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Want to buy a K3

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W4PV

Want to buy a K3

Hello,

I am considering purchasing a K3 but looking on the web site dizzies my head with all the available extras. What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the functionality of the K3. This unit will go with my ageing FT1000MP.

Thank you,

Patrick, W4PV
Tennessee
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Charles Tropp

Re: Want to buy a K3

Well, that all depends on what your interests are. I bought my K3 about 1 year ago having been QRT for many years. At first I thought I would operate QRP so I didn't initially purchase the 100W option. Later I decided that I wanted 100 Watts so I added that option. I mostly work CW or Digital Modes so I didn't bother to buy the FM and AM filters but I did buy the 400 and 250 8 pole filters which are simply great. If you like SSB you might want to look into the Digital Voice Recorder. Are you into contesting? If so consider buying the sub-receiver so that you can listen in two places at the same time! Great idea. Are you interested in listening on the non-ham shortwave bands? Then get the general coverage receive option. How about your antenna. Does it need a tuner to operate effectively? Then by all means get the automatic internal ATU which comes with a second antenna input. Do you need 2 Meters? Then consider buying the internal 2 meter module with the
required interface. The beauty of the K3 is that it can be made to your specific requirements and you certainly don't have to get all the options at once. Try them one at a time! If you are at all handy and like putting things together then you should consider getting the kit instead of the assembled version. I can't begin to tell you of the immense sense of accomplishment you will experience when you flip the switch and have the K3 come alive.

73, N2SO

Charles R. Tropp

________________________________
From: W4PV <[hidden email]>
To: elecraft <[hidden email]>
Sent: Mon, January 11, 2010 1:35:30 PM
Subject: [Elecraft] Want to buy a K3

Hello,

I am considering purchasing a K3 but looking on the web site dizzies my head with all the available extras. What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the functionality of the K3. This unit will go with my ageing FT1000MP.

Thank you,

Patrick, W4PV
Tennessee
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John W2XS

Re: Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by W4PV

You will get many opinions on this. Here's mine. I am primarily a CW operator but I like to listen to AM BCB and Shortwave stations. My antenna is a multi-band Cobra Ultralite fed with ladder line and a Balun Designs 4:1 Tuner Balun.

1. KAT3 Tuner. If you have matched, coax-fed antennas, then you may not need this. But it is a great addition to those of us with multi-band antennas. It remembers the settings on small segments of each band which is incredibly convenient for QSYing, especially on 160m.

2. KBPF3 General Coverage Filter. If you stick only to the ham bands, then you may not need this. But it was on my "must-have" list (as was the KAT3). I have all 100 memories filled with short-wave and AM BCB stations all over the frequency spectrum. I've been listening to Radio China and Radio Cairo a lot lately.

3. KPA3 100W Amplifier. Many people start out with the 10W option. I have had a lot of success with the K2 at 10W. But I wanted the K3 to be my "QRO" rig as it replaced a Kenwood TS-930S (which is a fine but aging rig).

4. KRX3 Sub receiver. I added this after a year and find it is incredible for working split-frequency DX stations. I cannot see ever going back to the "push the TF Set" button days to try and figure out where the heck the DX station is listening. If you are not a DXer, or don't care about diversity reception, etc, then you may not need this.

5. Filters. This was (and is) a hot topic. But I stand by my initial decision, which was:

A. 200 and 500 Hz 5-pole filters. There was an early posting that said that only the first 30 dB of slope is critical, and that a 5-pole filter would be more than enough. I went with that, and am happy. There probably is some (small and subtle?) difference between the 5-pole and 8-pole performance, but the main purpose of a roofing filter is to prevent the DSP (the main selectivity in the rig) from overloading. Signals are generally weak right now, but will start to get stronger as conditions improve. It is amazing, though, to crank that knob down to 500 and then to 200 and know that there is no chance for any out-of-bandpass signal to get through.

B. 2.7 kHz SSB filter. This comes standard. This is the only filter that I have in the sub receiver right now. I based that decision on wanting to hear a wide bandpass most of the time to hear the station that the DX is working.

C. AM filter. This is a little bit disappointing to me as I thought that I would use this a lot. But I almost never use it. Unless you are interested in AM transmission or ESSB transmission, you might skip this one.

D. FM filter. This is the one that I use for all my AM listening. I wish they offered a less-expensive filter for receiving only.

You can always buy the minimum configuration now and add later. A real big advantage of the K3 over most other rigs today is the roofing filter concept, and signals will be getting stronger as conditions improve, so think about getting at least one or two optional roofing filters to start with.

Good luck and 73,

John W2XS

<quote author="W4PV">
What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the functionality of the K3.

Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

Re: Want to buy a K3

One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole filter, and it
is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a bit to center the voice in
the narrower passband (an FC of 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by extremely strong,
close-in signals (providing of course that they aren't actually splattering,
which you really can't do anything about). For SSB contest work, this filter
is a must. If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in SSB
contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for me it's been a
terrific addition.

Bill W5WVO

--------------------------------------------------
From: "John W2XS" <[hidden email]>
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 2:28 PM
To: <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

>
> You will get many opinions on this. Here's mine. I am primarily a CW
> operator but I like to listen to AM BCB and Shortwave stations. My
> antenna
> is a multi-band Cobra Ultralite fed with ladder line and a Balun Designs
> 4:1
> Tuner Balun.
>
> 1. KAT3 Tuner. If you have matched, coax-fed antennas, then you may not
> need this. But it is a great addition to those of us with multi-band
> antennas. It remembers the settings on small segments of each band which
> is
> incredibly convenient for QSYing, especially on 160m.
>
> 2. KBPF3 General Coverage Filter. If you stick only to the ham bands,
> then
> you may not need this. But it was on my "must-have" list (as was the
> KAT3).
> I have all 100 memories filled with short-wave and AM BCB stations all
> over
> the frequency spectrum. I've been listening to Radio China and Radio Cairo
> a
> lot lately.
>
> 3. KPA3 100W Amplifier. Many people start out with the 10W option. I
> have
> had a lot of success with the K2 at 10W. But I wanted the K3 to be my
> "QRO"
> rig as it replaced a Kenwood TS-930S (which is a fine but aging rig).
>
> 4. KRX3 Sub receiver. I added this after a year and find it is incredible
> for working split-frequency DX stations. I cannot see ever going back to
> the "push the TF Set" button days to try and figure out where the heck the
> DX station is listening. If you are not a DXer, or don't care about
> diversity reception, etc, then you may not need this.
>
> 5. Filters. This was (and is) a hot topic. But I stand by my initial
> decision, which was:
>
> A. 200 and 500 Hz 5-pole filters. There was an early posting that said
> that
> only the first 30 dB of slope is critical, and that a 5-pole filter would
> be
> more than enough. I went with that, and am happy. There probably is some
> (small and subtle?) difference between the 5-pole and 8-pole performance,
> but the main purpose of a roofing filter is to prevent the DSP (the main
> selectivity in the rig) from overloading. Signals are generally weak right
> now, but will start to get stronger as conditions improve. It is amazing,
> though, to crank that knob down to 500 and then to 200 and know that there
> is no chance for any out-of-bandpass signal to get through.
>
> B. 2.7 kHz SSB filter. This comes standard. This is the only filter that
> I
> have in the sub receiver right now. I based that decision on wanting to
> hear
> a wide bandpass most of the time to hear the station that the DX is
> working.
>
> C. AM filter. This is a little bit disappointing to me as I thought that
> I
> would use this a lot. But I almost never use it. Unless you are
> interested
> in AM transmission or ESSB transmission, you might skip this one.
>
> D. FM filter. This is the one that I use for all my AM listening. I wish
> they offered a less-expensive filter for receiving only.
>
> You can always buy the minimum configuration now and add later. A real big
> advantage of the K3 over most other rigs today is the roofing filter
> concept, and signals will be getting stronger as conditions improve, so
> think about getting at least one or two optional roofing filters to start
> with.
>
> Good luck and 73,
>
> John W2XS
>
>
> What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the
> functionality of the K3.
> --
> View this message in context:
> http://n2.nabble.com/Want-to-buy-a-K3-tp4287275p4288261.html
> Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>

Ed Muns, W0YK

Re: Want to buy a K3

W5WVO wrote:

> One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
> types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole
> filter, and it is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a
> bit to center the voice in the narrower passband (an FC of
> 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
> What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by
> extremely strong, close-in signals (providing of course that
> they aren't actually splattering, which you really can't do
> anything about). For SSB contest work, this filter is a must.
> If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in
> SSB contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for
> me it's been a terrific addition.

Or, the INRAD 1500 Hz (actually 1625 Hz at -6 dB) which tightly protects a
1500 Hz DSP bandwidth. Configure it to engage at a DSP bandwidth of 1500
Hz. Just reduce HI CUT until you reach 1500 Hz bandwidth. (Leave WIDTH and
SHIFT alone.) A narrow roofing filter is not needed to evaluate narrow SSB
receive bandwidths. Just reduce HI CUT to various bandwidths and hear what
it sounds like. Then, get an appropriate roofing filter to protect the DSP
from strong nearby (clean) signals.

