[Elecraft] K3/100 or KX3 with all the options

[Gerald Manthey]

Great advice Matt. I had my first cw contact today. I was nervous but had a
program to translate. I was proud when I was done, but had a patient op.
What I learned was I need to learn the proper abbreviations to use. I find
I want to try more now.
On Mar 13, 2012 6:36 PM, "Matt Maguire" <vk2acl at gmail.com> wrote:

> Hi David,
>
> No need to stress about CW contacts -- just realise that the only critical
> thing you need to copy is the callsign. Ideally you'll also get a signal
> report, name and QTH as well. Of course you can ask for repeats, but
> consider if it is a casual contact and you miss those, what's the worst
> thing that could happen? No-one will even know except for you. So, just
> relax, try and get the basic info if you can, if not, don't worry, and
> treat everything else as gravy. And remember, you're free to say "TNX FER
> QSO 73" at any time :-)
>
> Another way to build confidence might be to use a computer program called
> "Morse Runner". It simulates contest-style QSOs for you. Contesting may not
> be what you ultimately want to do, but the program will get you used to
> copying callsigns and signal reports (well, numbers at least).
>
> As for K3 vs KX3, both are good options. The TS-830S is a nice radio with
> plenty of grunt -- do you have any of the optional CW filters for the
> TS-830S? If so, you already have a pretty good radio for casual home
> operation, and the KX3 will offer you a portability that you don't have
> now, plus a chance to play with some fun new things like the I/Q outputs.
> On the the hand, if you want a nice modern home base station, the K3-line
> is pretty attractive too.
>
> Good luck, let us know which way you finally decide to jump.
>
> 73, Matt VK2ACL
>
>
> On 14/03/2012, at 9:44 AM, David Stratton wrote:
>
> > My radio needs are very modest for I am not a contester,
> >
> > or DXer, or even one who makes a lot of contacts but I
> >
> > do listen quite a bit. I do like to have a fine radio and
> >
> > presently own one - the Kenwood TS-830S. I have no
> >
> > intention of parting with it. As far as modes go I operate
> >
> > HF primarily SSB and PSK31. I am trying to improve
> >
> > my CW ability however I have a problem with CW. Just
> >
> > like some people have mic fright I have CW contact fright.
> >
> > I like CW but I just can't do it and enjoy it. The final bit of
> >
> > information is the fact that my wife hates amateur radio,
> >
> > which causes me to occasionally put my radio in storage.
> >
> >
> >
> > I will digest all the thoughtful comments many of you made
> >
> > and make my decision. Although I do operate from home,
> >
> > you can see that for me perhaps getting away to the local
> >
> > state park or some other place away from home might provide
> >
> > me with the best operating enjoyment. Doing that would be
> >
> > best accomplished with the KX3.
> >
> >
> >
> > Dave - KO4KL
> >
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