Icom 7610 Vs Elecraft K3S: Which Is The Better Receiver?

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Icom 7610 Vs Elecraft K3S: Which Is The Better Receiver?
00:00 Introduction
02:02 Icom 7610
02:41 SSB Bass Treble
03:26 Passband Tuning
04:19 Elecraft K3S
04:32 K3S 2.7K and RX EQ
Both the Icom IC-7610 and the Elecraft K3s are high-performance amateur radio transceivers, and they both have their strengths. The choice between them depends on your specific preferences, needs, and operating style. Here are some key points to consider: There are many, many options available in the K3. Too many to go through for myself. I adjusted the radios for my listening, my ears on a particular day and band conditions. These are the settings I typically use on a day to day basis. I have a previous video with the receiver settings wide open, pretty much as they come from the factory. Neither video is perfect . These are only samples. When I ask "Which is better?" It's just a general question given this video. Given different conditions, different settings, the answers change. Best wishes this holiday season and 73!
*Icom IC-7610:*
1. *Spectrum Scope:* The IC-7610 features a built-in high-resolution spectrum scope, providing a visual representation of the RF spectrum. This can be useful for monitoring band activity and identifying signals.
2. *Touchscreen Display:* It has a large color touchscreen display, which makes navigation and operation more intuitive.
3. *Dual Receivers:* The IC-7610 has dual receivers, allowing you to monitor two frequencies simultaneously. This can be advantageous in certain operating scenarios.
4. *Built-in Automatic Antenna Tuner (ATU):* The IC-7610 includes an internal ATU, simplifying the process of matching your antenna to the transceiver.
*Elecraft K3s:*
1. *Modularity:* Elecraft transceivers, including the K3s, are known for their modular design. This allows for upgrades and expansion, enabling users to customize their transceiver according to their preferences.
2. *Receiver Performance:* The Elecraft K3s is renowned for its excellent receiver performance, offering low noise and high sensitivity.
3. *Build Quality:* Elecraft equipment is often praised for its robust build quality and attention to detail. The K3s is no exception, providing a durable and reliable platform.
4. *CW Performance:* Elecraft transceivers are particularly popular among CW (Morse code) enthusiasts due to their excellent CW performance and features.
Ultimately, the "better" receiver depends on your specific needs and operating preferences. If features like a built-in spectrum scope, touchscreen display, and dual receivers are essential to you, the IC-7610 might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you value modularity, exceptional receiver performance, and a reputation for high-quality build, the Elecraft K3s could be the preferred choice.
It's advisable to try both radios if possible and consider factors such as ergonomics, user interface, and any specific features that are critical to your operating style before making a decision. Additionally, consulting with other operators who have hands-on experience with these transceivers can provide valuable insights.
#hamradio #elecraft #icom This site contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows me to continue. Thank you for the support!
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Пікірлер: 54

@brucemitchell4478 7 ай бұрын

I have the 7610 and adding the attenuator or turning down the RF gain until the noise floor just tickles the S-Meter on a blank frequency is the preferred method for using an SDR receiver.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

Thanks for commenting Bruce. I won't spoil anything for the next video. Stay tuned and best holiday wishes to you and yours. 73!

@randymoore2410 7 ай бұрын

I have both radios and love both of them. I favor the K3 because in the long run when something fails it is easier to repair than the 7610. I have owned by 7610 for three years and have experienced no issues with the radio. I recently bought the K3 with P3 from a friend that bought a K4 and wanted to sell some radios to cover the expense.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's nice to hear from you and thanks for commenting. I agree, it would be easier to repair the K3, but hopefully they both last a long long time. I did have to send the 7610 for the LCD repair but it was under warranty. I had one of the first released in the US and it was a known problem. Best holiday wishes and 73!

@PrecisionGroupYT 6 ай бұрын

Good Comparison! While I do not own an Elecraft K3 I do own both the Icom 7610 ( 2 years ) and 7300 ( 6+ years ) I do run them with a BHI DSP noise cancelation module ( which can be used with almost any radio with an audio out capability) and the audio is fantastic! Now many HAMs instead of adding a noise cancellation device ( far less money ) will buy a new radio like for example a Yaesu with it’s awesome DNR capability which is far more expensive then just adding NR to their existing radio! Plus I love the User Interface of the Icom’s…..my 2 cents 73 K4BBC

@HamRadioAdventures 6 ай бұрын

It’s nice to hear from you and thank you for commenting here. Which BHI unit do you have? I’ll have to check that out. Thanks for the information and Best 73.

@PrecisionGroupYT 6 ай бұрын

@@HamRadioAdventures your welcome thank you!

