I got mine a few weeks ago after a long wait. It’s great and I’m still discovering new things. It will be my CW machine for learning. I’m looking forward to meeting you “on the air”. You’ve been an inspiration and a teacher to me.
@@goatmurray I am in California. I ordered the TX-500 just before Christmas of 2020. I received it in mid-April of 2021. This was only the second batch of manufacturing and there were apparently a lot of delays in customs due to “COVID”. I really like it and it’s easy to learn and operate. I can’t wait for the battery being designed for it. The updates are dead simple and quick to do once you have the updater program. It takes a couple minutes to update and the new firmware comes almost monthly on the lab599 website.
Very much looking forward to seeing your views on this in the field. I am not a fan of unboxing videos usually, but you provided a lot of useful information about the unit. Thanks!!
You have a nice close up the front panel in your excitement to hold it you shake it up and down or some movement that keeps me from enjoying the reading the front panel......... Have you ever done video before?
I've done many videos and field reports with the TX-500, yes. There's a playlist of them on my channel. I most recently published one, too, and have another coming out soon.
Hi Tom, nice look at the TX500, I have my order in for this sexy piece of kit and can't wait to get my hands on it !! I don't know how long the wait will be but I think it will be perfect to work with the MPAS 2.0. Thanks for posting.
I waited nearly four months for mine. It was worth the wait. I’ve been using it with a Cha Hybrid Mini and a 17’ SS whip. It got out to GA from SoCal on the first try. 59 to GA on 10 watts first time out on a ground mounted vertical says a lot.
Looking forward to your further videos on the production run Discovery, Thomas! Don't forget to do a few shortwave broadcast and medium wave comparisons too. With the demise of most communications receivers, SWLs and broadcast DXers are increasingly looking to ham radio transceivers. This topic of transceivers for receive-only has seen increasing coverage in The SWLng Post lately! 73 Guy
FYI: A comment disappeared as I was attempting to reply to it. This person was under the impression that it was sent the TX-500 as a "freebie" and that's not the case. To be really clear, I paid for the DHL shipping from Russia for this TX-500 and plan to purchase it after the loaner period ends. I always disclose how I obtain equipment. I *wish* I would have had the opportunity to purchase the first review unit last year! :)
My comment wasn't so much that the rig was free. It was my opinion that it feels a bit unfair for companies to take orders and people's money months out, and then send out loaners or free gear to Individuals on UA-cam to push product demand, long before the average person gets their radio delivered. They should focus on supply chain issues, manufacturing issues, and getting their orders filled before worrying about increasing demand. A guitar manufacture did this at the beginning of Covid. That guitar, even though wonderful, flopped due to the negativity it brought on. It isn't the sharpest way to manage a company in infancy.
@@briantwaster5084 I hear ya. To my knowledge, there are no other UA-camrs with a loaner from this company--this is a one-off. This isn't like the guitar example you mention. So they held off making this unit available until they'd filled most of the outstanding orders with their retailers with me having been in line since late September 2020. They gave priority to the retailers. I only sped up delivery by having one single unit shipped directly (at no small expense). Keep in mind that this was at my request, not theirs. I'm also writing a review of this production model for a publication that won't be in print until fall even though submission is much earlier. I completely understand your concerns because I agree: there shouldn't be widespread heavy promotion of a product before it's available. That's not the case here because there are already manyTX-500 owners out there and, frankly, many pre-order customers like to see this unit in action *before* they finalize purchase it or it's delivered. That's why the TX-500 is easily one of the most requested radios from my blog readers and UA-cam viewers. It's not a small investment, so they want to see it in action before they commit.
@@ThomasK4SWL You do not monetize your channel and have inspired countless hams, good for you getting the radio! And, thank you for your reviews so your viewers can make smart choices about spending their money. Have a Blessed Week Thomas!!!
This will be my first ham radio. Getting their amp and battery too. Dont think Im the type to sit inside and talk w a huge amp (did that on 11 meters when I was a teen). Thinking a “prepper” setup and go hiking, making contacts from a local mountain? Is this good for that?
Does it have a morse decoder built in or if not does anyone know if there are plans for it to be added? Before someone jumps in with the use your ears and brain decoder comment. I'm learning morse code but my hearing isn't the best and find inbuilt morse software very useful for both helping to catch something I missed and to practice with.
I don't think it has a built-in decoder. Maybe someone else can confirm because I haven't read the release notes of the most recent firmware upgrades yet.
