Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Four months ago or so I sold my KX3/KXPA100 combination to purchase a used K3/100. There were a couple of factors. First of all, I had used my KX3 kit for NPOTA extensively, and I was done with that operation. Second, I had purchased an IC-706Mk2G and installed it mobile, permanently. Third, I wanted to install various accessories to operate contests that simply were not compatible with the KX3. I wanted to use N1MM+ software to run FSK RTTY. I wanted to be able to swap between digital and phone operation without having to unplug and re-plug. I wanted to use a MicroHam microKeyer, which wasn't compatible with the KX3. Finally, I wanted a smaller desktop package for home station operation and a cleaner permanent install. I also didn't want to daisy chain amplifiers to go > 100w (KX3 to KXPA100 to QRO amp). In short, my operating style changed and thus my equipment did to. The fact is that there are some accessories and software which are just not compatible with the KX3. And while it may be possible rig up something and 'make it work', I'd rather just use gear that works as intended. Still 100% Elecraft, though! - WN8U __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
would let them > get on and talk to their good buddies, give weather reports or talk about > hog farming on 160 at 11pm at night. Only when you are a discriminating op > would you want or need better than a $700 to $1300 radio. I love my K3S and > each time I run in a contest, I learn something new about some feature that > I had not used before. On the other hand, I also own a Yeasu 450 and it is > my test radio for antenna building and recently I put it in my truck as a > mobile. It works great. going down the road running CW or a casual SSB QSO, > it works great. It puts out 100 watts and works for me. For a contest grade > radio, no so much. Its front end is easily over loaded in a pileup and it > is selectivity is more than some what lacking. For casual operation, it is > a great deal. The major downfall of the radio for casual operation and temp > set ups is that the internal antenna tuner is severely lacking. It is > limited to a 3 to 1 miss match. > > Knowing what is possible in radioland and having the money to buy what ever > one wants with out so much as blinking, that is not me. Would I love to > have a Flex 6700 with full second rx and Maestro interface to run SO2R...Oh > Hell yes. Am I willing to invest $10,000 to get there...oh hell NO. What > happens if is get a virus in the software that runs the radio? Im done. > What happens if some part for the main box goes down, Im done. There is > always a better mouse trap over the horizon. One can live well if one lives > with in their means...providing they are not starving to death and have a > warm place to sleep that is clean dry and disease free. > > Vy 73, > > Morgan NJ8M > >> On Tue, Mar 7, 2017 at 7:31 PM, Harry White wrote: >> >> Gareth, >> >> Why buy either? >> >> A K3s/10-K is $2049.95. A K3s/100-K is $2599.95 (To be equivalent to the >> KX3 >> with the amplifier) and then you need the ATU at $379.95 for a total of >> $2979.90. And that is before you add any extra filters, a second receiver, >> DVR, etc., etc. >> >> A KXPA100-K is $749.95 and the tuner is $379.95. Then add the PX3 at >> $474.95 >> and you are up to $1604.85. And that is before you buy all the cables and >> other goodies. >> >> With either radio you end up with a rat's nest of cables to make them >> anywhere near useful. And they both have the antiquated orange display and >> way, way too few controls. You need to be a full time ham to remember which >> button to tap, which to push, and which to push and hold. The designs are >> very old and very outdated, the construction crude. They were designed to >> be >> QRP radios, where less is more (who needs more than ten watts? Ans: Almost >> everyone.). They fill that role admirably. >> >> I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if >> you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and >> maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a >> less-than-Elecraft price. >> >> 73, >> >> Harry >> K1RSA >> >> -Original Message- >> From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of >> Gareth >> - M5KVK >> Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:55 PM >> To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net >> Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? >> >> Hi all >> I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my >> station; however I'm torn between two options. >> >> I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for >> SOTA. >> Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really >> like more power: but no more than 100W. >> >> My options at present seem to be: >> 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have >> enough for a K3S) >> 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. >> >> If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these >> two options would you go for? >> >> 73, Gareth - M5KVK >> __ >> Elecraft mailing list >> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft >> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm >> Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net >> >> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net >> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >> Message >> delivered to hwhi...@maine.rr.com >> >> >> --- >> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. >> https
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
