Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
Well my answer is get them both! I have the K3/10 and ordered the KX3 with KXFL3, KXAT3, and MH3. I left off the CW paddle and NiMH charger as I will use an external key and battery for portable use. I will order the KX3-2M and KXMM3 when available. I might have been tempted to get the KX3 instead of K3/10 if it had been available in 2010 when I bought the K3. It will be less expensive and provides almost all that I desire. But having dual-Rx and transverter I/F is essential for my activities ...so I'm keeping the K3! The K3 really is a keeper! 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kw?, 144-1.4kw, 432-QRT, 1296-?, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@gmail.com Kits made by KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com/kits.htm == __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Dave, I have a KX3 for field test. There is something eerie, shocking, about how something so tiny performs the way it does. Great fun! But I guess one will eventually get used to it. Some aspects that will stay with you: The KX3 is designed to sit on a table top, Supported by its rear feet. The display is, at least for now, optimized for viewing from below the perpendicular direction rather than straight on. Great for something you move to different locations (hiding it from the view of the xyl?) but, with wires hanging from the sides, it doesn't create the look of a permanent installation. If you want to hook up a lot of things to it at a given time, you are going to find unavoidable limitations that the K3 doesn't have in terms of size and number of connectors etc. The lack of a second independent receiver is a significant difference, but the KX3 does have dual watch that covers a limited range, and there is no extra charge for it. While you can get a built-in ATU with great range, you only get one antenna connector for HF/6m. There again, if you build a complex station you will have a lot of external things that make the KX3's size advantage less important, and the xyl might find the collection of equipment more unsightly than a single K3 box. Firmware-wise the KX3 is where the K3 was years ago. CW and SSB work great, but if you want FM or AM you will need to wait a little bit. Bottom line: You really want both. The K3 is more expensive, but you could perhaps offset the difference by picking up a used one, or a 10W model, and enjoy it while KX3 production and refinement ramps up. BTW with the conditions we now have on the higher HF bands, it is really easy to work DX with 5 or 10W, even with a poor antenna, as the KX3 has shown me. Years ago someone gave me a little 3 ft baseloaded whip made by Maldol. I hid the shameful thing away in a drawer, knowing that it will radiate only a very tiny fraction of the applied power. Now I tried it for the first time (on the KX3, outdoors) and worked Japan on CW on the first call. Like I said, there is something unreal about it... It definitely gives you more opportunities for hamming. 73, Erik K7TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of David Stratton Sent: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 3:45 PM To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester, or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright. I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio, which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage. I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made and make my decision. Although I do operate from home, you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local state park or some other place away from home might provide me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be best accomplished with the KX3. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Erik K7TV states: Firmware-wise the KX3 is where the K3 was years ago. CW and SSB work great, but if you want FM or AM you will need to wait a little bit. What? Here is what I read at the top of the KX3 listing: 160-6 meters, SSB/CW/DATA/AM/FM modes I will be sorely disappointed if it is not capable of FM use with my 144-28 transverter. I can wait for the KX3-2M module but not for having FM. If this is so then I hope this will be added, soon. This is hard to believe, really? I can use the K3, of course, but then it is not available for other use. I was planning the KX3 to be able to monitor 2m and 6m while I operate my K3 on other bands/modes. 73, Ed - KL7UW, WD2XSH/45 == BP40IQ 500 KHz - 10-GHz www.kl7uw.com EME: 50-1.1kw?, 144-1.4kw, 432-QRT, 1296-?, 3400-? DUBUS Magazine USA Rep dubus...