[Elecraft] K3: Any SSB user comments regarding the new synth?

[Edward R Cole]

Dave,

I guess if you only want to receive that is a good choice.  The new 
SYNTH enables both Tx and Rx at below 490-KHz (current synth will 
work down to 490).  For those interested in operating on 472-478 MHz 
the K3+(new)SYNTH makes this possible (with the addition of an 
experimental license from the FCC).

I will get the new synth when I have the funds (cost is x2 as I have the KRX3).

Early on air reports look good for general use and extension to the 
new 630 meter band is a real plus!

73, Ed - KL7UW
Re: TEST mode - I stand corrected by Eric (NO3M).  I do use CONFIG: 
KVX3 = TEST for operating on 600m (bad memory).

From: "Dave Olean" <k1whs at metrocast.net>
To: <k6dgw at foothill.net>, "Elecraft Reflector"
         <elecraft at mailman.qth.net>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3: Any SSB user comments regarding the new
         synth?
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Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
         reply-type=response

Fred
I bought a nifty up converter that converts everything from DC to 500 kHz up
to 10 MHz and can listen to the low freqs on my K3 there. It is made by
Jackson Harbor Press and has some mods made by Clifton Labs. There is a lot
of info on the Clifton Labs website about using this kit.  It was really
cheap in comparison to even a single Synthesizer board and there is no
sensitivity roll off. I think I paid $14 and had to add a diecast box
enclosure and a DC feedthru connector with two BNC jacks.  NAA is very
strong as are a myriad of navigation beacons and a few low band broadcast
stations from Europe and Africa. The big problem is man made noise from all
sorts of consumer products. I use my 160 M beverages to receive.  You could
also make up or buy an active antenna and maybe get more isolation from man
made noise.  It would have to be matched as the normal input is low
impedance. I think the low freq converter is a great amount of fun to play
with. $14 is about what you pay for a good hamburger these days!!
Dave K1WHS



73, Ed - KL7UW
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