Thanks for the great video. After 15 years away from the hobby, early retirement brought me back into Ham Radio. Dusted off my old TS-450SAT and the old R5 vertical. It was not long before I spent some of my daughters inheritance and bought the IC-7300. Enjoyed the radio but oh boy the noise floor from the radio was very wearing when chasing weak sota stations. The FTDX10 price dropped in the UK end of last year to £1350 plus a promise of £85 cash back. No brainer PX the 7300 and spent more of the daughters inheritance and dogged the bullets from the XYL. What a radio amazing, never get tired of using it. Connected to the DX Commander Classic vertical, one real happy bunny. Oh last week the cashback arrived from Yaesu and I used the money to buy the 300hz roofing filter dogging more bullets from the XYL. Amazed I still have a home to live in lol.
I own both and they're excellent rigs. The DX10 performs slightly better on SSB, but for me, the 7300 offers a more pleasurable (and logical) user experience.
Modern time. I bought an Icom IC 7300 after spending much too much time pretending I understood a single word of all the the specs and stuff. The IC7300 is a proven, solid performer. As a beginner, don't get trapped in all the tech talk. My opinion. Great video.
Ic-7300 is a nice radio, but FTDX-10 is much superior when it comes to contesting since it has much higher dynamic range. To my experience, IC-7300 was often overloaded during MM CW contest which never happen to FTDX-10. For me FTDX-10 is obvious winner.
Hi Jason! You are correct about the ATT for the scope. It only affects the scope. The receiver ATT is either off or 20dB of attenuation. The IC-7300 doesn’t have a physical roofing filter. It relies on the digital processing. The FTdx10 has a dual-conversion superheterodyne receiver architecture, coupling a traditional receiver front-end to an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). There are 3, and an optional 4th, physical roofing filters available, to do some “heavy lifting” before the signal is converted to digital. Think of a roofing filter as a type of prescreening stage to narrow the portion of spectrum that is passed along to the FPGA (SDR) stage, via analog to digital conversion. The dual-conversion superheterodyne receiver improves selectivity and helps prevent the overload associated with some direct sampling receivers. Think of it as assisting the digital stages by narrowing the spectrum and limiting noise, giving the digital stages less to process, which helps the digital do a better job. Great presentation my friend! 73, de N4HNH
I have a Yaesu 991A and would go for the FTDX10 if I could afford it. But I think a less expensive Antenna upgrade would improve my station as much or more for the price.
Hi Jason, thank you, I'm a new ham. I tested on Sunday May 23rd. Took and passed the Technician and General tests. My call sign is KI5QAB. I really enjoyed this video. My choice for first radio is the Yaesu ft-991a.
I'm shopping for my first HF rig. I am just about decided on the IC-7300. But as of now, the price difference is only $300. I'm taking a closer look at the FTDX-10 now. Nice video.
I prefer my IC-756 ProIII over the 7300 because most common controls are on the panel instead of buried in the menus. I have recommended the 7300 to some new hams for a starter rig. It is the best value for the money.
Thanks for reviewing these radios. I have always been a Yaesu guy but was considering the 7300 due my casual operating. I went to HRO Anaheim to look and saw the FTDX-10 and 101D. Really love the 101D but is a bit out price at this time. As you mentioned the kind operating I do of just basic operating of seeing what there, few radio nets, and DX working off and on I think the FTDX-10 would fit me. I am working on upgrading my antenna farm first and use the 757GX2 I have had for 30 years. Have few acres to fill with antennas. But I have heard buy once- cry once. Thanks again
A hobby is like bucket with a hole in the bottom of it - you never seem able to get your fill of it. I'm glad I took your advice and bought the 7300 - it is a nice radio.
I just bought a 7300 and I am very happy with it. Price tag was a deciding factor. I have a Kenwood TS-2000 and as far as HF goes the 7300 has much better receiver but, as you said the TS-2000 is a older radio. I like the set up for Satellite operation. Buying a radio is like buying a car, what do you want to do with it and what can you afford. Thanks for the comparison 73's KF6EWO
Since the IC-7300 is a pure SDR radio, features can continually be added by software updates as long as the Processor (CPU) and Memory are powerful/fast enough and memory size allow the upgrades to perform properly.
Yaesu has chosen to follow the hybrid route, employing both SDR and conventional superheterodyne technology. Yaesu even states on their website they use a hybrid configuration. They put a Superhetrodyne in front of the ADC circuitry. Icom doesn't use a hybrid approach. Their front end feeds directly into SDR ADC circuitry. So the only analog is the antenna feedline signal.
normally I dont care for yaesu radios, however the ftdx 10 is a winner... whether it's worth the extra money is debatable but I have both the 7300 and the 10. The contour control is nice to have and the noise reduction is great....however I wouldnt kick the 7300 to the curb, I think its the best value radio out there
I am new to HF and only been on VHF-UHF for about 2 years. Just saved up enough to get the IC7300. At 73 years old and not that great health, I think it will last me for the rest of my life. I sure am not going to keep saving up for a higher priced radio! I want to get on the HF very soon. Plus the prices may be going up soon. Everything is going up! But not my Social Security check!
Apache cases are good for the price at Harbor Freight. One has to be careful buying items at HFT. But over the past 5 years, quality has gotten better. Lots of items for a ham shack or FD/POTA/MSWE.....
Have both. Prefer the FTDX-10 receiver over the IC-7300. Am using the FTDX-10 at Field Day this year as the transmitter is so much cleaner than the IC-7300.
@@brianumbrell4049 I agree. The transmitted audio on the 7300 to me has always sounded croaky and weird but the dx10 sounds much smoother when the audio peaks and cleaner overall. Also the filtering on the dx10 is vastly superior to the 7300 hands down.. Personally I think this is a very bias review in reality who would opt for a lesser radio like the icom if the dx10 is obviously a better radio overall jmo.
The option for an external monitor is GOLD for me. Honestly - I am looking for a fully remote-able SDR since my optimal antenna location is rather far from my optimal control position. Wish this could work fully remote over Ethernet.
I went with Yaesu as it has a Monitor output on it and now I have a 24 inch monitor to look at and use a mouse on it! Both are good radios. Thanks for the video.
Just an FYI - you can change the screen on the 7300 to make the freq smaller and have more info just like the Yaesu. I own both, and enjoy both - though I would not call either a "contest rig". Nice review - thanks!
Very early this morning I bought IC-7300 on HRO. I just checked it 21 hours later and it is out of stock on HRO. Your making me feel very good about buying that radio as I am essentially a new HAM even though I got my license six years ago. Thank you for your help.
May I ask which HRO location you managed to order your new radio? Also, congratulations Brian! I was among those people yesterday morning that managed to snag a 7300 too. Originally from the Woodbridge, VA location but they sold out while I was registering/checking out. Luckily, the Plano, TX HRO location had a few pop up in their inventory. Fortunately, I was finished with the registration process. Had my finger on the trigger, ready to squeeze and got lucky. It was official. I just purchased my first ham radio rig. I also have a Yaesu FT-60R but I hardly consider that my “first” radio. Nonetheless, congratulations again on your new (hard to find) acquisition! Stay classy my friend.
@@brianbeames Hello again Brian, Pardon me for rehashing an old thread but I have a curious question if I may. Upon speaking to several HRO employees, I have surmised that they have taken it upon themselves to place my order as a "Back Ordered Radio". Have you heard the same thing or has the Woodbridge HRO location made good on their promises and actually delivered your IC-7300? Did they place you on back-order too? Someone is lying to me and I am determined to find out who and why. I would *_never_* order anything if it meant it had to be backordered. When attempting to order another 7300 without any current "live inventory" as we saw previously; it clearly states that the radio is _(Out of Stock - Delivery Delayed!)._ However, when I placed my order on June 3rd it was In-Stock without any of those notifications. Something is horribly awry here and no one has the decency to tell me the truth. Has HRO officially become an untrustworthy company? Thanks for any and all help my friends.
@@BertShackleford I have not yet received it. I just checked my phone and I spoke with a sales representative from the VA store on 11th of this month. Local: 703-643-1063: That was the phone number provided from internet that was on my phone. When I placed the order, I ordered more than just the radio. The packing slip from those other items indicated that the radio was on back order. Sales rep indicated that they should have indicated that it was on back-order a day or two after the order was placed. Sales rep also indicated that it might be ready to be shipped to me about the 20-25 of this month. Sales rep indicated that once they get off the shipping container from Japan it has to go through customs and then I think one or two more places before they ship it to you. They might be still holding it for two weeks due to COVID as a quarantine. In my own personal opinion I genuinely do not think they are lying. Some might be trying to get you off the phone quicker than others but the sales rep from VA really did take the time to explain at least a little of what was really occurring. Like you, I would not have placed an order had it not been in inventory. I hope that this helps.
I have recently heard from some pota activators that use the FTDX10 and I am here trying to learn. I do like the Yaesu due to the more recent build or design so I would imagine they have better filters and/or features. Up until now, I had been thinking of activating with portable radios like the FT-891 for example. I am not put off by the weight for a pota standpoint. My ultimate idea for dragging pota gear to an activation would be with a GatorBox. I am currently in Florida doing Grandpa duty but on my way back to Texas I might try to play radio. I do have my home HF rig (Kenwood 590SG). I still haven’t mounted my ham stick mounts on the tail and do have M&P coax. Another great video (yeah it is a year ago - haha). All the best, 73 de KI5HXM
Great video Jason. I have been a Ham off and on since 1980. My first Radio as a ham was a new Yaesu FT-101E and I've been a Yaesu fan ever since. I looked at both the IC-7300 and the new Yaesu FTdx-10. I went for the IC-7300 for two reasons: Since the FTdx-10 is a new radio I was a little apprehensive in getting one. I like to wait and see if a new radio has any design flaws or bugs. And second the price for a new radio is higher and over time comes down. I took the $700 I saved and bought the Acom A-1010 amp. I am very please with the IC-7300 and have no regrets in buying it. 73 Joe KN4IFI.
