Raves about the K3

classic Classic list List threaded Threaded
14 messages Options
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Raves about the K3

Ed Cienki
This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate, but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams are always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding the FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the user group to identify issues and improvements  and their outstanding customer support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

KD8NNU
Please share your RX settings for SSB and your method of determining them

Thx
Don
KD8NNU



-- Sent from my Palm Pre
On Dec 11, 2010 12:42 PM, Ed Cienki <[hidden email]> wrote:

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my observations.



First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.



Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.



That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar AT-Auto.



I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate, but here is where the K3 shines:



1. True dual VFO/dual receive;

2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);

3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;

4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;

5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);

6. Light weight;

7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;

8. Menu flexibility;and

9. Easy updating of firmware.



Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.



As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams are always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding the FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the user group to identify issues and improvements  and their outstanding customer support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.



Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC



Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

______________________________________________________________

Elecraft mailing list

Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft

Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm

Post: mailto:[hidden email]



This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net

Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html


______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

Johnny Siu
In reply to this post by Ed Cienki
Hello Ed,

I am also using IC7700.  Could you please share your comments in the IC7700
yahoo mail reflector group?  I don't want to cross post your message in that
group without your permission.


 cheers,


Johnny VR2XMC



----- 郵件原件 ----
寄件人﹕ Ed Cienki <[hidden email]>
收件人﹕ [hidden email]
傳送日期﹕ 2010/12/12 (日) 1:42:55 AM
主題: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my
observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and
filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar
AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate,
but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the
K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the
ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams are
always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding the
FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not
to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING
job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the
user group to identify issues and improvements  and their outstanding customer
support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html



     
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Re: Raves about the K3

Jeff kb2m
 Or how about this. You could buy a pretty much loaded K3 *AND* a 7700 for what a 7800 costs. I hate to open up the K4 discussion again, but a K3,P3,KPA500, wrapped up in a QRO box with more spread out switchcraft, large dual speakers, and band buttons seems like a no brainer. I would sell my 9000D for one, and keep my K3 for backup, and field use.....

73 Jeff kb2m
 

-----Original Message-----
From: [hidden email] [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Johnny Siu
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2010 18:45 PM
To: [hidden email]; [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] Re: Raves about the K3

Hello Ed,

I am also using IC7700.  Could you please share your comments in the IC7700
yahoo mail reflector group?  I don't want to cross post your message in that
group without your permission.


 cheers,


Johnny VR2XMC



----- 郵件原件 ----
寄件人﹕ Ed Cienki <[hidden email]>
收件人﹕ [hidden email]
傳送日期﹕ 2010/12/12 (日) 1:42:55 AM
主題: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my
observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and
filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar
AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate,
but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the
K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the
ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams are
always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding the
FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not
to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING
job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the
user group to identify issues and improvements  and their outstanding customer
support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC


______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

Bruce McLaughlin-2
In reply to this post by Ed Cienki
Congratulations on your purchase of the K-3.  I have two of them.  Both are
fully outfitted as well is a K2/100 which I built several years ago.  The
K-3s are simply outstanding.  I just acquired a P3 41 of them and that works
extremely well.  I also have an FTDX 5000 MP.  That is an excellent radio
and as you mentioned it does have its strong points.  Its main receiver is
extremely good.  But as you noted its second receiver is not as good.  It
does not use the roofing filters which are available to the main receiver
and, unlike the main receiver its first IF is in the VHF region so that
narrow crystal roofing filters would probably not be very effective.  As you
know, the story is quite different with the K-3.  In fact, I am not aware of
any other radio offering two receivers with identical, outstanding
characteristics.  And of course, the company is just outstanding to deal
with.  Not only are their products cutting edge but they know how to treat
and deal with customers.  I think that will certainly ensure a long and
prosperous future for Elecraft.

Incidentally, I was a member of AF Mars for many years but finally resigned
about three years ago because of lack of activity on 1S1.  Since I was
discouraged from operating on nets with other modes, I just saw no reason to
continue the activity.

