As the owner of an ICOM IC-7300, I really like most of the features of the new ICOM IC-705. Of course taking the wraps off the radio and actually using it is different than speculating.
Automatic Antenna Tuner:
At this point you are probably wondering why I say thumbs down to the current version of the awesome radio. Right off the bat many say the missing automatic antenna tuner a deal breaker! But that/s not it!
The simple answer to the absence of an automatic antenna tuner is to use an antenna that is cut for the band in use or use a tune-able antenna system like the Wolf River Coil TIA or the Buddistick.
Another option is to pick up an outboard Elecraft T1A automatic antenna tuner or wait for the mAT-705 tuner that is specifically designed for the 705.
DSTAR:
Although I have been around DMR for a few years, DSTAR would have been be a new experience for me. However, to my knowledge there are no DSTAR repeaters in my area.
The Openspot I previously owned was an awesome device which got me on the Brandmeister network. Over time I lost interest in DMR and sold the Openspot. As a result, unless the WIFI built into the IC-705 provides a way to make DSTAR connections, that feature is completely useless to me.
GPS:
I’d imagine that the built in GPS will sync the internal clock for use with digital modes in the field. In my mind the clock sync feature should be a no-brainer. However, the GPS may only be related to positioning for APRS, etc. Mere speculation at this point.
The Flaw:
With all these incredible RF capabilities built into one awesome unit, I just can’t imagine why they designed a radio with a flaw. Suppose your mobile and having a QSO on 20 meter phone. As you approach your hometown you want to jump onto the VHF band to call a friend.
Time Out!
Without carrying yet another piece of gear (a coaxial switch) you are stuck fiddling with antenna connections or stuck using the HF or the VU side of the rig. The alternative; jumper to coax switch, VU antenna on one switch port, jumper to antenna tuner on second port, antenna tuner to HF antenna… What a mess!
Come on ICOM Engineering! Really! Really! The Elecraft KX3 sure has been knocked for its flaws. Poor internal battery system, poor internal speaker, insufficient heat sink to mention a few but for those wanting to work out side the HF bands, Elecraft provides an SMA connector on the VHF board.
Amazon: ICOM IC-7300
Your thoughts and comments are always welcome!
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I use a Comet CF-706 duplexer, one input and two outputs (1 VHF/UHF & 1 HF-6mx) which saves changing aerials.
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Hi thrre, so or me thr 705 ist perfect. Own it since a few days now. I use an allband antenne 160m-70cm. WiFi, and you are able to work DSTAR in Terminal Mode, nö repeater needed at all. 73, OE7BOE
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I’m a longtime Icom fan, but for $1300 right now the IC-705 is WAY, WAY overpriced and completely underwhelming… Icom could have EASILY hit it out of the park with this rig, but instead opted for a complete strikeout! Waterproof — nope. Waterproof/water resistant connections — nope. Draws a half amp just receiving — yes… Built in antenna tuner –nope. No thanks, Icom; I’ll stick with my IC-703+ with my LC backpack for portable work and my bargain, work of art IC-7300 (bought for $900!) as my home rig.
IMO, Icom has really blown it with the IC-705 design and I can’t see this rig selling well or going anywhere soon. Even if Icom were to sell the IC-705 for $650, or half the price it is selling for right now, I would not be interested. Perhaps Yaesu will come through?
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Thanks much for your opinion of the ICON IC-705 Bob. I agree for the reasons you have mentioned. The 705 is not a very good field rig at all. While the LAB599 Discovery TX-500 lacks the additional features of the IC-705, it is, IMHO a far superior rig for field operators.
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AFTER LONG USE, SOLD MY IC-718 AT HAM-FEST FOR $100. STILL KICKING MYSELF, WB5MPJ, HOUSTON, TEXAS AND SO ON!!!
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Great reead thanks
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