[Elecraft] [K3] SO2R Controllers

[Ed Muns]

The DX Doubler met my SO2R needs for fifteen years until last year when I
migrated to computers that don't have native LPT (or, Serial) ports.  That
was really the only impetus to look into other SO2R controllers.  I
considered the YCCC SO2R box, the microHAM MKR2 and the newly released
microHAM u2R.  The u2R was the clear choice for me:

1.  The YCCC SO2R box has all the disadvantages that Joe has outlined plus
it requires an external level translator circuit for FSK.    That detracts
from the advantage of an integrated box and lowered my confidence in the
design choices made in this unit.

2.  The MK2R had way more features than I needed or wanted, so I was less
motivated to come up the learning curve on its necessary complexity.

The opinions you have received from all of us are heavily biased by how well
a given SO2R product meets our individual SO2R needs.  For example, N6XI
does SO2R in a (popular) way that makes the DX Doubler inadequate for
monitoring his sent CW.  I always listen to both receivers (sometimes more
than two!), so this was never a limitation for me with the DX Doubler.

The notion of complexity is relative to what your needs/wants are.  The MK2R
is complex for me primarily because it contains a lot of flexibility and
features that I don't use.  For those who want most of that capability, the
learning curve is satisfactory.  They are delighted to have the MK2R's
integration of all those features.

Just like the unanswerable question, "Which logging software is best?", the
SO2R controller that is "best" for each of us will vary based on our
personal SO2R needs.  The good news is that there is a spectrum of
alternatives and each of them is great ... for a specific focus of user
needs.

Ed - W0YK

 

John , N0TA, wrote:
> I want to try out S02R, and need some inputs on SO2R 
> controllers. It will be controlling two K3's.  I am 
> considering the microHam micro2R and the Top Ten DX Doubler. 
> Each has its advantages:
> 
>     micro2R: Capable of CW, FSK, & SSB. Includes WinKey keyer. Appears
>     to have a lot of active support from Joe Subich.
> 
>     DX Doubler: CW & SSB (I can work the FSK interface). I like the
>     "manual" mode that does not appear to require any computer
>     connection. Device and K3 cables available at a reasonable cost.
> 
> Any inputs would be greatly appreciated,