I cant wait to see you use this radio as its the one I use for my PoTA activations, seeing it in the hands of a seasoned ham will be excellent. I'm moving gradually from digital modes to more telephony, so your videos will undoubtedly help me with that move and making more QRP QSO's with the 705. 73 2E0FWE.
Hi Tracy, I’ve always enjoyed your radio adventures and excited to see your adventures with the 705. I love my 705 and glad you took the plunge. Keep the videos coming.
Thankyou Tracy for another video with your unique and objective perspective, Amateur Radio is fortunate to have you as a member in this arena!! Cheers n 73 Tracy 😊
The way I see it: There is so much research, development and design in this marvel of engineering. And yet, it comes at a lower price than a new iPhone. I honestly believe there is a much smaller profit margin it IC-705 compared to most products. Also, I chose to support Icom for developing products for HAMs. Without their efforts we would not get our toys. They deserve our support.
@@judd_s5643 By a 10:1 profit margin only on the product itself? Highly doubt it. Anyone can make phones these days, the tech hasn't evolved that much in the last 10y but prices are 10x compared to say 2009. Also, they make huge profits in aftersales and services.
Good luck with your purchase. I love the IC705, and I also don't need all the functions. But the interface is amazing, just like the IC7300 and the IC9700. So enjoy your journey and put it all on UA-cam.
Thanks for such a great and considered video. I love that you articulated clear reasons why you had not originally purchased one, and why you had changed your position. I think it's hugely important to be realistic with ourselves on what we wish to accomplish and what we put our money into.
Hi Tracy, congratulations for your new Icom 705. I am very pleased that you are back and looking forward to watching your future field videos. Thank you!
Oh, Tracy, by the way, I really enjoy your UA-cam channel and the down to earth, Outdoors On The Air style of videos you make. I hope you're able to keep at it and continue to find motivating inspiration. Your voice is calm, collected, and human, seeming a bit lacking from our experiences in general these days. Take care.
Congrats Tracy! I think you and that radio will do great things together. I have one, and it’s such a versatile tool to have in your radio arsenal. Just the other day I used mine to plot the SWR on my new mobile antenna. It’s like a Swiss Army knife, there’s a little bit of everything in this charming little brick! One of my first recommendations would be to get the usb-c to usb micro cable that KM9G did a video about. With that cable, I get a full 10 watts out, and can find a brand new rechargeable power supply in any town in America, should I need it. Use it well, and I look forward to the full video!! 73 de KB2ZHB
i have made so many long distance contacts on the IC-705 over the years and its been amazing experience for me as i am only a foundation license the record feature is really handy and audio projected from the front of the unit makes listening is a breeze
Congrats on the 705! I know how much you love the 817, and I love my 818, but the 705 is just so much better in every way. The noise reduction and notch filters alone make it more enjoyable to listen to.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Hi Tracy, some tips, for HF SSB, Use Mic Gain=100% and Compression=2, (and use TBW Transmit Bandwidth=Mid for DX) these really help.
Excellent video. I was an early 705 adopter and it’s still my favorite HF radio. Like you, I love my FT-817/818 and still own it. Best form factor ever, despite the small screen. Anyway, the 705 does everything and I think you’ll have fun trying out new things with it, even if you are mostly SSB. I’m also mostly SSB and don’t really care for FT8. I wish the 705 was more rugged, but it gets the job done and the spectrum scope is the feature I didn’t know I needed and now I can’t imagine not having it. I’ve been taking a little break from my small UA-cam channel as well. Maybe it’s time to reengage as spring approaches. 73, KI4ASK
Hi Joe, first things first...the UA-cam community would be poorer if you stopped producing videos. I hope you keep it going 👍 I encourage everyone reading this to go over and take a look at the work you've posted. Thanks for sharing your experience with the 705! 73 from VE3TWM.
Welcome to the Icom IC-705 Family! This rig offers so many great features in a compact take it with you package for fun and or Emergencies! A “Swiss Army Knife” of a radio 73
I just got a 60 watt DIY599 PA500 amplifier for my IC-705 and LAB599 T-500. It’s compact and draws very little current when it’s not transmitting. I like the combination of a QRP radio like the IC-705 or LAB599 T-500 with an amp like this. This setup allows me to run off batteries for a long time. I have extra transmit power capability when I need it but with minimal power draw.
Well, good luck. I hope you like it. I'm going to be in the minority here, and tell you that I'm leaning towards selling mine. I haven't really enjoyed using it as much as I thought I would. I'm not a fan of it's bulkiness. I also don't enjoy it's sound; it always sounds quite tinny, and harsh to me - unlike the way that Yaesu radios sound to me. As you said in your previous video, the technology in it is amazing! There are SO MANY cool things that you can do with it - remote operation; one-wire access to the digital modes; the digital display - all very cool things. But, it hasn't enhanced my enjoyment of the AUDIO side of ham radio - pulling out the weak signals, and working them. I guess I'm used to the DSP on Yaesu radios, and this has a hard time measuring up to that. So, we'll see. When I bought it, it was a toss-up between it, and the Xiegu X6100. I opted to spend the extra money and get the IC-705. I might be regretting that decision now. I haven't completely given up on it, but it might be on the way out the door.
