[Elecraft] Icom 7300 is available

[Wayne Burdick]

Hi Barry,

> Interesting. I wonder how it will compare to my KX3.
> 
> The only direct sampling complete rig that I was aware of was the Flex 6000 series. I also wonder if it will be as flexible in operation as a KX3. Ah technology, and so little time. ;-)

Since the 7300 uses direct sampling, it will have the same blocking dynamic range (BDR) problem as other radios in this class, especially multi-signal situations such as contesting. I also doubt it will beat the KX3 in close-spaced dynamic range, unless they used a very exotic, very expensive A-to-D converter. (Note that the only way the Flex 6700 series can achieve good close-in dynamic range is by turning on the preamp. This overcomes the very poor preamp-off MDS, but at an even greater cost in BDR.)

Beyond that, the KX3:

 - is about 1/5th the size
 - is about 1/5th the weight
 - consumes probably 1/10th as much RX-mode current
 - has an internal battery 
 - has an attached keyer paddle
 - has built-in stereo audio and CW/RTTY/PSK31 text decode with a PC
 - works with integrated peripherals (PX3 and KXPA100) that can be left at 
   your fixed station when traveling 

So if you're operating portable, it's an apples/oranges comparison.

73,
Wayne
N6KR