[Elecraft] [KX2][KX3][KXIQ2] Best Base Station: KX2 vs KX3

[Ray Sills]

Hi Len:

Perhaps this idea (I/Q output from the KX2) would be an area where someone would develop an after-market item that would permit tapping the I/Q data and porting it to the outside world.  I’m sure that the Elecraft people must have considered the idea of such a port on the KX2, but made the decision that most KX2 users would not take advantage of it.  I’d suppose that the though process was: if it adds another $50 to the price of the rig, how many people would decide against the KX2?  Would it be better to skip that feature and just make a compact multi-band rig?  I think that the new paddle design was something that appeals to more customers, especially since it can also be used with the KX3.  There’s always trade-offs in any design project, and you can’t please everyone.

In my case, my KX3 is my “main” rig, and I have a PX3 for it.  However, if I were to look for an ultra compact rig, it would be for very portable field use.  The KX2 might be a candidate, as would the MTR.  But, that’s a big “if”.   I already have a bunch of rigs, including a KX1, which is pretty compact in it’s own right.

So, my money would be on some 3rd party developer figuring out how to bring out the I/Q signal (hopefully doing so without mangling the KX2 and losing the factory warranty)… so that the feature can be provided for those who really want it.  Me?  I doubt I would ever use such a feature, so I’m not disappointed that it’s not already included.  After all, I can use it with the KX3.

73 de Ray
K2ULR
KX3 #211

  
> On Aug 29, 2016, at 12:03 PM, len at ka7ftp.com wrote:
> 
> +1 to this:
> 
> "Please reply to this thread if you're interested in having Elecraft expose RX I/Q on the KX2."
> 
> I've owned a KX1, currently own a KX3/PX3 and a KX2.  I don't have a lot of space for my radio gear and am a big fan of the small form factors.   I've had more fun with my KX3 than any other radio I have used.  I've become highly dependent on the PX3 and wish I had the same option to use one with my KX2.  For me, having the I/Q on the KX2 would not eliminate need for my KX3.  I still want the extra band coverage of 160 and 6 meters, I also use my KX3 on 2 meters.  Having I/Q on my KX2 would greatly expand the flexibility, and let me operate in a similar manner to my KX3.
> 
> 73
> 
> Len
>