Thanks for the update from Ontario. You're lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world, and a place that has so many amazing outdoor adventure possibilities. With the new rig you also get the chance to sift through the endless array of do-dads and whatnots available to nice it up for your particular mission. Of the various types of armor available, i chose the Windcamp cage for mechanical protection in the field, together with an SZone camera bag that i got on amazon for 20 or 30 bucks. While this might not save the radio from an upside-down canoe type of situation, it takes care of just about everything else, while also fitting nicely in a backpack or duffel. It holds the radio, mic, a 3aH LiFePO battery, the Nifty 705 manual, and a small wallet with a notepad, pens, fuses, and a spare memory card. The AT-705 is expensive and kinda big, but that plus a couple pieces of 22ga wire and you'll be on the air, 160-6m, in short order; besides, at NMT 10w, having the ATU as close as possible to the antenna feed point keeps co-ax losses to an absolute minimum. A 25' length of RG-316, and a 25' bit of audio cable with 3.5mm TRS ends gets me connected between operating position and antenna feed point. Alas, here's where you'll start missing the 2 antenna ports on the ft-817. I was able to source a tiny HF / V-UHF duplexer good up to 50w, with BNC ports. It wasn't easy to find, but is an awfully nice way to connect a 2m/440 roll-up slim jim to the station. Also, for those times when 10w just doesn't do it, I built a HR-50 amp w/ ATU. The amp, and it's battery are not things i'd want to take out backpacking, but canoeing, or pulling a toboggan, that's another story. Will you be using any digital modes with your new rig? The 705's onboard sound card, wifi server, and BT really are this rig's super powers for field use, and there are lots of R-pi, android, iOS, and Windoze options out there. Well, now you have to plan a 2-3 week canoe trip to put all this new gear to the test. Would you call Winlink connections in the bush a blessing, or a curse? I look forward to the new content i'm sure this will generate. Oh yeah, there's the whole DStar thing, too, both HF and via internet. I hope to catch up with you on the air soon. GL es 73 de N1WMR
Thank you for the excellent comment! Solid, practical information. I'll get into digital one of these days. Looking forward to that contact with you. 73 from VE3TWM.
Pragmatic as always Tracy. Personally I am normally in agreement with purchases like you note but I "jumped on the band wagon" and received my 705 2 days after general release. I sold my FT857d to part finance this. I was initially filled with doubt having placed a deposit then waiting months for a radio I may not like. The opposite couldnt be further. I adore my 705, the feature set is incredible as you know. Being all in one with a battery its my goto radio for antenna testing. I'm sure you will get many years of pleasure from it. On a side note, I opted for the windcamp cage also with no regrets. 73 from Scotland.
Hi Colin, always nice to hear from you! Interesting perpsective, thanks for sharing. We'll have to link up for a livestream at some point. 73 from the Great White North of Canada!
So glad to see you finally got a 705. I love mine, I think you will too. The waterfall is nice. D-star is fun, albeit was quite a learning curve. Enjoy, 73 de K1BQY
I don't think it will be even close to 705 in the case of user interface and functionality either. I had the 6100, 5105. They were not bad radios, but they had a lot of software and hardware issues. Xiegu is about to release new rigs every few years and let them with very few updates. The 6100 had a lot of potential, me it could be better because I hate touch screens on a device, that I take to the field, but the 705 has so much better software, that it isn't worth staying with Xiegu. Maybe the custom firmware can help, but if I buy a radio, I expect it to be useful from the beginning.
We are in the same boat, I recently purchased a brand new 705 after much waiting and research. I am an ssb cw only operator with occasional digital modes. When at home I drive a sailor marine amplifier to get 300 watts with 10 watts from the 705. 73
I knew you'd come around. I'm personally only interested in the 705 even though other, less expensive QRP XCVRs would work well for me. The reason being I would like to operate primarily portable and have chronic fatigue, and the 2.4 pound weight of the 705 (including battery) would make things so much easier and allow me to play more radio.
Sorry to hear about the fatigue. I've been dealing with some of that myself for my entire life, maybe not quite as bad as yours. Appreciate you sharing your 705 experience!
Hi Tracy, Congrats to your new rig... I bought it too 1year ago. I still have my IC-703 and the FT-897, FT-857 and FT-818... The 793 is still my favorite SOTA gear, because of the rugged design and the tuner. I will never sell them 😂 73s DG4RBS Stefan
Honestly i was of a similar perspective when i first saw the 705. I originally thought it was ugly with the chunky brick form factor. After getting into QRP after college and learning CW i bought one after plenty of research and it quickly became my favorite radio in my collection. The only things I still don't particularly like is the form factor and it being made of plastic. Otherwise its an absolute joy to operate on. The use of a scope is particularly helpful when the HF bands are crowded since you can find empty slots to operate on. Do you need that? Not at all! Is it incredibly helpful? Absolutely!
I held off buying an IC-705 because of the price. A used one came my way at a very reasonable price so I bought it. This is a radio you have to own and use to appreciate it. It is the best radio I have ever owned, and I have owned many radios.
As a 705 owner, I think Icom should make a 100 watt PA for this radio. The reality with the 705 is that you will need to buy a bunch of accessories to make it useful. In terms of a business case to own one, it's not great. If I could connect it to a 100 watt PA and make it into a base, or mobile, it'd be a lot more useful.
Interesting thoughts, thank you for sharing. If Icom were to market such an amp, the price of the 705 + amp combined would be very high. I don't think the 705's basic performance warrants that kind of expense, but that's just my perspective.
I tend to wait around for radios to drop in price as well. I ran the IC-703 for quite a while and I really loved that radio. I saw a listing for a used IC-705 from Rob Sherwood himself, the one that his testing was done on. I made the deal and I'm so glad I did. Working QRP with a scope really helps to find a spot on the band that you might get stomped on a bit less. I tend to work portable in contest or QSO party conditions, so it can be crowded. As for the FT-891, I found mine used for $450 shipped back in 2017. It's serving mobile use now with an ATAS-120. A simple, solid combination for mobile use. QRO in the field? I recently found a used FT-857 with the screen protector still on it for $300. Added a DigiRig interface and I have rig control and an audio interface, should I want it. Keep some funds on hand and keep watching the used ads. Eventually another QRO rig will come your way, but the 705 crushes with a good dipole. 73, Kent W9WB
I fought the 705 bandwagon for quite a while too. I figured with the way I operate (primarily CW) the 705 had little to offer me. I finally caved a few months ago, and man was I wrong! The IC-705 is probably the best portable radio I own for most things. I'm definitely not carrying that brick up a mountain to do SOTA, but for drive up POTA/SOTA activations, the 705 has become one of my go to rigs.