I know this video is like two years old. but I am newish to HF and I have no clue what some of these functions even do or if I would ever use them. it would be really cool if someone did a video or series that explained what they do and what we could use these functions for.
Awesome review Jason. I have owned my 7300 for 2 years. Love it and it still does everything I need and then some!!! I might consider moving to the FTDX 10 after a year to see how they fair. I still remember talking to hams who got burned on the 991 versus the 991a issue. Yeasu makes a great radio as well as ICOM. I am just more comfortable with the ICOM menu system but on the fence. Hoping ICOM comes out with a new radio to replace the 7300 that will out perform the 10. It is always back and forth with technology!!!
Now that I've purchased my 7300, of course hro would have a new year sale on the ftdx10... I would have waited and purchased the yaesu had I known it would only be $1,399.95. The main reason being for the larger screen size, the digital noise reduction, and of course, the capability to connect to my computer's monitor with the dvi out. If you buy the RadioAnalog PTRX-7300 V2 and an SDR receiver for $260 so that you can connect the 7300 to a monitor, you are now in the ftdx10 price range. Going the ftdx10 route, you wouldn't need any extra stuff, and the monitor display is the same as what you'd see on your rig...
Thank you Jason! I have been a Ham since 1962 and operated for many years with a Heathkit SB-303/401 combination into an SB-220. I have recently moved into more modern equipment. Current rig is a Yeasu FTDX-450D which is pretty good but looking to upgrade and considering the FTDX-10 and the IC-7300 - your video was right on point - thank you! 73 de WD8MPQ.
I know you didn't want to hurt the feelings of 7300 owner's. It is a great value. I'm a CW operator and the DX10 has some great features for this. The DNR, great receiver, DVI port, and others. Some are saying once you get used to the 3D waterfall it is great! I'm going to continue to save for the DX10 even thought I have enough for the 7300, it will be worth the wait. Thanks for your channel!
I gave my honest opinion because I own both radios. If I had something disparaging to say about the 7300, I would have. But it is a fantastic radio also.
I don’t have an Icom 7300, but I know a few people that do, and from what I have heard they are very pleased with them. I do have the Icom 9700 and a Yaesu FT991a, with an FTDX10 on the way.The FT991a does have a very good performance on Hf, and by and large, it largely depends, like most radios, on how it is operated. I think most of the major manufacturers, are producing very good transceivers, with the occasional lemon. But generally, you look at the specs. and maybe check them out in store you probably won’t go to far wrong whatever you buy, it’s as usual down to personal choice.
Really nice comparison. I don't know anything about either radio's RF architecture, this is just a bit of my understanding from other setups. Direct Sampling means that there is an analog to digital converter chip that's directly sampling the signal coming off of the antenna (likely after some conditioning). There is no mixer or intermediate frequency, the radio has access to the entire spectrum all the time. The downconversion and filtering for the audio you hear (basically the VFO) is all done with the digital signal processor (presumably on or adjacent to the FPGA chip) against the byte stream of RF sample data. Very tidy setup, but is subject to signal aliasing unless there is a variable notch filter in front of the sampler. My guess is that, for the Yaesu, they added the mixer back in (using a digitally controlled oscillator) so that the audio processor could 'zoom in' a bit to the portion of the RF spectrum that is right around the VFO frequency. This does two good things: 1- it helps eliminate signal aliasing, in which a powerful station at a lower frequency will bleed into stations that are at some multiple of the frequency. 2 - it would allow them to oversample the intermediate frequency a bit, which combined with some additional DSP magic would allow for better SNR and possibly what enables the extraction of some of those weaker signals from the noise floor. Relieved of all audio duty, the direct sampling portion used for the waterfall could then use a much lower quality hardware than the ICOM b/c it's just used for driving pixels.
I have owned and operated my IC-7300 for about three years and I love it. I have owned mostly Icom products for many years and their menu/control layout has always made perfect sense to me...intuitive and logical. I wanted to get on the air with a new local computer using C4FM so I bought an FT-991a. I have had it for about 10 months and I loath its controls so I use it only for VHF/UHF/C4FM and all my HF/Digital modes on the IC-7300. The FT-991a radio has great sound both incoming and outgoing and there is nothing technically wrong with it but I will never buy a Yaesu product again. Sorry, but an FTdx10 will never grace my shack.
If you use a narrow band antenna both radios, or most any radio, is great for digging out signals the hybrid makes it even easier... and now the two rigs are within $150
HI JASON, HAPPY WITH MY 7300 HAD IT FOR 2 YRS NOW, pRIOR TO THE KEN 890. DID I NEED A 890 AND ALL BELLS AND WHISTELS ( N O ). I DIDNT HAVE TO SPEND $3,000 MORE. THE AMOUNT OF USAGE THE 7300 IS MUCH MORE PRACTICAL RADIO TO HAVE,,,,7300 IS THE WAY TO GO , IF YOU WANT JUST THE BASICS TO GET AROUND, THE TRANSMIT AUDIO IS VERY GOOD, THE rx LACKS SO LITTLE, , SO ALL AROUND THE 7300 IS THE RADIO TO HAVE, THE ft 710 NAKE NO DIFFERENCE TO HAVE....BOTTOM LINE IC 7300 SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR A BETTER ANTENNA, 73 FROM W2OT.
G90 and ftdx10 owner... New tech and general, though 95% to get extra next Wednesday (passed my last 5 sample tests). I PROBABLY would have been happy with the icom, but none are in stock anywhere so won't with yaesu at HRO. LOVE the radio so far even though I'm still learning. (passing the test is one thing, but to truly be an Extra is going to take many years of experience) I liked the compare and contrast... Kinda let's me know that I got the right radio for me and my family (my 10yr daughter and YF are techs, my 8yr son is also general) and we still might have enough to grab another ftdx10 to contest as a family. Thanks for the vid. 73. KJ7YTS
Currently I see the ftdx 10 at 1399$ and the ic 7300 at 1199$ if you were just getting into HF what do you choose at this price point? I was leaning towards the ftdx. Thanks in advance
Thanks Jason. Appreciate the comparison. I am guessing the next jump will be a different cost level. And also thanks much for all your work on the YTHamfest over the weekend. Very educational and interesting. It opens up some new directions I will be exploring. Thanks! 73
Hmmm, Yeasu is a better radio, but I dont like the looks of it! Plus I have a IC-9700 and it looks better together. The receiver is not that much better than the IC-7300. Again Yeasu is newer and have the latest. I do like the ICOM menus allot better than the Yeasu ;). Keep up the good Work JJ..
I just passed my General License Exam and I'm seriously looking for a good HF radio to help me get into HF, thanks for making this video, you have given me more things to consider. I've got it down to these three. IC7300, Yaesu 991A, or Yaesu FTDX10? I think I'm getting a headache.
I will first say any of the three radios you are thinking about are great and I'm sure you will like any one of them. The 7300 is a very good SDR radio and I like the the waterfall on it. I don't like the waterfall on the 991A, however I really like the receiver as I believe it has the features that allow the receiver to be more selective so you can pull out some of the weaker signals. The 991A is also a "shack-in-the-box" because it has 2 meters and 70 centimeters plus it does System Fushion so you are able to talk on the Yaesu repeaters in digital mode if there are Yaesu repeaters in your area. I am still getting used to the waterfall on the FT10 and so far I am only going to rate it as fair, but I haven't spent as much time with the display. I will say the FT10 has some quirks in the touchscreen and I think the 7300 is a little better. As Jason says the FT10 is the newest technology and possibly because of the price point it may not be a fair comparison. I will say I currently own all three radios and if I am going into the radio room to operate HF, I am more likely to turn on the FT10, but that may be because it's the newest one. I still like the screen on the 7300 over the FT10 as I think it is easier to use and maybe the menus are a little better, but I am also used to the 7300 and I still have to get used to the menus of the FT10. As I said I think you will be happy with any of those three radios. 73. N3EDO.
I've had my Tech license since 2015, and only messed around for 2 months until my interest fell off. Since moving from Utah to FL 3 years ago, I've met several active Ham's who have not only stimulated my interest in upgrading my license, but now I'm deep in the research for a radio. The IC 7300 seems to be a fan favorite, and I was initially focused on that, but expanding my blinders a bit has me spending the additional $300 for the FTdx10, and that will give me a very high ceiling within which to grow (not that I'm not a moon shot away from knowing 10% of what the 7300 can do). But as an old EE, who's not been active in the field since 2014, "I feel like" I might have the potential to learn quick, assuming I can pass the General exam (insanely horrible test anxiety, then again, I'm not living under the sword of Damocles with school loans, or the constant threat's by professors to perform)(the worst possible way to learn). While I'm saving for the radio, the battery and other start up accessories, I'm currently in the FTdx10 camp, and it would take a fair amount of coaxing to move to another platform. This with the understanding that I have about 4 weeks into studying radios, specifications, capacities, performance, growth potential, and how I'm best able to future proof my investment (newer is often, but not always better). Pig
P.s. My Stihl i500 chain saw weighs in at 14#, so I'm probably not as concerned about the 4# weight difference between the two radios. Additionally, at least to start, I want to be a one radio guy (yes, I see several initial one radio guys who have dozens sitting behind them in their videos).
