[Premium-Rx] Performance of Premium RX

[Terry O']

The Elecraft units are an amazing accomplishment.  They show that well 
designed amateur equipment can draw closer to premium equipment.  But 
overtake it?  No way.

In my research, I've interviewed a couple dozen current and former RF 
engineers from a variety of truly pre-eminent receiver companies.  These 
companies function on a different level than consumer firms.  It is 
extremely unlikely any small operation is going to overtake a large 
engineering staff with decades of experience in the nuances of RF 
design.  Even Icom, Yeasu and Kenwood can't do it.  Their markets do not 
offer the financial incentives to push the specifications that far.  
Bells and whistles are more cost effective.

There will always be premium receivers built for professional use by 
companies with the resources and expertise to pursue the details that 
distinguish the ne plus ultra from the very good.  Those are the units 
that interest me.

Terry O'
http://watkins-johnson.terryo.org



----- Original Message -----

From: "Michael O'Beirne" <michaelob666 at ntlworld.com>

There is no doubt that in a few years (arguably already) the electrical 
performance of our "big boys' toys" will be overtaken by amateur 
products - the Elecraft K3 - but I personally much prefer a lumpy 19 
inch box that cost a fortune to build.
73s
Michael
G8MOB