I recognize your situation and second the emotions you felt about the radios you already owned (and sold to fund the purchase of the IC-705). And guess what... I decided to take the plunge and sold my TS-590SG and IC-7200 to go 'QRP' with a brand new IC-705. That was in February (2024) and frankly, so far, I haven't missed both radios at all. I admit I also have an FT-710 for QRO /P outings and in the shack I have an FTDX-10, but those two rigs haven't received as much attention the last 2 months as the IC-705. Ain't that peculiar...
I do enjoy your video and I do work portable about as much as in my shack. I agree for car portable the IC705 is just amazing and easy to do more than one modulation. Like spotting your self with a tablet and JS8Call. I on the other hand I fly a lot for work and the Elecraft KX2 is very small and yes smaller than the 817 for this type of travel. This gives me the option to work radio on most of my frequent trips. I did a similar thing to justify my KX2 but it allows more radio use when traveling. Where my 817 could only go on a few trips my KX2 goes on all trips. Bravo for getting the IC705 I look forward to your adventures.
Like you, I have waited and told myself that I don’t need it since my main rig, a 7300 has served me so well on SSB. I have no intention to try digital modes except D Star, which Instill desire to learn. But Ido envy the quick POTA operators,and other picnic table operators. I keep telling myself I will wait until the price drops, but as you stated, it has been in high demand and the price remains steady. The wait continues…
Oh No ! Give up ham radio and making UA-cam videos? Please Please.....No No No. Your videos are great and there is so much to have fun with in ham radio. Funny, you did not want an IC 705 in the beginning and nor did I. No way am I getting a radio with such a small battery and no built in ATU. But.....I had to eat my words. Icom as well as Batteries America makes a 3 ah plus battery for the 705. You can run up to a 2 to 1 SWR with this radio at full power out and the radio will not cut back on power. As for the battery, my friend ran FT8 for three hours straight on the bigger battery before it started to die. Since that's a 50% duty cycle and SSB is not, I realized I should be able to get at least 5 hours out of the bigger battery at my 5 watts out. As for the SWR and no ATU issue......since I only use matched resonant antenna, an ATU is no longer needed. So there was nothing stopping me from getting an IC 705 and I did. I am a happy camper. I love the radio. For QRP I now have the 705 and kept my KX2 and KX3. Like you, for me my FT-817 has long been gone. Good Bye old friend. Hi Hi It did serve me well. Keep up with these great videos and I hope you get as much enjoyment out of your 705 as I do. Barry, KU3X/QRP
I've always been a Yaesu guy and a CW guy I have a Yaesu 450D I use for portable its a great rig and I recently got a Elecraft KX3 that I just love. I won't talk about my base stuff lol.
Everyone has their own choice based on they own opinion, I bought the ts 480hx, and never looked back, and I will buy the same again many times over. 73.
No shame in that. Yeah it was expensive, but I have zero regrets. Mine definitely isn't going to be for sale any time soon. Just putting it out there that the FT-817/818 in conjunction with the IC-705 makes a nice satellite setup. The receive audio and waterfall on the 705 are nice features for the downlink side, particularly on SSB satellites where it can be hard to find your own signal. It's definitely easier when you can see it. Get yourself an Arrow antenna and you're ready to rock.
Within reason, I don't worry too much about the cost of ham equipment because it retains it's value in a remarkable way. I just sold two radios that I bought used 10 years ago and actually made a little profit. Current production equipment sells for >80% of the new price on the used market. Even if I buy a new radio and decide to sell it after a few months, the small loss is still a worthwhile cost for trying out a new radio. If you are buying radios like the $13k IC-7851 then this may not hold true.
Funny thing is the IC-705 was my first radio when I got back into the hobby during COVID. My concern was power, but the VHF/UHF inclusion was important for a new ham relearning old skills. The only real gripe I have with the radio is the form factor impact on cable management. Lab599 has learned this lesson with their upcoming model (or, vaporware). Also, presents a challenge when trying to find that mythical sock, bag, or case to transport it.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir I picked up a G90 which I had been using with several vertical and homebrew antennas with great success. Picked up the CHA 4010 recently and really enjoying how it and IC705 really get out.
Hi Trace. I have an FT817 and an IC705. I always loved the 817 but the 705 is the flavor of the month not to say the 817 doesn't have it's place in my QRP world. Just my thoughts. 73's from Darren VK4DJH
The 705 is a fine transceiver, but apples and oranges when compared to the 891. When the solar cycle winds down, you might regret selling your 891. For now, I have found the best transceiver combo to be a Xiegu G90 and Icom 7300....the G90 for real portable use, and the 7300 for a "portable shack" when needed. Both include built in antenna tuners. I have owned several transceivers, and I keep going back to those two. 73
Good points! The only alternate view that I would pose is that my 817 was my primary rig while the last minimum was raging and I had a lot of fun with it. But I wasn't trying to make as many contacts as possible in a short time as many POTA operators like to do. Use case matters.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Enjoy the 705! Your videos are excellent, and your passion for the hobby is obvious. Thanks for all of the work you share with us. 73 N2MXX
I've had the opposite journey as you. I bought one of these things shortly after release as my local HRO had a few that people didn't claim. Thought it was great at first but the more I used it, the less I liked it. It's been collecting dust for well over a year now. I should have never sold my KX-2.
This may have absolutely been my committing factor to buy the 705 I have spent 3 years trying to find suitable alternatives for based on the price. And guess what...now I've spent an equal amount of money as I would have just buying the 705 when it was released. Buy once, cry once. I tell myself that all the time but never hold myself to it.
great radios all of them, great choice to try the sdr world. you wont regret it. no radio is perfect but this one has lots of features and filters. the display spectrum adds a lot of fun
I had one and it's a great rig. I sold it because it's just not robust enough, and oh boy, don't scratch or crack the screen when you take a tumble in the field up a mountain. It's a damn good radio but more for those who want to do field work from the comfort of a campsite not the out and about "get active" (as their slogan recommends) ham operater exposed to all weather conditions and hazardous terrains. FT818 or the X6100 any day.