Yes, a CW decoder, like in the KX2 would be really cool. Three days ago, firmware version 1.07.00 came out with enhanced noise blanker settings as well as some fixes (lab599.com/downloads/), but as of now, no CW decoder is included yet. But hey, one can still hope like the CW and voice memories that were added not so long ago! Anyways, even without CW decoder, this TRX tick all my boxes and I can't wait to get one. Here in Europe, we're still waiting for the CE verification by a "notified body". This is the news as of today that I received by Pileupdx.com.
I am really looking forward to your video comparing this radio to the IC-705 in terms of performance. Clearly, this is lighter, smaller, and more rugged than the IC-705 or the Elecraft for that matter. My use case is different than yours in that I am not physically fit enough for mountain climbing so I am more of a POTA guy. If I wanted a radio to carry up Mt. Katahdin in bad weather the TX-500 seems much better than an IC-705. For POTA where there are not long distances on foot an IC-705 in a Pelican case is not at all unreasonable. The question for me is if the IC-705 offers any compelling performance advantages over the TX-500 in this sort of POTA scenario?
In the usage you describe, I would encourage you to go for the IC-705 since it offers VHF/UHF and super easy digi modes. Also, there's D-STar and a built-in GPS. The IC-705 does spec out better than the TX-500 in terms of receiver performance. It's not really noticeable in the field, but check out Rob Sherwood's evaluation. As you mentioned, my love for the TX-500 comes from it's fabulous field design approach: it has great ergonomics, is weather proof, and built like a super lightweight tank! :)
They've been available since fall of last year, but they're on back-ordered because lab599 produces them in small batches and they can sell out before they even reach the retailer.
So you would need to check directly with a retailer/distributor. Mine was not typical delivery or wait time because it was after the first few production runs. I know that HRO is giving lead times based on time of ordering. I think PileupDX maybe waiting on CE approval.
Thank you 🙏 for doing this unboxing video…….really looking forward to many further videos! As a 705 owner myself I look forward to the comparison videos perhaps showing the pros and cons between this and the 705!!…73 K4BBC
I just received my MTR4b 10 minutes ago USPS! The assembled QCX-mini is due any day now. I will pickup the TX-500 when HRO shows in stock these will supplement my 818/705😂😂😂. I want em’ all!!! Now I just need to finish my Morse training and start warming clouds from Summits on the HF bands. I am all VHF right now and it’s a tough way to 1st MG (by choice) but I love the challenge! “73”
Yes I did and in one of my videos (which one, I can't remember--?) I mention it. I've been in touch with the developer of the amp/tuner, so will pass along any info I learn!
Before it was released, I expected it to retail for $999 US or higher, so was happy with the $899 figure. I feel like it actually has a lot to offer and its own market niche at that price point. There are certainly less-expensive options available (like the G90, FT-818, X5101, FT-891, and others) but none are so stingy on power consumption and are properly weatherproof. It's a bit of a niche transceiver, but quite impressive in the field.
Totally overpriced and hard to beat other radios with that price. No ATU, no internal batt, no speaker... I am not sure the rugest constrruction and unique form-factor will be enough for customers to spend so huge money. ?! Anyway thanks for vid. (I expected the power up at the end of vid, hi)
For the past probably year and a half, I have been ready to buy this radio. Every month, HRO says the end of the month and then nothing. They have not taken any deliveries anywhere. I have doubts whether the rig will ever be in production or available. I hope I'm wrong but I'm certainly not going to tie up $1000 for a year to get one if and when it becomes available. 73, Bob WK2Y
This is the reality of ham radio transceiver purchases these days, it is not just for this model/manufacturer or specific to HRO. You must place your order and wait in line....it is what it is.
@@jmlredtail1081 HRO Atlanta wasn't aware but I called Anaheim and they confirmed that they should be getting a shipment to cover backorders and are expecting that by the end of the month. They expect shipments to become regular at that point. My poor credit card.