Actually, the "Best bang for the buck" is the Icom IC-7100 for $799.95 at HRO right now. 2 meters, 70 CM, HF, 6 meters and D-STAR. Built in sound card. Yes, it is decade old in technology but where can you get all of those features in a radio for that price?
@@JohnFT3414 I wonder if this as true as it once was..... the abilities of the sdr radios are now so good most hams wouldn’t notice any difference ie the IC705 vs IC9700 RX on 2m weak signal SSB.
I'd like both of those radio's, but alas I will have to wait to get the FTDX10 when it comes down in price. Meanwhile at my club, we meet every Tuesday, so I've booked all the slots to use our FTDX10. First come first served.....lol
I have both now. Selectivity functions and rx performance are superior on the DX10 but the 7300 is really good. DNR is not as good and I don't like the RF gain implementation on the 7300. Also lack of an APF and contour is a biggy.
About that lack of missing _physical_ roofing filters on the ic7300: it’s not there because it’s not necessary. That’s the whole point, and one consequence of a direct sampling receiver architecture. With direct sampling, the entire RF spectrum is digitized. All signal processing is done digitally after that. This has been the holy grail for comms design engineers for many reasons. The architecture has been possible (due to cost) for consumer level equipment only over the past 15 years or so. There are functional equivalent of roofing filters in the ic7300. It’s just that they’re implemented numerically, in software or most likely implemented as digital logic in the FPGA fabric. Practically, however, both radios are fine rigs. I like the Icom user interface much better; the Yaesu has marginally (inconsequentially for me) better receiver performance. I’d speculate that Yaesu took the more conservative approach. The “hybrid” architecture lets them get more mileage out of already sunk engineering and manufacturing cost. In going direct sampling, Icom broke with the past earlier.
When you start working pileups on POTA or a DXpedition, you'll find that the marginal difference in the FTDX10 isn't that marginal. This video is rather old now. Having used both radios in the field numerous times, both are great but the more filtering options on the Yaesu are certainly present. If you want to see much better direct sampling from an SDR, the FlexRadio outperforms both of these models
@@HamRadio2 yes, that is true. What it amounts to is that at the same instance in time, for a given engineering and manufacturing budget, direct sampling means a better receiver. This is because direct sampling just requires less hardware. It follows the same cost and performance curves as laptops and cell phones from one generation to next. For a traditional superhet design, the cost of physical filters, passives and other components goes _up_ over time. It's a losing proposition. Btw, I believe that Flex is a direct conversion architecture, zero-IF. The RF is mixed down directly to baseband, followed by A/D. This was the predecessor to direct sampling . It was done this way because the older gen of A/D can't sample fast enough at required resolution, rate, or low enough noise. I'd bet if Flex were to greenfield a radio today, they'd go direct sampling. Take a look at Analog Devices portfolio. They make the core SDR ICs that to into serious equipment, e.g., cell stations, industrial comms gear, etc. The AD9364 is of the Flex 6000 generation. That chip is still available, but is a full 4 generations behind their current offering. The performance difference is a universe apart. ------------------- Ahh, I was mistaken about the Flex 6000 series. Just took a look at the block diagram. It is a direct sampling receiver, just like the ic7300. The Flex uses the Analog Devices AD9467 A/D. This is 246 Msps with 16 bits of dynamic range. Yep, this is significantly better spec'd than the LTC2208-14 (130 Msps,14-bit deep) A/D in the Icom. What do you know, you get what you pay for.
So now, 2 years on from this. In the UK there is only a £200 price difference between the 7300 and the dx10. Is the dx10 worth the extra £200. (New licencee, first radio)
As always, another great video, thank you for making it and sharing it with all of us Jason! I have a pair of Icom IC 7300 radios and I have been considering getting the Yaesu FTDX 10 but have been unable to justify the $600 price difference for a slightly better receive. I'm still on the fence and who knows. I'd like to hear from more people that have both and see what they think as well. I was kind of hoping a bunch of people would sell their 7300s at a discounted price and I can pick up a few more of those in the short-term for some friends that just got their license. I am of course subscribed with notifications turned on and thumbs up! 73 W3GUY
I have had both and let's just say that I gave up on the 7300. I actually had a lot issues with the "OVLD" light on the 7300. Also, the filtering on the FTDX-10 is really impressive and for me definitely justifies the price. I use my FTDX-10 for POTA. Love the radio. Also, the contour is missing on the 7300 and it is amazing how big a difference that can make in hearing signals.
It's crazy, in a year the price of the IC-7300 went from under $1,000 to about $1,300-1,400. So, for $200-300 more, is the FTDX a better entry for first timers?
Yes, you can hear the difference on the Rx side, better filters, better digital noise canceling, CW decoder, three options for ATT. I think it is worth the extra money for FTDX10. I have both radios and I like them both. de W2CSI
You know, I've gotta make an observation here. If you look past the fluff (presentation style, production things like graphics - all the stuff other than content), this guy consistently has more useful "meat" which is better quality than most other ham channels. His videos always provide more real, useful actual CONTENT and less BS. He seems to be careful not to say more than he actually knows or just flat out make stuff up which I can't say for most of the other channels. I'd rather get this guy's take on something because of that. In short, the quality is much higher. Not that his production stuff is bad - it's not - it just isn't the point. Good job man.
I prefer to use 3DSS waterfall on my FT-DX10, Menu is on screen longer now with current Firm Ware. FT-DX10 has 5 years newer technology. Makes it easy to choose.
I don't understand why radios that include 6m don't offer a dedicated port for 6m. With the FTDX10 being around $700 more wouldn't that put it in a different class?
Excellent info Jason. I'd be happy with either, wallet happier with Icom 7300, techy happier with Yaesu FT-DX10. I can't even get on anything with my apartment restrictions, unless I go stealth, besides I don't have the budget for anything more than window shopping. 73s de K9DWB
Agreed. Unless there is something better about the Yaesu, I would just pony up the extra $300. Sure, you don't get a tuner included (you can add one later), but it seems like a much better rig for not much more money. I run resonant antennas anyway. The 7300 is priced perfectly.
I was as many other viewers waiting to see both radios in action, I mean receiving with same antenna comparing received signal in terms of noise flloor, audio quality, selectivity, etc but ended up wishing to see more. Now that you own both radios why you don't do a comparison between them in action both receiving with same antenna.
Are they any good video demos showing AM transmit and receive quality on the FTDX10. The 7300 has one of the best AM reception audio quality I have heard in years. The extra wide bandwidth on AM is a big plus for audio receive sound. I don't own them but I have played with the 7300.
Great review- I would like to see you measure the SSB output on the 7300 and compare it to the SSB power output on the Yaesu FTDX10. I never get full SSB output power on the ICOM 7300.
My 7300 puts out the 100 watts it is supposed to so it might possibly be one of your settings or maybe the antenna. I would first hook up a dummy load instead of your antenna and then see if your SSB power output is any better. If it is then you know it is an antenna or a coax problem. If there is no difference, then I would look at the microphone settings and possibly add more gain but you do have to be careful because if you add too much mike gain then you can start to splatter and that is not good. I would also recommend putting an external SWR meter in line directly out of the radio so you can see what is happening. I am not a real fan of any of the meters that come in the radios and prefer an external one. Good luck. 73. N3EDO.
I have the 746pro. The 7300 front has a similar look as the 746/756pro. Looks I could transition to the 7300 easily. And about $5-600 LESS than the 746....
As I understand it, the IC-705 is similar to the IC-7300 in receiver specs. I wonder when Yaesu is going to have a QRP equivalent to the FTDX 10. Time will tell. Anyway interesting comparison
Why do modern rigs have lousy NB’s? A friend demonstrated these radios in the winter. Turned on his MarkV and it knocked out all that AC power line noise with no DNR engaged.
Don't get me wrong, I love Yaesu but... Too many buttons hidden around the tuning knob. What a hassle. You have to have the radio sitting directly in front of you to see the whole face and all the controls. I think the face of the Icom is laid out much better for comfortability and ease of use.
Question: 1GB of storage is enough for ~975,000 PAGES of text. You can’t even buy a 1GB thumb drive in the store anymore (too small). So are the memories on these radios considered to be ‘enough’? Is there something special about these frequencies that keeps the number so small (even on a modern radio)? For reference, the AnyTone 878 stores 4,000 freqs, 10,000 talk groups and 200k contacts. I hope I’m getting my question across.
@@HamRadio2 Why, in this day and age, do HT’s only have 1,000-or-so memory locations? Are the manufacturers skimping that badly? Or is 1,000 more than enough? For example, I ordered an FT3D. It has 900 frequency slots.
1000 is a good number, really. Lots of the Baofeng radios still only have 128 memories. Also some of the DMR HTs have 3000 or 4000 memories, so if you need that many, you might look at one of the Anytone HTs
@@HamRadio2 This is from the SDS100 literature "8GB microSD card holds the entire US and Canada database of radio systems, plus leaves room for hundreds of hours of audio recording." For what Yaesu and Icom charge, adding a $5 worth of memory seems long overdue:) Then again, if their next HT's aren't SDR-based like that scanner...