Put it in a small hard case and problem solved. Let’s face it, it isn’t waterproof so you need a waterproof case anyway….there is only one waterproof QRP rig which has other issues with much less functionality.
I think 705 is a fantastic radio with all modern feathers. The only thing I do not like is its shape. They could make it modular in the way that a tuner and/or a extended battery pack could be attached in easy way. Having UHF and VHF is a bonus (Repeaters, direct FM, direct SSB and different types of satellites. Crazy possibilities!) . Also, ability to use D-Star and a hotspot is something no other QRP radio offers.
I'm still a ONE radio guy, an FT-818, but every once in a while, I'd just like to have more radio. More watts, more features, more screen, more filters, more controls, more information. I keep looking at a few of the more powerful radios and think that one day soon I'll have to take that next step. Will it be the 705? I will wait and see how it plays out for you first! 73 Rod VA3MZD
I waiting a year before making up my mind to buy the 705..Why was simple and said by you in the first min of this video..When the 705 came out it was said to be the greatest thing since sliced bread..And NO it is NOT..I love my 817nd my 818 and yes my 705..Is it better then my others yes and no..However I am very glad I got it and use it now as my base rig..Greatest thing since sliced bread?? No but Is it worth the money?? If you like qrp and qrp portable yes I think it is..Your first video was a good one and pointed out things that truly needed to be said even if the fanboys didnt like it..I myself do mostly SSB very little Dig(I HATE BRAINDEAD MODE FT8) even do some 2m ssb and simplex from time to time and the 705 works great..I truly do think you will like your 705 even if you do not use everything it can do..
I am all new to this, and I'm on the fence of purchasing the IC-705 or a more powerful rig (maybe the Yeasu 991A). I live in a flat without any simple antenna solution, and I’m an outdoor guy. Will I be constrained with only 10W (as a maximum)?
Newbie and not familiar with this radio and whilst I could probably just Google it I'd rather reward your effort on YT by goosing your engagement... does it have a built in tuner and sound card?
I am going to applaud you for not buying an ic-705 right off the bat...like me. I waited on purpose because you should never buy a first gen anything...bugs.
I'm trying to get my mind rapped around your heavy concern over the 705's price, while displaying thousands of dollars in other portable radios. You spent all that time pondering the 705 purchase and wondering if you needed its additional features, while you were obviously interested, eh? Life is short. The question is, how much life do you feel comfortable wasting away while pondering?
Interesting comment, and thanks for it. To add context, the other rigs in my collection, with the exception of the 891 were purchased on the used market at good prices. I didn't spend thousands on them.
Thanks!
Thank you very much! 73 from VE3TWM.
Great that you saw the light Trace - I love my IC-705
I cant wait to see you use this radio as its the one I use for my PoTA activations, seeing it in the hands of a seasoned ham will be excellent. I'm moving gradually from digital modes to more telephony, so your videos will undoubtedly help me with that move and making more QRP QSO's with the 705. 73 2E0FWE.
Hi Tracy, I’ve always enjoyed your radio adventures and excited to see your adventures with the 705. I love my 705 and glad you took the plunge. Keep the videos coming.
Thank you very much, David!
Thankyou Tracy for another video with your unique and objective perspective, Amateur Radio is fortunate to have you as a member in this arena!! Cheers n 73 Tracy 😊
Thank you very much, Tom! Always nice to hear from you. 73 from VE3TWM.
The way I see it: There is so much research, development and design in this marvel of engineering. And yet, it comes at a lower price than a new iPhone.
I honestly believe there is a much smaller profit margin it IC-705 compared to most products.
Also, I chose to support Icom for developing products for HAMs. Without their efforts we would not get our toys. They deserve our support.
The technology in iPhones far surpasses anything produced in-the ham radio market!
@@judd_s5643 By a 10:1 profit margin only on the product itself? Highly doubt it. Anyone can make phones these days, the tech hasn't evolved that much in the last 10y but prices are 10x compared to say 2009.
Also, they make huge profits in aftersales and services.
Have fun Tracy!🎉
Thank you, David!
Good luck with your purchase.
I love the IC705, and I also don't need all the functions. But the interface is amazing, just like the IC7300 and the IC9700.
So enjoy your journey and put it all on UA-cam.
Glad to hear you are enjoying your 705!
Thanks for such a great and considered video. I love that you articulated clear reasons why you had not originally purchased one, and why you had changed your position. I think it's hugely important to be realistic with ourselves on what we wish to accomplish and what we put our money into.
Thank you!
Hi Tracy, congratulations for your new Icom 705. I am very pleased that you are back and looking forward to watching your future field videos. Thank you!
Thank you very much!
Oh, Tracy, by the way, I really enjoy your UA-cam channel and the down to earth, Outdoors On The Air style of videos you make. I hope you're able to keep at it and continue to find motivating inspiration. Your voice is calm, collected, and human, seeming a bit lacking from our experiences in general these days. Take care.
Thank you very much!
Congrats Tracy! I think you and that radio will do great things together. I have one, and it’s such a versatile tool to have in your radio arsenal. Just the other day I used mine to plot the SWR on my new mobile antenna. It’s like a Swiss Army knife, there’s a little bit of everything in this charming little brick! One of my first recommendations would be to get the usb-c to usb micro cable that KM9G did a video about. With that cable, I get a full 10 watts out, and can find a brand new rechargeable power supply in any town in America, should I need it. Use it well, and I look forward to the full video!! 73 de KB2ZHB
Thank you for the USB-C tip and sharing your experience! 73 from VE3TWM.
i have made so many long distance contacts on the IC-705 over the years and its been amazing experience for me as i am only a foundation license
the record feature is really handy and audio projected from the front of the unit makes listening is a breeze
Congrats on the 705! I know how much you love the 817, and I love my 818, but the 705 is just so much better in every way. The noise reduction and notch filters alone make it more enjoyable to listen to.