@gmail.com Kits made by KL7UW http://www.kl7uw.com/kits.htm == __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Edward R. Cole wrote: I can wait for the KX3-2M module but not for FM. Ed, The problem is that we can't do everything at oncewe have to prioritize which firmware features to add when. FM will be added very shortly after first production shipments start, so you'll be able to use it on 10 and 6 meters. The MCU code to support FM and repeaters is already in place, since it was ported from the K3. The DSP, however, is a brand new one that has very low current drain. It's totally different from the K3's DSP, so we have to rewrite all of the low-level modulation/demodulation routines. The 2-meter module should be ready for its first lab tests pretty soon. 73, Wayne N6KR __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Taking the backlog into account that probably means it will be there and working even before Ed (or me for that matter) even receives his KX3. ;-)) Keep up the good work Wayne, Eric, Lyle all. And if you need a FT for the 2 m module please let me know. ;-)) Vy 73, Olli - DH8BQA http://www.dh8bqa.de - Original Message - From: Wayne Burdick n...@elecraft.com To: Edward R. Cole kl...@acsalaska.net Cc: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2012 11:59 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options Edward R. Cole wrote: I can wait for the KX3-2M module but not for FM. Ed, The problem is that we can't do everything at oncewe have to prioritize which firmware features to add when. FM will be added very shortly after first production shipments start, so you'll be able to use it on 10 and 6 meters. The MCU code to support FM and repeaters is already in place, since it was ported from the K3. The DSP, however, is a brand new one that has very low current drain. It's totally different from the K3's DSP, so we have to rewrite all of the low-level modulation/demodulation routines. The 2-meter module should be ready for its first lab tests pretty soon. 73, Wayne N6KR __ 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 - eMail ist virenfrei. Von AVG uberpruft - www.avg.de Version: 2012.0.1913 / Virendatenbank: 2114/4870 - Ausgabedatum: 14.03.2012 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Is the viewing angle adjustable? Is so, by how much? Is contrast adjustable? (or is that accomplished by changing the viewing angle?) While a below the perpendicular optimization works well for tabletop use, I am concerned about mobile use - something I intend to do with the KX3. The rig would likely be mounted with the display perpendicular to line of sight (i.e., flat on view) -- or even such that viewing is above the perpendicular (like when the rig is sitting on the floor/console area). --Andrew, NV1B .. K7TV The display is, at least for now, optimized for viewing from below the perpendicular direction rather than straight on __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Andrew, my suggestion of a future adjustment possibility was not based on any hard information, and just like you, I would be interested in hearing from Wayne and colleagues on this topic. At this point I have not run across any kind of adjustability for the display, but my schedule is hectic and I haven't necessarily noticed everything in the menu. Here is what I can say, based on how the FT radio works for me today. Overall, the display contrast is excellent. For straight on viewing, it still looks good, with (subjectively rated) 90% contrast. Above the perpendicular the contrast falls rather rapidly. For mobile operation I would think the mobile mount that sits on a gooseneck would allow you to adjust the radio orientation for perfect contrast. 73, Erik K7TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Andrew Moore Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2012 4:43 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options Is the viewing angle adjustable? Is so, by how much? Is contrast adjustable? (or is that accomplished by changing the viewing angle?) While a below the perpendicular optimization works well for tabletop use, I am concerned about mobile use - something I intend to do with the KX3. The rig would likely be mounted with the display perpendicular to line of sight (i.e., flat on view) -- or even such that viewing is above the perpendicular (like when the rig is sitting on the floor/console area). --Andrew, NV1B .. K7TV The display is, at least for now, optimized for viewing from below the perpendicular direction rather than straight on __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Hi all, The KX3's LCD is identical to the K3's, except that it its polarizer optimized for 6 o'clock viewing, similar to that of LCDs in digital multimeters and other instruments with a top-facing display. Since the LCD has a low muliplex rate, it has very high contrast, and as Erik observed, works with a wide range of viewing angles -- but not from above the display. The contrast is not presently adjustable, but we can add this if warranted. This may extend the range a bit further. Wayne N6KR On Mar 14, 2012, at 5:46 PM, Erik Basilier wrote: Andrew, my suggestion of a future adjustment possibility was not based on any hard information, and just like you, I would be interested in hearing from Wayne and colleagues on this topic. At this point I have not run across any kind of adjustability for the display, but my schedule is hectic and I haven't necessarily noticed everything in the menu. Here is what I can say, based on how the FT radio works for me today. Overall, the display contrast is excellent. For straight on viewing, it still looks good, with (subjectively rated) 90% contrast. Above the perpendicular the contrast falls rather rapidly. For mobile operation I would think the mobile mount that sits on a gooseneck would allow you to adjust the radio orientation for perfect contrast. 