[Elecraft] Help sell me on the K3S

[Don Wilhelm]

Reuben,

I differ with you on the statement that the "K2 isn't exactly cut out 
for data modes".
If you activate the RTTY filter set and adjust the filters for that 
mode, then you have a good transceiver for data modes.  The RTTY mode 
allows you to set the compression (SSBC menu parameter) independently 
from the compression you use for SSB.

If this is an old K2 with old firmware, you may want to update at least 
the firmware - the RTTY mode was not available before the rev 2.xx 
firmware level.  Hold any button while powering on to see the firmware 
level briefly displayed.

Add the W3FPR Fixed Audio Output and you are all set (instead you can 
use the headphone output, but the level varies with the AF Gain 
control).  You do have to provide some switching between the microphone 
and the soundcard output externally to the K2 unless you are strictly 
data modes.  See my Data mode Switchbox article on my website 
www.w3fpr.com for some ideas about how to accomplish that.

The modern K2 is quite capable on soundcard data modes 'as-is', but a 
few external devices make it easier to use and switch from SSB to data 
modes.
If you have an older K2 (prior to SN3000), you may want to consider 
adding the A to B upgrade mods (and associated mod kits) to bring it up 
to date.

Do not overlook your K2, it is quite a capable transceiver for all modes.

The MAB board is not a data mode solution, that only provides for 
various microphone pinouts.

Yes, the K2 is a ham bands only transceiver.  If you are looking for a 
general coverage receiver for SWLing, the K2 is not going to do it for 
you.  The K3S with the KBPF3A option will provide general coverage receive.

But my suggestion is that unless you are vastly interested in SWLing, 
keep the K2 and use it until you get your license.  At this point, 
concentrate on your license rather than the radio.

73,
Don W3FPR



On 7/17/2016 8:36 PM, Reuben Popp wrote:
> I hear ya... I was in the middle of studying for the general last.  The
> tech is.. well, too easy (IMO), so I was going to sit for both tech and
> general IF I can actually make it up to St. Louis before sunrise, or if I
> can schmooze a few of the local VEs to do a one-off.
>
> As to my K2, I thought about it, but even with the MAB board, the K2 isn't
> exactly cut out for data modes.. at least, not very easily.  Unless I'm
> completely missing something here.  AM BC bands are so-so in that you get
> what's adjacent.  Not knocking my K2.. I _still_ love it, both for what it
> is and the fact that it was one of the more fun projects I did while
> working on my undergrad in CSc.