Running a TS-590SG with external audio processing (compressor and EQ). I've been experimenting with wider transmit bandwidth settings but getting mixed reports. Is 3kHz really the practical limit for SSB, or are there benefits to extending beyond that? Most contesters use 2.4kHz to 1.8kHz wide filtering for SSB reception, so energy outside that bandwidth doesn't add to readability. What's the sweet spot for both DX and ragchew contacts?

Standard rule is 3kHz bandwidth for HF transmission, giving audio fidelity from 0-3000Hz. Most rigs default to 2.7kHz but why not maximize to 3kHz for improved sound quality. Beyond 3kHz you risk complaints and interference issues with adjacent stations.

For DX work, stick to 2.4kHz max. At more than 6kHz separation, distortion should be at least -40dB compared to passband signal. Poor quality SSB is defined as width greater than 6kHz at 40dB down. Extended SSB (ESSB) might sound nice locally but creates problems in contests and DXpeditions.

I run ESSB for local ragchews with great results - ESSB exceeds 3kHz up to 4-5kHz for enhanced audio. But I switch back to standard 2.7kHz for DX and contest work. Know your audience and band conditions. Wide audio doesn't help when signals are weak anyway.