New from Elecraft

The Dayton Hamvention is basically SHOT show for Ham radio, going on this weekend. Of the new, interesting products unveiled, info on this one was sent to me via a close friend and wealth of communications knowledge.

As you can see, its a little smaller than the already compact KX3, and retains the features and same great top-notch quality we’ve come to expect from Elecraft. The specs on the set can be found here. At only 13oz and being a 9 band, 10w set (80-10m) with standalone PSK31/RTTY capability, there has never been a better time to get into field radio. It’s price is set at $750 for the base unit, which for what this set does, is not bad. Add in the internal tuner and battery option, and one would have a very formidable standalone HF set. With a 135mA draw at minimum, it can run a long time in the field keeping the power cut low, with arguably the best receiver on the market.

If you’ve been on the fence about amateur radio, or are an operator but not warmed up to QRP, it’s never been easier than the capabilities offered these days. Communications are just as critical to creating your own infrastructure as anything else, and all of the big manufacturers are really making it easy. It’s also never been simpler to at least get your General Class and get on HF, starting here, and then finding a place to take the exam. While you’re at it, check out the great resources of AMRRON, Tom, Dan, SW Listening Post, and Mike for a great knowledge base. Prices are coming down and the capabilities are going up for lots of critical items these days, take advantage of it while you can.