[Elecraft] Will a casual SSB operator enjoy the K3?

[Lewis Phelps]

Welcome back to the world of ham radio, Tom! Your path has been similar to mine, except that my early venture into ham radio was more than 50 years ago, not 25. 

As to your question, the answer is an unequivocal "yes" from this ham operator, who was an English Writing major in college and has spent his entire career in journalism and related fields (definitely not electronics).

The K3 is not at all difficult to set up and operate at the 'basic' level for the kind of SSB operations that you envision. It has the versatility to allow almost infinite tweaking of operating parameters, but you will do very well simply using the basic recommended settings, which are discussed in the owner's manual. For even a casual operator, the superb design of the K3, especially the "best available" receiver, is a benefit to any owner, whether contester or rag-chewer. The K3 is my third HF rig (previously Yaseu) and I find it far more pleasant to use, in part because I can make more QSOs more easily, due to the more sensitive receiver. Plus, you can take the money you save with a K3 and invest in a better antenna, which is always a good idea.

You might well want to consider buying a finished K3 rather than building from kit, if assembly isn't something that you find enjoyable. You can either order directly from Elecraft or (if lucky) find a used on F/S on this reflector.

73,

Lew   


Lew Phelps N6LEW
Pasadena, CA DM04wd
Elecraft K3-10 
Yaesu FT-7800 
Lew at N6LEW.US
www.ntlew.us



On Apr 4, 2013, at 8:54 AM, Tom Branton <TBranton at alvincollege.edu> wrote:

> Good morning everyone,
> 
> I am looking for my forever ham rig and have a concern.  Most of the questions and issues discussed here involve fairly technical electronics issues that are somewhat beyond my level of understanding.  I am a pretty good CPA but not an electronics person at all.
> 
> My question, can a casual SSB operator mostly interested in talking with ham friends find happiness with the K3?  Will I be in over my head with the technology side of the radio?  
> 
> I know an answer will not involve electrons but I bet there are some pretty wise hams onboard that can provide some insite to my question.
> 
> Thanks so much and 73's
> 
> Tom
> 
> P.S.  I am returning to ham radio after a 25 year absence, (ex WD5DFE) thus the long lapse in my electronics knowledge.  I used to be pretty good with tube technology!
> 
> T.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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