K3 - background hiss

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K3 - background hiss

Charlie Delta

I use a Datong FL3 audio filter and the difference to my ears is amazing.  The K3 sounds a lot lesser hissy and is very "warm" sounding  when compared to the unfiltered radio. Yes, I have tried all AGC  and EQ settings.The difference can not   be equaled  by just adjusting the RX EQ or by using a pink noise roll off mask. My Datong FL3 is hooked up permanently to the K3 and I can easily switch it in and out. Anecdotal comments from other hams also confirms the filters efficacy. I have the DSP board upgrade in the K3.

I have perfect hearing, so its not my ears coloring the results. The K3's hiss does have a sharp bite to it that was fixed  by using the Datong filter. I know what real hiss is, having owned a TS530S and a  FT990 both of which had the worst imaginable  IF hiss.  When I tried these radio again I could not believe how quiet the K3 really is,,,, however you then use a SDR radio and your perspective of what quiet is changes!

Maybe the K2 SCAF or some other SCAF will do the same job as the Datong. Datongs audio filter has a legendary reputation and its audio peak filter on CW and general  filtering qualities leave  many DSP radios for dead. Amazing for a 30 year old box!

If you can find a Datong FL3 buy it!

73
Craig
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