73, Erik K7TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Andrew Moore Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2012 4:43 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options Is the viewing angle adjustable? Is so, by how much? Is contrast adjustable? (or is that accomplished by changing the viewing angle?) While a below the perpendicular optimization works well for tabletop use, I am concerned about mobile use - something I intend to do with the KX3. The rig would likely be mounted with the display perpendicular to line of sight (i.e., flat on view) -- or even such that viewing is above the perpendicular (like when the rig is sitting on the floor/console area). --Andrew, NV1B .. K7TV The display is, at least for now, optimized for viewing from below the perpendicular direction rather than straight on __ 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 __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
And it looks great when viewed straight on. 73, Eric --- www.elecraft.com On 3/14/2012 5:51 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: Hi all, The KX3's LCD is identical to the K3's, except that it its polarizer optimized for 6 o'clock viewing, similar to that of LCDs in digital multimeters and other instruments with a top-facing display. Since the LCD has a low muliplex rate, it has very high contrast, and as Erik observed, works with a wide range of viewing angles -- but not from above the display. The contrast is not presently adjustable, but we can add this if warranted. This may extend the range a bit further. Wayne N6KR On Mar 14, 2012, at 5:46 PM, Erik Basilier wrote: Andrew, my suggestion of a future adjustment possibility was not based on any hard information, and just like you, I would be interested in hearing from Wayne and colleagues on this topic. At this point I have not run across any kind of adjustability for the display, but my schedule is hectic and I haven't necessarily noticed everything in the menu. Here is what I can say, based on how the FT radio works for me today. Overall, the display contrast is excellent. For straight on viewing, it still looks good, with (subjectively rated) 90% contrast. Above the perpendicular the contrast falls rather rapidly. For mobile operation I would think the mobile mount that sits on a gooseneck would allow you to adjust the radio orientation for perfect contrast. 73, Erik K7TV -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Andrew Moore Sent: Wednesday, March 14, 2012 4:43 PM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options Is the viewing angle adjustable? Is so, by how much? Is contrast adjustable? (or is that accomplished by changing the viewing angle?) While a below the perpendicular optimization works well for tabletop use, I am concerned about mobile use - something I intend to do with the KX3. The rig would likely be mounted with the display perpendicular to line of sight (i.e., flat on view) -- or even such that viewing is above the perpendicular (like when the rig is sitting on the floor/console area). --Andrew, NV1B .. K7TV The display is, at least for now, optimized for viewing from below the perpendicular direction rather than straight on __ 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 __ 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 __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
On Mar 14, 2012, at 5:51 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: ...it has very high contrast, and as Erik observed, works with a wide range of viewing angles -- but not from above the display. By above I mean an angle higher than perpendicular to its face (also known as normal to the display in engineering terms). Displays that require such viewing angles use 12 o'clock displays. The K3 falls into this category, since most operators either look directly on the LCD (normal to it) or from above. Wayne __ 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
[Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
This question has been going around in my head and I would like some feedback from Elecraft owners for I have never had any Elecraft radio equipment. Which is better to have a K3/100 kit or a KX3 with all the options including the forthcoming 100 watt PA? I'm assuming the cost will be about the same. Dave - KO4KL __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