Bruce-W8FU and ex AFA1XD

---Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Ed Cienki
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2010 12:43 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my
observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted
and filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar
AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to
operate, but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing
the K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the
ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams
are always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding
the FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here
is not to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the
OUTSTANDING job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their
support of the user group to identify issues and improvements  and their
outstanding customer support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to
Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the SprintR Now Network from my BlackBerryR
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

Ed Cienki
Bruce:

I agree with all points made in your email.  Candidly, when I first got the K3, I did have a bit of a learning curve, but wow, it is now a lot of fun to operate!

With anticipated permission of the moderator, regarding AF MARS, I would like to make the following comments since there had been much in the way of program changes over the past 3 years.

First, there is a newer MOI and inter-service SOP for voice nets, so all MARS services can interoperate on each other's frequencies and NCS.  

Second, the mission of MARS has been upgraded to the Military "Auxiliary" Radio System instead of Military "Affiliate" Radio System.  The major change in focus is the ability to respond to man-made and natural disasters (EEI and ECOM) not just passing military traffic.  

Third, CW is back. While the US military may have phased out CW as a mode, MARS (all 3 programs)view CW in the realm of a viable mode of communication (under the "digital domain"), especially in emergency situations, and accordingly, there are now CW nets.  

Lastly, to conform to FEMA regions, the former region 1 as you knew it has been realigned as have the other AF MARS Regions, and the entire US is now aligned into six area's which manage the new AF MARS FEMA aligned regions.

I appreciate and thank you for your comments.  I also wish to thank the moderators for their patience regarding my AF MARS posting.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

-----Original Message-----
From: "Bruce McLaughlin" <[hidden email]>
Date: Sun, 12 Dec 2010 12:40:18
To: <[hidden email]>; <[hidden email]>
Subject: RE: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

Congratulations on your purchase of the K-3.  I have two of them.  Both are
fully outfitted as well is a K2/100 which I built several years ago.  The
K-3s are simply outstanding.  I just acquired a P3 41 of them and that works
extremely well.  I also have an FTDX 5000 MP.  That is an excellent radio
and as you mentioned it does have its strong points.  Its main receiver is
extremely good.  But as you noted its second receiver is not as good.  It
does not use the roofing filters which are available to the main receiver
and, unlike the main receiver its first IF is in the VHF region so that
narrow crystal roofing filters would probably not be very effective.  As you
know, the story is quite different with the K-3.  In fact, I am not aware of
any other radio offering two receivers with identical, outstanding
characteristics.  And of course, the company is just outstanding to deal
with.  Not only are their products cutting edge but they know how to treat
and deal with customers.  I think that will certainly ensure a long and
prosperous future for Elecraft.

Incidentally, I was a member of AF Mars for many years but finally resigned
about three years ago because of lack of activity on 1S1.  Since I was
discouraged from operating on nets with other modes, I just saw no reason to
continue the activity.

Bruce-W8FU and ex AFA1XD

---Original Message-----
From: [hidden email]
[mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Ed Cienki
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2010 12:43 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my
observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted
and filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar
AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to
operate, but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing
the K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the
ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams
are always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding
the FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here
is not to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the
OUTSTANDING job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their
support of the user group to identify issues and improvements  and their
outstanding customer support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to
Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the SprintR Now Network from my BlackBerryR
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

AC7AC
In reply to this post by Bruce McLaughlin-2
CONTENTS DELETED
The author has deleted this message.
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

N5GE
In reply to this post by Bruce McLaughlin-2

Bruce,

I've heard that the military has discontinued CW training for communications.
That's too bad.

I wonder if MARS still uses CW or have they gone to phone and digital?

73,

Tom Childers
Radio Amateur N5GE
Licensed since 1976
QCWA Member 35102
ARRL Life Member


On Sun, 12 Dec 2010 12:40:18 -0500, "Bruce McLaughlin" <[hidden email]> wrote:

[snip]
>
>Incidentally, I was a member of AF Mars for many years but finally resigned
>about three years ago because of lack of activity on 1S1.  Since I was
>discouraged from operating on nets with other modes, I just saw no reason to
>continue the activity.
>
>Bruce-W8FU and ex AFA1XD
>
[snip]

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Amateur Radio Operator N5GE
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

AC7AC
CONTENTS DELETED
The author has deleted this message.
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Raves about the K3

Ed Cienki
In reply to this post by KD8NNU
Don:

 

