Both are great radios and I am glad we have these options available! What needs to be reminded again and again, is that *first* you need to draw out your desired operating style and conditions and *then* pick the radio that fits it the best. People, however, usually pick radio that looks cool and then they force it into the role they need. How rugged the radio needs to be? Will you operate in extreme conditions? Pick the Lab599! Do you believe you can protect it from breaking? Do you need UHF/VHF? Do you need the waterfall and universal pile of features? Pick IC-705! Do you just need to do CW CQ on a summit? Pick a QCX! Do you need something quite universal, but still cheap, so you wouldn't mind it getting stolen or broken? Pick an older FT-817! Since I do both HF and higher bands, I do digi modes, contests, SSB, CW, even D-STAR, playing with satellites, I need the radio to be universal and capable of doing as many disciplines as possible, I am about to get higher to 23cm etc. So IC-705 is the best for me. However, I try hard to protect it from damages on portables, but there's still some risk...
Great video, Thomas! I agree with Ferdinand about keeping your desired NEEDS - what the rig will be used for - as a priority, not the prettiness of the rig! The QRP Labs QCX will fulfill most hams needs, but is single-band use.
Tom, very nice review. Right now, at HRO, the TX-500 is $1150 and IC-705 $1350. I live in Maine and own both radios and also the Yaesu FT-991a, FTDX10, and Icoms IC-703+, 7000, and 7300. Without question the FTDX10 has the best receiver, but I find myself using my IC-705 most, be it home, hiking or camping. IC-705: Tired of working digital, phone or CW and want to keep the xyl happy? 705 FM radio using its built in speaker (not on the 500). Want to hit local repeaters. 2 meters. Listen to ATC? No problem! I did the backpack and camping thing with my 703+ and ft-817 for years and IMHO, the "waterproof" thing is blown way out of proportion. pure fantasy In fact (except for military, etc). And nowhere in my TX-500 manual does it say the word waterproof or it have an IP Rating. But hey, if you want to stay outdoors in the rain and snow have at it, but it's just not your radio that needs to be waterproof. My TX-500 screen will break just as easily as my 705 screen. The TX-500 case is DEFINITELY more rugged, but the 705 plastic allows GPS signals to pass, unlike metal. With its attached battery my 705 is always on the air, without cables, and you can buy high quality, perfect fitting, high powered battery packs for the 705 for $45 each on Amazon, allowing me to carry 4 easily, swapping out in mere seconds. The new 4400mAh BP-500 battery pack is a work of art but costs $400, if you can find one. As you stated, the 705 has gps, wifi, a soundcard, speaker mic, and wireless LAN and bluetooth, allowing you to link with a smartphone and remote control. So you can put the 705 anywhere and go outside and play in the rain or snow. The 705 is magic box! I absolutely love my TX-500 too, especially its rugged form factor, and only hope that any future models make it more versatile, have a waterproof IP Rating, wide freq and miltiband capability, etc! But at just $200 difference between them right now and with the 705 including a battery, the 705 just stomps my 500 in every category. It's no contest! It really makes me wonder if many of the early youtube reviewers critical of the 705 even turned them on? You, however, actually know what you are talking about when comparing the two rigs and I appreciate that! Best regards.
I was leaning towards the KX2 but the TX-500 is really growing on me for my Sota activations. Thanks for all the great content you make we all really appreciate it 73
Thomas, thank you for a very interesting video! Both radios are interesting, and yet are somewhat different in concept, and while I own IC-705 I now feel like adding the TX-500 to the collection. Frankly speaking, I belong to those strange guys that always want new radios, and never sell previous ones. Kx-2, IC-705, IC-7000, Ft-450, IC-746 etc, etc, the only problem being to legalize them in the family... So, I simply tell my wife that a HAM friend got tired of his rig and sold it for a symbolic price :) Now I have a strange feeling that this friend will soon become tired of IC-7610 and Tx-500 :) 73 de R2ARM!
HA HA HA! Let's hope your XYL doesn't read UA-cam comments, my friend! :) So funny! I would love a 7610 at some point as a QTH rig. At the moment, the KX3/KXPA100 combo is serving me well, though, and I do so little operating in the shack, I can't justify. Let us know how you like the TX-500! 73, Thomas K4SWL
I have the TX-500 and I absolutely love it. I haven't used an IC-705, nor do I care to. I'm sure that it's a great radio, but when I bought my TX-500 four years ago I decided that I was done with the Icom/Yaesu duopoly. I had a horrible time with Yaesu radios and while the Icom radios were ok, they were also uninspiring. It wasn't until I started looking at the TX-500 and KX-2 (which I almost bought) that I fell in love with the design and feature set of a radio. I personally don't want all of the bells and whistles. I'd much rather run the TX-500 with its 110ma of current draw on receive than have a fancy color screen. I still have an old IC-740 that I would rather run than any of Icom's newer radios. I just like my radios simple and easy-to-use.
I own a KX2 but I was tempted by the TX-500. You have identified the reasons why I like the KX2 so much and the features that are important to me that the TX-500 does not have, such as: internal battery, internal ATU, built-in speaker, built-in mic, direct frequency entry capability. Therefore, I am not going to buy a TX-500... even if it is extremely 'sexy' looking (really), it cannot compete with what I want (and have) in a QRP rig. I admit that the TX-500 looks so much more rugged than the KX2. Thanks again for helping me save my money for something else!
The KX2 is *THE* benchmark in the world of field radios, in my opinion. It's the most versatile and adaptive radio out there. I wish it has weather-proofing, but otherwise it's ideal for my HF adventures.
Great review! On my last SOTA operation in the Blue Ridge, using my KX3, it began to rain. I was thinking this $1300 radio can't get wet. Also, I throw my radio in my computer backpack on trips. The TX-500 will skip into the bag and I may need to carry less on trips. Love my KX3, have an FT817, but ordered the TX500. K9EZ
if there is someone to listen to when it comes to portal radio operations you are the man ! Fantastic video - already own the 705 - i cant wait to see the moonbounce video !! something i would really love to try.
Its very easy to do digital modes with TX-500, just hook up supplied CAT and audio cable to your computer and thats it. If you want even less wires you can use digirig, only 1 usb C cable to your pc. wsjtx works out of the box.
I have the 705, looking at the Lab 599. 705 is a great travel radio, where you're staying in a hotel and you can have a full featured radio with you. The Lab will be for the times I'm going on hikes and for my my bicycle touring. It's effective, light, simple, resists the elements and it's rugged. They both allow me to maintain communications but I'm envisioning different usage scenarios for each
New Technician here, currently studying for General and learning CW. A couple of days ago, I canceled my order for the TX-500 and bought an in-stock 705. Since I want to explore broadly, the Icom’s feature set, including its facility with digital modes, won me over: frankly, I just hadn’t looked at the 705, only the TX-500 and the KX-2/KX-3. Also, the 705 avoids a mass of wires and add-on devices: packing those with the TX-500 narrows its weight and portability advantages over the 705, though (as you noted) only if one plans to use digital modes in the field. I also considered that the 705 was in stock, no small consideration in a time of global chip shortages: a bird in the hand, and all that. Like you, I probably will end up owning both rigs. 73, KN6NPZ
You've chosen well for your needs. The IC-705 can do almost *anything* you can think of. Truly an amazingly feature-rich radio and sporting superb performance. You will be very pleased. I did purchase the TX-500 as well because I do love this radio, too. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Excellent video! Like Jules in Pulp Fiction, I’m kind in a transition period where in my case I’m discovering the pleasure of 5W digital and 10W SSB using efficient antennas. I have a IC-7300 and a FT-891. Never ever considered less than 100W before. Now I’m looking at the G90, the IC-705 and even the TX-500. A bit difficult to justify any of this purchases when I already have 2 good radios but well.. we always want to try different things..
