[Elecraft] David Cole...756ProIII vs K3

[Doug Person]

I have owned the original 756, the Pro, ProII and the ProIII.  I now own 
the IC-7600.  Despite having a better receiver, I still prefer the 
ProIII.  Perhaps one of the best all around radios I've ever owned.

The K-Line remains my main station, with the K2 on 1 side and the KX3 on 
the other. If I hadn't invested some my of retirement funds into the 
K-Line I would have been perfectly happy with the ProIII.

I have also spent a few weeks with the FTdx-3000 and the FTdx-1200. Both 
wonderful radios.  The K3, with a full stack of filters, is the best 
receiver I've ever had the pleasure to listen to.  After a few contests, 
you will really understand how the K3 RX shines.

Every once in a while, I move all the Elecraft gear into the storage 
room and setup one of the Big-Three rigs along with a decent Ameritron 
amp.  I always conclude: they are all good radios and you can certainly 
enjoy the hobby to fullest measure with any of them.

But....  the K3, once you pass up the learning curve, does everything in 
a very sensible way.  Like maybe it was designed by people who really 
understand why some of us sit in front of a radio for hours.  I really 
enjoy checking out the latest and best from Japan.  They all have their 
strengths - fascinating and usable interfaces.  The receivers are 
getting better and better.

I'm just always drawn back to the K3 because it works the way I think.  
When all 4 units are online and slaved together, there is nothing that 
is easier or works better.

I think it is a rare person that does conclude that the K3 is a serious 
keeper.

73, Doug -- K0DXV

On 4/13/2014 11:20 AM, David Cole wrote:
> Hi Fred,
> I only trust exact apples to apples comparisons...
>
> A few miles can make a bit difference in props.  I will do an A/B with
> my Pro3, using everything the same, antenna, feedline, etc.  I will keep
> the rig that performs better.
>
> I have an interesting mix of conditions...  20 is very quiet and has
> almost no noise on it, while 40 is filled with QRM.  It will be
> interesting to see what happens.
>