Ed - W0YK
-----------------------------------------------
Ed Muns
Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com
FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard

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Philippe Trottet

Re: Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

Fully confirm this assessment !
The 1.8Khz 8 pole in a congested environment is a must. I have it in addition of the 2.8Khz.
Considering the H polar of my 40m antenna receiving signals from the close East, most are regular Ham's from ex-USSR area and also very active pirates on that side, up to 59 +30 is common.
Sometime ago two of those big guns were respectively on 7.085 and 7.090 with certainly old amplifiers spreading their signal several KHz away from the normal spectrum with saturated audio, I've just clicked on the 1.8Khz filter and as Bill says, FC to 1.05~1.10 and was able to listen clearly and do the contact with JA8BOF on 7.088.
Just a trick, to program with the Elecraft utility the1.8Khz filter, starting from 2.1Khz.
When listening with the 2.8 moving the width down will activate automatically at 2.1Khz the 1.8 filter, it is helpful.
73's
Philippe A65BI
http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI
K3#3616
" By Ham's, For Ham's...What else ! "

( http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI )

>>> "Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO" <[hidden email]> 12-01-2010 6:53 >>>
One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole filter, and it
is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a bit to center the voice in
the narrower passband (an FC of 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by extremely strong,
close-in signals (providing of course that they aren't actually splattering,
which you really can't do anything about). For SSB contest work, this filter
is a must. If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in SSB
contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for me it's been a
terrific addition.

Bill W5WVO

--------------------------------------------------
From: "John W2XS" <[hidden email]>
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 2:28 PM
To: <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

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Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
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Don Wilhelm-4

Re: Want to buy a K3

Philippe,

That is true if one is operating in an environment where there are
strong signals close to your listening frequency - and if that is the
case, the narrow roofing filters are a must. My operating is more
casual, and I find the 2.7 kHz filter plus the DSP filter quite adequate
for my purposes (either CW or SSB or Data modes). Now, if the ham
located only 2500 feet from me choses to get on the air close to my
frequency regularly, I may change my mind and get the more narrow
roofing filters. So far, that has not been a problem, so I continue
with my single 2.7 kHz filter for all modes except FM (which I do not
normally operate, but I do have the 13 kHz filter) - I have no desire
for AM transmit nor ESSB, so I do not have the 6 kHz filter either.

73,
Don W3FPR

Philippe Trottet wrote:

> Fully confirm this assessment !
> The 1.8Khz 8 pole in a congested environment is a must. I have it in addition of the 2.8Khz.
> Considering the H polar of my 40m antenna receiving signals from the close East, most are regular Ham's from ex-USSR area and also very active pirates on that side, up to 59 +30 is common.
> Sometime ago two of those big guns were respectively on 7.085 and 7.090 with certainly old amplifiers spreading their signal several KHz away from the normal spectrum with saturated audio, I've just clicked on the 1.8Khz filter and as Bill says, FC to 1.05~1.10 and was able to listen clearly and do the contact with JA8BOF on 7.088.
> Just a trick, to program with the Elecraft utility the1.8Khz filter, starting from 2.1Khz.
> When listening with the 2.8 moving the width down will activate automatically at 2.1Khz the 1.8 filter, it is helpful.
> 73's
> Philippe A65BI
> http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI
> K3#3616
> " By Ham's, For Ham's...What else ! "
>
> ( http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI )
>
>
>

Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

Re: Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Philippe Trottet

You bring up the interesting question of configuration for the narrow
filter -- i.e., where do you set it to "kick in"? I opted for 1.9 kHz, you
opted for 2.1 kHz. I'm curious as to where others have configured the 1.8
kHz SSB filter to kick in -- and why.

Bill W5WVO

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Philippe Trottet" <[hidden email]>
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:05 PM
To: <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

