Much the same, Ed. My K3 is much newer (#8004),
but I've had a K2/100 with which I'm still pleased
-- partially because I can repair anything in it
and add some subtle improvements (I still have a
K2 to-do list). K2 is still a very capable rig,
but now in my 61st year as a ham, I decided to
treat myself to the best. I also have K1, KX1 and
KX3 -- and the FT-817 in a box.
Today I'm recabling my shack (RG-8X becomes RG-213
past the lightning arresters) to support the
KPA500/KAT500 which arrived on my doorstep
yesterday -- and also recabling to let the KAT500
do the antenna switching (mostly, I have 4
antennas, but the 30 m dipole gets least use and I
can't use high power there anyway).
My interest in the hobby has been high and low
over the years, but it is a great hobby. And
unlike my other hobby (photography) the
manufacturers don't do yearly updates -- fortunately!
73, Phil W7OX
On 4/4/14, 10:24 AM, Edward R Cole wrote:
Long ago I mentioned using the "last radio I
would own" argument with my wife to acquire a
K3/10. Well, I lied, and subsequently bought
the KX3 (to replace my FT-817). The continuous
stream of firmware upgrades does make this
"sort-of" true, though. I have sn 4043, and
once thought I was the newbie with a K3.
Elecraft has sold as many since!
To be a true "forever" radio it would have to be
totally modular so hardware could be upgraded,
as well. But making every stage a "plug-in"
would result in a huge reliability issue. So it
is inevitable that technology improvements will
eventually overcome the present model. Some
might say the KX3 is kind of that. Certainly
provides the opportunity to explore new hardware
design ideas.
I am gratified that software updates are free.
That really helped me to make the initial purchase.
I am very happy with my K3 (which is the first
radio that I can really say that about - in 56
years in ham radio). I like the KX3 for what it
offers me particularly for portable/mobile use,
but it does not replace the K3.
I have the best combo: both radios.
73, Ed - KL7UW
http://www.kl7uw.com
"Kits made by KL7UW"
Dubus Mag business:
[email protected]
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