I don't have, nor have seen, the KX3. But from what I read it looks more like competition for the K2. In the basic 10W version (ie without a 100W external PA) the KX3 looks good to take with you on holiday, camping trips etc. A KX3 will take up a lot less space in your hand luggage than the K2 and offers quite a lot in that package too. On the other hand, the K3 is a very capable contest, DXpedition and shack system radio with a lot of interfacing capability and a darn good receiver too. I have a nearly fully loaded K3 and bought the basic K3/100 back in 2007. I don't see anything competing with the K3, when you add in the superb 2nd receiver, P3 panadapter and matching KPA500 amp you have a line up that is hard to beat for use at home or on serious DX trips. With my K3 I have a few extras added externally, such as a ferrite splitter on the RF IN/OUT to give a 3rd receive capability with a Perseus SDR (mostly used with CW Skimmer since getting the K3 2nd RX), an SCS PTC-IIex Pactor/Amtor modem with switching of the K3 line audio in/out between sound card (fldigi) and the SCS modem (how many other ham transceivers offer a transformer isolated line in/out?), plus of course the P3 that doesn't need a computer to use. Compared to the above setup, I just don't see the KX3 competing in the shack at home... Your requirements may be different. 73 Dave, G4AON --- This question has been going around in my head and I would like some feedback from Elecraft owners for I have never had any Elecraft radio equipment. Which is better to have a K3/100 kit or a KX3 with all the options including the forthcoming 100 watt PA? I'm assuming the cost will be about the same. Dave - KO4KL __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
David, I don't have a KX3, but I do have a K3, a TS-480, a TS-850SAT and a TS-440. I depends on what you want to do. If you want to set up a base station for general purpose operation and DX I would buy the K3/100 and if possible include the second receiver and the KAT-3. If your primary desire is mobile and or back packing you will be better served by the KX3. (I have my TS-480SAT in my truck and it is the closest thing to the KX3 that I know. I bought it before the KX3 was announced.) Every one of these rigs is a great choice for its day, but the K3 and probably the KX3 are better choices for today. (I say probably for the KX3 because I have never laid hands on one, just looked at the pictures and specs.) Unfortunately, there is no rig that is best for everything, I would guess that is why Elecraft sells five different transceivers and there are buyers for each one of them. Willis 'Cookie' Cooke K5EWJ Trustee N5BPS, USS Cavalla, USS Stewart From: David Stratton dstratt...@triad.rr.com To: Elecraft Reflector elecraft@mailman.qth.net Sent: Tuesday, March 13, 2012 12:33 PM Subject: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options? This question has been going around in my head and I would like some feedback from Elecraft owners for I have never had any Elecraft radio equipment. Which is better to have a K3/100 kit or a KX3 with all the options including the forthcoming 100 watt PA? I'm assuming the cost will be about the same. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
A tuff question. First, what are you going to so with the radio? Second, the cost will most definately NOT be the same. The K3 as a full featured contest radio capable of suporting multi roofing filters, has a built-in 100 W PA and an ATU with two ant outputs/inputs. It can be configfured with a second rec of equal spec to the main reciever. It has easy out to computer for many digital modes, has band decoding and easy connection to powerful linear amps for up to legal limit output. The K3 and KX3 have many similar features, and share operational proceeddures, but they are not the same radio. The items I listed in the above paragraph are things the K3 has that the KX3 will not have. These are important to many users. Now, the KX3 will have a builtin 10 W PA, and a 20 W ATU. And it will sport internal batteries, it weighs but 16-20 oz, supports attached paddles/key, has I/Q output for direct input to soundcard for SDR recieve and panadapter use. It will have a very nice 100 external amp with available ATU for remote mounting as in a mobile ienvironment. These are but some of the things a KX3 will have that the K3 will not have. If you want the best base station for DX and contesting, with a sub-rec, great filtering and want to drive a legal limit amp, get a K3. However, if you are more likely to want to travel with a small, almost pocket sized radio and operate from the trail or summit and not carry a big battery and enjoy QRP, then the KX3 is right up your alley. Now, all that being said, you could probably get a fully loaded KX3 for around $2000 (with external amp and ATU when available). Or you can get a 100W K3 with out the ATU for about the same price. If this is what you want, take your choice, but if you buy the K3, you can expand it as your needs(wants) grow. OR, you can do what a lot of us are doing, and buy them both. They are two different radios and many of us enjoy different aspects of the hobby so each will have it's place. I do a lot of outdoor special events, and the KX3 will be perfect, while I still like my K3 for my day to day DXing and contesting. I would not like to have to make the choice of one OR the other. ...bill nr4c On Tue, 13 Mar 2012 13:33:27 -0400, David Stratton wrote: This question has been going around in my head and I would like some feedback from Elecraft owners for I have never had any Elecraft radio equipment. Which is better to have a K3/100 kit or a KX3 with all the options including the forthcoming 100 watt PA? I'm assuming the cost will be about the same. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
