[Elecraft] MFJ's new Internal K3 Tuner, anyone tried one yet?

[Joe Subich, W4TV]

> Therefore we are curious if anyone had actually had a chance to test
> it. I imagine it would come up short but it would be interesting to
> know.

Given that the tuning algorithm is in the K3 CPU, I would have to think
the MFJ tuner is nothing more than a clone of the KAT3.  Perhaps the
layout is different and some of the components are different (better
or worse).  I can't see any advantage in the MJF unit - other than a
substantially lower price - but would hesitate to use one without a
very substantial set of tests.

My biggest concern would be something like missing IF traps or low
isolation between antennas.

73,

    ... Joe, W4TV


On 2015-05-11 10:30 PM, Gary Gregory wrote:
> Don,
>
> I dont believe anyone would be likely to use one if one looks at the
> posters on this list.
>
> Speaking with Jeff we were puzzled by mfj's releasing this product. We see
> no market but assume (bad word) some folks outside this list might be
> swayed by cost.
>
> Therefore we are curious if anyone had actually had a chance to test it. I
> imagine it would come up short but it would be interesting to know.
>
> It was a fair question and did not expect the type of replies we are
> seeing. Oh well....as i said before...it is what it is.....
>
> Gary
> Vk1ZZ
> K3, KPA500-FT, KAT500-FT
> On 12/05/2015 12:21 PM, "Tim Tucker" <ae6lx at worldwidedx.com> wrote:
>
>> I have not tried this "version" of an MFJ autotuner.  However, I have tried
>> others, including their auto tuners capable of handling legal limit.  My
>> results were mixed, at best.  If MFJ is using the same basic algorithm in
>> this K3 tuner as their other tuners, I would not be interested in buying it
>> as those tuners were not nearly as capable at loading up odd lengths of
>> wire as the Elecraft units have been.  Case in point:  I had an MFJ
>> autotuner inline and it couldn't load up an Alpha Delta DX-CC on 12 meters
>> with the MFJ, but I could with the K3 tuner.  Also, the SWR bridge's meter
>> on the MFJ was waaaay off compared to other meters / analyzers.
>>
>> FWIW, I'm not an "anti-MFJ" guy, but my experience with their auto tuners
>> hasn't been  the best.
>>
>> On Mon, May 11, 2015 at 6:42 PM, Don Wilhelm <w3fpr at embarqmail.com> wrote:
>>
>>> Consider that the Elecraft repair form includes a statement that any
>>> aftermarket mods or additions must be removed before sending the
>> equipment
>>> to Elecraft for repair.
>>>
>>> How would you like to remove the MFJ tuner from your K3 before sending it
>>> for repair?
>>>
>>> 73,
>>> Don W3FPR
>>>
>>> On 5/11/2015 9:35 PM, Gary Gregory wrote:
>>>
>>>> Hey guys...valid question. Curiosity is a good thing.
>>>>
>>>> Jeff only asked if anyone had an opportunity to try one.
>>>>
>>>> I wonder what Elecraft think.
>>>>
>>>> He did NOT say he wanted to buy one but like me he is most likely
>> curious
>>>> and I can't imagine what MFJ are thinking. The KAT3 is an outstanding
>>>> product and I am scratching my head trying to think how MFJ could
>> improve
>>>> on the kat3.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
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>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Owner, worldwidedx.com
>> AE6LX, Amateur Radio
>> NNN0ITA, Navy MARS
>> NNN0GAF FOUR, Southern CA Director Assistant for Training, Navy MARS
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