If you are referring to Tx settings (not Rx settings), please note the my mic is a Marshall MXL R144 Ribbon Mic, which goes into a Behringher Ultragain-Pro MIC-2200 tube pre-amp, then into a Behringher Ultra-Curve DEQ2496 (set up in the manner as suggested by NU9N), from there, I use an NCS multi-switcher to determine what radio is to be tx’d.  Currently, the K3 is set to FL2 (6Hz AM Filter), with Tx ESSB turned on (using BW usually between 3.0 to 3.2), Tx Gate at 25,  The Tx eq follows: 50hz = +6; 100hz = +2; 200hz = -2; 400hz = -6; 800hz = -2; 1600hz = +0; 2400hz = +3; and 3200hz = +5.  I do run compression on the K3 at 19.

 

How this was determined was actually utilizing the NU9N settings for the DEQ-2496 and then relying on a group of hams that I have known for years that have heard my voice on several other radios, over the telephone and in-person to adjust the Eq on the K3.   That is how we arrived at those settings.  

 

Did I answer your question?

 

Best 73, Ed, N2EAC

 

From: don Swetzig [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2010 1:26 PM
To: [hidden email]; [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

 

Please share your RX settings for SSB and your method of determining them

Thx
Don
KD8NNU




-- Sent from my Palm Pre

 

  _____  

On Dec 11, 2010 12:42 PM, Ed Cienki <[hidden email]> wrote:

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate, but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the K3. The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000. We as hams are always in search of "nirvana". While I have heard the issues regarding the FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the user group to identify issues and improvements and their outstanding customer support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft 
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm 
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net 
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html 

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Re: Raves about the K3

Ed Cienki
In reply to this post by Johnny Siu
Hi Johnny:

I have read your posts, private emails to me and I certainly respect your opinions.  Like I've said below, I love each radio for different reasons. But, I am not looking to "nit-pick" either radio.  I was just stating some of the more pronounced differences that I find favorable with the K3 and why I purchased it over any other radio as a second radio in my shack alongside of my IC-7700.  Candidly, I am not interested in cross-posting my comments to the IC-7700 reflector or granting copyright to permit any cross-posting.  These are my opinions about 2 very different radio's at 2 very different price points and I am very happy with the functionality of each of them in different settings. In the US the K3 fully outfitted and built by Elecraft is between $2,000 and $2,500 less than the IC-7700.  So there is a big price difference.

On HF, other than operating on the AF MARS frequencies, I am predominantly a rag-chewer (mainly on 160m very late at night), non-contester/Non-Dx'er (although not my passion, I will chase some rare Dx), conversational CW operator (20m - albeit about 17 wpm).  My raves are about the K3 are intended to let the K3 community (and especially Wayne and Eric) know what features are desirable, why they are desirable and to assist and give them some direction from the user community.

Best 73, Ed, N2EAC  

-----Original Message-----
From: Johnny Siu [mailto:[hidden email]]
Sent: Saturday, December 11, 2010 6:45 PM
To: [hidden email]; [hidden email]
Subject: Re: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

Hello Ed,

I am also using IC7700.  Could you please share your comments in the IC7700
yahoo mail reflector group?  I don't want to cross post your message in that
group without your permission.


 cheers,


Johnny VR2XMC



----- 郵件原件 ----
寄件人﹕ Ed Cienki <[hidden email]>
收件人﹕ [hidden email]
傳送日期﹕ 2010/12/12 (日) 1:42:55 AM
主題: [Elecraft] Raves about the K3

This is my first post to this reflector and would like to share some of my
observations.

First. I have a 4xxx series K3, built by Elecraft that is fully outfitted and
filtered running LP-Pan, an EMU-0202 and a MicroHam Station Master.

Second, I have been operating an IC-7700 for the past 2 yrs.

That being said I have run both rigs side-by-side into a IC-PW1 and Palstar
AT-Auto.

I must say that each radio has its own benefits and is outstanding to operate,
but here is where the K3 shines:

1. True dual VFO/dual receive;
2. Easy MARS modification (yes, I am a licensed AF MARS Operator);
3. IF out. LP-Pan and PowerSDR are outstanding;
4. ESSB - of course with the proper filtering being installed;
5. Tx Eq and Noise Gate - No out-board W2IHY EQ is needed (sorry Julius);
6. Light weight;
7. Unbelievable receive audio with the appropriate filtering;
8. Menu flexibility;and
9. Easy updating of firmware.

