[Elecraft] K3: RE: OT Expert 1k Amplifier

[Enno J. Korma, PF5X]

I have an Expert 1K-FA for almost a year now. It is relatively expensive,
but still, I would make
the same decision if I had to choose again. Why?
 
1. Very flexible in/output switching => you can run with two exciters and 4
different antennas
2. HF + 6m coverage (but so has the ACOM1000 and a few others)
3. Instant full power out after switching it on. The 2.5 min warm-up time is
simply unacceptable for serious DXing on 6m.
    By the time the amp switches on, the opening has switched off. Thank you
ceramic tube for loosing a valuable new one !
4. Very flexible interfacing for band switching covering all the big TRX
brands, a generic option (covering Elecraft) and HF sensed bandswitching
5. Good protection circuitry + build-in semi-auto antenna tuner (with option
for manual adjustments).
6. The price of an MRF-150 is about US$60 I think, so if you are unlucky you
need to spend about US$360 for a full set of replacement
   transistors, which is still reasonable.
 
I am very satisfied with it. I mostly run it at half power, because that
puts me above the crowd in most cases already.
If the going gets really tough I am going all the way ...
 
ALC interfacing is recommended with this kind of linear. I have already
asked on this reflector how this should be done with the K3. The K3 delivers
a positive
ALC voltage whereas the linear - like other types - needs a negative
voltage. Wayne had replied that this needs a little external circuitry
which will be described in due time. (Looking to the schematics I believe
the K3 does not carry any negative voltage line at all).
 
Before buying a linear (whatever brand or power class), improve your antenna
system first to the best possible, given your local situation !
 
Enno, PF5X
K3, S/N ? (ordered for beginning July 2008 delivery)
 

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