isplay and > way, way too few controls. You need to be a full time ham to remember which > button to tap, which to push, and which to push and hold. The designs are > very old and very outdated, the construction crude. They were designed to > be > QRP radios, where less is more (who needs more than ten watts? Ans: Almost > everyone.). They fill that role admirably. > > I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if > you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and > maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a > less-than-Elecraft price. > > 73, > > Harry > K1RSA > > -Original Message- > From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of > Gareth > - M5KVK > Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:55 PM > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? > > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. > Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really > like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message > delivered to hwhi...@maine.rr.com > > > --- > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. > https://www.avast.com/antivirus > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to mbaileyc...@gmail.com > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I tried the Icom 7300. it is a good budget rig. As they say it is an "Entry Level" ham rig. My advice: Stay with Elecraft, you already know how good those rigs are. *Many of life's problems can be solved by simply deciding what we can do without. -John Dolan * __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
On Tue, Mar 7, 2017 at 10:02 PM, Jim Brown wrote: > ...Those ICOM radios are vastly inferior to either the K3 or KX3 Maybe he doesn't care about the radio's actual performance. The Icom does sorta look cute. Tony KT0NY __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
+1 73, Igor UA9CDC 08.03.2017 2:13, George Thornton пишет: I would say that if you are considering contesting, then the K3s is the way to go. IF all you want is casual use, the KX3 with amplifier is plenty of radio. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
You've GOT to be kidding! Those ICOM radios are vastly inferior to either the K3 or KX3. Perhaps you'd be satisfied if your only operation is casual ragchewing, but not for anything challenging. The only thing "future" about the 7300 is that it's a new way to make a cheap radio. :) 73, Jim K9YC On Tue,3/7/2017 5:31 PM, Harry White wrote: I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a less-than-Elecraft price. __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Funny. When I first became I Ham, I was dazzled by the flashy display of the Icom IC-7000. Figured I could buy this radio and be pretty well set for a long time. I passed over the Elecraft radios because of their "boring" displays. Ten years later, the IC-7000 collects dust, (though works as a backup radio on the boat) and the K2 and KX3 get all the use. Those radios with their primitive display were miles ahead of the IC-7000 in actual useability, and I don't find them wanting to this day. Granted the IC-7300 is miles ahead of the IC-7000, but somehow I'm not tempted. 73 Chip AE5KA On Tue, Mar 7, 2017 at 8:31 PM, Harry White wrote: > Gareth, > > Why buy either? > > A K3s/10-K is $2049.95. A K3s/100-K is $2599.95 (To be equivalent to the > KX3 > with the amplifier) and then you need the ATU at $379.95 for a total of > $2979.90. And that is before you add any extra filters, a second receiver, > DVR, etc., etc. > > A KXPA100-K is $749.95 and the tuner is $379.95. Then add the PX3 at > $474.95 > and you are up to $1604.85. And that is before you buy all the cables and > other goodies. > > With either radio you end up with a rat's nest of cables to make them > anywhere near useful. And they both have the antiquated orange display and > way, way too few controls. You need to be a full time ham to remember which > button to tap, which to push, and which to push and hold. The designs are > very old and very outdated, the construction crude. They were designed to > be > QRP radios, where less is more (who needs more than ten watts? Ans: Almost > everyone.). They fill that role admirably. > > I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if > you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and > maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a > less-than-Elecraft price. > > 73, > > Harry > K1RSA > > -Original Message- > From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of > Gareth > - M5KVK > Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:55 PM > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? > > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. > Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really > like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message > delivered to hwhi...@maine.rr.com > > > --- > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. > https://www.avast.com/antivirus > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to lightdazz...@gmail.com > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I have the KX3+PX3+KXPA100 setup. I’m a really casual op, maybe participating in Field Day, often chasing Summits on the Air (SOTA), definitely participating in Scouting’s Jamboree on the Air (JOTA). I take my KX3 on backpacking trips. 1. Dang, there are a lot of cables in my shack between those three boxes. 2. Love the PX3. I borrowed an IC-756 Pro with a spectrum display when I was (re-)starting out, and it was really good. The PX3 is much better. 