It depends on what you plan to use the K3 for. As for myself - and myself only - I built the 100 Watt version with:

KFL3A-2.1K filter for those nights when things are tight on 75 meters
MH2 hand mic (works good except the switch can be trashy (I fixed that problem)
KAT3 which I suggest buying even if you plan on later getting the KAT500
KBPF3 general coverage module (I listen to WBZ from Boston a lot)
KFL3A-6K AM filter
KXV3A for running the P3 (planning ahead)

A couple of months later:
P3-F the perfect add-on for the K3

And a few more months later:
KAT500 KPA500 bought as a set with all the wires etc.

You see, David, that is the beauty of the K3 - you can have a custom built rig specifically for your needs and desired. My needs are for armchair copy on 75 and 40 with a little SWL from time to time.

Can I accomplish the same cheaper? Sure. My backup station is a Kenwood TS480SAT (needs none of the extra add-ons). For a display, I can use an SDR and one of the free SDR software packages. A middle of the road tuner and a small tube amp finishes it out. Works well - all for under the cost of the K3 alone. Uh huh!

After you have a K-Line, you will understand why I spent the extra dollars for the Elecraft station. No fiddly controls to mess with when changing frequency, solid QRM removal, fully customizable RX/TX audio, and the list goes on. I am not saying that the 480 station is junk - far from it. I am saying the K-Line is worth the extra money to me - and I do not part with money easily - I worked too hard to get it.

I think you have already made up your mind to get the K3 - so ENJOY!!!

Bill -  a K-Line owner/operator

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