[Elecraft] KX3 Serial 328 On Air For Field Day - The True Value of Elecraft

[Bruce W1UJR]

Just a quick note about the KX3 - I love it!
I won't spend your time writing a review here, others far more skilled than myself have already done
a stellar job doing so. Rather I'd like to share the true value of Elecraft to me.
Even more than the rig, I love Elecraft's customer service, allow me to explain.

My kit arrived about two weeks ago, midweek, put up the gratification of the build until
that weekend. All went together well, but the "SPOT" button required extra effort to make
work, and when it did work its operation was spotty. Also the unit would go into the TX
mode on it's own, on a random basis. I'm one of the Elecraft builders, so I did normal
static precautions on the build, so no fault there.

Quick note to the good folks at Elecraft last week, explaining I'd like to use the rig on
Field Day, not less than two Elecraft support folks got involved and sent me a replacement
control board, RF board, and filter board (they need to be changed at the same time as
they are matched - so I was explained to me).

Replacement boards arrived mid last week, I assembled it the next evening, all working 100%.
They were kind enough to supply return shipping labels, and though I asked them to ding my
credit card for their security shipping the items, not sure they did.

As much as I love the product, I even more appreciate the customer service. 
If you've ever tried to get something warrantied through the "Big 3" amateur
manufacturers, you'll know what I mean. Over the years I think I've purchased
and built just about everything Elecraft offers, and built many, many radios
for others, nary a hitch when a problem comes up. The folks at Elecraft
could not be nicer or easier to work with. The staff is concerned, engaged, 
creative, and I put the company on par with the operations end of Apple Computer.

Yes, there are some delays shipping products from time to time, I'm on the list
for the new KAT-500 tuner, but I'd much rather see things ship when they are ready,
then ship a less than perfect product. Here's another thought, Elecraft is one of the few
electronics firms which does not readily obsolete products, almost everything they have
offered has some sort of upgrade path to the latest and greatest version. Example, buy an
early K1, they offer enhancements, component improvements, backlight upgrades, replacement sheet metal, 
you name it, top notch customer service.

I see my choice of Elecraft gear as not just a providing joy for myself and other ops, but as an investment
in the future of amateur radio innovation!


Cordially,
Bruce J. Howes W1UJR
www.W1UJR.net