[Elecraft] K2 vs K3

[stan levandowski]

The K2 is "all the radio" the average CW op needs.  The problem then 
becomes  "what's average?"  If $$ is tight (been there, done that)  and 
you may want to migrate to SSB, then my suggestion is save your money up 
for a K3, the current Queen of the Elecraft Fleet.  The wait will be 
worth it.   In the meantime, look for a small QRP CW rig under $100. Use 
it to develop your CW skills, weak signal techniques, and perseverance. 
When you finally get your K3 you'll be a superior op.  Just my opinion. 
I'm sure you will get many other opinions.  Weigh them all then make 
your decision.  Best Wishes from Stan WB2LQF and welcome to ham radio.
   .

On Wed, Aug 8, 2012 at 12:41 PM, Lee Herbst wrote:

> My situation is this, single income family with 4 kids. I have to save
> for anything I want. I just got my ticket in June. I am currently not
> on the air, but saving for a 2m mobile to get me started.
>
> Realistically I can only save for one HF xcvr. I chose Elecraft based
> on lurking on this reflector and learning about their excellent
> support - I don't think I can go wrong buying from these guys.
> However, I don't know if I should save for a K2 or a K3. I think it
> will take me about a year to save for the base K2 kit or about 2 years
> to save for the base K3 kit. I need to make sure that whichever I get,
> it will be something I am happy with for a long time as I would not be
> able to afford to replace it.
>
> I would like to operate cw and ssb, but cw only would be fine until I
> could afford the ssb option if I went for the K2. I am intrigued by
> building a K2 (I am handy with a soldering iron), but on the other
> side of the coin it seems like you get a lot more radio with the K3.
> So, if you were in my shoes, which would you save for? On the air
> sooner with a K2 or waiting longer for a K3? All input is most
> welcome.
>
> 73,
>
> -- 
> Lee Herbst - AK4WN
>
> "Give God your best and let Him do the rest" - Facing the Giants
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