[Elecraft] New ham and the KX3

[Barry LaZar]

Sean,
     I see that you plan on starting with phone because you are learning 
code. Let me suggest that you add PSK31 to your beginnings. It is a mode 
that really works well at low powers and it's really easy to set up. You 
will need a way to interface your computer to the radio, but that is 
easy. A interface like the SignaLink USB will make it almost mindless; 
they have the cable you will need. The whole package is $100. The 
software is free. There are other digital modes that you'll be able to 
use the interface with, but they aren't as popular. Between PSK31 and 
eventually CW, you should be able to pick up a mixed mode DXCC if you 
put the time in. Have fun!

73,
Barry
K3NDM


On 2/26/2014 9:18 AM, Sean Wall wrote:
> Hi folks,
>
> I want to thank everyone who offered advice, it's invaluable to a new ham
> like myself!
>
> I've settled on the KX3 -- I like the fact that it's versatile enough to be
> a decent base station and it can go on the road with me.  Plus, it seems
> that it has a lot of features that you generally see on more expensive
> rigs.  The SDR aspect also appeals to me as I'm a nerd and I'd like to
> experiment with SDR applications on my laptop.  I do software development
> with a masters in electrical engineering, so I'm not worried about the KX3
> being overly complex.  I'll figure it out eventually, I think.  :D
>
>
> The one definite take-away which was clear to me is "it's all about the
> antenna".  I'm considering other antennas other than the Buddipole now.
>   The current front runner is the LNR End Fed 10/20/40 wire antenna.  I like
> it because you tune it for 40 m and 10/20 should fall into place.  Also,
> you can remove the supplied radiator and attach a new one to tune in other
> bands.  It's also a heck of a lot cheaper than a Buddipole.  (Not to
> disparage the BP -- I've read a lot of good reviews about it -- but I'd
> rather go with something simpler and less expensive right now.)  I haven't
> looked into the magnetic loop antennas yet, but I'll get to that.  One
> question though -- the LNR site said no antenna tuner is needed or
> recommended, which makes sense in this case.  I was still considering
> getting the optional antenna tuner for the KX3, but can you disable it in
> the settings if you don't want to use it?
>
> I received about equal number of responses on either side of the 10w/100w
> fence.  Once again, it seemed to boil down to "it won't make a lot of
> difference if you don't have a good antenna to start with".  I'll stick
> with 10w for now, and I can get the 100w amp later.
>
> BTW - I plan on initially using phone as I'm still learning Morse, but I
> would like get to get into CW at some point.
>
> Also, I do plan on joining a local ham club.  There are several in my area
> so that should be no problem.  If they're all as friendly and accommodating
> as you folks, I should have no problem getting help.  :)
>
> Thanks again everyone!
>
> 73 - Sean (call sign not in the ULS database yet - should be this week!!)
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:Elecraft at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>