The thing that the IC-705 and TX-500 can offer you over the '7300 and FT-891 is a serious reduction in size, weight, and much better battery efficiency. If those are important factors, you might sell one of your 100W radios and go QRP. :)
@@ThomasK4SWL I’ve been operating QRP with my FT891 lately to get a feel of what 10W SSB / 5W FT8 is like. Also the 20W level sometimes makes a real difference on some otherwise impossible QSOs. I like the fact that I could also receive SSTV from the ISS with the 705. Decisions decisions :)
The 705 is a swiss army knife - 599 is a tom mix pocket knife. for cases for the 705 - there a pile on thingiverse that can be 3D printed. I did one and its great - access to all ports, protects the knobs and allows gps to run.
Hi - the one i did is this - www.thingiverse.com/thing:4639259 however there is an updated one that looks better www.thingiverse.com/thing:4633445 - just FYI - they are big - too big for my ender3v2 so i had them done at the local hackerspace
@@mattghoward I like that! Yeah, I think it would be too big for my printer too. Plus, I'd need to grab some ABS. I'll see if I can't get one printed, though. I like it!
Still waiting on HRO, their site says late May for backordered Discovery TX500 units. Nice to see your comments on a soon arrival at HRO meanwhile chomping at the bit to get one!!
Both solid rigs, I'm an Icom fan but I have to admit the TX-500 is awesome not just at the price point but flat out. That said, being a mainly digital operator, the IC705 is the better fit for my use case. The built-in sound card with cabled or wifi connection is what wins me over.
I have just sold my 705 and am in the first batch of pre-orders for the TX500. I really liked the 705, it was a great little radio but it simply didn't fit my operating style, I need something that is a little more rugged. I thought I'd make use of all the bells and whistles of the 705, but I never used it on 2m/70cms, never used DStar on it, didn't use the record functionality etc. I will use the TX-500 portable, stick it in a small pelicase and take it on the boat, which I'd be extremely wary of doing with the 705. They're both good radios, just pick the one that works best for your usecase.
Solid choice. You're absolutely right, too: pick the radio that matches your operating style! Both are fine radios. Since you need something more on the side of rugged, sealed, and weather-proof, the TX-500 is the best choice on the market. Would love to see your case once you've configured it!
I chose the 705 and never looked back. I initially ordered a Lab599, but as yet, it is vapor ware. I changed my order and elected to enjoy the 705 with its excellent display, receiver and mult-band capability over a radio that may or may not be available. I am pretty sure ICOM and its service will be around for the next ten years, not so sure about the Lab599.
@@ThomasK4SWL I think both radios are good radios, but the Lab599 is more narrow focused for its intended use. It would be a great radio to throw into your post apocalyptic go bag in the back of your pick up truck.
If there's one thing I've learnt in my 60+ years when buying anything it's that the one you REALLY want is worth waiting for and buying something else is just making do. These radios are both aimed at maximum portability, other than that they are quite different. Buying one when you really want the other is a mistake IMO.
TX500 Looks like something a Soviet design bureau came up with in the 80s. The IC705 is so much nicer….the display on the 705 is awesome. TX500 = ugly…old school tech….albeit durable old tech if you need that. Great reviews as always.
So I respectfully disagree. The TX-500 sports a brilliant, 21st century design, in my opinion. It's like no other radio on the market. You need to hold one in you hands. Super lightweight, thin, yet incredibly--and I do mean incredibly--durable. The buttons and knobs are spaced for field use (with gloves on even!) the display consumes almost no power at all, the ergonomics are brilliant and it consumes something like 100-110ma in RX? And it's water resistant? I think it's quite an innovator, actually.
I was so worried about buying a 705, because I owned a KX3; and now I am glad I did. The 705 actually makes a nice radio for my home QTH. I operated QRP or I hook up my Hardrock 50 amp to it. I have all my repeaters programmed on it that I use for local talking, and for when I travel For a bonus I hook my 2 m amp to it, and talk on the Sidewinder Net; on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
That's brilliant! I own both and plan to keep both rigs. The KX3 has a place in my shack and in the field--so does the IC-705. Heck, I even did D-Star contacts with the IC-705. :) And the KX3 is a Field Day dominator! Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Loved your thoughts here. I was wondering how someone like me would use the KX3 and an IC-705 differently. You nailed it! I've always struggled with NiMH battery usage in the KX3. On the other hand, the IC-705's battery appears to be the same one that I use on my IC-52A HT!
In my opinion, the IC-705 has the best receiver of any QRP radio on the market. This pulls out signals like no other radio that I have. It also has 2 meters and 70 cm. It has a built-in sound card. The battery can easily be changed in seconds. The screen is huge and can easily seen. It has D-Star, built-in audio recorder, built-in filters. What's the cheaper option? Get the FT-817, it has the same bands as the 705 does. You can find used 817's for as little as $400 to $450.
@@joeblow8593 oh yeah, for sure. In truth, the IC-705 can do anything the TX-500 can do in the field. The TX-500 is more rugged, but if you're careful, the IC-705 will have no issues at all. It's not that it's not rugged or lightweight--just not as much as the TX-500. I know I'll eventually take it on a SOTA activation. For me, I have small field radio options, so I tend to go for those.
@@joeblow8593 RR--sorry! :) Yes, the 817 would be ideally suited. I'm thinking about taking mine out this AM, in fact! Not on a beach, but on a mountain!
When we cannot get the proprietary Cabling from the TX-500 for Keys and Mics, what connectors can we use to connect to the radio. With the supply issues around the world, What connectors will work when mine wear out in a decade.
The connectors are GX12 aviation connectors. They're actually very standard. Check out this post: swling.com/blog/2020/08/lab599-tx-500-discovery-accessories-and-connectors/
Me too! Ha ha! So I'm in the process of putting everything together, but it's so far outside my comfort zone I'm still learning about the right VHF amplifiers to use and the best antennas. It's slowly coming together. You can believe I'll post a video when I'm able to pull it off!
I'm seriously thinking of changing my FT-891 to a TX-500. Since I learned to copy at 20 WPM (thanks to your videos😉), I work >90% of the time in CW. In addition, I started using a resonant inv-V, so 100W are no longer needed for me. Also, I work only from the field and do not have a home shack, so wouldn't the TX-500 and over QRP radios be worse in CW than the FT-891 and similar QRO transceivers, based on your experience?
