FTX-1F vs. the Field: Can Yaesu Win Over Portable Operators?

🔊 Is the Yaesu FTX-1F the Next Field Radio King? Let’s Break It Down

🎙️ Summary: What’s the Buzz About?

Hey ham radio enthusiasts! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the future of portable field radios, you’ll want to hear this. Julian from OffGrid Ham Radio OH8STN dives deep into the Yaesu FTX-1F, the anticipated successor to the FT-817/818. This new radio is stirring the pot, promising modern upgrades like dual receivers, a high-res touchscreen, and SDR capabilities—but is it really ready to dethrone its predecessors or take on the ICOM IC-705?

As someone invested in off-grid comms, I had to share this. Julian’s insights are on point, packed with real-world experience and candid expectations. Whether you’re a QRP explorer or a comms prepper, this video gives you a crystal-clear view of what may be your next round of essential gear.

🎥 Creator Bio: Meet the Man Behind the Mic

Julian OH8STN runs the popular YouTube channel OffGrid Ham Radio OH8STN, dedicated to field-ready communications, solar-powered ops, and emergency preparedness. A field operator at heart, Julian shares deep technical breakdowns and passionate reviews.

🔗 YouTube Channel: OffGrid Ham Radio OH8STN
🔗 Website: https://oh8stn.org

📌 Key Takeaways

1. Game-Changing Features: Dual receivers for full duplex, internal audio interface, USB-C power delivery, and SDR architecture make the FTX-1F a potential game-changer.
2. Critical Wishlist: Julian outlines must-have upgrades like daylight-readable screens, wide voltage input, and efficient current consumption.
3. Comparison Matters: The FTX-1F is directly stacked against the ICOM IC-705 and Lab599 TX-500, making performance and innovation non-negotiable.

🧭 Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. The Reveal

Yaesu dropped the FTX-1F at the Tokyo Ham Fair 2024—touted as a successor to the FT-817/818 series with major upgrades.

2. First Impressions & Specs

• Bands: Covers HF to UHF (HF/50/144/430 MHz).
• Modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM, C4FM.
• Display: 4.3″ high-res touchscreen.
• Battery: Lithium-ion; 8–10 hours on SSB.

3. Standout Features

“Full duplex ops? That’s satellite gold.” —Julian

• Dual receivers
• USB CAT/PTT control
• Optional antenna tuner
• Digital noise reduction and notch filtering

4. Julian’s Must-Have Additions

• Power efficiency (≤300 mA receive, ~3A transmit)
• Daylight readable screen
• Wide voltage input (12–30V)
• USB-C PD for charging and operation
• Bluetooth & analog audio input
• Wi-Fi gateway for wireless control

🛠️ Resources Mentioned

Resource	Purpose
Yaesu FTX-1F	Upcoming SDR portable radio
ICOm IC-705	Current field radio benchmark
Lab599 TX-500	Ultra-efficient field radio
PA500 Amp	Example of efficient power use
USB-C Power Delivery	Standard Julian suggests for modern radios
Robust Packet Modem	Used for data modes in off-grid scenarios

💡 Julian’s Expert Take

I’ve operated in some gnarly conditions—icy winds in the Arctic and 100°F desert sands. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, field radios must be reliable, efficient, and modern. The FTX-1F looks promising, but Yaesu really needs to check those extra boxes like power efficiency and USB-C charging to make it a true off-grid operator’s dream. If they do? This could be my next rig, no hesitation.

❓ FAQ

Q1: What is the Yaesu FTX -1F?
A: A new portable SDR transceiver, seen as the successor to the FT-817/818.

Q2: Is it better than the Icom IC-705?
A: Too soon to say—it depends on power efficiency, field usability, and added features.

Q3: Can it do satellite communication?
A: Yes, with dual receivers enabling full duplex ops—ideal for satellite work.

Q4: Will it have USB-C charging?
A: It’s requested by many, including Julian, but not confirmed yet.

Q5: Is it good for emergency/off-grid comms?
A: If it includes Julian’s wishlist features, it could be a top-tier choice.

🛒 Official Product Listings & Pre-Order Pages

1. DX Engineering – Yaesu FTX-1F Product Page
   Comprehensive product details, specifications, and pre-order information for the FTX-1F.
   🔗 DX Engineering
2. WIMO – Yaesu FTX-1F Overview
   In-depth overview of the FTX-1F, highlighting its features and capabilities.
   🔗 WIMO
3. Hamshop – Yaesu FTX-1F Listing
   Product listing with specifications and availability updates.
   🔗 Hamshop
4. Ham Radio UK – FTX-1F Pre-Order
   Secure your FTX-1F with a deposit; includes detailed product information.
   🔗 Ham Radio UK
5. Ham Radio Shop Italy – FTX-1F Product Page
   Italian retailer offering pre-order options and product details.
   🔗 Ham Radio Shop
6. K-PO – Yaesu FTX-1F Overview
   Product information and specifications for the FTX-1F.
   🔗 K-PO
7. HardSoft Products – FTX-1F Transceiver
   Details on the FTX-1F with reservation information.
   🔗 HardSoft Products

📰 News & Announcements

1. DXZone – Yaesu FTX-1F Announcement
   Official announcement and preliminary details about the FTX-1F.
   🔗 DXZone
2. CQDX.ru – FTX-1F Transceiver Overview
   Insights into the FTX-1F’s features and expected capabilities.
   🔗 CQDX.ru

📄 Documentation & Manuals

1. DX Engineering – FTX-1F Preliminary Manual (PDF)
   Downloadable preliminary manual providing technical specifications and operational guidance.
   🔗 FTX-1F Manual

💬 Community Discussions

1. Groups.io – FTX-1F Discussion Group
   Join discussions, share insights, and stay updated on the FTX-1F with fellow enthusiasts.
   🔗 Groups.io FTX-1F
2. Facebook – Yaesu USA Official Announcement
   Official announcement and community feedback on the FTX-1F.
   🔗 Yaesu USA Facebook

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