Upgrades and Options

If you own, recently purchased, or are considering the purchase of an Elecraft K3 or K3S, you already know these radios remain among the finest-performing transceivers ever produced for serious HF and VHF operating. One of the great advantages of the K3 platform is its modular design, allowing owners to enhance capability and performance through a wide range of optional upgrades and accessories.

For many hams, upgrading or enhancing a K3 is an especially attractive and cost-effective alternative to purchasing an entirely new transceiver. While newer radios such as the Elecraft K4 are unquestionably outstanding performers, the cost of moving to a new flagship-class rig can represent a substantial out-of-pocket expense. By comparison, selectively upgrading a K3 — or bringing it to near K3S performance with several key options — can provide exceptional operating capability and enjoyment at a far more practical investment level.

For convenience, I’ve assembled a list of the various options that were available for these radios. PLEASE NOTE: Because Elecraft’s primary focus today is the K4 product line, many K3/K3S options are now found mainly on the resale market, although a limited number may still be available directly from Elecraft. Reputable resellers such as Larry, K6RO may have inventory, and options sometimes are available through the Elecraft reflector, QRZ, eHam, QTH, and eBay.

If you are searching for a particular option or upgrade and are having difficulty locating one, feel free to contact me. I’ll be happy to help you track one down whenever possible.

Option. Purpose

KPA3 100W amplifie. Used to upgrade a base K3/10 to 100W capable

KAT3 internal ATU Automatic antenna tuner with 10:1 SWR range

KRX3A sub receiver Sub receiver to enable a 2nd receiver

KBPF3 General Coverage Option Extends range of either main or sub-receiver to include 500 kHz to 30Mhz and 48 Mhz to 54 Mhz

Narrow band Roofing filter Numerous narrow band 200, 400 and 500 hz especially good for CW

*KIO3B digital interface. Direct USB communications to computer, built in sound card

KXV3 transverter/IF interface. Allows direct interface to VHF/UHF converters includes separate antenna port

KDVR3 voice/CW recorder. For recording repetitive voice or CW i.e., CQ

K144XV 2-meter module Dedicated 2M transverter seamlessly integrated with the K3 User interface

*KSYN3A Significant upgrade to bring the K3 to nearly K3S performance

· *Key options to upgrade a basic K3 to K3S

Elecraft is a superb US-based manufacturer with a team of highly talented and experienced technicians. Due to strong demand for their services, factory turnaround times are often 6 to 8 weeks or more.

As an independent professional with extensive engineering and ham radio experience, I'm able to give each customer's needs my full, personal attention. In most cases, once I have the radio and all necessary components in hand, turnaround is under two weeks. Should any unexpected delay arise, you'll hear from me immediately — no surprises.

I use only genuine Elecraft modules — either customer-supplied or sourced from trusted, reputable suppliers — and follow factory installation and calibration procedures to the letter. You have my commitment that your radio will be returned to you in reliable working order, as quickly as possible.