You are a perfect candidate for going QRP. Operating CW at 5 watts is roughly the equivalent of 70-80 watts SSB. All of my parks are validated with 5 watts or less. Going QRP (and TX-500) will decreased the size of your gear: smaller battery, smaller radio. lighter weight, overall more compact! Go for it!
Thanks for your video! A soon I discover the TX-500 i was very intrigued, but at that time i was very in a budget.. btw is hard ti find available even now March 23 here on EU and the price increase a lot.. besides that i start to be fascinated by the IC-705 but neither this rig is available now here on Italy March 23, anyway i hope is available pretty soon again here.. Springtime coming and I really dream for a new rig for outdoor fun.. 73s de Mario IK1LBL
So at present there is a service center in Nevada if you're a US customer. There's also a service center in Russia, but I heard they were trying to establish one specifically for Europe as well.
Probably I say not popular opinion but I prefer simpler rigs like kx2 or tx500. 705 has so big set of features that user might never use but pay for it. This is like pay $1.5k for phone to make calls and watch youtube but simple $200 will be totally enough. And this looks to me like 705 - it is very cool but full potential will open when dive in functions. Also I don't like touch controls in rigs, cars, etc. You have only visual feedbacks.
Great video? What about warranty, and would the 705 have an easier time getting repaired should the need arise? Especially since Lab599 is not as well established? Thanks, K8JLW
Excellent question! So the lab599 comes with a one year warranty. In the US, they have a full service center in Nevada. I'm not sure about other parts of the world yet. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
The unique feature of Discovery is Extra low power consumption Fits for backpack and About 1lbs. It’s much more important exactly for field qso. And also ic-705 it’s 5w only using internal battery. Tx-500 = 10w. 73!
Happy to help. In all honesty, you can't go wrong with either. Both are solid choices and even in the unlikely case that you bought one and regretted it, you could sell it for only a little less than you paid. Especially in 2021. :) Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Of the two - if you were gonna go sailing (sailboat) - Example: California to Hawaii or California to Panama (assuming a proper antenna) - any thoughts? I can guess.
Oh dear. Hmmmm.... So neither is marine rated--the boards have no coatings to protect them from salt water. With that said, I would go with the TX-500 for its efficiency and weather-proofiing. I feel that it must be better sealed than the IC-705 and could probably handle splashes better. For VHF/UHF, I'd use an HT or mobile radio.
Darn-it, Whitherspoon. You and your gear. Ya lost me when you flashed the QRP Ranger. I had to chase down that squirrel. 🤪 Great comparison video. P.S. The SOTAGoat app’s hilarious notification startled my family when your spot appeared after I configured the app. 73 de KI7VLV
That's funny! I love the SOTA Goat app! I've had the QRP Ranger now since mid 2016. It was my first battery based on LiFePo4. Hardened power systems makes some cool gear. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Lab599 Discovery TX-500 is WAY better IMHO to the IC-705. Depends what you want. I wanted a real QRP take anywhere radio where I would not be afraid to break it. The IC-705 has many bells and whistles but no one wants to break it when you pull it out of your bag or get it wet with a light rain.
Hi Thomas, thanks for a good review of both radios, I have the 705 and a ft-817 and am very happy with both of them and don't intend to let them go, but I do need a very rugged radio for most of my portable activities the TX-500 looks like it's going to work for me and I'll be on the air with one once there available in the UK, just a thought do they come with screw on dust covers for the auxiliary port's when not in use. Thanks again for a great review Adam G7CRQ.
Great question! The TX-500 does not (currently) ship with dust covers for the GX12 connectors, but I think they should. These can be 3D printed and there's an Etsy store where they're sold. You can also find both plastic and stainless covers on Amazon.com and a number of other online retailers. I need to purchase some myself! Cheers,Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
I tend to lean towards the ICOM. Hiking and camping and the weight difference is minimal. The TX500 is more rugged yes, but much less of a radio compared to the IC705 which is why the price difference. You get what you pay for
I hear you. As a field radio, though, I'm so much more comfortable taking the TX-500 for a hike. The TX-500 has all of the functionality I use with the IC-705 during field activations (which is what I primarily do). I absolutely love the IC-705, but it's one of the more pricey and least rugged of the radios I take to the field. I'd worry about that soft touch-sensitive screen if it rolled off of a rock. But, again, I like to pack and hike with my radios and so I'm biased in that direction. Both are quality radios!
Still havent made up my mind. I want a doomsday radio. A bunch of 18650s and a radio that will fit under my jacket or under my pillow at -45 here in the North is tactical. The ICOM is much more versatile, more like a mini base station. A one or the other is a nasty choice, but i only have one spare kidney..
Aloha Thomas, I would of loved to have seen you compare a third radio, the Xiegu G90 SDR QRP rig against these other two rigs. My understanding is that the G90 will also do digital modes with the help of the MMDVM Zumspot. Can you do a three way comparison video, should be a killer video. 73’
So I just sent my G90 back to Radioddity. They lent me one to test the GSOC. Before that, I reviewed the G90 and purchased a unit, but sold it a few months later. It would indeed be a good comparison, though. So I will be publishing one soon comparing the G90 & FT-818/817.
@@ThomasK4SWL Aloha Thomas again! I bet you regret selling that rig for sure. I bought mine last year because the unofficial war in the South China Sea has spread all over the South Pacific now and we are preparing for a Red Dawn type invasion by China. They are using military built ships and parading all over the Pacific as fishing boats. I wanted a rig that can be powered by a folding solar panel and can Tuna Fish if we had to bug out into the jungle if need be. The waterfall, CW decoder and the price sold me. Now I just need to update the firmware to decode Mandarin to English, lol. 😂🤣😂
@@digitaldreamer5481 so it's interesting. I like the G90, but I find that I like my other radios more which is the main reason I sold it. It also lacked features I really value in the field like CW and Voice memory keying. It's a great rig for sure, but just didn't float my boat.
Fantastic, I am a complete Newbie to the hobby, However the TX 500 and its sealed weather resistance feature , might well be what I'm looking for and more suitable to the marine environment. I do a lot of cruising and Island hopping around the Waitemata Habour , Auckland, New Zealand, With this guys compact form-factor I could easily throw it in with my Celestron S8 telescope pelican case and also drag it up to the islands peck, should it cloud over the super dark skies out there, I got a plan B, Now where is that comparison video between the KX2/#3 and the TX-500.?? Regards Kris
After looking at the manual I'm still confused. The only way to use headphones with the TX-500 is with the supplied cable that has the ptt button meaning you'd have to get a different mic? That seems like a convaluted way to go about it. Guess it's for the weather protection. Actually kind of steers me away from it. I really want to love the TX-500 but that price really hurts.
The speaker mic also has an audio port on the side that you can plug headphones into. Frankly, you could build a GX12 connector specifically for audio.
Great video, thank you. I'm using my IC-705 with a Chameleon MPAS 2.0, but still not sure which antenna to use for 2m/70cm... Any tips? In advance, thank you. 73 de Manny-2E0HJN UK
Manny, I'm the wrong fellow to ask about that. :) I know a lot of folks have had great luck with portable J-Pole antennas on 2M and 70cm. I've thought about making one for 2M to use on SOTA activations. Best Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
It is one of my go to radios. :) I love it and it's always the one I grab when weather is iffy. Otherwise I use it in rotation with my other radios. A new TX-500 video will be out pretty soon.
