[Elecraft] K3: Audio settings

[Josh Fiden]

Embedded comments. I'm a contester & weak signal VHF exclusively. YMMV

Sent from my mobile device

> On Sep 3, 2018, at 1:08 PM, Bob McGraw K4TAX <rmcgraw at blomand.net> wrote:
> 
> Don't shortchange yourself by looking at only 1 or 2 parameters.
> 
> Here's the list.  Some items can be upgraded in a K3 to make it almost to the level of a K3S.
> 
> 
> ** Ultra low-noise synthesizer for exceptional strong-signal receive performance and transmit signal purity (KSYN3A)
Agree, have the upgrade. 
> 
> ** USB port–integrates remote control and line-level audio, eliminating the need for a PC sound card and audio cables
Don't care, no performance improvement. 
> 
> ** Second preamp for 12-6 m weak signal work (on included KXV3B module)
Have outboard preamp. No performance improvement from what I have, yes? If I wanted to improve on this I'd get a better outboard preamp or use something mast mounted for 6m. However, already running fairly short 1-1/4 Heliax so minimal improvement doesn't justify the complexity. 
> 
> ** Multiple attenuators, providing steps of -5/-10/-15 dB
You got me here. Stock single setting attenuator seems fine, but maybe I'd love having 3 steps on HF?
> 
> ** Enhanced look and feel, with new LCD bezel, soft-touch VFO knob
Function over form for me! Decidedly don't care!!
> 
> ** Lower-Loss ATU option with true bypass relay (KAT3A)
The only time I've used internal ATU is at Field Day. Running LP I use KAT500 since it has my antennas memorized. Plus another outboard tuner for legal limit. Am I missing anything?
> 
> ** Redesigned AF output circuitry for outstanding speaker audio
As noted only use the speaker for beeps (JT, RTTY, ..). 
> 
> ** Accurate, high-speed CW transmit even in SPLIT mode
I thought this came with the new synthesizer? Am I missing something here? High speed CW for me is low 30s ;) 
> 
> ** Coverage of the 630-meter band (~470 kHz), and lower1
I'm more a VHF guy than VLF, hi. Isn't this available with new synth? Are there any 630m contests? 

73
Josh


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