The only place I see the KX3 having an advantage is where size is an absolute priority, such as for portable use. For all other applications I can think of it is my opinion that the K3 beats the KX3. 73, Dave AB7E On 3/13/2012 10:33 AM, David Stratton wrote: This question has been going around in my head and I would like some feedback from Elecraft owners for I have never had any Elecraft radio equipment. Which is better to have a K3/100 kit or a KX3 with all the options including the forthcoming 100 watt PA? I'm assuming the cost will be about the same. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options?
Just because the KX3 is small and light does not mean it would not be an ideal home rig. Most of the subscribers to this email list appear to be pretty serious, competent, first class operators who are able to take full advantage of the features and abilities of the K3. The other 99.95% of the operators in the world, including me, would not be slowed down or disadvantaged very much with a K1 for QRP CW or a tricked out K2 / 100 watts for a home rig. There is a real difference in price. The KX3 / 10 watts is $900 as a kit and $1,000 ready to go. Compare this to $1,550 $1,750 for a K3 / 10, kit or ready to go. The cost of the 100 watt amp and tuner for the KX3 should be comparable to the 100 watt amp and tuner for the K3. Save $650 by buying the KX3 and lose the opportunity to have a second, independent receiver; have performance numbers that are lower, but not significantly lower; miss out on some other add-ons that may not be all that important; and smile all the way to the bank. Mark, NØOKS __ 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
[Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester, or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright. I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio, which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage. I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made and make my decision. Although I do operate from home, you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local state park or some other place away from home might provide me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be best accomplished with the KX3. Dave - KO4KL __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Hi David, No need to stress about CW contacts -- just realise that the only critical thing you need to copy is the callsign. Ideally you'll also get a signal report, name and QTH as well. Of course you can ask for repeats, but consider if it is a casual contact and you miss those, what's the worst thing that could happen? No-one will even know except for you. So, just relax, try and get the basic info if you can, if not, don't worry, and treat everything else as gravy. And remember, you're free to say TNX FER QSO 73 at any time :-) Another way to build confidence might be to use a computer program called Morse Runner. It simulates contest-style QSOs for you. Contesting may not be what you ultimately want to do, but the program will get you used to copying callsigns and signal reports (well, numbers at least). As for K3 vs KX3, both are good options. The TS-830S is a nice radio with plenty of grunt -- do you have any of the optional CW filters for the TS-830S? If so, you already have a pretty good radio for casual home operation, and the KX3 will offer you a portability that you don't have now, plus a chance to play with some fun new things like the I/Q outputs. On the the hand, if you want a nice modern home base station, the K3-line is pretty attractive too. Good luck, let us know which way you finally decide to jump. 73, Matt VK2ACL On 14/03/2012, at 9:44 AM, David Stratton wrote: My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester, or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright. I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio, which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage. I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made and make my decision. Although I do operate from home, you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local state park or some other place away from home might provide me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be best accomplished with the KX3. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Great advice Matt. I had my first cw contact today. I was nervous but had a program to translate. I was proud when I was done, but had a patient op. What I learned was I need to learn the proper abbreviations to use. I find I want to try more now. On Mar 13, 2012 6:36 PM, Matt Maguire vk2...