[Elecraft] K3

[Dave, G4AON]

Phil, I ordered similar parts but as a kit (not the KRX3 second 
receiver). I am sure there will be lots of suggestions, but here are mine!
(a) The K3 takes around 5 hours to assemble for the 10 Watt version and 
another hour for the 100W PA. Whether to opt for the factory assembled 
version is a user choice, but the kit isn't hard to assemble. There was 
a suggestion that at one time the kits arrived sooner than the assembled 
version, you might check with Elecraft on that point.
(b) I operate CW, sound card data modes (PSK31/Olivia/MFSK/RTTY), Amtor 
and Pactor (I/II/III) via an SCS PTC-IIex modem, SSB and AM. I have 400 
Hz, 2.8 KHz and 6 KHz filters. I haven't felt a need for a 1 KHz filter 
but your mileage may vary depending on what QRM you have when operating 
data modes. The K3 has a very strong receiver, I am not convinced of the 
need for each incremental filter...
(c) If you want to use a panadapter, the LP-PAN product is the current 
best value. You can add an IF output from the K3 without needing the 
KXV3, the connection points are available under the main RF board and 
the blanking panel for the KXV3 can be drilled for a single hole fixing 
BNC socket. I use the KXV3 for it's RF IN/OUT sockets to use an outboard 
2nd receiver in the form of a Perseus SDR receiver connected via a home 
wound ferrite splitter, both K3 and Perseus are linked via Ham Radio 
Deluxe. I hadn't previously used a panoramic receiver, now I use the 
Perseus all the time!
(d) If you want to use 6m it's worth considering an external pre-amp as 
the K3 is not the most sensitive transceiver around. The Elecraft 
pre-amp costs $150 and also needs the KXV3 interface at a further $100! 
I use an Advanced Receiver Research P50VDG pre-amp which costs $80 (also 
needs a KXV3).

Just my 2c worth!
73 Dave, G4AON
K3/100 #80
======================
I am going to order, factory assembled:

3/100F
KAT3F
KTCX03-1
KUS
1.0
2.8
6

Please advise if this is what you would recommend or what would you take out
and replace. Based on user experience. will operate all modes including
PSK. I read many comments on the reflector on what filters to have and what
they never use. Thanks

Phil Previous K2 owner and just sold 756 Pro III

Philip LaMarche