@@jmlredtail1081 I tried one more store in another part of the country. The fellow there said he'll believe it (the end of month delivery) when he sees it. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
I will be getting mine tommorow. HRO seems to have some in stock. I enjoy having a radio a can take out on the deck or vaction etc. I also like the challenge of lower power at times. This radio is so well built I had to have one. I have a ziegu X5105 that is handy but lacks audio quality on th rx side of the house. If I have learned one thing in my years of ham radio spend a bit more and buy the best quality you can. I belive there is no equal to this rig as far as duribilty goes. The quality is being compared to an Electcraft. This is a tank that drives like a Meredes Benz. What is there not to like? 73 KB9MVW
Nice video as usual ! .... Re the Lab599... too bad there is no AUTO TUNER !!! Then again the 705 doesn't have one either ! :) Interested in your review ! 73 Mike VE3MKX
Are you excited? Couldn't tell. Spoilt brat. First thing I would do is painters tape around the display & then apply a coat of teflon auto wax or the new ceramic type to the display glass. I do this to all my radios & smart phones, etc. Keeps the display free from tiny surface scratches. The tape keeps from getting wax where you don't want it. Lab599 did a nice job. I never thought they'd get into production as I have been watching it for over a year. Nice vid as always.
Correct. Yeah, I hesitated to call it an "unboxing" video because I know that's a whole category of videos with unboxing enthusiasts. In this case, a demo would have required converting the DC cords tips to Anderson Powerpole connectors in order to power up. If you want to see this radio in action, check out my full review from last year: wp.me/pn3uc-c2E
Don't forget to add the diy500 60 watt amplifier so you can reach my QTH. I know, qrp, 5 watt goal, I hear you talking. I'm joking with you, Thomas. It really is a really cool amp though, with the same form factor. Anyway, enjoy your new qrp rig, wicked design. 73, Stephen W8DBC
Ha ha! I do plan to take the KXPA100 out sometime for demo! With that said, I made a goal for myself that all of my activations this year (both parks and summits) will be validated with 5 watts or less. After I've nailed my 10 contacts for validation, though, I sometimes get crazy and pump up the power to a sky-warming 10 watts. Ha ha! :) Seriously, though, I do plan to run some higher powers to test antennas and SSB performance. Might even try to pair the TX-500 with my KXPA100. And you're right, Stephen. The TX-500 has a wicked design! :) 73, Thomas
Damn Thomas that thing is $900.00 USD yikes... I hope the reviews show it as a total winner before I drop that kind of coin. I already have a 705. BTW those are all Milspec connectors. We used them in the Navy.
It is a chunk of change. But I must admit, based on that week I spent with the TX-500 last year, I think it's worth the price. I'll be taking it to the field a bunch over the coming weeks, so you'll get ample opportunity to see it in action. If you already own an IC-705, there would be no performance advantage with the TX-500--it would just be about adding a lighter-weight, more ruggedized and weatherized portable transceiver to your arsenal. :)
That will come during the activations! Plus, I've a number of videos out already with TX-500. Check here: swling.com/blog/2020/11/a-review-of-the-lab599-discovery-tx-500-qrp-transceiver/
I got mine a few weeks ago after a long wait. It’s great and I’m still discovering new things. It will be my CW machine for learning. I’m looking forward to meeting you “on the air”. You’ve been an inspiration and a teacher to me.
Thanks so much, David. You know? Maybe we'll manage a TX-500 to TX-500 Park 2 Park someday? :)
We're surfing the same cosmic wave. I've just ordered one. 73, KN6NPZ
Are you in the US? How long did it take to receive your tranceiver?
@@goatmurray I am in California. I ordered the TX-500 just before Christmas of 2020. I received it in mid-April of 2021. This was only the second batch of manufacturing and there were apparently a lot of delays in customs due to “COVID”. I really like it and it’s easy to learn and operate. I can’t wait for the battery being designed for it. The updates are dead simple and quick to do once you have the updater program. It takes a couple minutes to update and the new firmware comes almost monthly on the lab599 website.
Very much looking forward to seeing your views on this in the field. I am not a fan of unboxing videos usually, but you provided a lot of useful information about the unit. Thanks!!
You have a nice close up the front panel in your excitement to hold it you shake it up and down or some movement that keeps me from enjoying the reading the front panel......... Have you ever done video before?
I've done many videos and field reports with the TX-500, yes. There's a playlist of them on my channel. I most recently published one, too, and have another coming out soon.
Hi Tom, nice look at the TX500, I have my order in for this sexy piece of kit and can't wait to get my hands on it !! I don't know how long the wait will be but I think it will be perfect to work with the MPAS 2.0. Thanks for posting.
I waited nearly four months for mine. It was worth the wait. I’ve been using it with a Cha Hybrid Mini and a 17’ SS whip. It got out to GA from SoCal on the first try. 59 to GA on 10 watts first time out on a ground mounted vertical says a lot.