Hi Thomas, I have been following your channel for a while now. I have been licenced for over 10 years and have only recently, April 21, changed my focus to CW. So much so that it is now my preferred mode of operation. I am working through the CWOPS Academy training, having completed on course and awaiting the next in September. I use an 817 for QRP with an LDG ATU. The LAB599 Discovery has recently made an appearance with one major outlet in the UK and I am seriously interested. In terms of an ATU for the Discovery do you use one? If so which model? I am torn between the Discovery, the KX2 and the 705. The latter, in my opinion, is over priced but still a very good radio. I have the 7300 which I use for HF CW and consider it to have been a very wise purchase. Keep up the excellent work on the videos. 73 Sid M0WCH, Rugby UK.
Hi, Sid, First of all, congrats on your CW chops! Like you, CW has become my favorite mode. Wow--such a tough choice in rigs. The FT-817 and LDG are.a great combo. The TX-500 is a tough radio and could pair with the LDG or you could go for resonant antennas to save space and help with efficiency. The KX2 remains one of my all time favorite field radios because of how comprehensive, capable, and compact it is--a shack in a box. And the '705 is pricey but offers more features than about any radio on the market. I would think of how you'll use the radio and go from there. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
$100+ for an HT battery is ridiculous. I thought cordless tool batteries were over prices, but this is insane. IC705 was looking like a good radio, but I refuse to pay that much for a battery.
True but it is much better to buy a high capacity external Lithium battery to run 10W. I have a 12Ah one that will run the rig all day and weighs next to nothing.
The TX is obviously much more focused in it's design and intended use for true all weather portability and durability. Icom are trying to cover more bases here with lightweight portability coupled with feature rich desk top performance which you could happily use as your main radio in the shack with an amplifier so will appeal to hams on a limited budget. My money would (will) be on the TX with it's compact and rugged form factor, no worry about an occasional knock or mishap or being caught out by the weather, plus the IC has a lot of features that don't interest me. Still in short supply here in the UK but with nothing else out there even remotely comparable IMO it will be worth the wait.👍
It does, but I'd be willing to bet the TX-500 can handle a fall on rocks much better than the IC-705. Especially since the 705 lacks a CNC-machined aluminum chassis, is heavier and a bit more gravity-friendly. :)
@@eliekadi_OD5KU_KU5OD nothing person taken friend. I suppose a motivating factor for me to do comparisons, however, is to highlight the differences between these two radios and help others who haven't used either to make a purchase decision. So for me, there's actually a lot of comparisons to highlight between these two radios. :)
I like to be more a radio user listener, but what would be interesting is how long each battery set last in the field, with receiving and transmitting for the same time in use.
I can say that the TX-500 has a much lower current drain in receive, so if you use the same size external battery for each and run the same wattage for the same duty cycle, you'll get more on the air time with the TX-500.
So sorry lab 599, but by the time you're little TX 500 is actually shipped to the many people waiting for it, where is for some users maybe two years from now. There will be so many more snazzy of featutre-fill low power rigs available for purchase, your TX500 will only fall into the great number they're all similar rigs/features. Buy the TX 500 now, okie doke--wait 15 to 25 months--- at the end of that, a massive number of low power HF teen-tiny radio should be ready to ship immediately then. In today's world life is genuinely a real bitych for somebody with a significantly good product who cannot get it in massive numbers for sale immediately-- The way China is jumping in, I expect and a lot of low power units in that selection also. Also Asian guys gotta think of those rigs with UHF VHF already on them to match up with their pals on these bands on repeaters. American guys gotta consider what 100 pots of wire can get them despie love the genuine low power fellows will never match.... To me all this means a very difficult market for TX 500 this minute.
After the invasion, I believe lab599 moved manufacturing to the UAE. It was initially made in Russia, but the company was very upset about Putin's invasion and were vocal about that.
Both are great radios and I am glad we have these options available! What needs to be reminded again and again, is that *first* you need to draw out your desired operating style and conditions and *then* pick the radio that fits it the best. People, however, usually pick radio that looks cool and then they force it into the role they need.
How rugged the radio needs to be? Will you operate in extreme conditions? Pick the Lab599! Do you believe you can protect it from breaking? Do you need UHF/VHF? Do you need the waterfall and universal pile of features? Pick IC-705! Do you just need to do CW CQ on a summit? Pick a QCX! Do you need something quite universal, but still cheap, so you wouldn't mind it getting stolen or broken? Pick an older FT-817!
Since I do both HF and higher bands, I do digi modes, contests, SSB, CW, even D-STAR, playing with satellites, I need the radio to be universal and capable of doing as many disciplines as possible, I am about to get higher to 23cm etc. So IC-705 is the best for me. However, I try hard to protect it from damages on portables, but there's still some risk...
I agree 1000%! :) You've hit the nail on the head: choose the right radio tool for your own operating style!
Great video, Thomas! I agree with Ferdinand about keeping your desired NEEDS - what the rig will be used for - as a priority, not the prettiness of the rig! The QRP Labs QCX will fulfill most hams needs, but is single-band use.
I love my 705, it just allows me to do anything i need to. Be it cw, digital, ssb and other stuff. It is just very versatile. 73
most likely it will fail you very quickly. TX 500 is many times better.
Thank you for the review comparing the two radios. I'm still very partial to my IC 705 though.
I don't blame you Scott. It's an amazing machine!
Tom, very nice review. Right now, at HRO, the TX-500 is $1150 and IC-705 $1350. I live in Maine and own both radios and also the Yaesu FT-991a, FTDX10, and Icoms IC-703+, 7000, and 7300. Without question the FTDX10 has the best receiver, but I find myself using my IC-705 most, be it home, hiking or camping. IC-705: Tired of working digital, phone or CW and want to keep the xyl happy? 705 FM radio using its built in speaker (not on the 500). Want to hit local repeaters. 2 meters. Listen to ATC? No problem! I did the backpack and camping thing with my 703+ and ft-817 for years and IMHO, the "waterproof" thing is blown way out of proportion. pure fantasy In fact (except for military, etc). And nowhere in my TX-500 manual does it say the word waterproof or it have an IP Rating. But hey, if you want to stay outdoors in the rain and snow have at it, but it's just not your radio that needs to be waterproof. My TX-500 screen will break just as easily as my 705 screen. The TX-500 case is DEFINITELY more rugged, but the 705 plastic allows GPS signals to pass, unlike metal. With its attached battery my 705 is always on the air, without cables, and you can buy high quality, perfect fitting, high powered battery packs for the 705 for $45 each on Amazon, allowing me to carry 4 easily, swapping out in mere seconds. The new 4400mAh BP-500 battery pack is a work of art but costs $400, if you can find one. As you stated, the 705 has gps, wifi, a soundcard, speaker mic, and wireless LAN and bluetooth, allowing you to link with a smartphone and remote control. So you can put the 705 anywhere and go outside and play in the rain or snow. The 705 is magic box! I absolutely love my TX-500 too, especially its rugged form factor, and only hope that any future models make it more versatile, have a waterproof IP Rating, wide freq and miltiband capability, etc! But at just $200 difference between them right now and with the 705 including a battery, the 705 just stomps my 500 in every category. It's no contest! It really makes me wonder if many of the early youtube reviewers critical of the 705 even turned them on? You, however, actually know what you are talking about when comparing the two rigs and I appreciate that! Best regards.