I am looking for my first HF radio and am looking at the IC-7300 or the FT-991a but cannot decide which one I should get. Any suggestions on why one is better than the other? I plan on putting a vhf/uhf radio in my truck so I will have those bands in that radio
I prefer the 7300 but lots of folks like the 991a better. The 991a has VHF/UHF all mode, so if you are interested in that aspect, it would be a better choice. To me, I think the 7300 is better on the HF bands though.
I REALLY like my Ft991A. It is my go-to radio when I go out to the desert, or up to the mountains to go riding UTV’s. It is an awesome base station radio because of the hf/vhf/uhf capability. Base is a toy hauler RV. During the day, when I’m out riding the side by side, I take my hand held. I can access repeaters to talk to my wife who is manning the FT991A back at camp, no matter where I am. And during nighttime, when I’m back at camp, I get on the 40m band with a flagpole mounted cushcraft R7 and work contacts all over the world. The Ft991a is the most versatile, practical, useful radio I’ve ever owned.
Your videos are awesome !! I've learned a bunch from them. I think I'm sold on the IC-7300 but could you do a general video on HF base station antennas? I'm not sure if I should go with a steerable antenna or a long wire, or the advantages of vertical vs horizontal . I'm mostly interested in DX'ing and don't have any size constraints. Thanks
The 7300 set the bar for others to follow, in an age where technology moves on at a pace any comparison is a little unfair. I have the FT10 and it’s great but ICOM deserve recognition for shaking things up and they won’t be resting on their laurels and will bounce back, let’s face it they are the most dynamic amongst the big three. Just look at the innovative IC705 and the 7300 is still the best value out there. For me the question was do I go for FT101 or the FT10 to replace my FT3000 at a £1000 difference, no brainier and now I’ve got used to operating this compact rig I have no regrets. Every radio has its plus and minus points show stoppers for some. We are living in a great era for amateur radio and price is still a differentiator. Whatever you have enjoy the hobby it’s great. 73
The 7300 is the best value now but it cost was the same as the dx10 at release time, so why the dx10 in 3 years could not have the best value? 5 year difference of course is not fair for comparison, in price and technology
It's a great time to be a ham but paying to keep up with what's new is going to be a contest. If you're going to buy a new rig you might want to hold up for the bigger better bang......have a feeling there's going to be a lot of that going on.
Hi Jason, I have a quick question for you about the 7300, please? Do you know if the frequency readout can be changed to display 3 decimals? Or are you stuck with only 2? Thanks in advance!
Jason, nice video as always. I have the 7300 and also the 7610 along with a bunch of other radios. You mentioned you would like to get a 7610. I can't say enough things about the 7610 and just love operating the thing. It is well worth the money that it commands. I will be on the look out to put my fingers on the FTDX10 to check it out. Thanks for the video!
Had them both side by side on a coax switch for 2 weeks .. icom 7300 is more fancy and a good radio easy to use The ftdx10 is a better rx mine has the small cw filter that realy makes it a very very good rx on cw At the end sold te 7300 Mine had powerspikes btw .. no good combo with a amp Tx audio is very good on both
I don't know how true this is, but I heard that if a DVI to HDMI adapter is used to connect the Yaesu to an HDMI monitor, it will blow some kind of fuse or electronic component within the radio. Do you know if this is true?
If ICOM would put in a CW decoder in the 7300 I would buy one. ICOM doesn't even put one in their IC-7610 which is a $3,000 dollar radio so your stuck with an audio scope that to me is worthless after you do the initial microphone setup. Come on ICOM get with the program and do some updating! I don't think it has any thing my Yaesu FT-2000 has Except a pretty waterfall scope and My Yaesu has 2 CW key jacks so I can switch between my bug and paddles without having to switch keys and then have to go into the setting menu to switch key settings . A single antenna jack would'nt be a deal breaker as that is why they made coax switches. Good video! Keep up the good work!
Id love to see you do reviews of the top two Icom, Yeasu and Kenwood offerings. I hear lots of good talk about Kenwood on the bands but don't see the same presence on YT.
And here we go again with the price comparison, 5 years ago the 7300 was released at the same price as the dx10, I have both, why the people don't mention the 60-70 watts only in SSB average in the 7300? The tuner range in the 7300 is smaller than any yaesu too. I use my 7300 daily but unfortunately 5 years later there is a better radio to consider. To many things in 5 years to consider unfair the comparison anyway. I would consider a fair comparison with the FT-991A, which I like more than the 7300 but the scope in the 7300 is better than the 991A
What do you mean 50-60w in SSB ? . Tuner works perfect with load with usable mistmach. Y prefer reliability in the internal tuner to a very big range of adjustment but with the posibility to "burn" the internal tuner. You have "Emergency" mode if you want
If you're getting only 50 - 60 watts SSB, you have a problem in your 7300. Check it out. Yes, the tuner is limited in range, but it totally does the trick for every EFHW and dipole I've put up. And a quick 4:1 balun will let me tune lots of crazier antennas. But, sure, the 991A is as good radio, enjoy it!
and what do you think about the time that gets FTdx to tune? my TS850 is 20 times faster(yes, have motors and variable capacitors) but still the IC7300 is 10 times faster!!!
do you know about any hardware update by icom on the 7300 ? it had problems with strong nearby signals, i heard people say that was because of bad pin diodes, allegedly icom solved that problem by hardware updates on the 7300 they said. is that true and if so, what hardware did icom change in the new 7300 ? i wanted to buy an ic7300 but that problem with stronger nearby signals kept me away from buying it, i bought another new HF hamradio instead. From what i hear on air with my own radio, the 7300 sound better, they sound clearer and in low signal condition more intelligible than the ftdx10. from what i hear from these radios on youtube, the received audio from the 7300 sounds more dynamic, clearer and more pleasent to listen too than the ftdx10. only if the 7300 had a roofing filter to make it more immun against stronger nearby signals or narrower bandpass filters, that would make it one of the best radios, i would prefer it over the ftdx10 any day.
I have not used the FTDX10 but own an FT-991a and love it. It is my first HF radio and works well as a shack in the box. Once you learn the radio you can pull in pretty weak signals and the noise reduction is great. It’s small enough to be portable or a big mobile. I get good reports on audio and seem to get out pretty good but I think that is more the antenna than the radio. Also it was easy to connect to the PC for FT8 and other digi modes. I do think if you already have 2m 70cm covered and don’t mind the additional cost the FTDX looks like a great radio. Doug N4HH is a great resource on any of the Yaesu radios I recommend checking his channel out. You can’t go wrong with either radio, good luck!!
@@HamRadio2 For now as a new ham it’s working for me. I can’t wait for the opportunity to try either the FTDX10 or IC7300 thanks for the great content, I think you and the rest of the you tube bunch do a lot to promote all aspects of Ham Radio, 73 KC1OEK
Thanks for the great video. After 15 years away from the hobby, early retirement brought me back into Ham Radio. Dusted off my old TS-450SAT and the old R5 vertical. It was not long before I spent some of my daughters inheritance and bought the IC-7300. Enjoyed the radio but oh boy the noise floor from the radio was very wearing when chasing weak sota stations. The FTDX10 price dropped in the UK end of last year to £1350 plus a promise of £85 cash back. No brainer PX the 7300 and spent more of the daughters inheritance and dogged the bullets from the XYL. What a radio amazing, never get tired of using it. Connected to the DX Commander Classic vertical, one real happy bunny. Oh last week the cashback arrived from Yaesu and I used the money to buy the 300hz roofing filter dogging more bullets from the XYL. Amazed I still have a home to live in lol.
lol
You and me both spending our kids inheritance.
I own both and they're excellent rigs. The DX10 performs slightly better on SSB, but for me, the 7300 offers a more pleasurable (and logical) user experience.
Modern time. I bought an Icom IC 7300 after spending much too much time pretending I understood a single word of all the the specs and stuff. The IC7300 is a proven, solid performer. As a beginner, don't get trapped in all the tech talk. My opinion. Great video.
Ic-7300 is a nice radio, but FTDX-10 is much superior when it comes to contesting since it has much higher dynamic range. To my experience, IC-7300 was often overloaded during MM CW contest which never happen to FTDX-10. For me FTDX-10 is obvious winner.
If the area around your station is very quiet and no big RF emitters are around, your 7800 will work OK.
Hi Jason! You are correct about the ATT for the scope. It only affects the scope. The receiver ATT is either off or 20dB of attenuation.
The IC-7300 doesn’t have a physical roofing filter. It relies on the digital processing. The FTdx10 has a dual-conversion superheterodyne receiver architecture, coupling a traditional receiver front-end to an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). There are 3, and an optional 4th, physical roofing filters available, to do some “heavy lifting” before the signal is converted to digital. Think of a roofing filter as a type of prescreening stage to narrow the portion of spectrum that is passed along to the FPGA (SDR) stage, via analog to digital conversion.
The dual-conversion superheterodyne receiver improves selectivity and helps prevent the overload associated with some direct sampling receivers. Think of it as assisting the digital stages by narrowing the spectrum and limiting noise, giving the digital stages less to process, which helps the digital do a better job.
Great presentation my friend!
73, de N4HNH
Thanks Doug, always good to hear your insight. 73
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEXACTLY !!
I have a Yaesu 991A and would go for the FTDX10 if I could afford it. But I think a less expensive Antenna upgrade would improve my station as much or more for the price.
Generally speaking, antenna is more important than radio
Hi Jason, thank you, I'm a new ham. I tested on Sunday May 23rd. Took and passed the Technician and General tests. My call sign is KI5QAB. I really enjoyed this video. My choice for first radio is the Yaesu ft-991a.