Thanks Mike! Now I have to learn how to use modern radio 😆
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Hi Tracy, some tips, for HF SSB, Use Mic Gain=100% and Compression=2, (and use TBW Transmit Bandwidth=Mid for DX) these really help.
An honest man with integrity.......something that is getting harder to find. Appreciate the video.
Cheers Phil ZL2VTH
Thank you, Phil! 73 from VE3TWM.
Excellent video. I was an early 705 adopter and it’s still my favorite HF radio. Like you, I love my FT-817/818 and still own it. Best form factor ever, despite the small screen. Anyway, the 705 does everything and I think you’ll have fun trying out new things with it, even if you are mostly SSB. I’m also mostly SSB and don’t really care for FT8. I wish the 705 was more rugged, but it gets the job done and the spectrum scope is the feature I didn’t know I needed and now I can’t imagine not having it. I’ve been taking a little break from my small UA-cam channel as well. Maybe it’s time to reengage as spring approaches. 73, KI4ASK
Hi Joe, first things first...the UA-cam community would be poorer if you stopped producing videos. I hope you keep it going 👍 I encourage everyone reading this to go over and take a look at the work you've posted. Thanks for sharing your experience with the 705! 73 from VE3TWM.
Welcome to the Icom IC-705 Family! This rig offers so many great features in a compact take it with you package for fun and or Emergencies! A “Swiss Army Knife” of a radio 73
Thank you and 73 from VE3TWM!
I just got a 60 watt DIY599 PA500 amplifier for my IC-705 and LAB599 T-500. It’s compact and draws very little current when it’s not transmitting. I like the combination of a QRP radio like the IC-705 or LAB599 T-500 with an amp like this. This setup allows me to run off batteries for a long time. I have extra transmit power capability when I need it but with minimal power draw.
Well, good luck. I hope you like it. I'm going to be in the minority here, and tell you that I'm leaning towards selling mine. I haven't really enjoyed using it as much as I thought I would. I'm not a fan of it's bulkiness. I also don't enjoy it's sound; it always sounds quite tinny, and harsh to me - unlike the way that Yaesu radios sound to me. As you said in your previous video, the technology in it is amazing! There are SO MANY cool things that you can do with it - remote operation; one-wire access to the digital modes; the digital display - all very cool things. But, it hasn't enhanced my enjoyment of the AUDIO side of ham radio - pulling out the weak signals, and working them. I guess I'm used to the DSP on Yaesu radios, and this has a hard time measuring up to that.
So, we'll see. When I bought it, it was a toss-up between it, and the Xiegu X6100. I opted to spend the extra money and get the IC-705. I might be regretting that decision now. I haven't completely given up on it, but it might be on the way out the door.
GREAT comment, thank you for sharing it. I agree about the audio. My tiny FT-817's audio is noticeably better.
Thanks for the update from Ontario. You're lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world, and a place that has so many amazing outdoor adventure possibilities. With the new rig you also get the chance to sift through the endless array of do-dads and whatnots available to nice it up for your particular mission.
Of the various types of armor available, i chose the Windcamp cage for mechanical protection in the field, together with an SZone camera bag that i got on amazon for 20 or 30 bucks. While this might not save the radio from an upside-down canoe type of situation, it takes care of just about everything else, while also fitting nicely in a backpack or duffel. It holds the radio, mic, a 3aH LiFePO battery, the Nifty 705 manual, and a small wallet with a notepad, pens, fuses, and a spare memory card. The AT-705 is expensive and kinda big, but that plus a couple pieces of 22ga wire and you'll be on the air, 160-6m, in short order; besides, at NMT 10w, having the ATU as close as possible to the antenna feed point keeps co-ax losses to an absolute minimum. A 25' length of RG-316, and a 25' bit of audio cable with 3.5mm TRS ends gets me connected between operating position and antenna feed point. Alas, here's where you'll start missing the 2 antenna ports on the ft-817. I was able to source a tiny HF / V-UHF duplexer good up to 50w, with BNC ports. It wasn't easy to find, but is an awfully nice way to connect a 2m/440 roll-up slim jim to the station. Also, for those times when 10w just doesn't do it, I built a HR-50 amp w/ ATU. The amp, and it's battery are not things i'd want to take out backpacking, but canoeing, or pulling a toboggan, that's another story.
Will you be using any digital modes with your new rig? The 705's onboard sound card, wifi server, and BT really are this rig's super powers for field use, and there are lots of R-pi, android, iOS, and Windoze options out there. Well, now you have to plan a 2-3 week canoe trip to put all this new gear to the test. Would you call Winlink connections in the bush a blessing, or a curse? I look forward to the new content i'm sure this will generate.
Oh yeah, there's the whole DStar thing, too, both HF and via internet. I hope to catch up with you on the air soon.
GL es 73 de N1WMR
Thank you for the excellent comment! Solid, practical information. I'll get into digital one of these days. Looking forward to that contact with you. 73 from VE3TWM.
Good luck on your new radio adventures mr tracy!I alway´s enjoy your video´s so keep them coming!Best 73 & GL
Thank you! 73 from VE3TWM.
Really looking forward to hearing about your experiences with the 705!
I enjoy my 705 and I hope you do too. I appreciate your honesty and perspective in your videos.
Hi Mike, thank you for sharing your experience! Watch for a shout out in my next video 😀
Pragmatic as always Tracy. Personally I am normally in agreement with purchases like you note but I "jumped on the band wagon" and received my 705 2 days after general release. I sold my FT857d to part finance this. I was initially filled with doubt having placed a deposit then waiting months for a radio I may not like. The opposite couldnt be further. I adore my 705, the feature set is incredible as you know. Being all in one with a battery its my goto radio for antenna testing. I'm sure you will get many years of pleasure from it. On a side note, I opted for the windcamp cage also with no regrets. 73 from Scotland.