Great comments. Thank you!
I was leaning towards the KX2 but the TX-500 is really growing on me for my Sota activations. Thanks for all the great content you make we all really appreciate it 73
Love the receiver capabilities in Elecraft. I own a KX3 and marvel at the sound quality. I don't believe you could possibly go wrong with a KX2.
Thanks Thomas, I keep changing my mind on a hf radio.🤷♂️😆
Thomas, thank you for a very interesting video! Both radios are interesting, and yet are somewhat different in concept, and while I own IC-705 I now feel like adding the TX-500 to the collection. Frankly speaking, I belong to those strange guys that always want new radios, and never sell previous ones. Kx-2, IC-705, IC-7000, Ft-450, IC-746 etc, etc, the only problem being to legalize them in the family... So, I simply tell my wife that a HAM friend got tired of his rig and sold it for a symbolic price :) Now I have a strange feeling that this friend will soon become tired of IC-7610 and Tx-500 :) 73 de R2ARM!
HA HA HA! Let's hope your XYL doesn't read UA-cam comments, my friend! :) So funny! I would love a 7610 at some point as a QTH rig. At the moment, the KX3/KXPA100 combo is serving me well, though, and I do so little operating in the shack, I can't justify. Let us know how you like the TX-500! 73, Thomas K4SWL
I have the TX-500 and I absolutely love it. I haven't used an IC-705, nor do I care to. I'm sure that it's a great radio, but when I bought my TX-500 four years ago I decided that I was done with the Icom/Yaesu duopoly. I had a horrible time with Yaesu radios and while the Icom radios were ok, they were also uninspiring. It wasn't until I started looking at the TX-500 and KX-2 (which I almost bought) that I fell in love with the design and feature set of a radio. I personally don't want all of the bells and whistles. I'd much rather run the TX-500 with its 110ma of current draw on receive than have a fancy color screen. I still have an old IC-740 that I would rather run than any of Icom's newer radios. I just like my radios simple and easy-to-use.
Just getting into this level, thanks for excellent clear explanations
I own a KX2 but I was tempted by the TX-500. You have identified the reasons why I like the KX2 so much and the features that are important to me that the TX-500 does not have, such as: internal battery, internal ATU, built-in speaker, built-in mic, direct frequency entry capability. Therefore, I am not going to buy a TX-500... even if it is extremely 'sexy' looking (really), it cannot compete with what I want (and have) in a QRP rig. I admit that the TX-500 looks so much more rugged than the KX2. Thanks again for helping me save my money for something else!
The KX2 is *THE* benchmark in the world of field radios, in my opinion. It's the most versatile and adaptive radio out there. I wish it has weather-proofing, but otherwise it's ideal for my HF adventures.
Great review! On my last SOTA operation in the Blue Ridge, using my KX3, it began to rain. I was thinking this $1300 radio can't get wet. Also, I throw my radio in my computer backpack on trips. The TX-500 will skip into the bag and I may need to carry less on trips. Love my KX3, have an FT817, but ordered the TX500. K9EZ
There is a battery pack has been announced for the tx500, great comparison video
You convinced me to order the TX-500, I like your presentation, and the radio.
Thank you, Dan. I think you'll love the TX-500. I certainly do.
if there is someone to listen to when it comes to portal radio operations you are the man ! Fantastic video - already own the 705 - i cant wait to see the moonbounce video !! something i would really love to try.
Thank you so much. There's such a learning curve with EME, it's taking time. I will certainly get there, though!
Its very easy to do digital modes with TX-500, just hook up supplied CAT and audio cable to your computer and thats it.
If you want even less wires you can use digirig, only 1 usb C cable to your pc.
wsjtx works out of the box.
I have the 705, looking at the Lab 599. 705 is a great travel radio, where you're staying in a hotel and you can have a full featured radio with you. The Lab will be for the times I'm going on hikes and for my my bicycle touring. It's effective, light, simple, resists the elements and it's rugged. They both allow me to maintain communications but I'm envisioning different usage scenarios for each
I agree completely!
New Technician here, currently studying for General and learning CW. A couple of days ago, I canceled my order for the TX-500 and bought an in-stock 705. Since I want to explore broadly, the Icom’s feature set, including its facility with digital modes, won me over: frankly, I just hadn’t looked at the 705, only the TX-500 and the KX-2/KX-3. Also, the 705 avoids a mass of wires and add-on devices: packing those with the TX-500 narrows its weight and portability advantages over the 705, though (as you noted) only if one plans to use digital modes in the field. I also considered that the 705 was in stock, no small consideration in a time of global chip shortages: a bird in the hand, and all that. Like you, I probably will end up owning both rigs. 73, KN6NPZ
You've chosen well for your needs. The IC-705 can do almost *anything* you can think of. Truly an amazingly feature-rich radio and sporting superb performance. You will be very pleased. I did purchase the TX-500 as well because I do love this radio, too. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Buy them all!!! 🤪 And yeah, the prices went up since this video was made... The TX500 went up from ~$900 to $1300 !!! The IC-705 is $1350.
Excellent video! Like Jules in Pulp Fiction, I’m kind in a transition period where in my case I’m discovering the pleasure of 5W digital and 10W SSB using efficient antennas. I have a IC-7300 and a FT-891. Never ever considered less than 100W before. Now I’m looking at the G90, the IC-705 and even the TX-500. A bit difficult to justify any of this purchases when I already have 2 good radios but well.. we always want to try different things..
The thing that the IC-705 and TX-500 can offer you over the '7300 and FT-891 is a serious reduction in size, weight, and much better battery efficiency. If those are important factors, you might sell one of your 100W radios and go QRP. :)
@@ThomasK4SWL I’ve been operating QRP with my FT891 lately to get a feel of what 10W SSB / 5W FT8 is like. Also the 20W level sometimes makes a real difference on some otherwise impossible QSOs. I like the fact that I could also receive SSTV from the ISS with the 705. Decisions decisions :)
The 705 is a swiss army knife - 599 is a tom mix pocket knife. for cases for the 705 - there a pile on thingiverse that can be 3D printed. I did one and its great - access to all ports, protects the knobs and allows gps to run.
Great analogy! So do you have a link to the Thingiverse case you printed?
Hi - the one i did is this - www.thingiverse.com/thing:4639259 however there is an updated one that looks better www.thingiverse.com/thing:4633445 - just FYI - they are big - too big for my ender3v2 so i had them done at the local hackerspace
@@mattghoward I like that! Yeah, I think it would be too big for my printer too. Plus, I'd need to grab some ABS. I'll see if I can't get one printed, though. I like it!
Thank you Thomas - you described the devices very well. Thank you very much :-) (Dirk, Germany)
Glad it was helpful!