Thanks for calling me on it after making this video:-)
The Allen bolts and the general shape shouts "Solid" at you
Looking forward to your further videos on the production run Discovery, Thomas! Don't forget to do a few shortwave broadcast and medium wave comparisons too. With the demise of most communications receivers, SWLs and broadcast DXers are increasingly looking to ham radio transceivers. This topic of transceivers for receive-only has seen increasing coverage in The SWLng Post lately! 73 Guy
FYI: A comment disappeared as I was attempting to reply to it. This person was under the impression that it was sent the TX-500 as a "freebie" and that's not the case. To be really clear, I paid for the DHL shipping from Russia for this TX-500 and plan to purchase it after the loaner period ends. I always disclose how I obtain equipment. I *wish* I would have had the opportunity to purchase the first review unit last year! :)
My comment wasn't so much that the rig was free. It was my opinion that it feels a bit unfair for companies to take orders and people's money months out, and then send out loaners or free gear to Individuals on UA-cam to push product demand, long before the average person gets their radio delivered. They should focus on supply chain issues, manufacturing issues, and getting their orders filled before worrying about increasing demand. A guitar manufacture did this at the beginning of Covid. That guitar, even though wonderful, flopped due to the negativity it brought on. It isn't the sharpest way to manage a company in infancy.
@@briantwaster5084 I hear ya. To my knowledge, there are no other UA-camrs with a loaner from this company--this is a one-off. This isn't like the guitar example you mention. So they held off making this unit available until they'd filled most of the outstanding orders with their retailers with me having been in line since late September 2020. They gave priority to the retailers. I only sped up delivery by having one single unit shipped directly (at no small expense). Keep in mind that this was at my request, not theirs. I'm also writing a review of this production model for a publication that won't be in print until fall even though submission is much earlier. I completely understand your concerns because I agree: there shouldn't be widespread heavy promotion of a product before it's available. That's not the case here because there are already manyTX-500 owners out there and, frankly, many pre-order customers like to see this unit in action *before* they finalize purchase it or it's delivered. That's why the TX-500 is easily one of the most requested radios from my blog readers and UA-cam viewers. It's not a small investment, so they want to see it in action before they commit.
@@ThomasK4SWL You do not monetize your channel and have inspired countless hams, good for you getting the radio! And, thank you for your reviews so your viewers can make smart choices about spending their money. Have a Blessed Week Thomas!!!
Skip to about 7 Minute mark to really start things!
This will be my first ham radio. Getting their amp and battery too.
Dont think Im the type to sit inside and talk w a huge amp (did that on 11 meters when I was a teen). Thinking a “prepper” setup and go hiking, making contacts from a local mountain? Is this good for that?
Absolutely. In fact, the TX-500 is nearly ideal for the situation you describe!
I want one of those. Been waiting for them to be available. Looks awesome
It is one of those rare exceptions of a new product from a new company that actually delivered *more* than it promised. And they continue innovating.
Awsome Radio, Like your videos, but this time thought you would never get to opening the box 😅
I'm not really an unboxing guy. :) That's the last time I've done anything like that.
Does it have a morse decoder built in or if not does anyone know if there are plans for it to be added?
Before someone jumps in with the use your ears and brain decoder comment. I'm learning morse code but my hearing isn't the best and find inbuilt morse software very useful for both helping to catch something I missed and to practice with.
I don't think it has a built-in decoder. Maybe someone else can confirm because I haven't read the release notes of the most recent firmware upgrades yet.
Yes, a CW decoder, like in the KX2 would be really cool.
Three days ago, firmware version 1.07.00 came out with enhanced noise blanker settings as well as some fixes (lab599.com/downloads/), but as of now, no CW decoder is included yet.
But hey, one can still hope like the CW and voice memories that were added not so long ago!
Anyways, even without CW decoder, this TRX tick all my boxes and I can't wait to get one. Here in Europe, we're still waiting for the CE verification by a "notified body". This is the news as of today that I received by Pileupdx.com.
I am really looking forward to your video comparing this radio to the IC-705 in terms of performance. Clearly, this is lighter, smaller, and more rugged than the IC-705 or the Elecraft for that matter. My use case is different than yours in that I am not physically fit enough for mountain climbing so I am more of a POTA guy. If I wanted a radio to carry up Mt. Katahdin in bad weather the TX-500 seems much better than an IC-705. For POTA where there are not long distances on foot an IC-705 in a Pelican case is not at all unreasonable. The question for me is if the IC-705 offers any compelling performance advantages over the TX-500 in this sort of POTA scenario?