Hi Colin, always nice to hear from you! Interesting perpsective, thanks for sharing. We'll have to link up for a livestream at some point. 73 from the Great White North of Canada!
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir no problem Tracy👍, that would be good. My email is good on QRZ. Look forward to future videos with your 705. 73.
The one reason why I decided to buy this radio was exactly that... "I am not a Dstar guy but what if someday I feel like trying it?!" And that's it 😅
Its hard to make a change when the radios you use serve you well, but change you have and i think you will not be disapointed my friend
So glad to see you finally got a 705. I love mine, I think you will too. The waterfall is nice. D-star is fun, albeit was quite a learning curve. Enjoy, 73 de K1BQY
Thank you for your testimonial of the 705! 73 from VE3TWM.
I’ll be interested in seeing how the new Xiegu 6200 stacks up to the 705.
I don't think it will be even close to 705 in the case of user interface and functionality either. I had the 6100, 5105. They were not bad radios, but they had a lot of software and hardware issues. Xiegu is about to release new rigs every few years and let them with very few updates. The 6100 had a lot of potential, me it could be better because I hate touch screens on a device, that I take to the field, but the 705 has so much better software, that it isn't worth staying with Xiegu. Maybe the custom firmware can help, but if I buy a radio, I expect it to be useful from the beginning.
Not even close.
We are in the same boat, I recently purchased a brand new 705 after much waiting and research. I am an ssb cw only operator with occasional digital modes. When at home I drive a sailor marine amplifier to get 300 watts with 10 watts from the 705. 73
Sailor marine amplifier? I'm going to google that. 73 from VE3TWM.
Glad to hear you have one. Looking forward to your review on it.
I knew you'd come around. I'm personally only interested in the 705 even though other, less expensive QRP XCVRs would work well for me. The reason being I would like to operate primarily portable and have chronic fatigue, and the 2.4 pound weight of the 705 (including battery) would make things so much easier and allow me to play more radio.
Sorry to hear about the fatigue. I've been dealing with some of that myself for my entire life, maybe not quite as bad as yours. Appreciate you sharing your 705 experience!
Hi Tracy,
Congrats to your new rig...
I bought it too 1year ago.
I still have my IC-703 and the FT-897, FT-857 and FT-818...
The 793 is still my favorite SOTA gear, because of the rugged design and the tuner.
I will never sell them 😂
73s DG4RBS Stefan
That's a nice collection you have there, Stefan! 73 from VE3TWM.
I wish it was 20w and had a built in tuner. It would be perfect.
Perfect, no (and i've got a video coming about that), but those additions would make the 705 awesome.
Honestly i was of a similar perspective when i first saw the 705. I originally thought it was ugly with the chunky brick form factor.
After getting into QRP after college and learning CW i bought one after plenty of research and it quickly became my favorite radio in my collection.
The only things I still don't particularly like is the form factor and it being made of plastic. Otherwise its an absolute joy to operate on. The use of a scope is particularly helpful when the HF bands are crowded since you can find empty slots to operate on. Do you need that? Not at all! Is it incredibly helpful? Absolutely!
Don't let your 817 get a sad face again, let it see the sunshine sometimes too! 73 KB3JC
No more sad faces for that old warrior 😂 73 from VE3TWM.
I held off buying an IC-705 because of the price. A used one came my way at a very reasonable price so I bought it. This is a radio you have to own and use to appreciate it. It is the best radio I have ever owned, and I have owned many radios.
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Hi Tracy, thats a coincidence im reconsidering this radio as well!
As a 705 owner, I think Icom should make a 100 watt PA for this radio. The reality with the 705 is that you will need to buy a bunch of accessories to make it useful. In terms of a business case to own one, it's not great. If I could connect it to a 100 watt PA and make it into a base, or mobile, it'd be a lot more useful.
Interesting thoughts, thank you for sharing. If Icom were to market such an amp, the price of the 705 + amp combined would be very high. I don't think the 705's basic performance warrants that kind of expense, but that's just my perspective.
I tend to wait around for radios to drop in price as well. I ran the IC-703 for quite a while and I really loved that radio. I saw a listing for a used IC-705 from Rob Sherwood himself, the one that his testing was done on. I made the deal and I'm so glad I did. Working QRP with a scope really helps to find a spot on the band that you might get stomped on a bit less. I tend to work portable in contest or QSO party conditions, so it can be crowded.
As for the FT-891, I found mine used for $450 shipped back in 2017. It's serving mobile use now with an ATAS-120. A simple, solid combination for mobile use.
QRO in the field? I recently found a used FT-857 with the screen protector still on it for $300. Added a DigiRig interface and I have rig control and an audio interface, should I want it.
Keep some funds on hand and keep watching the used ads. Eventually another QRO rig will come your way, but the 705 crushes with a good dipole.
73,
Kent
W9WB
Thank you for sharing! 73 from VE3TWM.
If I had the money to get a 705, that would be my first choice for a QRP rig.
Now you are starting fresh with a new set up. Can you please do a video or publish a list of all the equipment, gear, spares etc you take with you?
Thank you for the suggestion! I'll put this on my list.
I fought the 705 bandwagon for quite a while too. I figured with the way I operate (primarily CW) the 705 had little to offer me. I finally caved a few months ago, and man was I wrong! The IC-705 is probably the best portable radio I own for most things. I'm definitely not carrying that brick up a mountain to do SOTA, but for drive up POTA/SOTA activations, the 705 has become one of my go to rigs.
Glad to hear the 705 is working for you!
Another excellent video. Thanks and 73!
Thank you! 73 from VE3TWM.
I recognize your situation and second the emotions you felt about the radios you already owned (and sold to fund the purchase of the IC-705). And guess what... I decided to take the plunge and sold my TS-590SG and IC-7200 to go 'QRP' with a brand new IC-705. That was in February (2024) and frankly, so far, I haven't missed both radios at all.
