I composed a long reply on my experiences to find my web-mail had disconnected so all was lost with reconnection. So here it is again:
I am using my KX3 probably 90% in the shack as second radio to my K3. K3 has heavy lifting duties on HF and with my several VHF+ transverters. I do plan to set up the KX3 for mobile once a quick-change mount is available and may add a 100w HF amp. It will get primary duty on 2m-FM using an add-on linear (either 35w or 80w). I did encounter highly distorted audio on my initial turn-on of the KX3. That was using the internal speaker. It happened on strong signals a couple more times and has not occured since? I figure the radio was just stretching on initila wake-up! I do normally run with my Harmon-Kardon computer ampified speakers which improves audio quality (though the speakers were never spectacular). MY K3 internal speaker leaves me luke-warm but I have it connected to a 8-inch 1950's National Receiver speaker which gives great audio with the K3. I bent a piece of aluminum plate so the radio is mounted at 15-degree uptilt on my wooden radio shelf (console) using the prethreaded hole for the paddle which I opted not to buy as I have a Bencher-2 in the shack. Most of my serious CW sending is done by computer anyway. Overall I am favorably impressed. The FT-817 which was replaced by the KX3 never impressed me for HF reception. The KX3 sounds almost as good as my K3. I will add the 2m module and EXREF options when available. I also use the small radio for portable operation (aka mountain-topping) for VHF- mw. I am writing a review for the Microwave Update Conference this October on that application. I figured on some start-up "bumps"being it a new product. But I am confident that Elecraft will come forward with upgrades via firmware. That is the nice part about having a SDR> 73, Ed - KL7UW ______________________________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm Post: mailto:[email protected] This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
