[Elecraft] K2: maximizing RF output, upping audio output.

[EricJ]

Far more importantfor emergency communication is a reliable radio with 
over a decade of testing behind it...you already have that. If you are 
depending on SSB, you would be better off bringing along a key than 
installing someones favoritepower tweak. Or look into SPOT gps and leave 
the K2 at home.

http://www.findmespot.com/en/

Eric
KE6US

On 9/26/2013 5:55 AM, Allan Taylor wrote:
> I have a very early K2 that I use for field operations. It functions as an
> emergency communication source for serious
> backcountry trips (multi-day wilderness whitewater rafting, etc.). I am
> finding that a power output of, say, 20W would be
> desirable as a compromise between more reliable communication and battery
> usage. My K2 puts out about 14W. Thus I
> ask the experts: has anyone revamped the TX RF stages sufficient to put out
> 20 -25W output? Yes, I know this amounts
> to only a dB or two. But it can be the edge needed in very marginal
> conditions.
>
> Second issue. The K2 has always been on the low side for RX audio. Being no
> longer a young buck, my hearing is not
> perfect any more. Is there a known mod to add 5-10 dB to the audio chain
> without drastic distortion? Presently I take along
> a Radio Shack headphone 3-way amp that gives about that. It works fine but
> is yet another piece of gear to bring along and
> doesn't feed the internal speaker. When I had a KX1 (now sold) it had been
> modified to have a second audio amp chip put
> in and it really helped. Has anyone done a similar thing for the K2? I am
> not a EE by any means so would prefer to follow
> known modification paths.
>
> Anyone?
>