In the usage you describe, I would encourage you to go for the IC-705 since it offers VHF/UHF and super easy digi modes. Also, there's D-STar and a built-in GPS. The IC-705 does spec out better than the TX-500 in terms of receiver performance. It's not really noticeable in the field, but check out Rob Sherwood's evaluation. As you mentioned, my love for the TX-500 comes from it's fabulous field design approach: it has great ergonomics, is weather proof, and built like a super lightweight tank! :)
We call the connectors 'cannon plugs' in aviation
Thank you! Didn't know that!
Awesome! Put my order in for one at the beginning of the month. Figure it'll get here around the time I get my general done lol
Ha ha! It's worth the wait!
@Steven H that's about what I expected when i put mine in.
@@ThomasK4SWL just got shipping confirmation. Arriving Saturday!
Go all the way to 6:50 to FINALLY see the box get opened up.
Mine is on order! Waiting
Nice video and very cool looking rig!
Thanks! 👍
When will these be available in the US? I backordered one through HRO.
They've been available since fall of last year, but they're on back-ordered because lab599 produces them in small batches and they can sell out before they even reach the retailer.
@@ThomasK4SWL Thanks for your reply. Do you know how often the batches come through, or happen to know how far behind they are on the orders?
Finally I also have one !!
WOO HOO! One of the first in your country too, I bet!
@@ThomasK4SWL I think so too^^
How long did it take to get the product after ordering?
I am waiting 9 mounth now...
So you would need to check directly with a retailer/distributor. Mine was not typical delivery or wait time because it was after the first few production runs. I know that HRO is giving lead times based on time of ordering. I think PileupDX maybe waiting on CE approval.
He opens the box at 6:50.
where can i buy?
Here are their distrubutors: lab599.com/distributors/
This thing looks quite interesting.
Nice rig
Thank you 🙏 for doing this unboxing video…….really looking forward to many further videos! As a 705 owner myself I look forward to the comparison videos perhaps showing the pros and cons between this and the 705!!…73 K4BBC
I just received my MTR4b 10 minutes ago USPS! The assembled QCX-mini is due any day now. I will pickup the TX-500 when HRO shows in stock these will supplement my 818/705😂😂😂. I want em’ all!!! Now I just need to finish my Morse training and start warming clouds from Summits on the HF bands. I am all VHF right now and it’s a tough way to 1st MG (by choice) but I love the challenge!
“73”
Excellent! You've got some great portable rigs there! You'll be on the air with CW before you know it! GL OM!
I guess you saw OH8STN's video where he says that they're coming out with a tuner and battery for it.
Yes I did and in one of my videos (which one, I can't remember--?) I mention it. I've been in touch with the developer of the amp/tuner, so will pass along any info I learn!
I feel like this is a radio I can buy; throw in my backpack and when the need arises pull it out and use
It certainly is that!
Thanks for the video nice VU3TSH 73
Awesome 🎉
Is it made in China? Also pwr out?
It’s made and designed in Russia.
Like David said, it's designed and manufactured in Russia. Power out is 1 to 10W PEP.
I am very interested in this radio especially how it compares to the KX2. I have to admit however I am a bit of an Elecraft fan boy.
I hear you, Bill. I love my Elecraft rigs. I'll do a video entirely focused on comparing the two.
POTA?
Yes! So far a few POTA activations with it. (Parks On The Air)
Interesting radio Thomas. Here in the UK, the brand name Discovery is used for Linear Amp's amplifiers.
I'm sure its harder now to get one with the current events. Sucks. I really want one.
Give HRO a direct call. It's possible they still have inventory although the unit is not on their website.
I read your review- very well done! However, $899 seems like a lot for this radio with no battery or ATU.
Before it was released, I expected it to retail for $999 US or higher, so was happy with the $899 figure. I feel like it actually has a lot to offer and its own market niche at that price point. There are certainly less-expensive options available (like the G90, FT-818, X5101, FT-891, and others) but none are so stingy on power consumption and are properly weatherproof. It's a bit of a niche transceiver, but quite impressive in the field.
Totally overpriced and hard to beat other radios with that price. No ATU, no internal batt, no speaker... I am not sure the rugest constrruction and unique form-factor will be enough for customers to spend so huge money. ?! Anyway thanks for vid. (I expected the power up at the end of vid, hi)
Hello Internet!
