[CQ-Contest] CW pitch

[K3BU at aol.com]

In a message dated 11/16/2000 11:51:03 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
frenaye at pcnet.com writes:

> 
>  1) it is easier to separate CW stations in the QRM at lower tones

That is primary reason why I like lower tones, but new rigs have built in 
limitations of going down to about 400 Hz, I like to use around 250 - 300 Hz 
or even lower. Depending on QRM, filtering, propagation. Changing pitch 
during the contest also helps to alleviate fatigue. Seems that when signals 
are very weak, pitch around 500 - 600 works best for me. 
It helps to measure the frequency response of both ears and know it. This is 
natural filter that helps with weak signal reception.

Another important thing is the selectivity. That I adjust depending on band 
conditions, propagation (mushy signals need more BW), depth of the pileup. 
There are times when even 125 Hz filter is necessary, and times when it is 
better to use 600 Hz or more. 
Here you need compromise between hearing the stations that are off frequency 
and picking from the depth of the pileup.

Yuri, K3BU, 
Tesla RC N2EE


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