[Elecraft] K3S Noise Reduction

[Kent Trimble]

In addition to Al's helpful post, new owners should understand the 
difference between Noise Blanker (NB) and Noise Reduction (NR) tools as 
implemented in Elecraft radios.

Recent posts indicate confusions between the two.  They function 
differently in order to address different sources of noise generation.  
Both are effective in the instant moment which means neither should be 
left activated permanently.   Values effective on one band may be 
ineffective on another band. Moreover, one kind of noise may be of short 
duration and terminate, while another noise persists.  Further 
complicating things is that it is often difficult to determine by ear 
which of the two tools is best suited to a given noise.  Some noise, 
such as the background noise of the universe (cosmic noise) will always 
be there which is one reason the word "reduction" is used, not 
"elimination."  Lastly, while Elecraft radios differ from other brands 
in their ability to provide more user-adjustable technology, they 
require more knowledge from the user.  Far from being a negative, it 
makes for a higher caliber of operator and a better educated fraternity.

Lamenting the lack of a single ON/OFF button to mask or reduce all kinds 
of noise reflects a need to study what constitutes noise in general and 
one's Elecraft radio in particular.

73,
Kent
K9ZTV


On 11/7/2022 2:22 PM, Al Lorona wrote:
> Good advice from Chuck and Bob below.
>
> The thing to remember is that the noise reduction isn't just an on/off button. There are 32 levels of noise reduction to choose from. Some of the levels add just a touch of NR while others almost destroy the signal, adding artifacts and other things in the process.
>
> So you gotta play with it a little bit to suit your taste. You'll find a setting that pleases you.
>
> Here's what Wayne said about the settings when he released firmware rev. 3.30 on 2 September 2009:
>
> __________________________________________________
>
> "* MORE NR (NOISE REDUCTION) SETTINGS:  There are now 32 NR settings.
> F1-x to F4-x originally appeared in firmware revision 3.27, and are
> recommended for most applications. F5-x to F8-x are the same as
> F1-x to F4-x from firmware revision 3.25. They provide a varying mix
> between processed (“wet”) and unprocessed (“dry”) audio. When x is 1,
> the mix is mostly "dry"; when x is 4, it's 100% "wet". A small letter
> “m”
> (e.g. "NR m F5-1") reminds you that "mixed" settings are in use.
>
> Note 1: When you’re experimenting with different NR ADJ settings, allow
> 1 to 3 seconds for the DSP to fully adapt to present signal conditions.
>
> Note 2: F5-x and higher NR settings may alter the amplitude of
> single-tone (CW) signals somewhat, depending on the pitch. Voice
> signals are less affected."
>
> __________________________________________________
>
> R,
>
> Al  W6LX/4
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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