I'm shopping for my first HF rig. I am just about decided on the IC-7300. But as of now, the price difference is only $300. I'm taking a closer look at the FTDX-10 now. Nice video.
I prefer my IC-756 ProIII over the 7300 because most common controls are on the panel instead of buried in the menus. I have recommended the 7300 to some new hams for a starter rig. It is the best value for the money.
Thanks for reviewing these radios. I have always been a Yaesu guy but was considering the 7300 due my casual operating. I went to HRO Anaheim to look and saw the FTDX-10 and 101D. Really love the 101D but is a bit out price at this time. As you mentioned the kind operating I do of just basic operating of seeing what there, few radio nets, and DX working off and on I think the FTDX-10 would fit me. I am working on upgrading my antenna farm first and use the 757GX2 I have had for 30 years. Have few acres to fill with antennas.
But I have heard buy once- cry once. Thanks again
A hobby is like bucket with a hole in the bottom of it - you never seem able to get your fill of it. I'm glad I took your advice and bought the 7300 - it is a nice radio.
Yup
I just bought a 7300 and I am very happy with it. Price tag was a deciding factor. I have a Kenwood TS-2000 and as far as HF goes the 7300
has much better receiver but, as you said the TS-2000 is a older radio. I like the set up for Satellite operation. Buying a radio is like buying
a car, what do you want to do with it and what can you afford. Thanks for the comparison 73's KF6EWO
Since the IC-7300 is a pure SDR radio, features can continually be added by software updates as long as the Processor (CPU) and Memory are powerful/fast enough and memory size allow the upgrades to perform properly.
Pure SDR?
Yaesu has chosen to follow the hybrid route, employing both SDR and conventional superheterodyne technology.
Yaesu even states on their website they use a hybrid configuration. They put a Superhetrodyne in front of the ADC circuitry.
Icom doesn't use a hybrid approach. Their front end feeds directly into SDR ADC circuitry. So the only analog is the antenna feedline signal.
normally I dont care for yaesu radios, however the ftdx 10 is a winner... whether it's worth the extra money is debatable but I have both the 7300 and the 10. The contour control is nice to have and the noise reduction is great....however I wouldnt kick the 7300 to the curb, I think its the best value radio out there
Agreed
I am new to HF and only been on VHF-UHF for about 2 years. Just saved up enough to get the IC7300. At 73 years old and not that great health, I think it will last me for the rest of my life. I sure am not going to keep saving up for a higher priced radio! I want to get on the HF very soon. Plus the prices may be going up soon. Everything is going up! But not my Social Security check!
Great choice
Apache cases are good for the price at Harbor Freight. One has to be careful buying items at HFT. But over the past 5 years, quality has gotten better. Lots of items for a ham shack or FD/POTA/MSWE.....
Have both. Prefer the FTDX-10 receiver over the IC-7300. Am using the FTDX-10 at Field Day this year as the transmitter is so much cleaner than the IC-7300.
I'll be using my FTDX10 at FD also. IDK if I agree that the transmit is cleaner than the 7300, though
@@HamRadio2 I have looked at both on a spectrum analizer and the difference is great.
@@brianumbrell4049 I agree. The transmitted audio on the 7300 to me has always sounded croaky and weird but the dx10 sounds much smoother when the audio peaks and cleaner overall.
Also the filtering on the dx10 is vastly superior to the 7300 hands down..
Personally I think this is a very bias review in reality who would opt for a lesser radio like the icom if the dx10 is obviously a better radio overall jmo.
The option for an external monitor is GOLD for me. Honestly - I am looking for a fully remote-able SDR since my optimal antenna location is rather far from my optimal control position.
Wish this could work fully remote over Ethernet.
SCU-LAN10 option for Yaesu FTDX10 does this for you.
I went with Yaesu as it has a Monitor output on it and now I have a 24 inch monitor to look at and use a mouse on it! Both are good radios. Thanks for the video.
Just an FYI - you can change the screen on the 7300 to make the freq smaller and have more info just like the Yaesu. I own both, and enjoy both - though I would not call either a "contest rig". Nice review - thanks!
Thank you Jason. I thoroughly enjoy my DX10. Also I’ve added an Escort from Portable Zero to it as well. Adds some protection.
Nice!
I've had both. The FTDX10 is lightyears ahead.
Very early this morning I bought IC-7300 on HRO. I just checked it 21 hours later and it is out of stock on HRO. Your making me feel very good about buying that radio as I am essentially a new HAM even though I got my license six years ago. Thank you for your help.
Stock has been limited on those right now so its good you were able to find one. You should love it - great radio.
May I ask which HRO location you managed to order your new radio?
Also, congratulations Brian! I was among those people yesterday morning that managed to snag a 7300 too. Originally from the Woodbridge, VA location but they sold out while I was registering/checking out.
Luckily, the Plano, TX HRO location had a few pop up in their inventory. Fortunately, I was finished with the registration process. Had my finger on the trigger, ready to squeeze and got lucky.
It was official. I just purchased my first ham radio rig. I also have a Yaesu FT-60R but I hardly consider that my “first” radio.
Nonetheless, congratulations again on your new (hard to find) acquisition!
Stay classy my friend.
@@BertShackleford It was the Woodbridge, VA location. Thank you. I hope you enjoy your radio as well.
@@brianbeames Hello again Brian,
Pardon me for rehashing an old thread but I have a curious question if I may.
Upon speaking to several HRO employees, I have surmised that they have taken it upon themselves to place my order as a "Back Ordered Radio".
Have you heard the same thing or has the Woodbridge HRO location made good on their promises and actually delivered your IC-7300? Did they place you on back-order too?
Someone is lying to me and I am determined to find out who and why. I would *_never_* order anything if it meant it had to be backordered.
When attempting to order another 7300 without any current "live inventory" as we saw previously; it clearly states that the radio is _(Out of Stock - Delivery Delayed!)._ However, when I placed my order on June 3rd it was In-Stock without any of those notifications.
Something is horribly awry here and no one has the decency to tell me the truth. Has HRO officially become an untrustworthy company?
Thanks for any and all help my friends.
@@BertShackleford I have not yet received it. I just checked my phone and I spoke with a sales representative from the VA store on 11th of this month. Local: 703-643-1063: That was the phone number provided from internet that was on my phone. When I placed the order, I ordered more than just the radio. The packing slip from those other items indicated that the radio was on back order. Sales rep indicated that they should have indicated that it was on back-order a day or two after the order was placed. Sales rep also indicated that it might be ready to be shipped to me about the 20-25 of this month. Sales rep indicated that once they get off the shipping container from Japan it has to go through customs and then I think one or two more places before they ship it to you. They might be still holding it for two weeks due to COVID as a quarantine. In my own personal opinion I genuinely do not think they are lying. Some might be trying to get you off the phone quicker than others but the sales rep from VA really did take the time to explain at least a little of what was really occurring. Like you, I would not have placed an order had it not been in inventory. I hope that this helps.
I have recently heard from some pota activators that use the FTDX10 and I am here trying to learn. I do like the Yaesu due to the more recent build or design so I would imagine they have better filters and/or features. Up until now, I had been thinking of activating with portable radios like the FT-891 for example. I am not put off by the weight for a pota standpoint. My ultimate idea for dragging pota gear to an activation would be with a GatorBox.
I am currently in Florida doing Grandpa duty but on my way back to Texas I might try to play radio. I do have my home HF rig (Kenwood 590SG). I still haven’t mounted my ham stick mounts on the tail and do have M&P coax. Another great video (yeah it is a year ago - haha). All the best, 73 de KI5HXM
Buy once cry once. New ham here, working on general test will get the ftdx10
Great video Jason. I have been a Ham off and on since 1980. My first Radio as a ham was a new Yaesu FT-101E and I've been a Yaesu fan ever since. I looked at both the IC-7300 and the new Yaesu FTdx-10. I went for the IC-7300 for two reasons: Since the FTdx-10 is a new radio I was a little apprehensive in getting one. I like to wait and see if a new radio has any design flaws or bugs. And second the price for a new radio is higher and over time comes down. I took the $700 I saved and bought the Acom A-1010 amp. I am very please with the IC-7300 and have no regrets in buying it. 73 Joe KN4IFI.
I have an FT-101EE in my shack
Thanks for this comparison Jason. Excellent video!
Thanks!
Love my 7300. It runs FT8 24/7 flawlessly.
Yes, it's a better rig for digital modes. That "meters" screen!!
I know this video is like two years old. but I am newish to HF and I have no clue what some of these functions even do or if I would ever use them. it would be really cool if someone did a video or series that explained what they do and what we could use these functions for.
Awesome review Jason. I have owned my 7300 for 2 years. Love it and it still does everything I need and then some!!! I might consider moving to the FTDX 10 after a year to see how they fair. I still remember talking to hams who got burned on the 991 versus the 991a issue. Yeasu makes a great radio as well as ICOM. I am just more comfortable with the ICOM menu system but on the fence. Hoping ICOM comes out with a new radio to replace the 7300 that will out perform the 10. It is always back and forth with technology!!!
Now that I've purchased my 7300, of course hro would have a new year sale on the ftdx10... I would have waited and purchased the yaesu had I known it would only be $1,399.95. The main reason being for the larger screen size, the digital noise reduction, and of course, the capability to connect to my computer's monitor with the dvi out. If you buy the RadioAnalog PTRX-7300 V2 and an SDR receiver for $260 so that you can connect the 7300 to a monitor, you are now in the ftdx10 price range. Going the ftdx10 route, you wouldn't need any extra stuff, and the monitor display is the same as what you'd see on your rig...