Candidly, I still love and use the IC-7700, but more and more I am utilizing the
K3.  The K3 is an outstanding value and robust transceiver.

As a separate matter (a bit of a rant here), and for example having seen the
ARRL and Sherwood engineering reports regarding the FTDX-5000.  We as hams are
always in search of "nirvana".  While I have heard the issues regarding the
FTDX-5000 design that have not made the mainstream press, the issue here is not
to bash Yaesu, but to congratulate and thank Wayne and Eric for the OUTSTANDING
job, not only with the design and operation of the K3, but their support of the
user group to identify issues and improvements  and their outstanding customer
support when you call them for assistance. Kudos to Elecraft.

Best, 73, Ed, N2EAC

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html



     

______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Re: Raves about the K3

Don Wilhelm-4
In reply to this post by Jeff kb2m
  Jeff,

Since the K3, P3 and KPA500 are the same height, you may want to figure
out how to attach one to the other (metal strips on the bottom come to
mind), so it is all "one big unit".  Then you could have all that
functionality in one package.  I will keep mine as separate assemblies,
thank you.

I know that is not what you meant, but I just could not resist - I see
no advantage to having all that in one single enclosure.

73,
Don W3FPR

On 12/12/2010 9:20 AM, Jeff KB2M wrote:
>   Or how about this. You could buy a pretty much loaded K3 *AND* a 7700 for what a 7800 costs. I hate to open up the K4 discussion again, but a K3,P3,KPA500, wrapped up in a QRO box with more spread out switchcraft, large dual speakers, and band buttons seems like a no brainer. I would sell my 9000D for one, and keep my K3 for backup, and field use.....
>
> 73 Jeff kb2m
> .html
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Re: Raves about the K3

Byron N6NUL
and then, to make it all weigh more, stick some Dynamat Xtreme in the
boxes. At about 0.5lb/ft^2 you should be able to increase the weight
on your desk by several pounds.

73, Byron N6NUL

On Sun, Dec 12, 2010 at 5:23 PM, Don Wilhelm <[hidden email]> wrote:

> Since the K3, P3 and KPA500 are the same height, you may want to figure
> out how to attach one to the other (metal strips on the bottom come to
> mind), so it is all "one big unit".

--
- Northern California Contest Club
- CU in the 2011 Cal QSO Party 1-2 Oct 2011
- www.cqp.org
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
Reply | Threaded
Open this post in threaded view
|

Re: Re: Raves about the K3

Gary Gregory
Hey, now what about a custom desktop case made to match the Elecraft K
series equipment with slide in/out drawers (lockable via spring loaded
screws) so that "one BIG box" shack becomes a reality.

The huge advantage is IF an issue arises, simply 'pull' the defective item
from the box and do what needs to be done but still have a somewhat
functional rig IF the K3 is not at fault.

I might even consider doing this myself so that for portable use I have just
one box to pack up when on the move.

Maybe a part number could be K3LB-500...:-)

K3 = Radio
LB = Large Box
500 = Total output power

Aaaah...nice to dream eh?

Now to think of a way to install a 'swing lifter' to heave the box from
storage to desk...:-(

73's
Gary

On Mon, Dec 13, 2010 at 11:36 AM, Byron Servies <[hidden email]> wrote:

> and then, to make it all weigh more, stick some Dynamat Xtreme in the
> boxes. At about 0.5lb/ft^2 you should be able to increase the weight
> on your desk by several pounds.
>
> 73, Byron N6NUL
>
> On Sun, Dec 12, 2010 at 5:23 PM, Don Wilhelm <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> > Since the K3, P3 and KPA500 are the same height, you may want to figure
> > out how to attach one to the other (metal strips on the bottom come to
> > mind), so it is all "one big unit".
>
> --
> - Northern California Contest Club
> - CU in the 2011 Cal QSO Party 1-2 Oct 2011
> - www.cqp.org
> ______________________________________________________________
> Elecraft mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:[hidden email]
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>



--
Gary
VK4FD - Motorhome Mobile
http://www.qsl.net/vk4fd/
K3 #679, P3 #546
For everything else there's Mastercard!!!
______________________________________________________________
Elecraft mailing list
Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft
Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
Post: mailto:[hidden email]

This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html