[Elecraft] Elecraft newbie considering K3 vs KX3

[Andrew Moore]

On Tue, Oct 16, 2012 at 5:27 PM, Joe Subich, W4TV <lists at subich.com> wrote:

> Absolutely.  Unless you are looking for a trail/backpack radio, the
> added flexibility, features and user interface of the K3 is hands
> down superior to the KX3.


While the features and UI on the K3 are clearly more extensive, don't
confuse that with it being a better rig for all but trail/backpack use.
Elecraft already has a rig that's probably better for trail/backpacking:
the KX1 (though it's not as full-featured).

The KX3 may still win for those wanting a:

- rig with a simple user interface and few controls
- rig to run as a base station on solar power
- rig to run in confined quarters (like my tiny shack...)
- vacation rig
- mobile rig

As many have pointed out, step 1 is figure out what you want to do.

For me, if the rig was staying put in the shack, the K3 would be the
answer. If I envisioned it moving about from time to time - camping,
vacation, mobile, trailer, etc... - then the KX3 would be it.

If you want to focus strictly on performance, go K3.  But the KX3 is no
slouch. Buck's desktop/laptop analogy is a good one.

--Andrew, NV1B
maineware.net
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