[Elecraft] My weigh-in, K4

[Dan Atchison]

I have to agree with the posts noting with disappointment that Elecraft 
has not, nor seems to show little interest, in producing a new 
competitive desktop radio.  That said, I'm sure they are working on one, 
but when produced, the market may be saturated with other manufacturers 
radios who have felt the need to get to market quickly.

It doesn't matter that the K3(S) is a truly fine and competitive radio.  
It isn't a matter that the performance ratings of the newer radios are 
significantly better (they are not).  It comes down to we who love 
technology and wish to be on the cutting edge; to have a unit with the 
latest bells and whistles.  The K3(S) for the most part, is technology 
over a dozen years old.  To wit, I have grown tired of looking at the 
same radio for over 10 years, from my early S/N K3 to a second and newer 
radio, a K3S.  Ho, hum.

At the price of newer, competitive radios, trading newer for older or 
one radio for another becomes less attractive.  I have already seen in 
abundance those who have already discarded the K3(S) in favor of Icom's 
or Flex's newer offerings, not only contesters but DXers as well. I have 
not yet, but may soon.  Should Elecraft come out with a K4 or whatever, 
regardless of it's feature set, they've already lost advantage and way 
behind the market.  Of course, we who drink the Elecraft cool-aid will 
no doubt purchase.

To those that say "moving on" is unnecessary, I ask how old their 
vehicles are?  I buy a new vehicle, not often, but every 5 to 7 years 
not because the older car doesn't get me from point A to point B in fine 
fashion, but because I just want something more recent with newer or 
upgraded options.  How about your cellphone? How many are using one 10 
years old?  It's personal preference just like it is for radios.

73,
Dan