[Elecraft] [K2] how much harder to build: K2 vs K1?

[cx7tt at 4email.net]

Hello LS,
I was in the same stage as you back in 2002 when I ordered the K2 kit 
with options. I had not built anything since a SB200 back in early 70s 
and do not work in electronics so my technical expertise was (still is) 
pretty low.
I was so far behind the 'power curve' that I had to look up the pictures 
of the components in the back of the manual to double check that the 
component that needed to be installed was actually the one in my hand. I 
frequently would put the component on a VOM just to confirm the value. I 
took my time and double checked everything. Whenever I hit a mental 
snag, the reflector always had a response within a couple of hours...I 
think some of the boys never sleep,HI.
As I completed the final stages, I ran out of time and shipped the K2 
off to W3FPR for final alignment and he discovered a couple of bad 
solder jobs, a few components that were in wrong place, etc. My biggest 
worry when  I started was that I was wasting money building something 
that would never work due to my imcompetence; rest assured that your K2 
WILL work; there are waaay too many guys/gals on this reflector who will 
assist/guide/mentor you through the process.
I can not tell you how thrilling it was to work a 4X on 80m cw with an 
inverted L and to use the K2/100 in contests making many, many QSOs. and 
Yes, I did learn a lot.
Best of Luck LS,
73
Tom
CX7TT aka K6CT
P.S. My vote is 'get the K2'.