[Elecraft] KPA 500 vs New 1500 watt amp

[Rick WA6NHC]

No it is not insignificant but the price point is very acceptable if you 
look at other similar amps, even better when you factor in the tuner 
(repackaged KAT500?  the range limits are similar). Then add in the 
superior level of support that you'll get compared to most other 
companies (and they're 'local' for US hams, another bonus).  I've 
already asked to be put on the notify list and I'll likely put the order 
in at the first possible moment.  Minor bonus for me is that I won't 
have to pay CA taxes by the time it comes out (I'm leaving CA) saving me 
almost 10%.

When you need it, you need it.  You can always turn a KPA1500 down, but 
when you're at max on a KPA500 and it isn't enough, it's over.  If 
you're a DX'er, that's a high frustration point because almost all 
others striving for the rare one will be running full legal (or more).  
Another 4.5 db may make that difference. Technique can only take you so 
far, just as having power without technique can only take you so far.  
Good on both counts means a higher success rate.

At some point in 'serious' ham life, the typical shack will be wired for 
220-240V since it makes so many things simpler; that is a one time 
expense.  Either through fortune or planning, all the components I've 
put up over the last ten years are capable of at least legal limit 
(chokes, cables, wires etc) so I'm prepositioned for full QRO.

I smile when I see Wayne mention overhead... the devices are rated well 
above 1500 watts (each) and simple math says that 240V @ 20 A is a LOT 
of overhead space, even considering power supply efficiency losses 
(which are small with good design).  While I would have preferred seeing 
more antenna ports (since I am used to the KAT500), it's not a deal 
killer (my move means new antennas, I'll make them more resonant than my 
current station).  I'll probably do something along the lines that the 
K3 ant 1 will be for HF and the second antenna port will be used for the 
KPA500 on 6M, which is more than enough for meteor scatter or openings.  
The KPA1500 port one will be 160/80M and port two for 40-10M (still 
power limited on 60M, barefoot might be too much).  That part is simple 
stuff to figure out.... to be determined later.

I'm not concerned about the 15 db FCC limit with a K3 (life is too short 
for QRP) because at each level, NONE of the amps in the K line chain are 
being pushed to max, making IMD inherently MUCH lower.  If at some point 
Elecraft can add/bless an external device for feedback and 
pre-distortion for the K3(s); that's even better.  But in fairness, if 
one is using a QRP rig, being able to jump to legal limit in one step is 
a big deal.

The ONE feature that makes it for me is that ALL my station elements 
will stay integrated; not so if another brand amp is used.  This is HUGE 
since I operate the station remotely when I'm on the road.  Everything 
'just works'; the operator isn't concerned about any aspect, just click 
on the DX cluster spot (or net frequency) and everything is done except 
making the contact. For the newer ops, it didn't used to be that way, 
trust me, the integrated ability IS a BIG DEAL.

Well done Elecraft!  It's what we've come to expect and that is why 
we're faithful.  Please pass the Kool Aid.  ;-)

Rick nhc


On 4/21/2017 8:13 AM, w7aqk wrote:
>
> It is not insignificant that it will cost almost 3 times as much to 
> gain only slightly more than 1 S unit.  Then, when you factor in the 
> question of "how often do I really need that?", the justification 
> becomes even more obscure to me.  One thing is for sure, a lot of 
> electricians just got more work!  I strongly suspect not everyone is 
> 220 V ready!