[Elecraft] Considering K3

[Dave, G4AON]

I haven't used an IC7600, but have used a Pro III. At one time I did 
consider ditching my K3 due to firmware issues which have since been 
resolved, the radio I considered as an alternative was ironically the 
IC7600.

Areas where the K3 is better: Close in RX dynamic range, perhaps not an 
issue for SSB. Low noise (wide band "hash") on transmit (see the TX 
close in spectrum on the ARRL reviews of both), this makes the K3 a 
favourite for multi-operator sites such as DXpeditions and multi contest 
sites. Elecraft support is one of the best in the industry.

Areas where the IC7600 is better: Front panel ergonomics, the K3 is fine 
when driven from a logging program in a CW contest but for general 
purpose use it's not too good compared to the larger transceivers from 
Kenwood, Icom and Yaesu. If you really must have a built-in panoramic 
display then it's no contest, but the Icom pan display isn't as good as 
you can have with an external SDR receiver.

Both radios are mediocre with regard to SSB TX IMD, it's a common 
problem with 12 Volt PA transceivers. Not a lot you can do about it if 
you need a 12 Volt capable radio, although they do improve by about 10 
dB when running around 1/4 power and used to drive a valve linear at 
that level <soapbox /off>

I guess you will have seen Rob Sherwoods receiver table, if not it's at: 
http://www.sherweng.com/table.html

Happy shopping! 73 Dave, G4AON
K3/100 serial 80
http://www.astromag.co.uk/k3/
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HI all , I am considering to buy a new radio and I am between the K3 and 
the IC 7600, I have read very good things about K3, although I don't 
know anybody near me that have one, so I would like to hear comments in 
why to go for the K3 and if someone live near Ogden UT that would like 
to shoe me their K3 would be awesome. TNX

EMILSE
KE7EOZ