> Fully confirm this assessment !
> The 1.8Khz 8 pole in a congested environment is a must. I have it in
> addition of the 2.8Khz.
> Considering the H polar of my 40m antenna receiving signals from the close
> East, most are regular Ham's from ex-USSR area and also very active
> pirates on that side, up to 59 +30 is common.
> Sometime ago two of those big guns were respectively on 7.085 and 7.090
> with certainly old amplifiers spreading their signal several KHz away from
> the normal spectrum with saturated audio, I've just clicked on the 1.8Khz
> filter and as Bill says, FC to 1.05~1.10 and was able to listen clearly
> and do the contact with JA8BOF on 7.088.
> Just a trick, to program with the Elecraft utility the1.8Khz filter,
> starting from 2.1Khz.
> When listening with the 2.8 moving the width down will activate
> automatically at 2.1Khz the 1.8 filter, it is helpful.
> 73's
> Philippe A65BI
> http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI
> K3#3616
> " By Ham's, For Ham's...What else ! "
>
> ( http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI )
>
>>>> "Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO" <[hidden email]> 12-01-2010 6:53 >>>
> One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
> types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole filter, and
> it
> is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a bit to center the voice in
> the narrower passband (an FC of 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
> What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by extremely strong,
> close-in signals (providing of course that they aren't actually
> splattering,
> which you really can't do anything about). For SSB contest work, this
> filter
> is a must. If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in
> SSB
> contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for me it's been a
> terrific addition.
>
> Bill W5WVO
>
> --------------------------------------------------
> From: "John W2XS" <[hidden email]>
> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 2:28 PM
> To: <[hidden email]>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3
>
>>
>> You will get many opinions on this. Here's mine. I am primarily a CW
>> operator but I like to listen to AM BCB and Shortwave stations. My
>> antenna
>> is a multi-band Cobra Ultralite fed with ladder line and a Balun Designs
>> 4:1
>> Tuner Balun.
>>
>> 1. KAT3 Tuner. If you have matched, coax-fed antennas, then you may not
>> need this. But it is a great addition to those of us with multi-band
>> antennas. It remembers the settings on small segments of each band which
>> is
>> incredibly convenient for QSYing, especially on 160m.
>>
>> 2. KBPF3 General Coverage Filter. If you stick only to the ham bands,
>> then
>> you may not need this. But it was on my "must-have" list (as was the
>> KAT3).
>> I have all 100 memories filled with short-wave and AM BCB stations all
>> over
>> the frequency spectrum. I've been listening to Radio China and Radio
>> Cairo
>> a
>> lot lately.
>>
>> 3. KPA3 100W Amplifier. Many people start out with the 10W option. I
>> have
>> had a lot of success with the K2 at 10W. But I wanted the K3 to be my
>> "QRO"
>> rig as it replaced a Kenwood TS-930S (which is a fine but aging rig).
>>
>> 4. KRX3 Sub receiver. I added this after a year and find it is
>> incredible
>> for working split-frequency DX stations. I cannot see ever going back to
>> the "push the TF Set" button days to try and figure out where the heck
>> the
>> DX station is listening. If you are not a DXer, or don't care about
>> diversity reception, etc, then you may not need this.
>>
>> 5. Filters. This was (and is) a hot topic. But I stand by my initial
>> decision, which was:
>>
>> A. 200 and 500 Hz 5-pole filters. There was an early posting that said
>> that
>> only the first 30 dB of slope is critical, and that a 5-pole filter would
>> be
>> more than enough. I went with that, and am happy. There probably is some
>> (small and subtle?) difference between the 5-pole and 8-pole performance,
>> but the main purpose of a roofing filter is to prevent the DSP (the main
>> selectivity in the rig) from overloading. Signals are generally weak
>> right
>> now, but will start to get stronger as conditions improve. It is
>> amazing,
>> though, to crank that knob down to 500 and then to 200 and know that
>> there
>> is no chance for any out-of-bandpass signal to get through.
>>
>> B. 2.7 kHz SSB filter. This comes standard. This is the only filter
>> that
>> I
>> have in the sub receiver right now. I based that decision on wanting to
>> hear
>> a wide bandpass most of the time to hear the station that the DX is
>> working.
>>
>> C. AM filter. This is a little bit disappointing to me as I thought that
>> I
>> would use this a lot. But I almost never use it. Unless you are
>> interested
>> in AM transmission or ESSB transmission, you might skip this one.
>>
>> D. FM filter. This is the one that I use for all my AM listening. I wish
>> they offered a less-expensive filter for receiving only.
>>
>> You can always buy the minimum configuration now and add later. A real
>> big
>> advantage of the K3 over most other rigs today is the roofing filter
>> concept, and signals will be getting stronger as conditions improve, so
>> think about getting at least one or two optional roofing filters to start
>> with.
>>
>> Good luck and 73,
>>
>> John W2XS
>>
>>
>> What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the
>> functionality of the K3.
>> --
>> View this message in context:
>> http://n2.nabble.com/Want-to-buy-a-K3-tp4287275p4288261.html
>> Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>

Matt Zilmer

Re: Want to buy a K3

Hi Bill,

One reason for the 1.8 kHz roofing filter is the male voice. If you
set Fc to around 1 kHz and reduce the BW to 1.8 kHz, you get just
enough voice components in speech to leave it intelligible, but will
also eliminate almost every trace of signals to the sides. This is
excellent for crowded bands and big adjacent signals. I've never used
anything like it before on any other radio. It's like Elecraft
decided on 1.8 kHz just for contesters, or for a better sunspot count
than we have today.

