Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I took 10 years to build my serial #1xxx K2 kit. I started the kit in about '99 and put it aside when we had an addition being built. Over the years, I recorded and kept tract of all the mods and updated parts. I ordered and set aside crystals, firmware (didn't even use one of the chip sets) and other mod kits. I edited the assembly instructions as time went along and in about 2010, I got the kit and parts out, refreshed my understand of the assembly and inserting mods, etc, and finished it in about a week or so. And it worked perfectly. I have had opportunities to sell it, but somehow it seems like an old friend. - Chuck, KE9UW -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I did exactly what was not recommended. Built my #35 in less than 25 hours in my motel room because I was totally bored and wanted better than the Norcal 40 and be all band! What an amazing experience. Still the best kit ever. 73, Bill K9YEQ _ From: ke9uw Sent: Monday, January 29, 2018 8:48 PM Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing) To: I took 10 years to build my serial #1xxx K2 kit. I started the kit in about '99 and put it aside when we had an addition being built. Over the years, I recorded and kept tract of all the mods and updated parts. I ordered and set aside crystals, firmware (didn't even use one of the chip sets) and other mod kits. I edited the assembly instructions as time went along and in about 2010, I got the kit and parts out, refreshed my understanding of the assembly and inserting mods, etc, and finished it in about a week or so. And it worked perfectly. I have had opportunities to sell it, but somehow it seems like an old friend. - Chuck, KE9UW -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.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 k9...@live.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Thanks Wayne however, if you get updates on K2 orders, you'll see that SWMBO thought it was a VERY good idea that I be kept out of her ha... er busy. So, a K2 with all the bells & whistles will be making its way to me in the next two weeks; and I'll be busy smoke testing not long after it arrives :) 73s, Neil Zampella, KN3ILZ On 1/28/2018 2:44 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: Special K2 pricing is good until at least the end of February. We’ll fix this on the website early next week. tnx Wayne N6KR On Jan 27, 2018, at 6:19 PM, Neil Zampella wrote: Wayne, I've been trying to convince SWMBO that I need something to keep me busy now that I'm semi-retired, I almost have her convinced that my building a K2 would do it, but I noticed that the pricing lasts until Jan 31st. Are you thinking about a Valentine's Day sale too ??? 73 Neil Zampella, KN3ILZ Happy KX3/KXPA100/PX3 owner - No virus found in this message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 2016.0.8013 / Virus Database: 4793/15355 - Release Date: 01/28/18 __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I took 10 years to build my serial #1xxx K2 kit. I started the kit in about '99 and put it aside when we had an addition being built. Over the years, I recorded and kept tract of all the mods and updated parts. I ordered and set aside crystals, firmware (didn't even use one of the chip sets) and other mod kits. I edited the assembly instructions as time went along and in about 2010, I got the kit and parts out, refreshed my understanding of the assembly and inserting mods, etc, and finished it in about a week or so. And it worked perfectly. I have had opportunities to sell it, but somehow it seems like an old friend. - Chuck, KE9UW -- Sent from: http://elecraft.365791.n2.nabble.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Special K2 pricing is good until at least the end of February. We’ll fix this on the website early next week. tnx Wayne N6KR > On Jan 27, 2018, at 6:19 PM, Neil Zampella wrote: > > Wayne, > > I've been trying to convince SWMBO that I need something to keep me busy now > that I'm semi-retired, I almost have her convinced that my building a K2 > would do it, but I noticed that the pricing lasts until Jan 31st. Are you > thinking about a Valentine's Day sale too ??? > > 73 > > Neil Zampella, KN3ILZ > Happy KX3/KXPA100/PX3 owner > __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Slowly, ever so slowly over the years, I shifted from QRP CW, mostly with the K2, to 100w SSB, with the K3 and a couple of other rigs, operating only on a couple of SSB nets. And then I read Wayne's post. And the responses. And looked at the K2 on the desk, connected but unused, gathering dust. So last night I fired it up, in these poor propagation days, and running CW on 40m at just under 5w on the meter into an inverted V, snagged AE4YP in FL, K3Y/1 in NH, and shortly after, K3Y/0 in CO. This morning I heard K3Y/9 - very weak - but he did not copy me, and I refused to turn up the power. Thanks, Wayne. Alan V31FA (Belize) On Sat, Jan 27, 2018 at 8:19 PM, Neil Zampella wrote: > Wayne, > > I've been trying to convince SWMBO that I need something to keep me busy > now that I'm semi-retired, I almost have her convinced that my building a > K2 would do it, but I noticed that the pricing lasts until Jan 31st. Are > you thinking about a Valentine's Day sale too ??? > > 73 > > Neil Zampella, KN3ILZ > Happy KX3/KXPA100/PX3 owner > > > On 1/26/2018 6:16 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: > >> Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. >> I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the >> design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. >> (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t >> even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. >> >> Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same >> question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. >> >> Features? >> >> The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode >> desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with >> the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven >> crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. >> >> Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become >> obsolete? >> >> Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the >> continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the >> blazingly fast break-in CW. >> >> Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential >> controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small >> number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. >> >> But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s >> popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: >> transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and >> hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. >> (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” >> that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) >> >> Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s >> nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier >> to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a >> reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little >> prior experience building. >> >> What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the >> over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: >> >> http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 >> >> The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why >> Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 >> only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech >> support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) >> >> Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. >> In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even >> if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you >> identify and install parts. >> >> That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the >> assembly manual: >> >> http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manu >> al%20Rev%20I.pdf >> >> The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the >> resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal >> tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the >> point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any >> difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day >> or night, or check in with customer support. >> >> For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve >> decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s >> gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: >> http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm >> >> I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken >> in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van >> wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, >> exce
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Wayne, I've been trying to convince SWMBO that I need something to keep me busy now that I'm semi-retired, I almost have her convinced that my building a K2 would do it, but I noticed that the pricing lasts until Jan 31st. Are you thinking about a Valentine's Day sale too ??? 73 Neil Zampella, KN3ILZ Happy KX3/KXPA100/PX3 owner On 1/26/2018 6:16 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I did in 2007. K2/100 #4684. An hour or so after work each night...maybe not if I had a bad day. Weekends were filled with everything K2/100 and add-ons. Mine is fully "stuffed". Sad part is I couldn't do it again. Since then I have lost about half of my eyesight. A couple of badly detached retina's from a fall and six surgeries for two eyes. I will never sell that rig. R. Kevin StoverAC0H ARRL FISTS NAQCC SKCC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wayne Burdick Sent: Friday, January 26, 2018 5:16 PM To: Elecraft Reflector Cc: k...@yahoogroups.com; elecraft...@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing) Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg 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:
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
This almost has me ordering one. My first kit was in summer of 1958 (I was 14). $19.95 bought me a 3-tube regen receiver - Knight kit Ocean Hopper (with all band coils). I didn't even have a soldering iron which my Dad bought me for $5.95 for my birthday. I had several Heathkits and Hammarlund and Clegg and a EF Johnson which were all off-shelf. Later some Kenwoods, Yaesu's, and Icom's, even two Tentec. Since then, I have built many surface-mount kits from DEMI and W6PQL, etc. I'm near the end on SM and retired my kit making business last spring. This fall I learned I will no longer be climbing towers. If I did not already own a K3, KX3 (w/2m module), and KXPA100, I might be interested in the QRP version of the K2 to use as IF for mw. Guess I got enough on my plate to get finished. But an intriguing thought. 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I've built two K2s. The second one was serial number 1250, which at the time was my street address. Nice catch. ;) When it came time to prepare to evacuate from the Butte Fire a couple years ago, after the usual essentials were packed, the K2s went in the car next. Wayne, when we gonna get another K2-level kit? :) 73 jeff wk6i -- Jeff Stai ~ wk6i.j...@gmail.com Twisted Oak Winery ~ http://www.twistedoak.com/ Facebook ~ http://www.facebook.com/twistedoak RTTY op at W7RN __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I was first licensed in 1952 and spent my senior year in HS using the modified ARC-5 transmitter and Hallicrafters S-40 receiver in the HS radio club room - W2CLE, allegedly the oldest HS radio club in the US (1912). My next excursion into HF was the pair of Hallicrafters SX-101A and HT-32B that I used from 1965 through mid-1967 when I was 4X4UQ in Israel. 55 countries (the easy ones, of course) over 28 months Nice to be DX for a change. Returning to the 'States in 1967, went back on 40 meters for about 3 years, then sold those rigs because my main activity was VHF/UHF and didn't get back on HF until I got the K2 in 2006. Because of my degraded close-up eyesight (monocular), I couldn't build it myself, but a local ham friend did it for me. Fully loaded K2 of course for working HF 'phone and digital modes. If I had known and waited another year or so I could have had a K3 but that's another story. I couldn't put up any decent HF antenna after moving to this ground-floor apartment 5 years ago, so the K2 sits "ready to go" connected to a short end-fed wire antenna - not a very effective radiator. Except for contests, I don't hear anything. But I can hope. 73 de K2ASP - Phil Kane Elecraft K2/100 s/n 5402 >From a Clearing in the Silicon Forest Beaverton (Washington County) Oregon __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