For the past probably year and a half, I have been ready to buy this radio. Every month, HRO says the end of the month and then nothing. They have not taken any deliveries anywhere. I have doubts whether the rig will ever be in production or available. I hope I'm wrong but I'm certainly not going to tie up $1000 for a year to get one if and when it becomes available. 73, Bob WK2Y
This is the reality of ham radio transceiver purchases these days, it is not just for this model/manufacturer or specific to HRO. You must place your order and wait in line....it is what it is.
@@jmlredtail1081 Which HRO are talking to? Mine still has no clue when or if they will get a shipment.
I don't mind waiting 2 or 3 months but 1.5 years. No exaggeration. @@daveN2MXX
@@jmlredtail1081 HRO Atlanta wasn't aware but I called Anaheim and they confirmed that they should be getting a shipment to cover backorders and are expecting that by the end of the month. They expect shipments to become regular at that point. My poor credit card.
@@jmlredtail1081 I tried one more store in another part of the country. The fellow there said he'll believe it (the end of month delivery) when he sees it. I guess we'll just have to wait and see.
I will be getting mine tommorow. HRO seems to have some in stock. I enjoy having a radio a can take out on the deck or vaction etc. I also like the challenge of lower power at times. This radio is so well built I had to have one. I have a ziegu X5105 that is handy but lacks audio quality on th rx side of the house. If I have learned one thing in my years of ham radio spend a bit more and buy the best quality you can. I belive there is no equal to this rig as far as duribilty goes. The quality is being compared to an Electcraft. This is a tank that drives like a Meredes Benz. What is there not to like? 73 KB9MVW
Nice video as usual ! .... Re the Lab599... too bad there is no AUTO TUNER !!! Then again the 705 doesn't have one either ! :) Interested in your review ! 73 Mike VE3MKX
There's no need for an auto tuner for skilled operators.
Mooie Radio
The delay in shipping this radio is killing the anticipation...
6:45 of looking at the box built back the antici....
...pation.
Nice radio, but it costs $900. Ouch!
Looking forward to the videos 73 de N1AD
Are you excited? Couldn't tell. Spoilt brat. First thing I would do is painters tape around the display & then apply a coat of teflon auto wax or the new ceramic type to the display glass. I do this to all my radios & smart phones, etc. Keeps the display free from tiny surface scratches. The tape keeps from getting wax where you don't want it. Lab599 did a nice job. I never thought they'd get into production as I have been watching it for over a year. Nice vid as always.
A verry very slow unboxing, without a demo of the product....
Correct. Yeah, I hesitated to call it an "unboxing" video because I know that's a whole category of videos with unboxing enthusiasts. In this case, a demo would have required converting the DC cords tips to Anderson Powerpole connectors in order to power up. If you want to see this radio in action, check out my full review from last year: wp.me/pn3uc-c2E
Its made in UAE, not Russia.
Damn, I feel my wallet getting lighter. ugh.
That is my problem doing reviews. It's so hard to say goodbye, I often end up purchasing them.
Don't forget to add the diy500 60 watt amplifier so you can reach my QTH. I know, qrp, 5 watt goal, I hear you talking. I'm joking with you, Thomas. It really is a really cool amp though, with the same form factor.
Anyway, enjoy your new qrp rig, wicked design.
73, Stephen W8DBC
Ha ha! I do plan to take the KXPA100 out sometime for demo! With that said, I made a goal for myself that all of my activations this year (both parks and summits) will be validated with 5 watts or less. After I've nailed my 10 contacts for validation, though, I sometimes get crazy and pump up the power to a sky-warming 10 watts. Ha ha! :) Seriously, though, I do plan to run some higher powers to test antennas and SSB performance. Might even try to pair the TX-500 with my KXPA100.
And you're right, Stephen. The TX-500 has a wicked design! :)
73,
Thomas
Damn Thomas that thing is $900.00 USD yikes... I hope the reviews show it as a total winner before I drop that kind of coin. I already have a 705. BTW those are all Milspec connectors. We used them in the Navy.
It is a chunk of change. But I must admit, based on that week I spent with the TX-500 last year, I think it's worth the price. I'll be taking it to the field a bunch over the coming weeks, so you'll get ample opportunity to see it in action. If you already own an IC-705, there would be no performance advantage with the TX-500--it would just be about adding a lighter-weight, more ruggedized and weatherized portable transceiver to your arsenal. :)
No power on......
That will come during the activations! Plus, I've a number of videos out already with TX-500. Check here: swling.com/blog/2020/11/a-review-of-the-lab599-discovery-tx-500-qrp-transceiver/