One example from an afternoon a few weekends ago.... I was calling CQ
on 20m on SSB and there was a guy off to the side by a couple kHz.
When I tuned him in I found his sig was running S9+25 or so. Big
signal and lotsa of overdriven audio, but he wasn't splattering. Well,
I liked the freq I was on and just set the 1.8 BW mentioned above and
continued CQing. I got a call a few minutes after starting and and
QSO ensued. After less than ten minutes, the loudmouth came on our
freq and asked us to move. And I'd actually forgotten that he was
next door. I politely explained that his QSO wasn't bothering us, and
that should be proof enough that there was no problem with QRM.
However, we did move down another 2.5 kHz anyway just for etiquette
and to get a little laugh out of it. Both our stations were using
K3's barefoot at 50W or so, and we compared notes on the loudmouth for
a little while, then went our separate ways.

It's like the rest of the band just went *poof*, and you have your own
island for QSOing. Be cautious though, because not everyone has this
advantage and you may actually interfere with a station you can't hear
at all any more. Situational awareness is still part of our
responsiblities... Some of the loudmouths think that their $10k
big-name radios entitle them to some special privileges, which I
believe we can either A) safely ignore or B) have a secret chuckle
over.

73,
matt W6NIA
K3 #24

On Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:03:30 -0700, you wrote:

>You bring up the interesting question of configuration for the narrow
>filter -- i.e., where do you set it to "kick in"? I opted for 1.9 kHz, you
>opted for 2.1 kHz. I'm curious as to where others have configured the 1.8
>kHz SSB filter to kick in -- and why.
>
>Bill W5WVO
>
>--------------------------------------------------
>From: "Philippe Trottet" <[hidden email]>
>Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:05 PM
>To: <[hidden email]>
>Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3
>
>> Fully confirm this assessment !
>> The 1.8Khz 8 pole in a congested environment is a must. I have it in
>> addition of the 2.8Khz.
>> Considering the H polar of my 40m antenna receiving signals from the close
>> East, most are regular Ham's from ex-USSR area and also very active
>> pirates on that side, up to 59 +30 is common.
>> Sometime ago two of those big guns were respectively on 7.085 and 7.090
>> with certainly old amplifiers spreading their signal several KHz away from
>> the normal spectrum with saturated audio, I've just clicked on the 1.8Khz
>> filter and as Bill says, FC to 1.05~1.10 and was able to listen clearly
>> and do the contact with JA8BOF on 7.088.
>> Just a trick, to program with the Elecraft utility the1.8Khz filter,
>> starting from 2.1Khz.
>> When listening with the 2.8 moving the width down will activate
>> automatically at 2.1Khz the 1.8 filter, it is helpful.
>> 73's
>> Philippe A65BI
>> http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI
>> K3#3616
>> " By Ham's, For Ham's...What else ! "
>>
>> ( http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI )
>>
>>>>> "Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO" <[hidden email]> 12-01-2010 6:53 >>>
>> One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
>> types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole filter, and
>> it
>> is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a bit to center the voice in
>> the narrower passband (an FC of 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
>> What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by extremely strong,
>> close-in signals (providing of course that they aren't actually
>> splattering,
>> which you really can't do anything about). For SSB contest work, this
>> filter
>> is a must. If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in
>> SSB
>> contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for me it's been a
>> terrific addition.
>>
>> Bill W5WVO
>>
>> --------------------------------------------------
>> From: "John W2XS" <[hidden email]>
>> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 2:28 PM
>> To: <[hidden email]>
>> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3
>>
>>>
>>> You will get many opinions on this. Here's mine. I am primarily a CW
>>> operator but I like to listen to AM BCB and Shortwave stations. My
>>> antenna
>>> is a multi-band Cobra Ultralite fed with ladder line and a Balun Designs
>>> 4:1
>>> Tuner Balun.
>>>
>>> 1. KAT3 Tuner. If you have matched, coax-fed antennas, then you may not
>>> need this. But it is a great addition to those of us with multi-band
>>> antennas. It remembers the settings on small segments of each band which
>>> is
>>> incredibly convenient for QSYing, especially on 160m.
>>>
>>> 2. KBPF3 General Coverage Filter. If you stick only to the ham bands,
>>> then
>>> you may not need this. But it was on my "must-have" list (as was the
>>> KAT3).
>>> I have all 100 memories filled with short-wave and AM BCB stations all
>>> over
>>> the frequency spectrum. I've been listening to Radio China and Radio
>>> Cairo
>>> a
>>> lot lately.
>>>
>>> 3. KPA3 100W Amplifier. Many people start out with the 10W option. I
>>> have
>>> had a lot of success with the K2 at 10W. But I wanted the K3 to be my
>>> "QRO"
>>> rig as it replaced a Kenwood TS-930S (which is a fine but aging rig).
>>>
>>> 4. KRX3 Sub receiver. I added this after a year and find it is
>>> incredible
>>> for working split-frequency DX stations. I cannot see ever going back to
>>> the "push the TF Set" button days to try and figure out where the heck
>>> the
>>> DX station is listening. If you are not a DXer, or don't care about
>>> diversity reception, etc, then you may not need this.
>>>
>>> 5. Filters. This was (and is) a hot topic. But I stand by my initial
>>> decision, which was:
>>>
>>> A. 200 and 500 Hz 5-pole filters. There was an early posting that said
>>> that
>>> only the first 30 dB of slope is critical, and that a 5-pole filter would
>>> be
>>> more than enough. I went with that, and am happy. There probably is some
>>> (small and subtle?) difference between the 5-pole and 8-pole performance,
>>> but the main purpose of a roofing filter is to prevent the DSP (the main
>>> selectivity in the rig) from overloading. Signals are generally weak
>>> right
>>> now, but will start to get stronger as conditions improve. It is
>>> amazing,
>>> though, to crank that knob down to 500 and then to 200 and know that
>>> there
>>> is no chance for any out-of-bandpass signal to get through.
>>>
>>> B. 2.7 kHz SSB filter. This comes standard. This is the only filter
>>> that
>>> I
>>> have in the sub receiver right now. I based that decision on wanting to
>>> hear
>>> a wide bandpass most of the time to hear the station that the DX is
>>> working.
>>>
>>> C. AM filter. This is a little bit disappointing to me as I thought that
>>> I
>>> would use this a lot. But I almost never use it. Unless you are
>>> interested
>>> in AM transmission or ESSB transmission, you might skip this one.
>>>
>>> D. FM filter. This is the one that I use for all my AM listening. I wish
>>> they offered a less-expensive filter for receiving only.
>>>
>>> You can always buy the minimum configuration now and add later. A real
>>> big
>>> advantage of the K3 over most other rigs today is the roofing filter
>>> concept, and signals will be getting stronger as conditions improve, so
>>> think about getting at least one or two optional roofing filters to start
>>> with.
>>>
>>> Good luck and 73,
>>>
>>> John W2XS
>>>
>>>
>>> What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the
>>> functionality of the K3.
>>> --
>>> View this message in context:
>>> http://n2.nabble.com/Want-to-buy-a-K3-tp4287275p4288261.html
>>> Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
>>> ______________________________________________________________
>>> Elecraft mailing list
>>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>>
>>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> Elecraft mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>>
>
>______________________________________________________________
>Elecraft mailing list
>Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
>Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
>This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

