[Elecraft] CW & keys

[r miles]

Several wks ago I had a problem keying my K3. All of a sudden the 
outboard keyers [ MFJ & Logikit ] sounded normal in the monitor but what 
was coming out of the K3 was like using two bare wires to send with. I 
talked to the Tech @ Elecraft. He thought it was an acustic loop. AF. 
Maybe one of the wire glum  of wires behind the OP desk was moved by me 
or the cat. He said I was the 2nd case he'd hrd of. He suggested I go to 
the internal keyer. I did & problem solved. I won't go into why I used 
external keyers but I'm getting used to the K3s keyer now. It's great to 
call & talk to someone who knows the K3 inside & out. Tnx Elecraft.

As to  a key. For the guy looking for a key. I think the best advise is 
to try out several keys.If you have ham friends who operate CW go visit 
& try their key. Some ham stores in big cities often  have keys you can 
try out on site. Don't go by anothers idea of the best key.Some of the 
keys suggested in posts I tried & didn't like or just plain hated. I use 
a Vibrokey. I have for 50 yr.s.  However that's me. Everyone needs to 
find a key they like. Unlike SSB guys  who change mics or settings as 
the situation calls for keys are very personal. I'd never go to Field 
Day without MY key. I only feel totally comfortable with my key. Lots of 
CW Ops feel the same I'm sure. I want to send the best CW I can & that's 
very personal. For a CW guy listening to some of the stuff that passes 
as CW on the air these days is painful. To me nothing is more pleasing 
to the ear than really great CW. Just my opinion......

K9IL