3. Resale values appear to be pretty good for Elecraft gear, so don’t worry too much about buying the wrong thing. 4. Almost all of the time, antennas are more important than receivers. Get that dipole a little higher, buy a Balun Designs balun for it, rig a Moxon, whatever. The last photo in this post shows my “shack”. Check out all the cables. On the other hand, it is quite compact. https://observer.wunderwood.org/2017/03/04/speakers-for-my-elecraft-kx3/ <https://observer.wunderwood.org/2017/03/04/speakers-for-my-elecraft-kx3/> wunder K6WRU Walter Underwood CM87wj http://observer.wunderwood.org/ (my blog) > On Mar 7, 2017, at 5:31 PM, Harry White wrote: > > Gareth, > > Why buy either? > > A K3s/10-K is $2049.95. A K3s/100-K is $2599.95 (To be equivalent to the KX3 > with the amplifier) and then you need the ATU at $379.95 for a total of > $2979.90. And that is before you add any extra filters, a second receiver, > DVR, etc., etc. > > A KXPA100-K is $749.95 and the tuner is $379.95. Then add the PX3 at $474.95 > and you are up to $1604.85. And that is before you buy all the cables and > other goodies. > > With either radio you end up with a rat's nest of cables to make them > anywhere near useful. And they both have the antiquated orange display and > way, way too few controls. You need to be a full time ham to remember which > button to tap, which to push, and which to push and hold. The designs are > very old and very outdated, the construction crude. They were designed to be > QRP radios, where less is more (who needs more than ten watts? Ans: Almost > everyone.). They fill that role admirably. > > I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if > you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and > maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a > less-than-Elecraft price. > > 73, > > Harry > K1RSA > > -Original Message- > From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gareth > - M5KVK > Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:55 PM > To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net > Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? > > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. > Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really > like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message > delivered to hwhi...@maine.rr.com > > > --- > This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. > https://www.avast.com/antivirus > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to wun...@wunderwood.org __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Gareth, Why buy either? A K3s/10-K is $2049.95. A K3s/100-K is $2599.95 (To be equivalent to the KX3 with the amplifier) and then you need the ATU at $379.95 for a total of $2979.90. And that is before you add any extra filters, a second receiver, DVR, etc., etc. A KXPA100-K is $749.95 and the tuner is $379.95. Then add the PX3 at $474.95 and you are up to $1604.85. And that is before you buy all the cables and other goodies. With either radio you end up with a rat's nest of cables to make them anywhere near useful. And they both have the antiquated orange display and way, way too few controls. You need to be a full time ham to remember which button to tap, which to push, and which to push and hold. The designs are very old and very outdated, the construction crude. They were designed to be QRP radios, where less is more (who needs more than ten watts? Ans: Almost everyone.). They fill that role admirably. I suggest you go with the future, an IC-7300, for less than $1500, or, if you can wait until maybe fall, an IC-7610. Dayton is not that far away and maybe Kenwood or Yaesu will come out with something spectacular, at a less-than-Elecraft price. 73, Harry K1RSA -Original Message- From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gareth - M5KVK Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 3:55 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? Hi all I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my station; however I'm torn between two options. I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really like more power: but no more than 100W. My options at present seem to be: 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have enough for a K3S) 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these two options would you go for? 73, Gareth - M5KVK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to hwhi...@maine.rr.com --- This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software. https://www.avast.com/antivirus __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I have both a K3/P3 and a KX3/PX3. For me, the bigest advantage of the K3(S) over the KX3 it the ease of switching between modes. I like to turn on the radio and look at the signals in a band and then try to listen to them. That means switching between Data A, AFSK A, SSB and CW a lot. With the K3, I only have to turn VOX on in the data modes and off in SSB. (Please save the VOX setting by mode!) On the KX3, I have to swap plugs and changing settings. I have all the steps listed on a card which I carry with the radio, but it is by no means as smooth as with the K3. I do get benefit from tighter filtering on the K3 when trying to rise to the top of a pileup. something that the KX3's dual watch doesn't do. I always use the big screen attached to the P3/SVGA as my major way of finding out what the radio is doing, so I would miss that too. But in the end, the ease of mode switch is the most important. On the other