[Elecraft] KPA 500

[r miles]

I guess because I'm a DXer more than contester [ a lot more] I  don't  see the need for a coax melting amp. I see 5-600 W as just about right. There are amps on the market that brag they give you an easy KW. What they're really saying is this baby will go 2+ with a bit of a push. That's DC  out. Why are baluns & coax advertised as good to 5 KW PEP. WINK WINK
I was always under the impression antenna  was the  most important thing. If you have a good tuned antenna why do you need massive tuners. I rarely venture onto SSB so maybe I'd use a tuner because ALL my antennas are tuned for CW.All are under 1:1.3 SWR. I just tap the tune button on the K3 so the little graph doesn't wiggle as I send.You can pump  massive watts into a wet string. You'll make contacts but ........... I currently use an Ameritron AL 811H. Don't use a tuner. 
I like the idea of an amp in sync with my K3. As an Elecraft owner I guess I'm biased. 
As someone chasing 10 band DXCC I see the addition of 6m as a great selling point. I've done the first 9 &  three quarters of the way on 6m. The KPA 500 is right in my wheelhouse. I see this new amp as a sole mate to my K3. Why did guys get the L4B to mate with their Drakes or the Collins amp to go with their S Lines? It just feels right that's why. 
These thoughts are not based on price or some data sheet. I just buy what  feels right. As to the Yuppie comment. I worked in an office downtown for  32 yr.s before I retired. It was the Post Office. I was  blue collar. Blue shirt, blue pants & blue tie too. My hat was blue too.
K9IL