I have a Yaesu ft 3000 I bought new in 2020 before the discontinued. love the radio
Thank you Jason! I have been a Ham since 1962 and operated for many years with a Heathkit SB-303/401 combination into an SB-220. I have recently moved into more modern equipment. Current rig is a Yeasu FTDX-450D which is pretty good but looking to upgrade and considering the FTDX-10 and the IC-7300 - your video was right on point - thank you!
73 de WD8MPQ.
Thanks for watching
Great video; that I didn’t know I needed to watch even 2 weeks ago.
I know you didn't want to hurt the feelings of 7300 owner's. It is a great value. I'm a CW operator and the DX10 has some great features for this. The DNR, great receiver, DVI port, and others. Some are saying once you get used to the 3D waterfall it is great! I'm going to continue to save for the DX10 even thought I have enough for the 7300, it will be worth the wait. Thanks for your channel!
I gave my honest opinion because I own both radios. If I had something disparaging to say about the 7300, I would have. But it is a fantastic radio also.
@@HamRadio2 The FTDX 10 is now $1600, looking good!
@@larryak0z672 1399.00 now... Black Friday 2021
I don’t have an Icom 7300, but I know a few people that do, and from what I have heard they are very pleased with them. I do have the Icom 9700 and a Yaesu FT991a, with an FTDX10 on the way.The FT991a does have a very good performance on Hf, and by and large, it largely depends, like most radios, on how it is operated. I think most of the major manufacturers, are producing very good transceivers, with the occasional lemon. But generally, you look at the specs. and maybe check them out in store you probably won’t go to far wrong whatever you buy, it’s as usual down to personal choice.
The 7300 is a great radio! I highly recommend it. I’ve never been impressed with Yaesu HF radios, but I like their VHF/UHF radios.
Really nice comparison.
I don't know anything about either radio's RF architecture, this is just a bit of my understanding from other setups.
Direct Sampling means that there is an analog to digital converter chip that's directly sampling the signal coming off of the antenna (likely after some conditioning). There is no mixer or intermediate frequency, the radio has access to the entire spectrum all the time. The downconversion and filtering for the audio you hear (basically the VFO) is all done with the digital signal processor (presumably on or adjacent to the FPGA chip) against the byte stream of RF sample data. Very tidy setup, but is subject to signal aliasing unless there is a variable notch filter in front of the sampler.
My guess is that, for the Yaesu, they added the mixer back in (using a digitally controlled oscillator) so that the audio processor could 'zoom in' a bit to the portion of the RF spectrum that is right around the VFO frequency. This does two good things: 1- it helps eliminate signal aliasing, in which a powerful station at a lower frequency will bleed into stations that are at some multiple of the frequency. 2 - it would allow them to oversample the intermediate frequency a bit, which combined with some additional DSP magic would allow for better SNR and possibly what enables the extraction of some of those weaker signals from the noise floor. Relieved of all audio duty, the direct sampling portion used for the waterfall could then use a much lower quality hardware than the ICOM b/c it's just used for driving pixels.
I have owned and operated my IC-7300 for about three years and I love it. I have owned mostly Icom products for many years and their menu/control layout has always made perfect sense to me...intuitive and logical. I wanted to get on the air with a new local computer using C4FM so I bought an FT-991a. I have had it for about 10 months and I loath its controls so I use it only for VHF/UHF/C4FM and all my HF/Digital modes on the IC-7300. The FT-991a radio has great sound both incoming and outgoing and there is nothing technically wrong with it but I will never buy a Yaesu product again. Sorry, but an FTdx10 will never grace my shack.
Agreed. Yaesu radios are phenomenal pieces of equipment but their ui is beyond atrocious. Most un operatable radios I've ever owned
If you use a narrow band antenna both radios, or most any radio, is great for digging out signals
the hybrid makes it even easier... and now the two rigs are within $150
You can connect a mouse and keyboard to the DX10. It also has a CW encoder
Yep
HI JASON, HAPPY WITH MY 7300 HAD IT FOR 2 YRS NOW, pRIOR TO THE KEN 890. DID I NEED A 890 AND ALL BELLS AND WHISTELS ( N O ). I DIDNT HAVE TO SPEND $3,000 MORE. THE AMOUNT OF USAGE THE 7300 IS MUCH MORE PRACTICAL RADIO TO HAVE,,,,7300 IS THE WAY TO GO , IF YOU WANT JUST THE BASICS TO GET AROUND, THE TRANSMIT AUDIO IS VERY GOOD, THE rx LACKS SO LITTLE, , SO ALL AROUND THE 7300 IS THE RADIO TO HAVE, THE ft 710 NAKE NO DIFFERENCE TO HAVE....BOTTOM LINE IC 7300 SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR A BETTER ANTENNA, 73 FROM W2OT.
G90 and ftdx10 owner... New tech and general, though 95% to get extra next Wednesday (passed my last 5 sample tests). I PROBABLY would have been happy with the icom, but none are in stock anywhere so won't with yaesu at HRO. LOVE the radio so far even though I'm still learning. (passing the test is one thing, but to truly be an Extra is going to take many years of experience) I liked the compare and contrast... Kinda let's me know that I got the right radio for me and my family (my 10yr daughter and YF are techs, my 8yr son is also general) and we still might have enough to grab another ftdx10 to contest as a family. Thanks for the vid. 73. KJ7YTS
I just bought a 7300 as my first HF radio. Hope I made the right decision.
Yep
Jason i like the s meter on ftdx 10 better then the icom bar meter
I do too, but that is really a matter of personal preference
Currently I see the ftdx 10 at 1399$ and the ic 7300 at 1199$ if you were just getting into HF what do you choose at this price point? I was leaning towards the ftdx. Thanks in advance
Yeah the FTDX-10 price has dropped and the Icom has raised all of their prices recently. This makes the FTDX-10 an even better choice, imo.
Thanks Jason. Appreciate the comparison. I am guessing the next jump will be a different cost level. And also thanks much for all your work on the YTHamfest over the weekend. Very educational and interesting. It opens up some new directions I will be exploring. Thanks! 73
73 and thanks for watching
Hmmm, Yeasu is a better radio, but I dont like the looks of it! Plus I have a IC-9700 and it looks better together. The receiver is not that much better than the IC-7300. Again Yeasu is newer and have the latest. I do like the ICOM menus allot better than the Yeasu ;). Keep up the good Work JJ..
Agreed on the Icom menus
I just passed my General License Exam and I'm seriously looking for a good HF radio to help me get into HF, thanks for making this video, you have given me more things to consider. I've got it down to these three. IC7300, Yaesu 991A, or Yaesu FTDX10? I think I'm getting a headache.
I will first say any of the three radios you are thinking about are great and I'm sure you will like any one of them. The 7300 is a very good SDR radio and I like the the waterfall on it. I don't like the waterfall on the 991A, however I really like the receiver as I believe it has the features that allow the receiver to be more selective so you can pull out some of the weaker signals. The 991A is also a "shack-in-the-box" because it has 2 meters and 70 centimeters plus it does System Fushion so you are able to talk on the Yaesu repeaters in digital mode if there are Yaesu repeaters in your area. I am still getting used to the waterfall on the FT10 and so far I am only going to rate it as fair, but I haven't spent as much time with the display. I will say the FT10 has some quirks in the touchscreen and I think the 7300 is a little better. As Jason says the FT10 is the newest technology and possibly because of the price point it may not be a fair comparison. I will say I currently own all three radios and if I am going into the radio room to operate HF, I am more likely to turn on the FT10, but that may be because it's the newest one. I still like the screen on the 7300 over the FT10 as I think it is easier to use and maybe the menus are a little better, but I am also used to the 7300 and I still have to get used to the menus of the FT10. As I said I think you will be happy with any of those three radios. 73. N3EDO.
Nothing wrong with an older rig without menus to get going. Like a Kenwood TS940S
I've had my Tech license since 2015, and only messed around for 2 months until my interest fell off. Since moving from Utah to FL 3 years ago, I've met several active Ham's who have not only stimulated my interest in upgrading my license, but now I'm deep in the research for a radio. The IC 7300 seems to be a fan favorite, and I was initially focused on that, but expanding my blinders a bit has me spending the additional $300 for the FTdx10, and that will give me a very high ceiling within which to grow (not that I'm not a moon shot away from knowing 10% of what the 7300 can do). But as an old EE, who's not been active in the field since 2014, "I feel like" I might have the potential to learn quick, assuming I can pass the General exam (insanely horrible test anxiety, then again, I'm not living under the sword of Damocles with school loans, or the constant threat's by professors to perform)(the worst possible way to learn).
While I'm saving for the radio, the battery and other start up accessories, I'm currently in the FTdx10 camp, and it would take a fair amount of coaxing to move to another platform. This with the understanding that I have about 4 weeks into studying radios, specifications, capacities, performance, growth potential, and how I'm best able to future proof my investment (newer is often, but not always better).
Pig
P.s. My Stihl i500 chain saw weighs in at 14#, so I'm probably not as concerned about the 4# weight difference between the two radios. Additionally, at least to start, I want to be a one radio guy (yes, I see several initial one radio guys who have dozens sitting behind them in their videos).
The hybrid SDR means the DX10 has a superhet first stage with roofing filters, and then SDR.
Actually, the "Best bang for the buck" is the Icom IC-7100 for $799.95 at HRO right now.