@gmail.com wrote: Hi David, No need to stress about CW contacts -- just realise that the only critical thing you need to copy is the callsign. Ideally you'll also get a signal report, name and QTH as well. Of course you can ask for repeats, but consider if it is a casual contact and you miss those, what's the worst thing that could happen? No-one will even know except for you. So, just relax, try and get the basic info if you can, if not, don't worry, and treat everything else as gravy. And remember, you're free to say TNX FER QSO 73 at any time :-) Another way to build confidence might be to use a computer program called Morse Runner. It simulates contest-style QSOs for you. Contesting may not be what you ultimately want to do, but the program will get you used to copying callsigns and signal reports (well, numbers at least). As for K3 vs KX3, both are good options. The TS-830S is a nice radio with plenty of grunt -- do you have any of the optional CW filters for the TS-830S? If so, you already have a pretty good radio for casual home operation, and the KX3 will offer you a portability that you don't have now, plus a chance to play with some fun new things like the I/Q outputs. On the the hand, if you want a nice modern home base station, the K3-line is pretty attractive too. Good luck, let us know which way you finally decide to jump. 73, Matt VK2ACL On 14/03/2012, at 9:44 AM, David Stratton wrote: My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester, or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright. I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio, which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage. I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made and make my decision. Although I do operate from home, you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local state park or some other place away from home might provide me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be best accomplished with the KX3. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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 __ 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
Re: [Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options
Good work! Keep at it. The decoding program may give you some extra confidence, which is great, and it will give you a feel for how operators use CW in practice. However I'd recommend to ditch it as soon as you can, since it is just a distraction to learning the code. Concerning the abbreviations, etc. it is good to be aware of some of the common ones so you don't get thrown too much when they come at you, but you'll pick them up pretty quickly. The following guide is good for beginners and goes through operating procedure and common abbreviations: http://www.netwalk.com/~fsv/CWguide.htm 73, Matt VK2ACL On 14/03/2012, at 11:30 AM, Gerald Manthey wrote: Great advice Matt. I had my first cw contact today. I was nervous but had a program to translate. I was proud when I was done, but had a patient op. What I learned was I need to learn the proper abbreviations to use. I find I want to try more now. On Mar 13, 2012 6:36 PM, Matt Maguire vk2...@gmail.com wrote: Hi David, No need to stress about CW contacts -- just realise that the only critical thing you need to copy is the callsign. Ideally you'll also get a signal report, name and QTH as well. Of course you can ask for repeats, but consider if it is a casual contact and you miss those, what's the worst thing that could happen? No-one will even know except for you. So, just relax, try and get the basic info if you can, if not, don't worry, and treat everything else as gravy. And remember, you're free to say TNX FER QSO 73 at any time :-) Another way to build confidence might be to use a computer program called Morse Runner. It simulates contest-style QSOs for you. Contesting may not be what you ultimately want to do, but the program will get you used to copying callsigns and signal reports (well, numbers at least). As for K3 vs KX3, both are good options. The TS-830S is a nice radio with plenty of grunt -- do you have any of the optional CW filters for the TS-830S? If so, you already have a pretty good radio for casual home operation, and the KX3 will offer you a portability that you don't have now, plus a chance to play with some fun new things like the I/Q outputs. On the the hand, if you want a nice modern home base station, the K3-line is pretty attractive too. Good luck, let us know which way you finally decide to jump. 73, Matt VK2ACL On 14/03/2012, at 9:44 AM, David Stratton wrote: My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester, or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright. I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio, which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage. I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made and make my decision. Although I do operate from home, you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local state park or some other place away from home might provide me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be best accomplished with the KX3. Dave - KO4KL __ 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 __ 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 __ 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
