The DX Doubler met my SO2R needs for fifteen years until last year when I migrated to computers that don't have native LPT (or, Serial) ports. That was really the only impetus to look into other SO2R controllers. I considered the YCCC SO2R box, the microHAM MKR2 and the newly released microHAM u2R. The u2R was the clear choice for me:
1. The YCCC SO2R box has all the disadvantages that Joe has outlined plus it requires an external level translator circuit for FSK. That detracts from the advantage of an integrated box and lowered my confidence in the design choices made in this unit. 2. The MK2R had way more features than I needed or wanted, so I was less motivated to come up the learning curve on its necessary complexity. The opinions you have received from all of us are heavily biased by how well a given SO2R product meets our individual SO2R needs. For example, N6XI does SO2R in a (popular) way that makes the DX Doubler inadequate for monitoring his sent CW. I always listen to both receivers (sometimes more than two!), so this was never a limitation for me with the DX Doubler. The notion of complexity is relative to what your needs/wants are. The MK2R is complex for me primarily because it contains a lot of flexibility and features that I don't use. For those who want most of that capability, the learning curve is satisfactory. They are delighted to have the MK2R's integration of all those features. Just like the unanswerable question, "Which logging software is best?", the SO2R controller that is "best" for each of us will vary based on our personal SO2R needs. The good news is that there is a spectrum of alternatives and each of them is great ... for a specific focus of user needs. Ed - W0YK John , N0TA, wrote: > I want to try out S02R, and need some inputs on SO2R > controllers. It will be controlling two K3's. I am > considering the microHam micro2R and the Top Ten DX Doubler. > Each has its advantages: > > micro2R: Capable of CW, FSK, & SSB. Includes WinKey keyer. Appears > to have a lot of active support from Joe Subich. > > DX Doubler: CW & SSB (I can work the FSK interface). I like the > "manual" mode that does not appear to require any computer > connection. Device and K3 cables available at a reasonable cost. > > Any inputs would be greatly appreciated, ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