2 meters, 70 CM, HF, 6 meters and D-STAR. Built in sound card. Yes, it is decade old in technology but where can you get all of those features in a radio for that price?
Actually, the IC-7100 is neither of the radios talked about in this video.
That's a hell of a deal for a brand new shack in the box.
When ever you buy a rig with HF, VHF, and UHF... it is a compromised rig! Not as good as a stand alone HF rig or VHF/UHF rig!
@@JohnFT3414 I wonder if this as true as it once was..... the abilities of the sdr radios are now so good most hams wouldn’t notice any difference ie the IC705 vs IC9700 RX on 2m weak signal SSB.
the 7100 is the worst, very bad receiver, i bought it new and gladly sold it soon after.
I'd like both of those radio's, but alas I will have to wait to get the FTDX10 when it comes down in price. Meanwhile at my club, we meet every Tuesday, so I've booked all the slots to use our FTDX10. First come first served.....lol
I have both now. Selectivity functions and rx performance are superior on the DX10 but the 7300 is really good. DNR is not as good and I don't like the RF gain implementation on the 7300. Also lack of an APF and contour is a biggy.
About that lack of missing _physical_ roofing filters on the ic7300: it’s not there because it’s not necessary. That’s the whole point, and one consequence of a direct sampling receiver architecture.
With direct sampling, the entire RF spectrum is digitized. All signal processing is done digitally after that. This has been the holy grail for comms design engineers for many reasons. The architecture has been possible (due to cost) for consumer level equipment only over the past 15 years or so.
There are functional equivalent of roofing filters in the ic7300. It’s just that they’re implemented numerically, in software or most likely implemented as digital logic in the FPGA fabric.
Practically, however, both radios are fine rigs. I like the Icom user interface much better; the Yaesu has marginally (inconsequentially for me) better receiver performance.
I’d speculate that Yaesu took the more conservative approach. The “hybrid” architecture lets them get more mileage out of already sunk engineering and manufacturing cost. In going direct sampling, Icom broke with the past earlier.
When you start working pileups on POTA or a DXpedition, you'll find that the marginal difference in the FTDX10 isn't that marginal.
This video is rather old now. Having used both radios in the field numerous times, both are great but the more filtering options on the Yaesu are certainly present.
If you want to see much better direct sampling from an SDR, the FlexRadio outperforms both of these models
@@HamRadio2 yes, that is true. What it amounts to is that at the same instance in time, for a given engineering and manufacturing budget, direct sampling means a better receiver. This is because direct sampling just requires less hardware. It follows the same cost and performance curves as laptops and cell phones from one generation to next. For a traditional superhet design, the cost of physical filters, passives and other components goes _up_ over time. It's a losing proposition.
Btw, I believe that Flex is a direct conversion architecture, zero-IF. The RF is mixed down directly to baseband, followed by A/D. This was the predecessor to direct sampling . It was done this way because the older gen of A/D can't sample fast enough at required resolution, rate, or low enough noise.
I'd bet if Flex were to greenfield a radio today, they'd go direct sampling. Take a look at Analog Devices portfolio. They make the core SDR ICs that to into serious equipment, e.g., cell stations, industrial comms gear, etc. The AD9364 is of the Flex 6000 generation. That chip is still available, but is a full 4 generations behind their current offering. The performance difference is a universe apart.
-------------------
Ahh, I was mistaken about the Flex 6000 series. Just took a look at the block diagram. It is a direct sampling receiver, just like the ic7300.
The Flex uses the Analog Devices AD9467 A/D. This is 246 Msps with 16 bits of dynamic range. Yep, this is significantly better spec'd than the LTC2208-14 (130 Msps,14-bit deep) A/D in the Icom.
What do you know, you get what you pay for.
Hell, I bought both of em.
So now, 2 years on from this. In the UK there is only a £200 price difference between the 7300 and the dx10.
Is the dx10 worth the extra £200.
(New licencee, first radio)
I think the price difference in the USA is even less than that. But yes.... totally worth it
no to attenuate the scope in menu in screen menu 2 press reference and adjust with vfo on 7300
As always, another great video, thank you for making it and sharing it with all of us Jason! I have a pair of Icom IC 7300 radios and I have been considering getting the Yaesu FTDX 10 but have been unable to justify the $600 price difference for a slightly better receive. I'm still on the fence and who knows. I'd like to hear from more people that have both and see what they think as well. I was kind of hoping a bunch of people would sell their 7300s at a discounted price and I can pick up a few more of those in the short-term for some friends that just got their license. I am of course subscribed with notifications turned on and thumbs up! 73 W3GUY
Thanks!
I have had both and let's just say that I gave up on the 7300. I actually had a lot issues with the "OVLD" light on the 7300. Also, the filtering on the FTDX-10 is really impressive and for me definitely justifies the price. I use my FTDX-10 for POTA. Love the radio. Also, the contour is missing on the 7300 and it is amazing how big a difference that can make in hearing signals.
It's crazy, in a year the price of the IC-7300 went from under $1,000 to about $1,300-1,400. So, for $200-300 more, is the FTDX a better entry for first timers?
I think so
No, I'd say DX10 is not as good overall - and I own both.
Yes, you can hear the difference on the Rx side, better filters, better digital noise canceling, CW decoder, three options for ATT. I think it is worth the extra money for FTDX10. I have both radios and I like them both. de W2CSI
You know, I've gotta make an observation here. If you look past the fluff (presentation style, production things like graphics - all the stuff other than content), this guy consistently has more useful "meat" which is better quality than most other ham channels. His videos always provide more real, useful actual CONTENT and less BS. He seems to be careful not to say more than he actually knows or just flat out make stuff up which I can't say for most of the other channels. I'd rather get this guy's take on something because of that. In short, the quality is much higher. Not that his production stuff is bad - it's not - it just isn't the point. Good job man.
Thanks, that's an honest opinion and I do appreciate it
I prefer to use 3DSS waterfall on my FT-DX10, Menu is on screen longer now with current Firm Ware. FT-DX10 has 5 years newer technology. Makes it easy to choose.
I don't understand why radios that include 6m don't offer a dedicated port for 6m. With the FTDX10 being around $700 more wouldn't that put it in a different class?
That's a good question
Marketing. They are careful not to down-sell potential 7610, 101d customers.
Excellent info Jason.
I'd be happy with either, wallet happier with Icom 7300, techy happier with Yaesu FT-DX10.
I can't even get on anything with my apartment restrictions, unless I go stealth, besides I don't have the budget for anything more than window shopping.
73s
de K9DWB
Great video Jason. The pricing on the Yaesu isn't that far from a FLEX-6400. That would be a hard choice for me.
If I had to make that choice, I would still choose the Flex
Agreed. Unless there is something better about the Yaesu, I would just pony up the extra $300. Sure, you don't get a tuner included (you can add one later), but it seems like a much better rig for not much more money. I run resonant antennas anyway. The 7300 is priced perfectly.
I was as many other viewers waiting to see both radios in action, I mean receiving with same antenna comparing received signal in terms of noise flloor, audio quality, selectivity, etc but ended up wishing to see more. Now that you own both radios why you don't do a comparison between them in action both receiving with same antenna.
Are they any good video demos showing AM transmit and receive quality on the FTDX10. The 7300 has one of the best
AM reception audio quality I have heard in years. The extra wide bandwidth on AM is a big plus for audio receive sound.
I don't own them but I have played with the 7300.
Great review- I would like to see you measure the SSB output on the 7300 and compare it to the SSB power output on the Yaesu FTDX10. I never get full SSB output power on the ICOM 7300.
My 7300 puts out the 100 watts it is supposed to so it might possibly be one of your settings or maybe the antenna. I would first hook up a dummy load instead of your antenna and then see if your SSB power output is any better. If it is then you know it is an antenna or a coax problem. If there is no difference, then I would look at the microphone settings and possibly add more gain but you do have to be careful because if you add too much mike gain then you can start to splatter and that is not good. I would also recommend putting an external SWR meter in line directly out of the radio so you can see what is happening. I am not a real fan of any of the meters that come in the radios and prefer an external one. Good luck. 73. N3EDO.
I have the 746pro. The 7300 front has a similar look as the 746/756pro. Looks I could transition to the 7300 easily. And about $5-600 LESS than the 746....
I've never used the 746 or 756 radios.
@@HamRadio2 the 746 and especially the 756 were DSP 1.0 for audio. I have used the 756 pro, and that thing can get a needle out of a haystack
I thought the DX-10 was advertised to have a slightly bigger screen than the 7300.🤔
5 vs 4.3 - but the real differences is in image quality, the dx10 is much nicer. Better contrast and vibrance.
Our radio club has its own shack and we replaced some old HF radios with new IC-7300s.
As I understand it, the IC-705 is similar to the IC-7300 in receiver specs. I wonder when Yaesu is going to have a QRP equivalent to the FTDX 10. Time will tell. Anyway interesting comparison
#TeamReplay #ThNHR
Great show man
The FTdx10 have EQ to setup for transmit? Love to put a nice mic on there if I ever buy one. What is the band width for transmit? Thanks
Why do modern rigs have lousy NB’s? A friend demonstrated these radios in the winter. Turned on his MarkV and it knocked out all that AC power line noise with no DNR engaged.
Don't get me wrong, I love Yaesu but... Too many buttons hidden around the tuning knob. What a hassle. You have to have the radio sitting directly in front of you to see the whole face and all the controls. I think the face of the Icom is laid out much better for comfortability and ease of use.
