[Elecraft] K1 and KAT1

[Jessie Oberreuter]

On Sun, 21 Apr 2002, Sandy, W5TVW wrote:

> Hello all.
>     Looking for some comments about what kind of antennas the KAT1
> will handle. [...] Don't want to invest the bucks in it unless it will
> do what I want. Comments/criticisms/etc. welcomed.

     I've fed some remarkably crappy antennas with it and gotten out.
Having it built-in also makes it possible to put the K1, some wire, and a
key in a lunchbox and take it ANYWHERE and manage a QSO.  Even going to a
friend's house usually means using a tuner.  With the K1, you just plug it
in, tap the tune buttons, and go.  Plus, like most "smart ATUs", it
remembers its settings across band changes.  Whenever I take my K1
somewhere new, I take a moment to tune up each band, and I'm pretty much
good to go from then on.  With each option, your K1 becomes exponentially
cooler!  You almost have to add it on principle!  You won't regret it.
     The basic 2 band K1 is a nice rig, but in terms of bang per cubic
inch, it's a bit lacking.  With four bands, it's at the front of the
class.  With the ATU, it blows everything else away.  Install the noise
blanker and internal batteries, and you'll never travel without it.


--
Jessie Oberreuter
joberreu@moselle.com
"He's a bit on edge, Mr. Johnston -- he hasn't slept since 1945."