[Elecraft] K3 - Ergonomics

[Phil Wheeler]

Much the same, Ed. My K3 is much newer (#8004), 
but I've had a K2/100 with which I'm still pleased 
-- partially because I can repair anything in it 
and add some subtle improvements (I still have a 
K2 to-do list). K2 is still a very capable rig, 
but now in my 61st year as a ham, I decided to 
treat myself to the best. I also have K1, KX1 and 
KX3 -- and the FT-817 in a box.

Today I'm recabling my shack (RG-8X becomes RG-213 
past the lightning arresters) to support the 
KPA500/KAT500 which arrived on my doorstep 
yesterday -- and also recabling to let the KAT500 
do the antenna switching (mostly, I have 4 
antennas, but the 30 m dipole gets least use and I 
can't use high power there anyway).

My interest in the hobby has been high and low 
over the years, but it is a great hobby. And 
unlike my other hobby (photography) the 
manufacturers don't do yearly updates -- fortunately!

73, Phil W7OX

On 4/4/14, 10:24 AM, Edward R Cole wrote:
> Long ago I mentioned using the "last radio I 
> would own" argument with my wife to acquire a 
> K3/10.  Well, I lied, and subsequently bought 
> the KX3 (to replace my FT-817).  The continuous 
> stream of firmware upgrades does make this 
> "sort-of" true, though.  I have sn 4043, and 
> once thought I was the newbie with a K3.  
> Elecraft has sold as many since!
>
> To be a true "forever" radio it would have to be 
> totally modular so hardware could be upgraded, 
> as well.  But making every stage a "plug-in" 
> would result in a huge reliability issue.  So it 
> is inevitable that technology improvements will 
> eventually overcome the present model.  Some 
> might say the KX3 is kind of that. Certainly 
> provides the opportunity to explore new hardware 
> design ideas.
>
> I am gratified that software updates are free.  
> That really helped me to make the initial purchase.
> I am very happy with my K3 (which is the first 
> radio that I can really say that about - in 56 
> years in ham radio).  I like the KX3 for what it 
> offers me particularly for portable/mobile use, 
> but it does not replace the K3.
>
> I have the best combo: both radios.
>
> 73, Ed - KL7UW
> http://www.kl7uw.com
>     "Kits made by KL7UW"
> Dubus Mag business:
>     dubususa at gmail.com