In my case, the form factor is a huge consideration. Having the knobs on the top makes sense for a trail-friendly radio that sits on your lap or a nearby rock, but it is not, at least for me, the best ergonomics for a base station. Putting it on a plastic tilting stand doesn't change that.

Cabling is another big factor. I like cables coming out the rear, not sprouting from all sides. It makes sense on a TFR, but not so much in a base station where other gear abuts it.

Believe me, I'm not knocking the KX3 as I've never owned or operated one. I've never even seen one except in pictures. I had a KX1 and it was always the last radio I picked up to take camping. (K1 was the first). It was more of a hangar queen for me. I just never enjoyed using it, but I never really used it as a trail-friendly radio which is what it was designed to be. The K1 was much more comfortable to use sitting in a campsite tuning the radio while I poked at the campfire. Based on form factor, the KX3 was never a consideration for me and neither is the KX2 (certainly the ultimate TRF) for the same reason.

I have two K2/10s with KPA/KATU in EC2 box (SN567 and 6911), and just about every internal accessory. I didn't build any of it so the fun of building is irrelevant to me. I like them because they are very competent, reliable, wonderfully supported, even traditional radios that suit me. That's enough.

Eric KE6US


On 6/24/2016 7:32 AM, Phil Wheeler wrote:
Robin,

Since you have a KX3, why the K2? In what ways (other than the fun of building it!) do you find the K2 better than the KX3 -- unless you have the K2/100?

I have K2/100, KX3, K3/100, etc. and my K2/100 is currently not in use. Maybe I'll get it set up now that I have a second operating location.

73, Phil W7OX

On 6/23/16 9:09 PM, Robin Bayer wrote:
For casual CW, the K2 sounds and performs. Sometimes I daydream about a
K2s upgrade kit. Finer tuning, encoder controls, Band memories, all those aftermarket mic, level out, an 1/8 phone jack, modern internal battery. Oh
and easily adjustable DSP filtering.

A K3 is out of my range, well maybe a well used one someday.

For QRP contesting, and scanning the bands for signals, nothing beats the
KX3, Win4K3 and a good sound card for the Pan adapter. During CWT the
signals were tight, but hardly a click with the filter tightened. A great
value.

Building most of the accessories for my K2/10 and almost all worked
immediately!  I am still pleased to share it in my station report during
rag chews.

Anyway, Thanks Eleccraft team the fine rigs.

Robin
KA5QQA

K1. sold to buy a K2
KX1 sold to buy a k2
K2
KX3

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