[Elecraft] KX3 vs FT817 (comparing apples+oranges)

[DOUGLAS ZWIEBEL]

Let me start off by stating that I own a K2, a pair of K3's and a P3.

I also own an FT817.

1.  Yes, the KX3 is "way better" in terms of rx specs and some options

2.  The FT817 ain't bad either, especially factoring in price (well, my
price)

These are really two very different radios.

Personally, I like the form factor on the FT817.  It is easy to pack (very
"flat") and I don't worry about hurting it when "in the field."  I am happy
to "throw it around."  I would not feel that way about the KX3: kid gloves
for sure.

Back in 2003, the price was $569 for FT817, which included a microphone
with up/down buttons, internal (removable), chargeable battery pack, a
battery "tray" for AA cells, a rubber duck for 2 meters, a rubber duck for
6 meters, a hard bound manual, and carrying strap (over your shoulder,
hooks onto the radio), a DC power cable (with snap-on ferrite choke), and
probably some other stuff I have forgotten about...oh yeah.. a big world
map (LOL).  At the time, Yaesu offered a $100 factory rebate (it was a Xmas
special), so I got the radio and all that other stuff, with free shipping,
for $469.  Not too shabby...it was an easy decision.  As I see it, the KX3
(built) with those options is well over 1k.  So, surprise-surprise, you pay
more, you get more.

Also back in 2003, I had the well-respected (at the time) contest quality
radio, the Kenwood TS940.  The 940, purchased new, was quite old at that
date.  The FT817, maybe 5% the size of the 940, blew the doors off the big
radio in terms of RX dynamics, esp on 40.  It was shocking.  But that was 8
years ago now.

For me, I rather have to laugh a bit at the OUTSTANDING specs (in earlier
private emails) for the KX3 RX.  Why laugh?  Because if you are using this
radio "in the field," you probably will never have to use most of what is
available to you...and this was primarily designed as a Trail Radio,
right?  You are just not going to get "that much signal" coming into your
front end using a simple (low) wire or buddipole, etc. unless you mean once
per year on Field Day where there are multiple radios set up right on top
of each other.  But hey...if it can be built so well, why not!  But
comparing it to the 817, for me, doesn't make a lot of sense, other than to
indicate that the 817 set some sort of standard for "super tiny radios."
See mine at https://picasaweb.google.com/dougzzz/FT8172003Dec

Also, I have won my fair share of contest certificates, using the FT817,
including on 160 (a very tough band on RX front ends).  For what it is, it
works real well.  It's no K3, but it ain't bad...and it sure is FUN.

I have not ordered a KX3 yet.  This time around, I plan to wait a year or
so to let things "shake out."  But if I do order one, it probably won't be
to replace the 817, which is a totally different radio.  And yes, my FT817
does copy the WX station...and a whole lot more.

OK, before you blast away, please go back to the top and reread the first
sentence.

HNY and GL to all those happy KX3 purchasers.  I know you'll be thrilled.

de Doug KR2Q