[Elecraft] Elecraft K4

[Terry Brown]

Hello All,

 

This is not a technical post but more of a philosophical viewpoint about
buying new ham gear.

 

I first became acquainted with Elecraft gear after many years using ICOM
rigs.  I had been QRT for about 8 years and came back to the hobby
determined to dust off the CW I never used, and become proficient.  With
that decision I bought a used K2 and discovered CW and QRP.  As I continued
to develop my CW proficiency, I purchased the KX3, PX3, and KXPA 100.
Later, for portable ops I bought a KX2.   I am very happy with these rigs,
and realistically, they are really all I would ever need to enjoy many years
of CW operation.

 

When the K4 was announced, I first thought that I might try to pick up a
used K3S and Panadapter from someone purchasing a K4.  I thought, "I didn't
need to spend all that money" that a K4 would cost.

 

The more I thought about it, I got to thinking that I have never owned a
World Class Radio.  I am 71 years old.  I can financially afford a K4.  I
decided that even though what I have would have suited me just fine for the
rest of my life, I wanted the joy of unboxing, learning, and operating what
will be probably the finest rig Elecraft has ever made, and perhaps one of
the finest rigs ever made.  As a result, I put a deposit down on a new K4
yesterday.

 

For those of you who have owned the K3 and K3S when they came out, you can
understand and appreciate having the best.  I am looking forward to having
that experience, too.

 

Wayne and Eric have created something very special in Elecraft.  They truly
try to meet their customer needs, and have created a series of Radios that
are technically some of the best made, and have the advantage of
upgradability.  Their customer service is second to none; but you all know
that.

 

Anyway, just thought I would share my thoughts and look forward, as many of
you are, to being able to experience the K4.

 

73,

 

Terry, N7TB