Many of you know that I’m not only into QRP, but I’m an avid shortwave radio listener, as well.
If you’re an SWLer, too, you might might consider venturing over to my shortwave radio blog, The SWLing Post, where I just published a review of the Elecraft KX3. Unlike other reviews of the KX3, this was originally written for the May 2013 issue of Monitoring Times Magazine and focuses on the KX3 as a shortwave radio receiver.
(Source: Elecraft)
June 17, 2013
Now accepting orders for the Elecraft KXPA100 100 W Amplifier
We have received FCC certification and are putting on the finishing touches and performing our field test on the KXPA100. We’re now taking orders for deliveries planned to start in the next 60 days (mid to late August).
You will find a direct link for ordering the KXPA100 below, at the bottom of this email. (This order form is not yet visible on our regular web page.)
KXPA100 features include:
We look forward to receiving your KXPA100 order and we hope it will accompany you on many adventures to come!
73,
Wayne, N6KR
Eric, WA6HHQ
KXPA100 On-Line Order Form
(Please use this web order form so that our phone sales team will not be overloaded.)
Orders will be processed in the order received.
www.elecraft.com/tmp/kxpa100.htm
For additional questions, you can also reach us at [email protected]
Wow–the Elecraft KX3 has some serious ears! Most impressive, Elecraft!
It appears that Elecraft is now accepting orders for the KX3 QRP tranceiver that we first mentioned on QRPer.com during the 2011 Dayton Hamvention. Order are expected to be shipped in February 2012.
The kit version of the KX3 will be priced at $899.95 US, while the factory assembled and tested version will sell for $999.95 US.
Here are full details from an email via Elecraft’s Wayne (N6KR) and Eric (WA6HHQ):
Some of the [KX3] options can be ordered now, while others (including the internal 2-m module and 100-W external amplifier/ATU), will be available later this year.
The basic KX3 includes:
Available options include:
In addition, a custom-designed KX3 dust cover is available (please contact [email protected] ).
Delivery of both the basic KX3 and options subject to availability. As always, we invite suggestions for new features, improvements and accessories.
For more information ontheKX3, including pictures, specifications and videos, see our KX3 Page: http://www.elecraft.com/KX3/kx3.htm
Back from Dayton, I found this YouTube video of Wayne Burdick demonstrating the KX3 at Four Days In May (FDIM). As you can see, the form factor is perfect for field operations and I believe you would be hard-pressed to find more features on a rig this size.
(Video source: QRPARCI)
Wow.
I got a chance to play with one of the two KX3 protoypes Elecraft had on display at the Dayton Hamvention.
I mean, wow!
Don (W3FPR) gave me a tour of this amazing rig. It’s small, feature-packed and as ergonomic as all of the machines that come out of Aptos. It is slightly larger than the KX1 in every dimension. Still very easy to hold (as you can see in the photo to the right). Not pictured are the mini CW paddles (not based on the current KX1–much better) and a small attachable microphone. I’ll try to photo them tomorrow and post.
I spoke with Elecraft owner/founder Wayne Burdick (N6KR) at length as well. He said that the KX3 has been in the works for years. It’s built on the ideas of Elecraft and many of its owners, he said they’ve simply been waiting for technology to catch-up with their vision.
I actually think this could be a major game changer in the ham radio world. Think about it…a portable transceiver with the receive capabilities of the world-class K3, all band, general coverage, firmware upgradable, with many options including a full-fledged automatic antenna tuner, 100 Watt amp and many optional modules. Did I mention it’s ultra portable? Gosh!
Oh yeah, Wayne told me it will be sold for under $800.
I must have one.
More photos:
Very excited this morning as I read this announcement on QRP-L posted by Wayne himself:
KX3: Ultra-compact K3/KX1 hybrid; 160-6 m, 10/100 W, all-mode, 32-bit
DSP/SDR, 1.5 lbs.(By the way, I’d like to thank everyone on the list who’s sent us
suggestions for a next-generation portable over the years. Many great
ideas!)73,
Wayne
N6KR
I will update this site with any information I can gather from Dayton! More to come…