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Over the past week I have been doing some radio soul searching..... it all started with some operating time on my Elecraft K3. For some reason I turned to my left and there also on my desk was my Elecraft K2 with literally "0" operating time. At the begining of the summer I wanted to get the K2 portable and use it along with my KX1 on outings. I have the 100 watt module installed in the K2 and that would have to be removed and remote mounted for home use. So I went ahead and ordered the enclosure from Electraft to do this. I had planned this project to begin in the fall along with some other radio projects. Then it hit me "if I have the K2 why am I purchasing another portable rig ....the KX3" I shook my head wondering if Julie had slipped something in my tea!!!! So began the soul searching........the gears started to turn...what was the radio smarts thing to do....

1. KNB2 noise blanker
2. KDSP2 DSP module
3. KIO2 serial interface
4. KAT100 auto turner (to be built and for home use)
5. KPA100 watts module (for home use)

For this rig to go portable I need....

1. KAT2 internal 20 auto tuner
2. KBT2 internal gel cell battery

1. The KX3.....................................800.00 
2. Battery..........................................80.00  
3. Paddle..........................................90.00
4. Mounting bracket..........................30.00
5. Filter..............................................60.00
6. Mike..............................................60.00  

                     Sub total................1289.00                                                                                           
                     Shipping....................50.00 (approx)
                     Total cost...............1339.00

So again I asked my self "Do I need the KX3 or do I just WANT it!"

Don't get me wrong the KX3 is a GREAT radio and has many many things the K2 does not and will not ever have. I do have the cash on hand to purchase the KX3 it was all earned selling equipment around the shack. But after looking over what I already have....a fantastic fully loaded Elecraft K3 for home use. An equally fantastic portable rig being the K2 I am afraid I have to bow out of the KX3 race for now. I can't say the KX3 may never darken the shack but at this time my radio smarts tell me...."not now"