[Elecraft] ARRL Reports Ducie Operator's K3 Comments

[Phil & Debbie Salas]

"I wonder what they could sell a K3 out for if it was made in China?
$1,200?  I have no knowledge of manufacturing, but, judging from the
fact that everything else is made over there, I wouldn't be surprised."

Actually, you might be surprised.  Automation makes for a great equalizer. 
I bet there is not much difference in assembly and parts costs of the boards 
between on-shore and off-shore.  Assembly houses throughout the world use 
similar automatic equipment, and the parts are all very similar in cost as 
well.  Where your savings occur is in actual labour costs.  So I think that 
the savings could possibly be seen in assembled K3s, as the labor would be 
cheaper.  BUT - there isn't that much labor associated with the K3, due to 
an outstandingly well thought out design (as anyone who built the K3 knows). 
And we all know what the assembly labor costs are (not that high).  So you'd 
save on labor, but then you would pay import duties.  Bottom line - I bet 
there would not be that much of a savings.

Phil - AD5X

Phil - AD5X