@@ThomasK4SWL 🙂
Still waiting on HRO, their site says late May for backordered Discovery TX500 units. Nice to see your comments on a soon arrival at HRO meanwhile chomping at the bit to get one!!
I emailed HRO a week or so ago. The reply I received said that they were looking at mid- to late June.
@@richardiancarpenter534 I just got a tracking UPS number today, I ordered it on May 8 2021, so if you ordered one it should be coming soon.
@@gt3940 Congratulations! I ordered mine today. I'll probably be in the next batch.
Both solid rigs, I'm an Icom fan but I have to admit the TX-500 is awesome not just at the price point but flat out. That said, being a mainly digital operator, the IC705 is the better fit for my use case. The built-in sound card with cabled or wifi connection is what wins me over.
Tha IC-705 is the king of portables for digital. The fact you can even go wireless? That's just icing on the cake! :)
Thanks for this video. TX-500 forever🤘🤘🤘
I have just sold my 705 and am in the first batch of pre-orders for the TX500.
I really liked the 705, it was a great little radio but it simply didn't fit my operating style, I need something that is a little more rugged. I thought I'd make use of all the bells and whistles of the 705, but I never used it on 2m/70cms, never used DStar on it, didn't use the record functionality etc. I will use the TX-500 portable, stick it in a small pelicase and take it on the boat, which I'd be extremely wary of doing with the 705.
They're both good radios, just pick the one that works best for your usecase.
Solid choice. You're absolutely right, too: pick the radio that matches your operating style! Both are fine radios. Since you need something more on the side of rugged, sealed, and weather-proof, the TX-500 is the best choice on the market. Would love to see your case once you've configured it!
I chose the 705 and never looked back. I initially ordered a Lab599, but as yet, it is vapor ware. I changed my order and elected to enjoy the 705 with its excellent display, receiver and mult-band capability over a radio that may or may not be available. I am pretty sure ICOM and its service will be around for the next ten years, not so sure about the Lab599.
The IC-705 is a great radio. You can't make a bad choice with it, honestly.
@@ThomasK4SWL I think both radios are good radios, but the Lab599 is more narrow focused for its intended use. It would be a great radio to throw into your post apocalyptic go bag in the back of your pick up truck.
Lab599 would be a good radio in Ukraine right now.
@@klehigh14 I think any rugged radio would be a good radio in Ukraine right now. However, how is that service going to work going back to Russia?
If there's one thing I've learnt in my 60+ years when buying anything it's that the one you REALLY want is worth waiting for and buying something else is just making do. These radios are both aimed at maximum portability, other than that they are quite different. Buying one when you really want the other is a mistake IMO.
TX500 Looks like something a Soviet design bureau came up with in the 80s. The IC705 is so much nicer….the display on the 705 is awesome. TX500 = ugly…old school tech….albeit durable old tech if you need that. Great reviews as always.
So I respectfully disagree. The TX-500 sports a brilliant, 21st century design, in my opinion. It's like no other radio on the market. You need to hold one in you hands. Super lightweight, thin, yet incredibly--and I do mean incredibly--durable. The buttons and knobs are spaced for field use (with gloves on even!) the display consumes almost no power at all, the ergonomics are brilliant and it consumes something like 100-110ma in RX? And it's water resistant? I think it's quite an innovator, actually.
I was so worried about buying a 705, because I owned a KX3; and now I am glad I did. The 705 actually makes a nice radio for my home QTH. I operated QRP or I hook up my Hardrock 50 amp to it. I have all my repeaters programmed on it that I use for local talking, and for when I travel
For a bonus I hook my 2 m amp to it, and talk on the Sidewinder Net; on Wednesday and Thursday nights.
That's brilliant! I own both and plan to keep both rigs. The KX3 has a place in my shack and in the field--so does the IC-705. Heck, I even did D-Star contacts with the IC-705. :) And the KX3 is a Field Day dominator! Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Loved your thoughts here. I was wondering how someone like me would use the KX3 and an IC-705 differently. You nailed it!
I've always struggled with NiMH battery usage in the KX3. On the other hand, the IC-705's battery appears to be the same one that I use on my IC-52A HT!
You sir have just gained a new follower because of this video excellent work
Welcome aboard!
In my opinion, the IC-705 has the best receiver of any QRP radio on the market. This pulls out signals like no other radio that I have. It also has 2 meters and 70 cm. It has a built-in sound card. The battery can easily be changed in seconds. The screen is huge and can easily seen. It has D-Star, built-in audio recorder, built-in filters. What's the cheaper option? Get the FT-817, it has the same bands as the 705 does. You can find used 817's for as little as $400 to $450.
Yes, I agree. The FT-818/817 is a fantastic option, too. I also feel it's very rugged for a radio.
@@ThomasK4SWL I watch Peter Parker's YT Channel, VK3YE and he uses it on the beach in Australia all the time with no problems.
@@joeblow8593 oh yeah, for sure. In truth, the IC-705 can do anything the TX-500 can do in the field. The TX-500 is more rugged, but if you're careful, the IC-705 will have no issues at all. It's not that it's not rugged or lightweight--just not as much as the TX-500. I know I'll eventually take it on a SOTA activation. For me, I have small field radio options, so I tend to go for those.
@@ThomasK4SWL I meant that Peter uses the FT-817 on the beach not the 705
@@joeblow8593 RR--sorry! :) Yes, the 817 would be ideally suited. I'm thinking about taking mine out this AM, in fact! Not on a beach, but on a mountain!
Thank you 😊
My pleasure!
That was some great info. Thank you Thomas.
Thank you, great comparison.
When we cannot get the proprietary Cabling from the TX-500 for Keys and Mics, what connectors can we use to connect to the radio. With the supply issues around the world, What connectors will work when mine wear out in a decade.
The connectors are GX12 aviation connectors. They're actually very standard. Check out this post: swling.com/blog/2020/08/lab599-tx-500-discovery-accessories-and-connectors/
@@ThomasK4SWL thanks
VERY interested in seeing EME moon bounce in practice.
Me too! Ha ha! So I'm in the process of putting everything together, but it's so far outside my comfort zone I'm still learning about the right VHF amplifiers to use and the best antennas. It's slowly coming together. You can believe I'll post a video when I'm able to pull it off!
Thanks for the video! Lot of information!
I'm seriously thinking of changing my FT-891 to a TX-500. Since I learned to copy at 20 WPM (thanks to your videos😉), I work >90% of the time in CW. In addition, I started using a resonant inv-V, so 100W are no longer needed for me.
Also, I work only from the field and do not have a home shack, so wouldn't the TX-500 and over QRP radios be worse in CW than the FT-891 and similar QRO transceivers, based on your experience?
You are a perfect candidate for going QRP. Operating CW at 5 watts is roughly the equivalent of 70-80 watts SSB. All of my parks are validated with 5 watts or less. Going QRP (and TX-500) will decreased the size of your gear: smaller battery, smaller radio. lighter weight, overall more compact! Go for it!