hand, in Garth's situation, since money is limited, getting the PX3 will give a whole new way of seeing the band. The PX3 and the amp are probably the best way to go. 73 Bill AE6JV --- Bill Frantz| I like the farmers' market | Periwinkle (408)356-8506 | because I can get fruits and | 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com | vegetables without stickers. | Los Gatos, CA 95032 __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I too have compared the K3 against a KX3 (with 100W) on field day. The K3 is much more practical, in that you can have everything cabled up for all modes of interest, so you can switch modes quickly. With the KX3, you have a bit of a rat's nest to begin with, and you end up unplugging the microphone to plug in your sound card, etc. Once you upgrade a K3 with the new synthesizer, there is very little difference in capability between the K3 and the K3S. I recently sold my KXPA100 and used the money toward a K3 in excellent condition (100 W, ATU, IF output options included; as were all the minor hardware changes recommended over the years) which cost $1600. After I paid for the synthesizer upgrade and a CW roofing filter, I had spent much less than what I might have spent on a new K3S. Sure, I didn't get the improved preamp for 6, 10 and 12 and a few other, rather unimportant improvements that come with the K3S. This tradeoff made good sense for me. It would have been even better if the used K3 had had more upgrades, such as the synthesizer upgrade, the preamp upgrade, optional roofing filters. Remember, all those options are easy to plug in, and bring the K3 very close to a K3S. It would have been less good if the used K3 had needed a lot of small hardware changes involving soldering to bring it up to date as a K3. 73, Erik K7TV __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Gareth, I agree with both Don and George regarding the K3s advantages. I also find it's performance pluses to be significant in crowded band conditions. I'll add two more considerations. Ergonomics: My K3 is just easier to use in the shack than my KX3. More dials, bigger buttons, easier to use in its position, etc. The tilted KX3 is just not so user friendly. Shack layout: Having a separate amplifier would mean more cables to fuss with. If I were in your position, I'd think about buying the K3s, the P3 (if a panadapter is important to you) and then -- if you use the KX3 only for things such as SOTA -- selling it and replacing it with the smaller KX2. Now that I have a KX2 I seldom use my KX3 (even though I have the PX3 as well). The "QRP-ness" of the KX2 makes it a fun rig and its performance seems right up there with the KX3. Only disadvantage -- unimportant to me -- is fewer bands. And I far prefer the KXPD2 to the KXPD3 -- again, likely a personal preference. Not all will agree, but that's what I'd do in your situation (sans financial considerations, of course!). 73, Phil W7OX On 3/7/17 2:40 PM, George Thornton wrote: To amplify this answer, the dual-receive and filter options available only on the K3S are valuable tools for penetrating pileups. The dual receive also allows for diversity reception, which can improve your ability to pick out a weak signal from the surrounding noise. I did not know the PX3 has the same size screen as the P3. The P3 does have additional optional features not available with the PX3. These include the TX monitor and the ability to put the image on a larger screen (SVGA option). I have both of those optional features and I find them very useful. From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 2:02 PM To: Gareth - M5KVK ; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? Gareth, If you are into contesting or DXing or otherwise dealing with pileups, then the K3S is in order for you. If you operating is a bit more casual than that, then add the KXPA100 and PX3 to the KX3 and you will be better off. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/7/2017 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: Hi all I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my station; however I'm torn between two options. I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really like more power: but no more than 100W. My options at present seem to be: 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have enough for a K3S) 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these two options would you go for? 73, Gareth - M5KVK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Get Both Both are great radios and both seem to excel in different areas From: George Thornton To: "donw...@embarqmail.com" ; Gareth - M5KVK ; "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 5:40 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? To amplify this answer, the dual-receive and filter options available only on the K3S are valuable tools for penetrating pileups. The dual receive also allows for diversity reception, which can improve your ability to pick out a weak signal from the surrounding noise. I did not know the PX3 has the same size screen as the P3. The P3 does have additional optional features not available with the PX3. These include the TX monitor and the ability to put the image on a larger screen (SVGA option). I have both of those optional features and I find them very useful. From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 2:02 PM To: Gareth - M5KVK ; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? Gareth, If you are into contesting or DXing or otherwise dealing with pileups, then the K3S is in order for you. If you operating is a bit more casual than that, then add the KXPA100 and PX3 to the KX3 and you will be better off. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/7/2017 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to donw...@embarqmail.com<mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com> > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com<mailto:gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com> __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to hlyin...@yahoo.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