My first transceiver was an IC-7000. Suborned by the pretty display. Elecraft was too plain looking. Then I put together a KX1, and realized there was something to Elecraft. I didn't want to drop the bucks on a full K2 kit, so to Ebay I went, where I got a late model K2 with a couple of problems left by the original builder. After finding and fixing those, and adding the K6XX and MAB mods, this K2 has become my primary shack transceiver. Nothing else has lured me away - except for the KX3 and KX2 that are now my portable and travel rigs. Strangely, in the shack, I actually enjoy using the K2 more than the KX radios. Still in the back of my mind, I keep thinking I will at some point buy a K2 kit to build myself. Hopefully I won't wait too long. 73 Chip AE5KA On Fri, Jan 26, 2018 at 11:22 PM, Ron D'Eau Claire wrote: > First licensed in 1952, I've never felt as good operating any rig as one I > built myself, either from scratch like my first Novice rig or at the very > least from a kit. > > I still remember running net control during a Civil Defense exercise from > W6CV in Southern CA, a station owned by a good friend with a beautiful > collection of National and E.F. Johnson equipment and, after the exercise > was over as I drove home in my '47 Studebaker eagerly looking forward to > putting my homebrew 6L6 oscillator on the air in the 80 meter novice band. > Doing that was more exciting because I had worked out the circuit from an > old handbook and built it on an salvaged chassis, complete with a tank coil > made out of (door) bell wire wound on a circle of nails. > > My station was completed with a homebrew superhet - several of them over > time. > > Because of that background my K2, built in 1999, is still my favorite rig > in > spite of the K3S it shares my shack with. I was an eager participant in > many > of the upgrades it got in the first few years, happy to modify the circuits > and do the required testing. > > For SOME of us, the "magic" of cobbling together the parts, working out the > circuit, building and putting a rig on the air is more important than our > contest scores or DXCC standing. > > 73, Ron AC7AC > > > > -Original Message- > From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net > [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Buddy Brannan > Sent: Friday, January 26, 2018 6:29 PM > To: Elecraft Reflector > Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? > (plus: special pricing) > > Howdy, > > Thanks Wayne for the look back. Great stuff! > > Like others, my K2 is not for sale. No matter what other rigs may grace my > shack, the K2 stays. Nope, I didn't build it (I'm all thumbs), but, besides > being a super performer and just tons of fun, being a gift from my first > guide dog upon his retirement (with help, naturally, from other humans), it > has huge sentimental value. Thanks Karl. > > Come to think of it, I think Elecraft has been something of a tradition for > important milestones. The KX1, I got when I went to Ukraine to adopt our > daughter in 2004. It's now living with a longtime friend and partner in > mischief. The KX3 I got myself as a 25th hamiversary gift. What's next? > > Vy 73, > > -- > Buddy (a fake ham) Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA Mobile (preferred): (814) > 431-0962 > Phone: (814) 860-3194 > Email: bu...@brannan.name > "We are all just walking each other home." > > > > > On Jan 26, 2018, at 7:02 PM, Bill Frantz wrote: > > > > I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment and uber > hams design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes Wayne a uber > ham. > > > > 73 Bill AE6JV > > > > --- > > Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle > > (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood Ave > > www.pwpconsult.com | | 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 > > bu...@brannan.name > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:Elecraft@mailman.qth.net > > T
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
First licensed in 1952, I've never felt as good operating any rig as one I built myself, either from scratch like my first Novice rig or at the very least from a kit. I still remember running net control during a Civil Defense exercise from W6CV in Southern CA, a station owned by a good friend with a beautiful collection of National and E.F. Johnson equipment and, after the exercise was over as I drove home in my '47 Studebaker eagerly looking forward to putting my homebrew 6L6 oscillator on the air in the 80 meter novice band. Doing that was more exciting because I had worked out the circuit from an old handbook and built it on an salvaged chassis, complete with a tank coil made out of (door) bell wire wound on a circle of nails. My station was completed with a homebrew superhet - several of them over time. Because of that background my K2, built in 1999, is still my favorite rig in spite of the K3S it shares my shack with. I was an eager participant in many of the upgrades it got in the first few years, happy to modify the circuits and do the required testing. For SOME of us, the "magic" of cobbling together the parts, working out the circuit, building and putting a rig on the air is more important than our contest scores or DXCC standing. 73, Ron AC7AC -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Buddy Brannan Sent: Friday, January 26, 2018 6:29 PM To: Elecraft Reflector Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing) Howdy, Thanks Wayne for the look back. Great stuff! Like others, my K2 is not for sale. No matter what other rigs may grace my shack, the K2 stays. Nope, I didn't build it (I'm all thumbs), but, besides being a super performer and just tons of fun, being a gift from my first guide dog upon his retirement (with help, naturally, from other humans), it has huge sentimental value. Thanks Karl. Come to think of it, I think Elecraft has been something of a tradition for important milestones. The KX1, I got when I went to Ukraine to adopt our daughter in 2004. It's now living with a longtime friend and partner in mischief. The KX3 I got myself as a 25th hamiversary gift. What's next? Vy 73, -- Buddy (a fake ham) Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA Mobile (preferred): (814) 431-0962 Phone: (814) 860-3194 Email: bu...@brannan.name "We are all just walking each other home." > On Jan 26, 2018, at 7:02 PM, Bill Frantz wrote: > > I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment and uber hams design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes Wayne a uber ham. > > 73 Bill AE6JV > > --- > Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle > (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood Ave > www.pwpconsult.com | | 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 > bu...@brannan.name __ 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...@elecraft.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
