[Elecraft] K3s pre-purchase question

[Bob McGraw K4TAX]

Based on your current operation and your present listing of equipment, 
I'd suggest the K3S-100.  You have a tuner so no internal ATU unless you 
want the internal automatic convenience.   You have a good mike, I use 
one of those myself.  As to filters, the standard filter is most 
adequate and always and one can add additional filters if desired.  If 
you intend to operate CW perhaps a 500 Hz or 400 Hz filter would be a 
nice initial choice.

As to the 10 watt vs. 100 watt radio, if you wish to operate lower power 
then the 100 watt will easily back down to 10 watts or less. However, 
with the somewhat compromise attic antenna, a bit more power is likely 
preferred.  Thus I'd opt for the 100 watt version.

As to 2 meter operation, unless you intend to work SSB, I'd opt for a 
dedicated VHF/UHF FM radio for repeaters and FM simplex.

So in summary, K3S-100 either F or K being factory assembled and tested 
or the kit.

73
Bob, K4TAX
K3S-100-F,  s/n 10163


On 2/13/2016 11:28 AM, Tom Brohl wrote:
> Hello Elecraft subscribers,
>
>              I've been a ham for quite some time as a Technician class using
> 2-meter. I'm retired now with more time for my hobbies.
>
> I'll be taking my General class exam soon and moving on to HF.
>
> I've built many Heath kits in the day, so the Elecraft kits are striking my
> interest.
>
> I'm trying to configure a K3s kit and would sure like some help from you
> experienced hams.
>
> The up-front price is a lot for me so I'm trying to understand the
> necessities? With an upgrade path every 6 months or so.
>
> First, would I be disappointed with starting out with the 10-watt version? I
> imagine I'll be doing more listening in the beginning. But if 100-watts is
> important up front I'll get it.
>
> How about filter options? I'm guessing the standard filter will be ok to
> start out with?
>
> I may add the 2-meter option since my current radio needs replacing. If I do
> is the K144XV Reference Lock Board necessary for 2-meter operation?
>
> How about the KBPF3A General Coverage Receiver Filter?
>
> My antenna is a Cobra UltraLite Junior:  80-10 Meters 73 feet, installed in
> my attic. I also have an Astron VS35m Power Supply, Heil PR-781 mic,
> MFJ-993B Auto Tuner.
>
> Please recommend what options I should get with the K3s kit.
>
> Thanks for your help!
>
>   
>
> -Tom
>
>   
>
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