@KF8OD1 7 ай бұрын

Nice video! I use the 7610, first new rig in 20 years and I love it!

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor and use some NR. The 7610 was my first DX and contest rig. I love it! 73 de KØPIR

@radio_n1kdo 7 ай бұрын

I'm using K3 with new synthesizers (not really a K3S, there are mainboard changes, but pretty close) dual RX, and a P3 for finding fish. Also using K4D. I would not say I am an Elecraft "fan boy" but I do have a KX3 for portable work, too. I used to have a IC-746 Pro, I still believe the DSP noise reduction in that Icom is/was superior to the K3. You might find that the 2.8 KHz 8-pole crystal filter in the K3 is much sharper and seems to "sound better" than the "stock" 2.7 KHz 5-pole. I think to get close to IC7610 level functionality with K3, dual RX, P3 with SVGA the new price was over $6k. Thankfully because of the modular nature of the K3, you don't have to buy all the parts at once. Thanks for the interesting video. BTW I think I saw a 3rd transceiver in your shack, is that a old Drake?

@w3tua 3 ай бұрын

I bought a 7610 two months ago and it is a true game-changer. The dual receivers make it so much easier to work DXpeditions running split and the selectivity of the rig is top-notch. My Yaesu FTDX-3000 is second best now and my Yaesu FT-710 can do the job too. 73 DE WA5RR

@HamRadioAdventures 3 ай бұрын

It’s great to hear from you and thank you for commenting. My thoughts exactly. I can’t wait to get back home to my 7610 and Acom amp. Best 73 and good DX!

@stahpit1971 7 ай бұрын

Love the comparison videos. I have the 7610 but if I could do it over the Elecraft would be my choice simply because of the screen issues with the 7610 and it seems like a more robust build.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor and use some NR. My first take is that the K3S is quieter. 73!

@denniskimrey4129 7 ай бұрын

I have the Ic-7610 but would love a K-3S for backup. Both great rigs

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor on the 7610 and use some NR. My first take is that the K3S is quieter and an excellent receiver. The 7610 has more bells and whistles. 73!

@JacquesVermeulenZS1WC 6 ай бұрын

I liked your video, the K3s have a better or quieter noise floor from what I heard. I think you should play around with your scope settings. If i recall you know how. But even at my QTH the 7610 loves to pick on noise from led's, and solar panels. It drives me nuts. I am currently on a mission with a neighbour's installation and hopefully, our local regulatory can sort it out with the installer in January. Thank you for all your content. 👍

@HamRadioAdventures 6 ай бұрын

It's nice to hear from you and thank you for commenting. It's a tough choice. Best wishes this new years and 73!

@AD4C 4 ай бұрын

I owned a K3S for more than 10 years, only radio I have used for so long, it was the best high performance with no issues I have owned. Now I own a 7610 for six months and very pleased with its performance, in spite of its noise floor is not so low as the K3S was, I can say it allow me to pick up weak stations as well with no problem, normally I reduce the RF gain to the point that band noise goes to almost zero. Never use the preamp on any band, it has more than plenty of sensitivity without the preamp. One thing I am sure is that the received audio quality in this 7610 is better than the K3S for sure. Why I sold the K3S ? in almost 12 years my eyes never liked its look, its an ugly radio that look like a CB and that is why I sold it but in honor to the truth, its a super radio.

@iPigee 7 ай бұрын

Excellent share. I use a 7610. Love it too but the quality of that elecraft demo was nice. Great audio out of it. Which do you prefer?

@JayN4GO 7 ай бұрын

About the best way to test these is weak signal Cw but I can hear the k3 wins out to my ears. Think of when that rig was produced compared to the 7610. The Icom sure is pretty though. That noise resembles lightning arrestors on a power line when the wind is blowing hard. Should be an easy fix if you can pinpoint the issue. Led lights typically stay on longer and off longer. You’re very lucky to have both rigs om.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor and use some NR. With the 400 and 250HzHz filtering, the K3S CW is great. I'll get to CW eventually in the videos. Thanks for bringing it up. 73!

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

Thank you and yes, I think you nailed it with the power line noise.

@DK5ONV 7 ай бұрын

Beautiful Video. Everyone had a great sounding Audio. They all understood the Drill how to HAM up the right Way. I am saying the IC-7610 really has great sounding RX on SSB but the K3 beats it

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's always good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor and use some NR. 73!

@TheRealBigfootChannel 7 ай бұрын

Nice 👍 and good video. Looking forward to the next one 🎉

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

More to come!