My first receiver was a low-price National - just barely usable - along with a HeathKit DX-20. My first really good receiver was in K2 #5957 with amp/ssb/dsp/NL. Since then I've gathered together the K-line station units, and I am completely satisfied with them. That said, the K2 is the radio for Field Days. Others in the club bring their whole home station.I bring the K2 (and a few support items in a small basket), operate 40m CW, and am fortunate to be able to make a contribution to our club score. If I had to make a forced choice between the two radios, I'd pick the K2. The K3 is much the better radio, yet the K2 has deeper roots in my heart. It's one of my dearest treasures. Thanks, Wayne and Eric, and all those working and helping at Elecraft! ...robert On 1/26/2018 23:16, Wayne Burdick wrote: Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg 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
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Lenny, You might want to consider doing all the A to B upgrades to that K2, and that includes changing the IF crystals on both the K2 RF Board as well as the KSB2 filter bandwidth to the current 2.4kHz. If you have the KPA100, it can likely benefit from the KPA100UPKT and the new shield. A fully upgraded K2 will perform like a new K2. 73, Don W3FPR On 1/26/2018 9:07 PM, Lenny Wintfeld wrote: I must be the only K2 owner who found the construction (40+ hrs) just... tedious. But it was worth it. Bought it July 1999 and still using it, still qrp and still occasionally busting pileups. Everyone's different. I'll probably get a K3 one day (kind of expensive), but the K2 us doing fine in the mean time. 73, --Lenny W2BVH On January 26, 2018 at 6:16 PM Wayne Burdick wrote: Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg 73, Wayne N6KR __ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecra
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Howdy, Thanks Wayne for the look back. Great stuff! Like others, my K2 is not for sale. No matter what other rigs may grace my shack, the K2 stays. Nope, I didn't build it (I'm all thumbs), but, besides being a super performer and just tons of fun, being a gift from my first guide dog upon his retirement (with help, naturally, from other humans), it has huge sentimental value. Thanks Karl. Come to think of it, I think Elecraft has been something of a tradition for important milestones. The KX1, I got when I went to Ukraine to adopt our daughter in 2004. It's now living with a longtime friend and partner in mischief. The KX3 I got myself as a 25th hamiversary gift. What's next? Vy 73, -- Buddy (a fake ham) Brannan, KB5ELV - Erie, PA Mobile (preferred): (814) 431-0962 Phone: (814) 860-3194 Email: bu...@brannan.name "We are all just walking each other home." > On Jan 26, 2018, at 7:02 PM, Bill Frantz wrote: > > I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment and uber hams > design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes Wayne a uber ham. > > 73 Bill AE6JV > > --- > Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle > (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood Ave > www.pwpconsult.com | | 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 bu...@brannan.name __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I must be the only K2 owner who found the construction (40+ hrs) just... tedious. But it was worth it. Bought it July 1999 and still using it, still qrp and still occasionally busting pileups. Everyone's different. I'll probably get a K3 one day (kind of expensive), but the K2 us doing fine in the mean time. 73, --Lenny W2BVH > On January 26, 2018 at 6:16 PM Wayne Burdick wrote: > > > Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. > I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the > design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. > (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even > painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. > > Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same > question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. > > Features? > > The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode > desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the > bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over > many subsequent Field Days. > > Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become > obsolete? > > Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the > continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the > blazingly fast break-in CW. > > Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential > controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number > of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. > > But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s > popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: > transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware > into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I > have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should > frame. It was a unique experience.) > > Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s > nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to > handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a > reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little > prior experience building. > > What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the > over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: > > http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 > > The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why > Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 > only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support > team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) > > Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. > In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if > your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you > identify and install parts. > > That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the > assembly manual: > > > http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf > > The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the > resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal > tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the > point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, > you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or > check in with customer support. > > For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve > decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. > You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: > > http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm > > I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken > in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van > wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, > except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, > complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, > operating S/N 1. > > http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg > > 73, > Wayne > N6KR > > > __ > Elecraft mailing list > Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft > Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm > Post: mailto:elecr...@mailman.qth mailto:elecr...@mailman.qth .net > > This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net > Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html >
[Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Thanks for taking the time to post that, Wayne! I was a little worried we were about to hear of the K2 going EOL. Almost exactly a year ago I bought a K2 and have since built every option available, and it has been a joyous experience. I just love every aspect of the K2. It is my favorite (non-Heath) radio, and among my most prized possessions. I would also like to mention Don Wilhelm being one of the contributing factors toward making the K2 building and ownership experience so great. Anyway...thanks to you and Eric for the K2 - I am "Elecraft for life". Bob / W9KKB __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I've always liked the term "FunkMeister" which is German for senior or master radio operator. I am but a mere "funker." BJ WA7WJR XV9WJR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Gary Smith Sent: Saturday, January 27, 2018 7:16 AM To: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing) So... if Wayne is pushing a design concept, would that make him a Uber driver? :D 73, Gary KA1J > I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment and > uber hams design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes > Wayne a uber ham. > > 73 Bill AE6JV > > -- > - Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle > (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood > Ave www.pwpconsult.com | | 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 > g...@ka1j.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 wa7...@hotmail.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
It has been more than 4 decades since I built a Heathkit radio with my father. Having had the pleasure of buying and using a second-hand K2/10, I didn't need much convincing that I wanted to build a K2/100, and so I did just that over the Christmas/New Year's holidays. Now my K2/100 is setup in my DxVacation QTH in Vietnam and my very first QSO was with VU2USA in India using a Buddipole antenna. The K2 was not overly complex, and I didn't even mind winding the toroids. I suspect building the kit in 30 hours is achievable...but take your time and enjoy the process and take pride in a radio that is pretty darn amazing. BJ WA7WJR XV9WJR -Original Message- From: elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net [mailto:elecraft-boun...@mailman.qth.net] On Behalf Of Wayne Burdick Sent: Saturday, January 27, 2018 6:16 AM To: Elecraft Reflector Cc: k...@yahoogroups.com; elecraft...@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing) Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wa
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
While the Owners Manual is indeed super, the single largest aid for me was having all the resistors taped in the order of insertion. I'm colorblind, I checked each with the ohmmeter as I was about to select it [normal procedure for me], but that one thoughtful feature removed a huge number of possibly screw-ups for me while building it, had I been required to sort them all out in advance. Mine worked perfectly when I first went through the test procedures. Nice work guys! 73, Fred ["Skip"] K6DGW Sparks NV DM09dn Washoe County On 1/26/2018 3:16 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Most fun I had in a long time. I was kinda sad when I completed to kit. Brian KB1VBF Sent from my iPad > On Jan 26, 2018, at 6:16 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: > > Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. > I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design > on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some > claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even > painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. > > Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same > question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. > > Features? > > The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style > rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 > top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many > subsequent Field Days. > > Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become > obsolete? > > Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the > continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the > blazingly fast break-in CW. > > Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential > controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number > of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. > > But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s > popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: > transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware > into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I > have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should > frame. It was a unique experience.) > > Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing > wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, > harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, > enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience > building. > > What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over > 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: > > http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 > > The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric > and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as > a full kit. (Yes, youWho would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, > me, for one. > I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design > on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some > claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even > painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. > > Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same > question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. > > Features? > > The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style > rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 > top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many > subsequent Field Days. > > Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become > obsolete? > > Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the > continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the > blazingly fast break-in CW. > > Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential > controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number > of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. > > But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s > popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: > transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware > into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I > have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should > frame. It was a unique experience.) > > Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing > wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, > harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, > enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience > building. > > What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over > 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: > > http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 > > The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric > and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as > a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team > will be happy to rec
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
So... if Wayne is pushing a design concept, would that make him a Uber driver? :D 73, Gary KA1J > I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment > and uber hams design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes > Wayne a uber ham. > > 73 Bill AE6JV > > -- > - Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle > (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood > Ave www.pwpconsult.com | | 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 g...@ka1j.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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
I have always thought that real hams build their own equipment and uber hams design and build their own equipment. I guess that makes Wayne a uber ham. 73 Bill AE6JV --- Bill Frantz| If the site is supported by | Periwinkle (408)356-8506 | ads, you are the product.| 16345 Englewood Ave www.pwpconsult.com | | 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
Re: [Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
My first rig was a K2 borrowed from my dad K6PJV. Had to give it back when I bought my K3 but I missed it so much I bought a used one in need of repair. Added the K6XX CW tuning indicator and a fixed audio output, got WAS on JT-65 with it using less than 8 watts. I won't give it up. 73, Dennis NJ6G On 1/26/2018 15:16, Wayne Burdick wrote: Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. __ 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] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
*I built mine in 1999 and still love it. Your right about the great performance the K2 or K2/100 do on Field Day. It's the only rig in my collection that is NOT for sale.* *73* *Art WA8VSJ* On Fri, Jan 26, 2018 at 6:16 PM, Wayne Burdick wrote: > Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. > I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the > design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. > (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t > even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. > > Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same > question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. > > Features? > > The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style > rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on > KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many > subsequent Field Days. > > Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become > obsolete? > > Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the > continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the > blazingly fast break-in CW. > > Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential > controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small > number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. > > But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s > popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: > transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and > hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. > (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” > that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) > > Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s > nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier > to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a > reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little > prior experience building. > > What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the > over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: > >http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 > > The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why > Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 > only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech > support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) > > Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. > In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even > if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you > identify and install parts. > > That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the > assembly manual: > >http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s% > 20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf > > The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the > resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal > tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the > point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any > difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day > or night, or check in with customer support. > > For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve > decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s > gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: > >http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm > > I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken > in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van > wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, > except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, > complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, > operating S/N 1. > >http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg > > 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 > Message delivered to wa8...@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
[Elecraft] Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? (plus: special pricing)
Who would spend 30 hours+ building an Elecraft K2? Well, me, for one. I built the very first K2, not long after Eric and I sketched out the design on napkins right in the middle of Field Day at Henry Coe state park. (Some claim this is mythology, but I was there :) That first unit wasn’t even painted, and we had yet to design the option modules. Since then, nearly another 8,000 times someone else has asked that same question, concluding that the answer was “yes." It’s worth asking why. Features? The K2 is very light in weight for an all-HF-band/multi-mode desktop-style rig (3 lbs). The transmitter puts out 15 watts (100 W with the bolt-on KPA100 top cover), and the receiver has been proven crunch-proof over many subsequent Field Days. Is that why this little radio--our first product--just refuses to become obsolete? Maybe it's the crisp sound of the 100% analog superhet RX strip. Or the continuously tunable, variable-passband 4.9 MHz crystal filter. Or the blazingly fast break-in CW. Could it be ease of operation? The K2 has only the most essential controls--excellent for first-time users--and an embarrassingly small number of menu entries compared to most modern rigs. But when I think back on it, now, I believe the real reason for the K2’s popularity must be that it’s fun to build. Not just fun, but rewarding: transforming several bags of carefully labeled bagged components and hardware into a complete ham transceiver, then putting it on the air. (Somewhere I have a logbook page that says “First QSO on prototype K2!” that I should frame. It was a unique experience.) Speaking of parts, 100% of those used in the K2 have leads. There’s nothing wrong with surface mount construction, but leaded parts are easier to handle, harder to lose, and more clearly labeled. This makes for a reassuring, enjoyable assembly process, even if you’ve had just a little prior experience building. What got me started on this email was a quick browse through some of the over 300 reviews of the K2 posted on eHam.net: http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/117 The enjoyment and pride of building really shines through. This is why Eric and I started the company in 1998, and it’s why we still offer the K2 only as a full kit. (Yes, you’ll need a good soldering iron. Our tech support team will be happy to recommend one if you’re shopping around.) Many customers have teamed up with their kids or grandkids on the build. In my book, this beats letting them binge-watch Netflix all weekend. Even if your co-builders aren’t hams (yet), they’ll have great fun helping you identify and install parts. That, in fact, is pretty easy. One of the best things about the K2 is the assembly manual: http://www.elecraft.com/manual/E740001_K2%20Owner%27s%20Manual%20Rev%20I.pdf The manual is written in tutorial style, including finer points like the resistor color code, photos of all parts and modules, and detailed signal tracing/troubleshooting instructions. The manual has been refined to the point that it’s virtually foolproof. Of course if you have any difficulties, you can always ask a question on the Elecraft reflector, day or night, or check in with customer support. For those of you who are just now thinking about tackling the K2, we’ve decided to sweeten the deal a little. Consider it an early Valentine’s gift. You can find our K2 specials near the top of this page: http://www.elecraft.com/elecraft_prod_list.htm I’ll leave you with this photo of two early production K2s. It was taken in 1999 from inside a VW van I used to own (the radio is reliable, the van wasn’t). S/N 2, in the foreground, was being operated by Eric, WA6HHQ, except that he’s also the photographer. In the background is yours truly, complete with a Field-Day’s worth of facial hair and tie-dyed T-shirt, operating S/N 1. http://www.elecraft.com/wayne_m.jpg 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 Message delivered to arch...@mail-archive.com