On Tue,3/7/2017 1:13 PM, George Thornton wrote: I would say that if you are considering contesting, then the K3s is the way to go. IF all you want is casual use, the KX3 with amplifier is plenty of radio. I generally agree with that advice. But there are other things that a K3 can provide that the KX3 cannot, like a real second RX with a separate input to do diversity RX. Switching from a digital mode to SSB or CW is far easier with the K3. The question you have to ask is "what sort of operating do I want to do?" The KX3 is clearly the choice for a ham who does general operating, portable operating, mobile operating, and operating from home. You want the 100W amp when you're mobile, and maybe at home. Also, don't consider ONLY the K3S -- a used K3 that comes up for sale here is a great option. I've chosen to hang on to my early s/n K3s and have simply added the new synth and the new transceiver board that gives me the two-stage preamp. That's at least 90% of the difference between a K3 and K3S, and at a significantly lower cost. 73, Jim K9YC __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I don’t have any money to spend, but thinking of selling a rig to put towards the PX3 and KXPA100. Thats the way I’d go. > On Mar 7, 2017, at 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: > > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to romeado...@outlook.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
To amplify this answer, the dual-receive and filter options available only on the K3S are valuable tools for penetrating pileups. The dual receive also allows for diversity reception, which can improve your ability to pick out a weak signal from the surrounding noise. I did not know the PX3 has the same size screen as the P3. The P3 does have additional optional features not available with the PX3. These include the TX monitor and the ability to put the image on a larger screen (SVGA option). I have both of those optional features and I find them very useful. From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Don Wilhelm Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 2:02 PM To: Gareth - M5KVK ; elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? Gareth, If you are into contesting or DXing or otherwise dealing with pileups, then the K3S is in order for you. If you operating is a bit more casual than that, then add the KXPA100 and PX3 to the KX3 and you will be better off. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/7/2017 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to donw...@embarqmail.com<mailto:donw...@embarqmail.com> > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com<mailto:gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com> __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Gareth, If you are into contesting or DXing or otherwise dealing with pileups, then the K3S is in order for you. If you operating is a bit more casual than that, then add the KXPA100 and PX3 to the KX3 and you will be better off. 73, Don W3FPR On 3/7/2017 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: Hi all I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my station; however I'm torn between two options. I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really like more power: but no more than 100W. My options at present seem to be: 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have enough for a K3S) 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these two options would you go for? 73, Gareth - M5KVK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to donw...@embarqmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Owning both, I'd have to parrot Kev's comments. Add the options to the KX3 and you have it. 73, Chuck K4QS From: Kevin - K4VD To: Gareth - M5KVK Cc: "elecraft@mailman.qth.net" Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 5:15 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? If it were me, I'd augment the KX3. It's just too good a rig to replace if you already own it. There's not much out there that can top it unless you're looking for bigger knobs maybe? Add the PX3 and KXPA100 and you have the perfect setup no matter where you are. Add a KPA500 and voila! You're a big gun. ;) There is an advantage to having an extra rig available for backup. Maybe another KX3 next year? Nuff said. 73, Kev K4VD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to k4...@yahoo.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Well, I bought my K3/10 in 2010 before the KX3 was available, then bought the KX3 when it was offered. Both are 12w radios so I added a KXPA100 which can be driven by either radio. I would lean toward the KXPA100 if I only had the KX3. If you later want a K3S you could get the K3S/10 and also use it with the KXPA100. That would be a little more expensive than buying a K3S/100, but allows you to run 100w with the KX3. I am setting up my KX3 + KXPA100 for mobile use where the smaller footprint of the KX3 works much better at the dash of the truck. I have no opinion on the PX3 as I have sw for panadaptor use with my LP-Pan and K3. PX3 would be nice for use without need of computer with the KX3. BTW I have very comparable performance of my K3 and KX3 on 20m (casual use on Elecraft Net). I do no contesting or HF DX which the K3S is probably better for. 73, Ed - KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com Dubus-NA Business mail: dubus...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