@TheAppalachianWay 3 ай бұрын

I’ve had a Kenwood TS-570D for over a decade. Just got General so hanging a wire soon. I hope it performs good enough. Those look like some dandy rigs.

@HamRadioAdventures 3 ай бұрын

It’s good to hear from you and thank you for commenting. I had one of those radios and I wish I never got rid of it. It had terrific transmit audio using the Heil boom mic. Just terrific radio all around, enjoy!

@HamRadioAdventures 3 ай бұрын

This was one of my first videos with the 570D kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4LQpqyZmcqAr6Msi=M5hvVe9l2xCGx-Tw

@TheAppalachianWay 3 ай бұрын

@@HamRadioAdventures thanks I’ll check it out

@thuff3207 7 ай бұрын

I don’t have a K3 but I do have a K4. I wonder if your K3 has the video out card that was used with the P3 for spectrum. If you do something like the RSP1A could easily get you a spectrum.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

@HamRadioAdventures 0 seconds ago It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. That's my dream! 73 de KØPIR

@feeatlastfeeatlast5283 7 ай бұрын

I have commented on this before. It is hard to make a comparison and expect someone to draw any conclusions when, for example with the K3 you have: NR - multiple steps AGC - has 7 parameters you can adjust, such as threshold, slope, decay time. Makes a phenomenal difference, but you have to know what to listen for. But we are ham radio ops aren't we? Isn't that what we do? Two types of noise blanker, IF and RF, each adjustable 8 band receive equalization (EQ) which you did not adjust ability (with an optional 6 khz filer) to have extended ssb, allowing you to have wider bandwidth, if you can hear above 2.9 khz! A person familiar with the Icom could probably make a similar list. 73 de k2xt

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you and thank you for commenting. You are correct, I wholeheartedly agree. Allow me to expand on this for those who may read this, but will not visit my website or watch the entire video. There are many, many options available in the K3. Too many to go through for myself. I adjusted the radios for my listening, my ears on a particular day and band conditions. These are the settings I typically use on a day to day basis. I have a previous video with the receiver settings wide open, pretty much as they come from the factory. Neither video is perfect . These are only samples. When I ask "Which is better?" It's just a general question given this video. Given different conditions, different settings, the answers change. Best wishes this holiday season and 73! 🎄

@jorgemolina4649 2 ай бұрын

The K3 is the winner to me and also own both radios, great video 73’s

@HamRadioAdventures 2 ай бұрын

It's nice to hear from you and thank you for commenting. Best wishes, 73 and good DX!!

@patrickmolloy6994 7 ай бұрын

I sold my ic7610 in favour of both the ic705 an the ic7300 ! cash in hand got me a DX Commander antenna to replace my GAP Titan DX.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

Its' nice to hear from you as always. Thank you for commenting and I would love to have the 705. Maybe a used one is in my future, and maybe a DX Commander, I'd love to use one of those beasts operating from my camper in Arizona. Best holiday wishes and 73!

@FjHenderson 7 ай бұрын

Close together on there receiver performance. KC9KRX , Brad i hear him all the time on the nets here in my area. Nice video on the 2 great radios reciever. 73 de AC8GF

@katsebua 7 ай бұрын

7610 both NR znd NB are adjustable. It'll sound a lot better if you turn down the RF gain znd$or use sk e ATT,. My K3 is back in the box

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It’s good to hear from you and thank you for commenting. Yes I’ll show those in the next video. 73 and good DX!

@DonauweIIe 6 ай бұрын

Can you add more treble to that K3S ? The noise reduction attenuates the higher tones, that sounds a bit muffled, increasing treble would compensate. i heard people transmitting on their K3S in SSB speech, that thing makes a clear modulation in SSB, Iike it. The Icom IC-7300 cuts QRM like that off very well and i guess the 7610 would do same if adjusted right. i think i would prefer the Icom IC-7610, the menues look so much nicer to use and the reception / transmit quality sounds about same as in the K3S, both very good. its a bit like comparing Porsche 911 GT 3 to a new top of the line Chevy Corvette.

@HamRadioAdventures 6 ай бұрын

Thanks for commenting and yes it is nice that way. The K3S has a nice equalizer and I need the higher freq tones for my hearing too. Best 73!

@DonauweIIe 6 ай бұрын

@@HamRadioAdventures I would like to hear, if you make a new video of that. 73

@hamlive7923 7 ай бұрын

Boy they are neck and neck, both phenomenal radios. I suppose I’d give it to the Elecraft just based on subjective preference but really tough call.

@HamRadioAdventures 7 ай бұрын

It's good to hear from you an thanks for commenting. In the next video I'll lower the noise floor and use some NR. My first take is that the K3S is quieter. 73!