I admit I also have an FT-710 for QRO /P outings and in the shack I have an FTDX-10, but those two rigs haven't received as much attention the last 2 months as the IC-705.
Ain't that peculiar...
I do enjoy your video and I do work portable about as much as in my shack. I agree for car portable the IC705 is just amazing and easy to do more than one modulation. Like spotting your self with a tablet and JS8Call. I on the other hand I fly a lot for work and the Elecraft KX2 is very small and yes smaller than the 817 for this type of travel. This gives me the option to work radio on most of my frequent trips. I did a similar thing to justify my KX2 but it allows more radio use when traveling. Where my 817 could only go on a few trips my KX2 goes on all trips. Bravo for getting the IC705 I look forward to your adventures.
Thank you for your comment. Interesting to hear your thoughts on the KX2, makes a lot of sense. 73!
Like you, I have waited and told myself that I don’t need it since my main rig, a 7300 has served me so well on SSB. I have no intention to try digital modes except D Star, which Instill desire to learn. But Ido envy the quick POTA operators,and other picnic table operators. I keep telling myself I will wait until the price drops, but as you stated, it has been in high demand and the price remains steady. The wait continues…
Oh No ! Give up ham radio and making UA-cam videos? Please Please.....No No No. Your videos are great and there is so much to have fun with in ham radio.
Funny, you did not want an IC 705 in the beginning and nor did I. No way am I getting a radio with such a small battery and no built in ATU. But.....I had to eat my words. Icom as well as Batteries America makes a 3 ah plus battery for the 705.
You can run up to a 2 to 1 SWR with this radio at full power out and the radio will not cut back on power. As for the battery, my friend ran FT8 for three hours straight on the bigger battery before it started to die. Since that's a 50% duty cycle and SSB is not, I realized I should be able to get at least 5 hours out of the bigger battery at my 5 watts out. As for the SWR and no ATU issue......since I only use matched resonant antenna, an ATU is no longer needed. So there was nothing stopping me from getting an IC 705 and I did. I am a happy camper. I love the radio. For QRP I now have the 705 and kept my KX2 and KX3. Like you, for me my FT-817 has long been gone. Good Bye old friend. Hi Hi It did serve me well.
Keep up with these great videos and I hope you get as much enjoyment out of your 705 as I do.
Barry, KU3X/QRP
I've long appreciated your support! Thank you, Barry. Thanks too for sharing those tips, they're very helpful. For the record, I kept my 817 😀
Looking forward to your experience.
Good on ya! I have 2 of them , one as a base station the other portable/mobile. Qrp is like fishing with 2lb line. A rush! Worth the cost.
2? That's awesome. Love your attitude about QRP.
I've always been a Yaesu guy and a CW guy I have a Yaesu 450D I use for portable its a great rig and I recently got a Elecraft KX3 that I just love. I won't talk about my base stuff lol.
I would have to disagree with you. Best QRP radio ever produced has to be the Elecraft KX2 and/or KX3.
Everyone has their own choice based on they own opinion, I bought the ts 480hx, and never looked back, and I will buy the same again many times over. 73.
The 480hx is a very nice rig. 73 from VE3TWM.
Have fun with it. I’ll have to go back to the other video to see those “fanboi” comments.
Thanks, Josh. Some of the more "colorful" ones have been deleted.
No shame in that. Yeah it was expensive, but I have zero regrets. Mine definitely isn't going to be for sale any time soon. Just putting it out there that the FT-817/818 in conjunction with the IC-705 makes a nice satellite setup. The receive audio and waterfall on the 705 are nice features for the downlink side, particularly on SSB satellites where it can be hard to find your own signal. It's definitely easier when you can see it. Get yourself an Arrow antenna and you're ready to rock.
Thank you for sharing your experience with the birds!
Within reason, I don't worry too much about the cost of ham equipment because it retains it's value in a remarkable way. I just sold two radios that I bought used 10 years ago and actually made a little profit. Current production equipment sells for >80% of the new price on the used market. Even if I buy a new radio and decide to sell it after a few months, the small loss is still a worthwhile cost for trying out a new radio. If you are buying radios like the $13k IC-7851 then this may not hold true.
Your logic is impeccable! Thank you for the comment.
Funny thing is the IC-705 was my first radio when I got back into the hobby during COVID. My concern was power, but the VHF/UHF inclusion was important for a new ham relearning old skills. The only real gripe I have with the radio is the form factor impact on cable management. Lab599 has learned this lesson with their upcoming model (or, vaporware). Also, presents a challenge when trying to find that mythical sock, bag, or case to transport it.
Good, practical points!
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir I picked up a G90 which I had been using with several vertical and homebrew antennas with great success. Picked up the CHA 4010 recently and really enjoying how it and IC705 really get out.
I hope you enjoy the 705 as much as I do even though we use it very differently.
Hi Jason, thank you for stopping by! I've seen you using yours and those videos fascinated me.
Hi Trace. I have an FT817 and an IC705. I always loved the 817 but the 705 is the flavor of the month not to say the 817 doesn't have it's place in my QRP world. Just my thoughts.
73's from Darren VK4DJH
I know where you're coming from, Darren! 73 from VE3TWM.
The 705 is a fine transceiver, but apples and oranges when compared to the 891. When the solar cycle winds down, you might regret selling your 891. For now, I have found the best transceiver combo to be a Xiegu G90 and Icom 7300....the G90 for real portable use, and the 7300 for a "portable shack" when needed. Both include built in antenna tuners. I have owned several transceivers, and I keep going back to those two. 73
Good points! The only alternate view that I would pose is that my 817 was my primary rig while the last minimum was raging and I had a lot of fun with it. But I wasn't trying to make as many contacts as possible in a short time as many POTA operators like to do. Use case matters.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Enjoy the 705! Your videos are excellent, and your passion for the hobby is obvious. Thanks for all of the work you share with us. 73 N2MXX
I've had the opposite journey as you. I bought one of these things shortly after release as my local HRO had a few that people didn't claim. Thought it was great at first but the more I used it, the less I liked it. It's been collecting dust for well over a year now. I should have never sold my KX-2.