Thanks for your video! A soon I discover the TX-500 i was very intrigued, but at that time i was very in a budget.. btw is hard ti find available even now March 23 here on EU and the price increase a lot.. besides that i start to be fascinated by the IC-705 but neither this rig is available now here on Italy March 23, anyway i hope is available pretty soon again here.. Springtime coming and I really dream for a new rig for outdoor fun..
73s de Mario IK1LBL
The bid differences are the 705 does 2m to HF and d-star the 599 6m ht only
The 705 has a waterfall like the 7300,The 705 also has UHF And VHF the 705 is the way to go, it's the same price and how about service if needed
So at present there is a service center in Nevada if you're a US customer. There's also a service center in Russia, but I heard they were trying to establish one specifically for Europe as well.
Probably I say not popular opinion but I prefer simpler rigs like kx2 or tx500.
705 has so big set of features that user might never use but pay for it. This is like pay $1.5k for phone to make calls and watch youtube but simple $200 will be totally enough. And this looks to me like 705 - it is very cool but full potential will open when dive in functions. Also I don't like touch controls in rigs, cars, etc. You have only visual feedbacks.
Fair points!
I can imagine people 50 years ago laughing at us with all the screen fixations. I bought the tx500.
Great presentation. Wish I was your neighbor.
Great video? What about warranty, and would the 705 have an easier time getting repaired should the need arise? Especially since Lab599 is not as well established? Thanks, K8JLW
Excellent question! So the lab599 comes with a one year warranty. In the US, they have a full service center in Nevada. I'm not sure about other parts of the world yet. Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
Hi Tom, I have the 705 but I have got to have the tx 500, it's on order but who knows when it will arrive, nice review thanks Alex M0KVA
I hope you get your TX-500 soon. I think you'll like the TX-500--both it and the '705 are keepers in my book! Cheers,
Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
The unique feature of Discovery is
Extra low power consumption
Fits for backpack and
About 1lbs.
It’s much more important exactly for field qso.
And also ic-705 it’s 5w only using internal battery.
Tx-500 = 10w.
73!
Still debating, but after this video, Im leaning towards the 705. Thanks for the excellent video Thomas...73 VK6MMB/AI7GX
Happy to help. In all honesty, you can't go wrong with either. Both are solid choices and even in the unlikely case that you bought one and regretted it, you could sell it for only a little less than you paid. Especially in 2021. :) Cheers, Thomas K4SWL
yes this is the video i'm waiting for.. Awesome🎉👍
Of the two - if you were gonna go sailing (sailboat) - Example: California to Hawaii or California to Panama (assuming a proper antenna) - any thoughts? I can guess.
Oh dear. Hmmmm.... So neither is marine rated--the boards have no coatings to protect them from salt water. With that said, I would go with the TX-500 for its efficiency and weather-proofiing. I feel that it must be better sealed than the IC-705 and could probably handle splashes better. For VHF/UHF, I'd use an HT or mobile radio.
Update on 705, no need to plug it into your computer anymore, digital modes work via wifi.
That's right. You can use the Icom software or, like me, use the SDR-Control app on your Mac or iOS device.
Darn-it, Whitherspoon. You and your gear. Ya lost me when you flashed the QRP Ranger. I had to chase down that squirrel. 🤪
Great comparison video.
P.S. The SOTAGoat app’s hilarious notification startled my family when your spot appeared after I configured the app.
73 de KI7VLV
That's funny! I love the SOTA Goat app!
I've had the QRP Ranger now since mid 2016. It was my first battery based on LiFePo4. Hardened power systems makes some cool gear.
Cheers,
Thomas
K4SWL
Lab599 Discovery TX-500 is WAY better IMHO to the IC-705. Depends what you want. I wanted a real QRP take anywhere radio where I would not be afraid to break it. The IC-705 has many bells and whistles but no one wants to break it when you pull it out of your bag or get it wet with a light rain.
Subscribed. I like your style.
Welcome aboard & thank you!
Hi Thomas, thanks for a good review of both radios, I have the 705 and a ft-817 and am very happy with both of them and don't intend to let them go, but I do need a very rugged radio for most of my portable activities the TX-500 looks like it's going to work for me and I'll be on the air with one once there available in the UK, just a thought do they come with screw on dust covers for the auxiliary port's when not in use. Thanks again for a great review Adam G7CRQ.
Great question! The TX-500 does not (currently) ship with dust covers for the GX12 connectors, but I think they should. These can be 3D printed and there's an Etsy store where they're sold. You can also find both plastic and stainless covers on Amazon.com and a number of other online retailers. I need to purchase some myself! Cheers,Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
thanks Thomas fantastic video 73 from kb2uew
Many thanks!
I tend to lean towards the ICOM. Hiking and camping and the weight difference is minimal. The TX500 is more rugged yes, but much less of a radio compared to the IC705 which is why the price difference. You get what you pay for
I hear you. As a field radio, though, I'm so much more comfortable taking the TX-500 for a hike. The TX-500 has all of the functionality I use with the IC-705 during field activations (which is what I primarily do). I absolutely love the IC-705, but it's one of the more pricey and least rugged of the radios I take to the field. I'd worry about that soft touch-sensitive screen if it rolled off of a rock. But, again, I like to pack and hike with my radios and so I'm biased in that direction. Both are quality radios!
Not a terribly large price difference between the two.
Great video Thomas❗️I am wondering if you have a video out on the X-5105❓I was looking through you past video and don’t see one. 73. KV5P
I do indeed! Here's a full playlist of the videos I've posted thus far: ua-cam.com/play/PLQwZF-uqDOfg52Hm6cHikDKLPrX24RqHP.html
@@ThomasK4SWL Thanks I watched and enjoyed them all, I may have to pick one up❗️
Still havent made up my mind. I want a doomsday radio. A bunch of 18650s and a radio that will fit under my jacket or under my pillow at -45 here in the North is tactical. The ICOM is much more versatile, more like a mini base station.
A one or the other is a nasty choice, but i only have one spare kidney..
Aloha Thomas, I would of loved to have seen you compare a third radio, the Xiegu G90 SDR QRP rig against these other two rigs. My understanding is that the G90 will also do digital modes with the help of the MMDVM Zumspot. Can you do a three way comparison video, should be a killer video. 73’
So I just sent my G90 back to Radioddity. They lent me one to test the GSOC. Before that, I reviewed the G90 and purchased a unit, but sold it a few months later. It would indeed be a good comparison, though. So I will be publishing one soon comparing the G90 & FT-818/817.
@@ThomasK4SWL
Aloha Thomas again! I bet you regret selling that rig for sure. I bought mine last year because the unofficial war in the South China Sea has spread all over the South Pacific now and we are preparing for a Red Dawn type invasion by China. They are using military built ships and parading all over the Pacific as fishing boats. I wanted a rig that can be powered by a folding solar panel and can Tuna Fish if we had to bug out into the jungle if need be. The waterfall, CW decoder and the price sold me. Now I just need to update the firmware to decode Mandarin to English, lol. 😂🤣😂
@@digitaldreamer5481 so it's interesting. I like the G90, but I find that I like my other radios more which is the main reason I sold it. It also lacked features I really value in the field like CW and Voice memory keying. It's a great rig for sure, but just didn't float my boat.
