[Elecraft] Re: TT Triton IV vs. K2

[Mike Fitzgibbon]

Keith, Ladies & Gents...

    Just a few short weeks ago I had K2 #186 sitting on my old Triton 
IV(after a PTO rebuild) and I pondered this very question...that is, 
what are the differences and similarities in performance and use between 
these two radios...  Which one do I prefer for CW, and which for 
SSB(even though I seldom use the mike)?

    I switched between them with the same antennas and worked a few 
stations in both modes, and I just tuned around the bands and listened 
for a few evenings.

    My honest conclusion...I like them both...it was kinda like choosing 
between two of your children.  Sure, they have differing output levels 
and current requirements.  You can install DSP in the K2, but you can 
also add outboard DSP to the Triton.  They both have very good 
transmitter and receiver sections...the Triton was, in my opinion, the 
leading edge in it's day, and the K2 has been groundbreaking in these 
more recent times.

    Now, you probably expected this answer...and you got it.  I could 
list the attributes of each, but when it comes down to operating with 
either it's rather like having a couple of sports cars, one great older 
model (maybe a 1969 Porsche 911S) and a nice new one( perhaps a Subaru 
WRX STi)...which one do you drive today?   I just depends on how you 
feel at the time...  If you have that choice to make... it ain't a bad 
thing...  They both work very well.

    If you have a K2...great...it's easy to enjoy it.   If you have a 
nice old Triton IV...you are lucky...keep it in good repair and run it 
once in a while.  If you don't use it or want it...sell it to someone 
who would like it.

    Yes...I have not made any comparision nor contrast...in my opinion 
it's more a matter of taste and attitude...

      Mike  N0MF