Fascinating comment, thank you for sharing your experience!
I live on the west coast of Canada. 2 W on my 705 gets me to Japan. 10 W gets me to Estonia, Slovakia, Italy, and Spain. What more could a man want?
Nothing 😀
I have a ICOM ID52A, I like the Japanese Brands because of The very High Quality Radios! I also have a Yeasu FT5D,
I changed my mind too, you’re not a Luddite Elmer. 😄
Well...I might be 😂
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir I just bought an Xeigu X6100 but I WISH it was the 705! Enjoy it, and still use whichever ones you enjoy.
This may have absolutely been my committing factor to buy the 705 I have spent 3 years trying to find suitable alternatives for based on the price. And guess what...now I've spent an equal amount of money as I would have just buying the 705 when it was released. Buy once, cry once. I tell myself that all the time but never hold myself to it.
"Buy once, cry once"...that's awesome. Good luck in your journey!
Welcome!
You sold the 891..? How could you...? Just kidding, enjoy your new radio Tracy. I can't wait to see it in action.
😀 Thank you, Nek!
great radios all of them, great choice to try the sdr world. you wont regret it. no radio is perfect but this one has lots of features and filters. the display spectrum adds a lot of fun
I had one and it's a great rig. I sold it because it's just not robust enough, and oh boy, don't scratch or crack the screen when you take a tumble in the field up a mountain. It's a damn good radio but more for those who want to do field work from the comfort of a campsite not the out and about "get active" (as their slogan recommends) ham operater exposed to all weather conditions and hazardous terrains. FT818 or the X6100 any day.
I appreciate your candor. Thank you for your comment!
Put it in a small hard case and problem solved. Let’s face it, it isn’t waterproof so you need a waterproof case anyway….there is only one waterproof QRP rig which has other issues with much less functionality.
I am disappointed by 2 things: Strong interfrerence from the display when using a whip directly attached and only ver,y few software updates so far.
If you want to expand the 705 get a Hardrock 50 amp - it will run off of the same battery that you run everything else off of and works great!
Thanks for the tip!
thanks Tracy good decision great QRP radio fantastic how you run the Cadillac congratulations.
Thank you, Alvaro! Always nice to hear from you.
I think 705 is a fantastic radio with all modern feathers. The only thing I do not like is its shape. They could make it modular in the way that a tuner and/or a extended battery pack could be attached in easy way. Having UHF and VHF is a bonus (Repeaters, direct FM, direct SSB and different types of satellites. Crazy possibilities!) . Also, ability to use D-Star and a hotspot is something no other QRP radio offers.
Great points, Tom!
I'm still a ONE radio guy, an FT-818, but every once in a while, I'd just like to have more radio. More watts, more features, more screen, more filters, more controls, more information. I keep looking at a few of the more powerful radios and think that one day soon I'll have to take that next step. Will it be the 705? I will wait and see how it plays out for you first! 73 Rod VA3MZD
Hi Rod, I get the way you think! 73 from VE3TWM.
Thanks!
Thank you and 73 from VE3TWM!
I did enjoy the video. Thanks.
I waiting a year before making up my mind to buy the 705..Why was simple and said by you in the first min of this video..When the 705 came out it was said to be the greatest thing since sliced bread..And NO it is NOT..I love my 817nd my 818 and yes my 705..Is it better then my others yes and no..However I am very glad I got it and use it now as my base rig..Greatest thing since sliced bread?? No but Is it worth the money?? If you like qrp and qrp portable yes I think it is..Your first video was a good one and pointed out things that truly needed to be said even if the fanboys didnt like it..I myself do mostly SSB very little Dig(I HATE BRAINDEAD MODE FT8) even do some 2m ssb and simplex from time to time and the 705 works great..I truly do think you will like your 705 even if you do not use everything it can do..
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Scandalous treachery! ;) 73
😂 73 from VE3TWM!
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir All in good fun, of course. Shame I missed out on picking up your 897, but glad you're enjoying your 705. 👍 Cheers.
Thank you 73
You're welcome and 73 from VE3TWM!
YaEsu missed a trick, no satellite radio, never replaced the ft847
Still too expensive
My wallet still hurts, Philip.
I am all new to this, and I'm on the fence of purchasing the IC-705 or a more powerful rig (maybe the Yeasu 991A). I live in a flat without any simple antenna solution, and I’m an outdoor guy. Will I be constrained with only 10W (as a maximum)?
Welcome! The 10 watt limitation can be overcome by using a full-sized half-wave antenna in the field.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAirthank you for your reply.
Newbie and not familiar with this radio and whilst I could probably just Google it I'd rather reward your effort on YT by goosing your engagement... does it have a built in tuner and sound card?
Welcome to the hobby! No to the tuner, and yes to the sound card.
I am going to applaud you for not buying an ic-705 right off the bat...like me. I waited on purpose because you should never buy a first gen anything...bugs.
..If you at a point in ham radio as to whether give up, or try something new...learn CW..Especially with a qrp rig...
The elephant in the room is still there. When will you sell me the SGC?
😂 love this comment! The 2020 is not going anywhere.
@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Ok but if you change your mind I have a good trade.
I'm trying to get my mind rapped around your heavy concern over the 705's price, while displaying thousands of dollars in other portable radios. You spent all that time pondering the 705 purchase and wondering if you needed its additional features, while you were obviously interested, eh? Life is short. The question is, how much life do you feel comfortable wasting away while pondering?
Interesting comment, and thanks for it. To add context, the other rigs in my collection, with the exception of the 891 were purchased on the used market at good prices. I didn't spend thousands on them.
Thanks, I really enjoy your relaxing and informative videos. '73 VK4JBX.
Thank you very much! 73 from VE3TWM.
Thanks!
Thank you very much! 73 from VE3TWM.