If it were me, I'd augment the KX3. It's just too good a rig to replace if you already own it. There's not much out there that can top it unless you're looking for bigger knobs maybe? Add the PX3 and KXPA100 and you have the perfect setup no matter where you are. Add a KPA500 and voila! You're a big gun. ;) There is an advantage to having an extra rig available for backup. Maybe another KX3 next year? Nuff said. 73, Kev K4VD __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I have had the opportunity to work both options on Field Day. The KX3 is a nice rig and it performs very well. When you add the amplifier and PX3 you have a completely workable setup that has the added advantage of extreme portability. However, the K3s has a number of features and capabilities that don't come with the KX3. You have greater options for filters, dual receivers, digital modes, etc. The P3 has a larger screen, and it can connect to an external monitor. The KX3 by comparison has relatively weak audio and would benefit from either amplified speakers or headphones. I would say that if you are considering contesting, then the K3s is the way to go. IF all you want is casual use, the KX3 with amplifier is plenty of radio. From: Elecraft [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gareth - M5KVK Sent: Tuesday, March 7, 2017 12:55 PM To: elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3? Hi all I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my station; however I'm torn between two options. I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really like more power: but no more than 100W. My options at present seem to be: 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have enough for a K3S) 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these two options would you go for? 73, Gareth - M5KVK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com<mailto:gthorn...@thorntonmostullaw.com> __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Second Ramon's suggestion. I was fortunate enough to be in your shoes in January and got a full KX3/PX3/KXPA100 station lock stock and barrel. Best move I made. Not looking back. On Tue, Mar 7, 2017 at 3:58 PM, Ramon Tristani wrote: > By all means, keep the KX3, add the 100 watt KXPA100, and don’t forget to > add the PX3. > > Ramon, NQ9V > > > > On Mar 7, 2017, at 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: > > > > Hi all > > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > > > My options at present seem to be: > > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > > enough for a K3S) > > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > > two options would you go for? > > > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > > __ > > Elecraft mailing list > > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > > Message delivered to r.trist...@gmail.com > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to r...@wc3t.us > -- 73 (or 72 for the QRP folks), Rich Hurd / WC3T Northampton County RACES EPA-ARRL Public Information Officer for Scouting Latitude: 40.761621 Longitude: -75.288988 Grid: *FN20is* 40°45.68' N 75°17.33' W __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
I would keep things strictly simple and therefore buy a K3S! 73 have fun, Heinz HB9BCB > Am 07.03.2017 um 21:54 schrieb Gareth - M5KVK : > > Hi all, ... > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > ... > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
By all means, keep the KX3, add the 100 watt KXPA100, and don’t forget to add the PX3. Ramon, NQ9V > On Mar 7, 2017, at 3:54 PM, Gareth - M5KVK wrote: > > Hi all > I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my > station; however I'm torn between two options. > > I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for > SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd > really like more power: but no more than 100W. > > My options at present seem to be: > 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have > enough for a K3S) > 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. > > If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these > two options would you go for? > > 73, Gareth - M5KVK > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html > Message delivered to r.trist...@gmail.com __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
[Elecraft] Augment KX3 or buy K3?
Hi all I am in the fortunate position of having some money to spend upgrading my station; however I'm torn between two options. I have a KX3 which I love and use a lot as a base station and also for SOTA. Generally, I operate with 5W max but there are occasions where I'd really like more power: but no more than 100W. My options at present seem to be: 1) Reserve the KX3 for SOTA and buy a K3S, (but nothing more I only have enough for a K3S) 2) Add a KXPA100 with ATU (and maybe a PX3) instead. If this were you with money burning a hole in your pocket, which of these two options would you go for? 73, Gareth - M5KVK __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
