[Elecraft] K3 versus FT2K

[J F]

Barry,

I wonder about this and the Orions that seem to be on
the  second hand market so close to the initial
offering. That usually speaks of poor performance
and/or other issues (including warranty service).

Certainly any new product has the potential for having
issues, how the manufacturer responds to those
problems has as much to do with customer satisfaction
as the actual item.

While it is possible that the K3 may have some
problems, with the new manufacturing methods, I figure
the folks in Aptos will be highly responsive to any
issues real or perceived... They've done a lot to give
folks a valid reason to remain loyal to the Elecraft
brand.

Analyzing the risk and comparing it against other new
radios of a similar ilk. I'll take my chances with
Elecraft. I had been pondering a TenTec Orion,
particularly being in TT country. But a few locals who
bought the rigs have been less than ecstatic about
them, one has already sold his (and is waiting to see
my K3, before jumping back in). At $2K plus, I'm sure
there aren't a lot of guys who want to get burned
again.

Ye pays yer money and takes yer chances...
Fortunately, I feel comfortable with the K3 odds.

Cheers,
Julius
n2wn 

"I've never owned an FT-2000, but I can't help but
wonder at the relatively high number of used FT-2000
radios offered for sale (eham.net, qth.com) - it sure
seems that a significant portion of new owners are
having issues with the radio.

73,
Barry N1EU"