The DSP on any of the current Yaesu products is superior in every way !
Question: 1GB of storage is enough for ~975,000 PAGES of text. You can’t even buy a 1GB thumb drive in the store anymore (too small). So are the memories on these radios considered to be ‘enough’? Is there something special about these frequencies that keeps the number so small (even on a modern radio)? For reference, the AnyTone 878 stores 4,000 freqs, 10,000 talk groups and 200k contacts. I hope I’m getting my question across.
Sorry I don't understand what you are asking
@@HamRadio2 Why, in this day and age, do HT’s only have 1,000-or-so memory locations? Are the manufacturers skimping that badly? Or is 1,000 more than enough? For example, I ordered an FT3D. It has 900 frequency slots.
1000 is a good number, really. Lots of the Baofeng radios still only have 128 memories. Also some of the DMR HTs have 3000 or 4000 memories, so if you need that many, you might look at one of the Anytone HTs
@@HamRadio2 This is from the SDS100 literature "8GB microSD card holds the entire US and Canada database of radio systems, plus leaves room for hundreds of hours of audio recording." For what Yaesu and Icom charge, adding a $5 worth of memory seems long overdue:) Then again, if their next HT's aren't SDR-based like that scanner...
I am looking for my first HF radio and am looking at the IC-7300 or the FT-991a but cannot decide which one I should get. Any suggestions on why one is better than the other? I plan on putting a vhf/uhf radio in my truck so I will have those bands in that radio
I prefer the 7300 but lots of folks like the 991a better. The 991a has VHF/UHF all mode, so if you are interested in that aspect, it would be a better choice. To me, I think the 7300 is better on the HF bands though.
I REALLY like my Ft991A. It is my go-to radio when I go out to the desert, or up to the mountains to go riding UTV’s. It is an awesome base station radio because of the hf/vhf/uhf capability. Base is a toy hauler RV. During the day, when I’m out riding the side by side, I take my hand held. I can access repeaters to talk to my wife who is manning the FT991A back at camp, no matter where I am. And during nighttime, when I’m back at camp, I get on the 40m band with a flagpole mounted cushcraft R7 and work contacts all over the world. The Ft991a is the most versatile, practical, useful radio I’ve ever owned.
Your videos are awesome !! I've learned a bunch from them. I think I'm sold on the IC-7300 but could you do a general video on HF base station antennas? I'm not sure if I should go with a steerable antenna or a long wire, or the advantages of vertical vs horizontal . I'm mostly interested in DX'ing and don't have any size constraints. Thanks
Yeah I have something like that in the works
Thanks for the video.
The 7300 set the bar for others to follow, in an age where technology moves on at a pace any comparison is a little unfair. I have the FT10 and it’s great but ICOM deserve recognition for shaking things up and they won’t be resting on their laurels and will bounce back, let’s face it they are the most dynamic amongst the big three. Just look at the innovative IC705 and the 7300 is still the best value out there. For me the question was do I go for FT101 or the FT10 to replace my FT3000 at a £1000 difference, no brainier and now I’ve got used to operating this compact rig I have no regrets. Every radio has its plus and minus points show stoppers for some. We are living in a great era for amateur radio and price is still a differentiator. Whatever you have enjoy the hobby it’s great. 73
The 7300 is the best value now but it cost was the same as the dx10 at release time, so why the dx10 in 3 years could not have the best value? 5 year difference of course is not fair for comparison, in price and technology
It's a great time to be a ham but paying to keep up with what's new is going to be a contest. If you're going to buy a new rig you might want to hold up for the bigger better bang......have a feeling there's going to be a lot of that going on.
I have always liked the looks of the Icom but i'm sure there both better than my IC-746 hahahahaa.
Hi Jason, I have a quick question for you about the 7300, please? Do you know if the frequency readout can be changed to display 3 decimals? Or are you stuck with only 2?
Thanks in advance!
Manual page 3-3 tells you
The FT991 is a fine first HF radio. It will get you there without the bells and whistles.
It also has a much poorer receiver than these 2
Jason, nice video as always. I have the 7300 and also the 7610 along with a bunch of other radios. You mentioned you would like to get a 7610. I can't say enough things about the 7610 and just love operating the thing. It is well worth the money that it commands. I will be on the look out to put my fingers on the FTDX10 to check it out. Thanks for the video!
I am surprised the Big Three have not done a "Flex lite".
Had them both side by side on a coax switch for 2 weeks .. icom 7300 is more fancy and a good radio easy to use
The ftdx10 is a better rx mine has the small cw filter that realy makes it a very very good rx on cw
At the end sold te 7300
Mine had powerspikes btw .. no good combo with a amp
Tx audio is very good on both
Great video. I dont own any.of these 2 radios but I have my mimd set better for DX 10. Thanks for all your videoss
Thanks for watching
I don't know how true this is, but I heard that if a DVI to HDMI adapter is used to connect the Yaesu to an HDMI monitor, it will blow some kind of fuse or electronic component within the radio. Do you know if this is true?
I've been told it won't work but I'm not sure about it causing something to break
If ICOM would put in a CW decoder in the 7300 I would buy one. ICOM doesn't even put one in their IC-7610 which is a $3,000 dollar radio so your stuck with an audio scope that to me is worthless after you do the initial microphone setup. Come on ICOM get with the program and do some updating! I don't think it has any thing my Yaesu FT-2000 has Except a pretty waterfall scope and My Yaesu has 2 CW key jacks so I can switch between my bug and paddles without having to switch keys and then have to go into the setting menu to switch key settings . A single antenna jack would'nt be a deal breaker as that is why they made coax switches. Good video! Keep up the good work!
Id love to see you do reviews of the top two Icom, Yeasu and Kenwood offerings. I hear lots of good talk about Kenwood on the bands but don't see the same presence on YT.
Kenwood isn't currently making anything.
And here we go again with the price comparison, 5 years ago the 7300 was released at the same price as the dx10, I have both, why the people don't mention the 60-70 watts only in SSB average in the 7300? The tuner range in the 7300 is smaller than any yaesu too. I use my 7300 daily but unfortunately 5 years later there is a better radio to consider. To many things in 5 years to consider unfair the comparison anyway. I would consider a fair comparison with the FT-991A, which I like more than the 7300 but the scope in the 7300 is better than the 991A
What do you mean 50-60w in SSB ? . Tuner works perfect with load with usable mistmach. Y prefer reliability in the internal tuner to a very big range of adjustment but with the posibility to "burn" the internal tuner. You have "Emergency" mode if you want
If you're getting only 50 - 60 watts SSB, you have a problem in your 7300. Check it out. Yes, the tuner is limited in range, but it totally does the trick for every EFHW and dipole I've put up. And a quick 4:1 balun will let me tune lots of crazier antennas. But, sure, the 991A is as good radio, enjoy it!
and what do you think about the time that gets FTdx to tune? my TS850 is 20 times faster(yes, have motors and variable capacitors) but still the IC7300 is 10 times faster!!!
@@RicardoBrion true, but the FTdx re tunes from cero, the 7300 tunes from memory, that is something Yaesu does on all models, the 991 does the same.
@@freyjaclarkturner5670 I had 2 brand new 7300, and without the ALC mod they don't do full 100w average power, every one knows that
do you know about any hardware update by icom on the 7300 ? it had problems with strong nearby signals, i heard people say that was because of bad pin diodes, allegedly icom solved that problem by hardware updates on the 7300 they said. is that true and if so, what hardware did icom change in the new 7300 ?
i wanted to buy an ic7300 but that problem with stronger nearby signals kept me away from buying it, i bought another new HF hamradio instead. From what i hear on air with my own radio, the 7300 sound better, they sound clearer and in low signal condition more intelligible than the ftdx10. from what i hear from these radios on youtube, the received audio from the 7300 sounds more dynamic, clearer and more pleasent to listen too than the ftdx10. only if the 7300 had a roofing filter to make it more immun against stronger nearby signals or narrower bandpass filters, that would make it one of the best radios, i would prefer it over the ftdx10 any day.
Awww man, you must made my decision even harder! LOL
LOL
What happened to all the base hf rig prices ?
As of today the 7300 is pushing 1600$
I've not seen it that high but everything had gone up
I'm actually weighing between ft991a and ftdx10... But everything I see is pushing me in the obvious direction
I have not used the FTDX10 but own an FT-991a and love it. It is my first HF radio and works well as a shack in the box. Once you learn the radio you can pull in pretty weak signals and the noise reduction is great. It’s small enough to be portable or a big mobile. I get good reports on audio and seem to get out pretty good but I think that is more the antenna than the radio. Also it was easy to connect to the PC for FT8 and other digi modes. I do think if you already have 2m 70cm covered and don’t mind the additional cost the FTDX looks like a great radio. Doug N4HH is a great resource on any of the Yaesu radios I recommend checking his channel out. You can’t go wrong with either radio, good luck!!
IMO the 991a isn't even in the same ballpark as these other 2, but lots of people do like that radio.
@@HamRadio2 For now as a new ham it’s working for me. I can’t wait for the opportunity to try either the FTDX10 or IC7300 thanks for the great content, I think you and the rest of the you tube bunch do a lot to promote all aspects of Ham Radio, 73 KC1OEK
Only about a $250 price difference now.
FTDX10 transmit in 4K?
No. I have John from Yaesu on my channel livestream last week and we spoke about this.
NO TRANSMIT IN 8K
my icom 756 as a antinuator 6 12 and 18 haha. no i think the 7300 wins hands dwn