out, then perhaps a microphone preamplifier 
may be in order.  If the mic is one using the Heil HC4 or HC5 element, 
those are low output microphones and may need a pre-amp.  Those 
microphones with an electret element have high level output (like the 
Elecraft MH2, MD2 or ProSet-K2) and do not need increased mic gain.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 1/22/2011 10:29 PM, John Hoaglun wrote:
> Hi Don&  list
>
> Now that I am back from my business trip I am able to get back to the
> work bench.
>
> I put the K2 on the work bench tonight to run the test:
> K2+20dB directional coupler+20dB pad :  running @ 7.04mhz at 2w
>
> CW vs SSB is about a 3dB difference on my Booton microwatt meter.
>
> My oscope was showing a similar result.
>
> The SSB levels appear to be down which is consistent with what I saw
> last weekend when I was looking at this. It does not appear to have
> anything to do with the transverters.
>
> Any suggestions on where to look in the SSB or ALC circuits or someplace
> else?
>
> Thanks, JH
>