Philippe Trottet

Re: Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

Hi Bill,
Just do a test, it is so easy to modify with the Elecraft utility.
In my severe environment, I've noticed a slight difference at 2.1 when using the 2.8 or the 1.8, so I decided to use the 2.1 with the 1.8 it's more sharp but it is my own pereception and others can have different feeling on it.
73's
Philippe A65BI

>>> "Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO" <[hidden email]> 12-01-2010 20:03 >>>
You bring up the interesting question of configuration for the narrow
filter -- i.e., where do you set it to "kick in"? I opted for 1.9 kHz, you
opted for 2.1 kHz. I'm curious as to where others have configured the 1.8
kHz SSB filter to kick in -- and why.

Bill W5WVO

--------------------------------------------------
From: "Philippe Trottet" <[hidden email]>
Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:05 PM
To: <[hidden email]>
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

Don Wilhelm-4

Re: Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

Bill,

Where you set the "kick-in" point is largely up to your ears. The slope
on the crystal filter is more gentle than the steep sided DSP filters -
as a result, the crystal filter actual width will vary depending on
whether you refer to the -3 dB point, or the -6 dB points or even the
-10 dB points.
In other words, if you activate a crystal filter at a width wider than
the DSP filter width, you will have a passband that is more
representative of the crystal filter passband than the DSP passband..
So the real answer depends on your ears and what you want to hear.

73,
Don W3FPR

Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO wrote:
> You bring up the interesting question of configuration for the narrow
> filter -- i.e., where do you set it to "kick in"? I opted for 1.9 kHz, you
> opted for 2.1 kHz. I'm curious as to where others have configured the 1.8
> kHz SSB filter to kick in -- and why.
>
> Bill W5WVO
>
>
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

Dan Copeland

Astron SS-30

In reply to this post by Ed Muns, W0YK

I have an Astron SS-30 power supply that was
Only used for 4 months for sale. I would take
$90 + shipping. I have switched to solar.