Like the orange tabs on the IC705. Where did you get that?
Here you go: qrper.com/2020/12/a-simple-3d-printed-foot-for-the-icom-ic-705/
@@ThomasK4SWL Thank you for the link. You wouldn't know if the .stl is in inches or mm? thx.
Hello,I have both of this radios and also like both. I like your videos and see it all....73 DH7TB Hans
Many thanks!
Fantastic, I am a complete Newbie to the hobby, However the TX 500 and its sealed weather resistance feature , might well be what I'm looking for and more suitable to the marine environment. I do a lot of cruising and Island hopping around the Waitemata Habour , Auckland, New Zealand, With this guys compact form-factor I could easily throw it in with my Celestron S8 telescope pelican case and also drag it up to the islands peck, should it cloud over the super dark skies out there, I got a plan B, Now where is that comparison video between the KX2/#3 and the TX-500.?? Regards Kris
Here we go Bingo - ua-cam.com/video/5HT9YUdkxBY/v-deo.html
Oh man! You hit on so many brilliant things at once it hurts! :)
@@ThomasK4SWL 😇
After looking at the manual I'm still confused. The only way to use headphones with the TX-500 is with the supplied cable that has the ptt button meaning you'd have to get a different mic? That seems like a convaluted way to go about it. Guess it's for the weather protection. Actually kind of steers me away from it. I really want to love the TX-500 but that price really hurts.
The speaker mic also has an audio port on the side that you can plug headphones into. Frankly, you could build a GX12 connector specifically for audio.
Great video, thank you. I'm using my IC-705 with a Chameleon MPAS 2.0, but still not sure which antenna to use for 2m/70cm...
Any tips?
In advance, thank you.
73 de Manny-2E0HJN
UK
Manny, I'm the wrong fellow to ask about that. :) I know a lot of folks have had great luck with portable J-Pole antennas on 2M and 70cm. I've thought about making one for 2M to use on SOTA activations. Best Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
@@ThomasK4SWL Cheers mate, I'm using a Diamond on my FT3D, I'll have to try it on... 👍🏻
Is the TX 500 your go to radio?
It is one of my go to radios. :) I love it and it's always the one I grab when weather is iffy. Otherwise I use it in rotation with my other radios. A new TX-500 video will be out pretty soon.
Hi Thomas, I have been following your channel for a while now. I have been licenced for over 10 years and have only recently, April 21, changed my focus to CW. So much so that it is now my preferred mode of operation. I am working through the CWOPS Academy training, having completed on course and awaiting the next in September. I use an 817 for QRP with an LDG ATU. The LAB599 Discovery has recently made an appearance with one major outlet in the UK and I am seriously interested. In terms of an ATU for the Discovery do you use one? If so which model? I am torn between the Discovery, the KX2 and the 705. The latter, in my opinion, is over priced but still a very good radio. I have the 7300 which I use for HF CW and consider it to have been a very wise purchase. Keep up the excellent work on the videos. 73 Sid M0WCH, Rugby UK.
Hi, Sid,
First of all, congrats on your CW chops! Like you, CW has become my favorite mode.
Wow--such a tough choice in rigs. The FT-817 and LDG are.a great combo. The TX-500 is a tough radio and could pair with the LDG or you could go for resonant antennas to save space and help with efficiency. The KX2 remains one of my all time favorite field radios because of how comprehensive, capable, and compact it is--a shack in a box. And the '705 is pricey but offers more features than about any radio on the market. I would think of how you'll use the radio and go from there.
Cheers,
Thomas K4SWL / M0CYI
TX-500 is a great radio.... with my battery :))) 73! RA5BW
$100+ for an HT battery is ridiculous. I thought cordless tool batteries were over prices, but this is insane. IC705 was looking like a good radio, but I refuse to pay that much for a battery.
It comes with one......
@@pauls8456 and it's $100+ to get a spare
True but it is much better to buy a high capacity external Lithium battery to run 10W. I have a 12Ah one that will run the rig all day and weighs next to nothing.
The TX-500 is now the same price as the 705. I feel HRO is price gouging.
Thx for the video, no I want both of them 😏
And that's the path I chose! :)
The TX is obviously much more focused in it's design and intended use for true all weather portability and durability. Icom are trying to cover more bases here with lightweight portability coupled with feature rich desk top performance which you could happily use as your main radio in the shack with an amplifier so will appeal to hams on a limited budget. My money would (will) be on the TX with it's compact and rugged form factor, no worry about an occasional knock or mishap or being caught out by the weather, plus the IC has a lot of features that don't interest me. Still in short supply here in the UK but with nothing else out there even remotely comparable IMO it will be worth the wait.👍
I think I still like the kx2 best. Great rigs though. From a Cw point of view.
to skip intro talk and disclaimers click here -> 3:07
Elecraft KX3, built in atu and battery. Fantastic radio.
@Field Radio Operator yea
gravity affects each radio the same ! :)
It does, but I'd be willing to bet the TX-500 can handle a fall on rocks much better than the IC-705. Especially since the 705 lacks a CNC-machined aluminum chassis, is heavier and a bit more gravity-friendly. :)
@@philipoulton7730 Gravity is a constant, I will stick by my statement ;)
are u comparing apple to apple? .......gps wifi Bluetooth???
As I state in the video, I don't personally see these as hitting the same segment of the portable radio market.
@@ThomasK4SWL dear there is nothing to compare between two completely different breeds nothing personal 73
@@eliekadi_OD5KU_KU5OD nothing person taken friend. I suppose a motivating factor for me to do comparisons, however, is to highlight the differences between these two radios and help others who haven't used either to make a purchase decision. So for me, there's actually a lot of comparisons to highlight between these two radios. :)
I like to be more a radio user listener, but what would be interesting is how long each battery set last in the field, with receiving and transmitting for the same time in use.
I can say that the TX-500 has a much lower current drain in receive, so if you use the same size external battery for each and run the same wattage for the same duty cycle, you'll get more on the air time with the TX-500.
So sorry lab 599, but by the time you're little TX 500 is actually shipped to the many people waiting for it, where is for some users maybe two years from now. There will be so many more snazzy of featutre-fill low power rigs available for purchase, your TX500 will only fall into the great number they're all similar rigs/features. Buy the TX 500 now, okie doke--wait 15 to 25 months--- at the end of that, a massive number of low power HF teen-tiny radio should be ready to ship immediately then. In today's world life is genuinely a real bitych for somebody with a significantly good product who cannot get it in massive numbers for sale immediately--
The way China is jumping in, I expect and a lot of low power units in that selection also.
Also Asian guys gotta think of those rigs with UHF VHF already on them to match up with their pals on these bands on repeaters. American guys gotta consider what 100 pots of wire can get them despie love the genuine low power fellows will never match.... To me all this means a very difficult market for TX 500 this minute.
I do not like garage door opener…
Isn't the tx500 made in Russia ? I hope will be banned to be selled in EU
After the invasion, I believe lab599 moved manufacturing to the UAE. It was initially made in Russia, but the company was very upset about Putin's invasion and were vocal about that.