Thanks

Dan N0DT

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
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Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

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Brett Howard

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Ed Muns, W0YK

This is similar to what I did... I had a 1.8K filter in my radio and I
was using the width knob and I'd crank it to 1.9Khz (which is where I
had it set to engage). I then would adjust FC to 1.00 to 1.1 depending
on the individuals voice.

Then when I saw that the INRAD 1.5K filters were available I cranked my
DSP down to 1.5K and started panning around. I was surprised that
things were still sounding quite clean and very intelligible. So I
ordered two 1.5K filters. Installed them and after a few days of
auditioning (including a CQNA SSB Contest) I decided to keep the 1.5K
filters and found no trouble finding people who were interested in the
1.8K filters when offered for what I figured a fair price.

I'm very much looking forward to FD this year with the 1.5K filters in
place. I'm also hoping that I can have a P3 sitting next to my K3 by
FD.

~Brett (KC7OTG)

On Mon, 2010-01-11 at 20:47 -0800, Ed Muns wrote:

> W5WVO wrote:
> > One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
> > types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole
> > filter, and it is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a
> > bit to center the voice in the narrower passband (an FC of
> > 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
> > What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by
> > extremely strong, close-in signals (providing of course that
> > they aren't actually splattering, which you really can't do
> > anything about). For SSB contest work, this filter is a must.
> > If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in
> > SSB contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for
> > me it's been a terrific addition.
>
> Or, the INRAD 1500 Hz (actually 1625 Hz at -6 dB) which tightly protects a
> 1500 Hz DSP bandwidth. Configure it to engage at a DSP bandwidth of 1500
> Hz. Just reduce HI CUT until you reach 1500 Hz bandwidth. (Leave WIDTH and
> SHIFT alone.) A narrow roofing filter is not needed to evaluate narrow SSB
> receive bandwidths. Just reduce HI CUT to various bandwidths and hear what
> it sounds like. Then, get an appropriate roofing filter to protect the DSP
> from strong nearby (clean) signals.
>
> Ed - W0YK
> -----------------------------------------------
> Ed Muns
> Muns Vineyard - www.munsvineyard.com
> FaceBook - www.facebook.com/munsvineyard
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

Brett Howard

Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3

In reply to this post by Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO

I set things by ear and opted for 1.9Khz for the 1.8Khz filters I had
and found that the 1.5Khz filters fit in best at 1.5Khz. Even though
the 1.5K filters actually measure out to be higher than 1600Hz they
sound like they fit in best at 1.5K in my setup.

~Brett (KC7OTG)

On Tue, 2010-01-12 at 09:03 -0700, Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO wrote:

> You bring up the interesting question of configuration for the narrow
> filter -- i.e., where do you set it to "kick in"? I opted for 1.9 kHz, you
> opted for 2.1 kHz. I'm curious as to where others have configured the 1.8
> kHz SSB filter to kick in -- and why.
>
> Bill W5WVO
>
> --------------------------------------------------
> From: "Philippe Trottet" <[hidden email]>
> Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:05 PM
> To: <[hidden email]>
> Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3
>
> > Fully confirm this assessment !
> > The 1.8Khz 8 pole in a congested environment is a must. I have it in
> > addition of the 2.8Khz.
> > Considering the H polar of my 40m antenna receiving signals from the close
> > East, most are regular Ham's from ex-USSR area and also very active
> > pirates on that side, up to 59 +30 is common.
> > Sometime ago two of those big guns were respectively on 7.085 and 7.090
> > with certainly old amplifiers spreading their signal several KHz away from
> > the normal spectrum with saturated audio, I've just clicked on the 1.8Khz
> > filter and as Bill says, FC to 1.05~1.10 and was able to listen clearly
> > and do the contact with JA8BOF on 7.088.
> > Just a trick, to program with the Elecraft utility the1.8Khz filter,
> > starting from 2.1Khz.
> > When listening with the 2.8 moving the width down will activate
> > automatically at 2.1Khz the 1.8 filter, it is helpful.
> > 73's
> > Philippe A65BI
> > http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI
> > K3#3616
> > " By Ham's, For Ham's...What else ! "
> >
> > ( http://www.qrz.com/callsign/A65BI )
> >
> >>>> "Bill VanAlstyne W5WVO" <[hidden email]> 12-01-2010 6:53 >>>
> > One thing the other posters have not mentioned (probably not being SSB
> > types) is a narrow filter for SSB. I have the 1.8 kHz 8-pole filter, and
> > it
> > is amazing. You do have to reduce the hi-cut a bit to center the voice in
> > the narrower passband (an FC of 1.05 is about ideal for most male voices).
> > What you get is remarkable immunity from overload by extremely strong,
> > close-in signals (providing of course that they aren't actually
> > splattering,
> > which you really can't do anything about). For SSB contest work, this
> > filter
> > is a must. If you don't work SSB much and/or aren't at all interested in
> > SSB
> > contesting/DXing, then you can probably skip it. But for me it's been a
> > terrific addition.
> >
> > Bill W5WVO
> >
> > --------------------------------------------------
> > From: "John W2XS" <[hidden email]>
> > Sent: Monday, January 11, 2010 2:28 PM
> > To: <[hidden email]>
> > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] [K3] Want to buy a K3
> >
> >>
> >> You will get many opinions on this. Here's mine. I am primarily a CW
> >> operator but I like to listen to AM BCB and Shortwave stations. My
> >> antenna
> >> is a multi-band Cobra Ultralite fed with ladder line and a Balun Designs
> >> 4:1
> >> Tuner Balun.
> >>
> >> 1. KAT3 Tuner. If you have matched, coax-fed antennas, then you may not
> >> need this. But it is a great addition to those of us with multi-band
> >> antennas. It remembers the settings on small segments of each band which
> >> is
> >> incredibly convenient for QSYing, especially on 160m.
> >>
> >> 2. KBPF3 General Coverage Filter. If you stick only to the ham bands,
> >> then
> >> you may not need this. But it was on my "must-have" list (as was the
> >> KAT3).
> >> I have all 100 memories filled with short-wave and AM BCB stations all
> >> over
> >> the frequency spectrum. I've been listening to Radio China and Radio
> >> Cairo
> >> a
> >> lot lately.
> >>
> >> 3. KPA3 100W Amplifier. Many people start out with the 10W option. I
> >> have
> >> had a lot of success with the K2 at 10W. But I wanted the K3 to be my
> >> "QRO"
> >> rig as it replaced a Kenwood TS-930S (which is a fine but aging rig).
> >>
> >> 4. KRX3 Sub receiver. I added this after a year and find it is
> >> incredible
> >> for working split-frequency DX stations. I cannot see ever going back to
> >> the "push the TF Set" button days to try and figure out where the heck
> >> the
> >> DX station is listening. If you are not a DXer, or don't care about
> >> diversity reception, etc, then you may not need this.
> >>
> >> 5. Filters. This was (and is) a hot topic. But I stand by my initial
> >> decision, which was:
> >>
> >> A. 200 and 500 Hz 5-pole filters. There was an early posting that said
> >> that
> >> only the first 30 dB of slope is critical, and that a 5-pole filter would
> >> be
> >> more than enough. I went with that, and am happy. There probably is some
> >> (small and subtle?) difference between the 5-pole and 8-pole performance,
> >> but the main purpose of a roofing filter is to prevent the DSP (the main
> >> selectivity in the rig) from overloading. Signals are generally weak
> >> right
> >> now, but will start to get stronger as conditions improve. It is
> >> amazing,
> >> though, to crank that knob down to 500 and then to 200 and know that
> >> there
> >> is no chance for any out-of-bandpass signal to get through.
> >>
> >> B. 2.7 kHz SSB filter. This comes standard. This is the only filter
> >> that
> >> I
> >> have in the sub receiver right now. I based that decision on wanting to
> >> hear
> >> a wide bandpass most of the time to hear the station that the DX is
> >> working.
> >>
> >> C. AM filter. This is a little bit disappointing to me as I thought that
> >> I
> >> would use this a lot. But I almost never use it. Unless you are
> >> interested
> >> in AM transmission or ESSB transmission, you might skip this one.
> >>
> >> D. FM filter. This is the one that I use for all my AM listening. I wish
> >> they offered a less-expensive filter for receiving only.
> >>
> >> You can always buy the minimum configuration now and add later. A real
> >> big
> >> advantage of the K3 over most other rigs today is the roofing filter
> >> concept, and signals will be getting stronger as conditions improve, so
> >> think about getting at least one or two optional roofing filters to start
> >> with.
> >>
> >> Good luck and 73,
> >>
> >> John W2XS
> >>
> >>
> >> What elective boards should I consider purchasing to enhance the
> >> functionality of the K3.
> >> --
> >> View this message in context:
> >> http://n2.nabble.com/Want-to-buy-a-K3-tp4287275p4288261.html
> >> Sent from the [K3] mailing list archive at Nabble.com.
> >> ______________________________________________________________
> >> Elecraft mailing list
> >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> >> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
> >>
> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> >>
> >
> > ______________________________________________________________
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> > Post: mailto:[hidden email]
> >
> > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> > ______________________________________________________________
> > Elecraft mailing list
> > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> > Post: mailto:[hidden email]
> >
> > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
> >
>
> ______________________________________________________________
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> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
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> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
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