Mahalo from Hawaii, You are the BEST. As a Merchant Marine Captain , often living out of a duffle bag, and an exKX3 owner/operator and have a 7300 at home …. I was pleased to see your video and order up a IC705 with tuner!
I got my 705 and yes there is a learning curve. I look forward to the Bluetooth headset that will work with 705. Being new, this was the best choice for me with limited space and a radio I can put in the car to use with ARES, this way I do not have to have a 7300 and 7900 radios. Now to learn and setup the various software programs. First is FLDIGI. Be safe and thank you for another great video Julian.
Thanks for a great video. I got my 705 24 hours ago. There is so much to learn. I was comforted by your statement that you spent a month on this video. Not that it is hard to learn. Actually for basic operations it only takes a few minutes. But, there are so many features. It takes a few minutes for each one. You mentioned the power options. Brilliant!!!!!! Being able to map your route in google earth. WOW. Thanks again
Superb review and real world field ops usage scenarios as always. As a die hard Yaesu operator myself you build an excellent case for the 705. It seems as though Icom has done everything above and beyond and worthy of the high price tag. Thanks for taking the time to learn this radio and conduct a thorough in depth review. 73 DE KK4MND
Well hello. Thank you for all the info you have provided in regards to the 705. And you go slow enough that I can keep up and understand what your actually talking about. Thank you very much you have been a big help. Ron z. The north American shortwave radio and toy robot museum.
Excellent Review, the description, radios feaures application aligned with real intended use and the future possibilities, so well thought out and educational. Thankyou :)
Just found your channel recently and I have so much respect for you already. I feel like such a hopeless noob listening to you. I think I'm going to order a book and go for my license though. I'm looking forward to learning so much more. Thank you for all that you are doing OH8STN, I appreciate you greatly.
You had me hooked on the Discovery TX-500 with its 100mA current draw but now I am thinking that the built in sound card and battery options of the IC-505 might make it my preferred portable: decisions, decisions !! Looking forward to your coming reviews on how the IC-505 and TX-500 perform in the field on battery grid down ops, the combined power consumption of everything (Pi, tablet etc) will be an interesting comparison. Having got my FT-817 wet several times (and having to send it off for repair) I was hoping the IC-505 was more waterproof so that the touchscreen can be used in the rain great review, much appreciated
Hi Julian, I just really want to thank you for not only a really indepth review, but also for the time spent in building your skillset with Icom products in order to give us this video... You really do lift everyones spirits at this testing time... Your skills and knowledge and presentation put you more than head and shoulders above others on TH-cam and you are constantly pushing the envelope, So, the 705 is a "keeper" then..... Thank you Julian... Kind regards.. Yoki
Julian: A professional level video without the usual terrible camera work, wind in the audio & umms & aahhs in the audio. Your enunciation is excellent. I have not enjoyed listening to an informative video like this ...EVER ! Well done & THANK YOU !
LOVE my IC705. I bought the super antenna based on your videos. I made 3 long haul QRP contacts today (my first time) using this radio and that specific antenna.
Thank you so much. The off grid perspective forces us to look at the practical features a rig offers us in the field. Just grateful manufacturers are thinking/listening to us now. 73 Julian oh8stn
Kudos for this video Julian 👌 I figured it would only be a matter of time before you did a well-thought-out, concise video on the 705, and I wasn't disappointed. I also appreciate that while it took time to figure everything out you didn't rush the process just to be one of the "FIRST" IC-705 videos on TH-cam. I've followed your video series for some time, and as you ticked off each feature within the rig, with the "one USB cable" solution, combined with your quest for simplicity throughout the years, I could only imagine the smile on your face after using it for the first time. While ICOM seems to have hit on all cylinders with this transceiver it was curious on their choice for their brand mag loop... I'm looking forward to the next video - Thanks again! 👍
This is the single best review I’ve seen for the 705 hands down. Thank you not whining about the lack of a tuner and I REALLY liked the way you smashed the “way too expensive argument” with the cost analysts of how much you would end up spending on an 817 to upgrade. I just received my 705 about a week ago and can’t say enough good things about it. If you do a lot of portable work, get one of these radios and you won’t regret it. Keep up the good work man. 73 KI7NNS
Some of the best HAM videos on TH-cam, intelligent and relevant. As you have a G90, ft-817 and 705 a video comparing and then working through when each one is best to use in context to portable operation, would be very interesting.
Thanks for doing a review on this radio. Your positive response to this radio has convinced me to buy it. This radio with all its built in features makes total sense compared to carrying a bunch of cables and other accessories to get the experience to the level of operating with this radio alone. Wow!
Thanks Julian for a great run down on the IC 705. I just switched my backordered LAB 599 to an in stock IC 705. Just got tired waiting for the LAB 599 (3 months and counting). Since I have an IC 7300, I am sure the IC 705 will be an easy transition. I certainly will enjoy the single cable solution and the bluetooth, talk about QRP luxury! If I need more watts, I can always crank up the FT 891. Looking forward to the new QRP solution, thanks for the review!
I’ve received 2 in America I ordered from HRO in August. Still waiting to be legal in Thailand so I can buy some in Thailand I’m hoping by the end of this month or by the end of the year. W5MMT / HS0ZAC
Thank you for another great video! What an interesting radio! I so want one or two. :D You are right about the potential for a lot of cable and box clutter with current and older radios, which is the main reason I put my own digi-comms/GPS interface together for my Xiegu G90, but that also illustrates how beautifully straight forward the IC-705 is to do digital modes with by comparison. Really nice radio. Enjoy! 73 de N2NLQ
Fantastically thorough and enjoyable review, probably the best of all time! You’ve covered all the bases. I have the 817 as well as the 7300/9700 twins so am seriously thinking about completing the trifecta thanks to your salesmanship.
Thank you for the kindness. As you know, I have the 817nd. It has served me well for many years, but now it kind of holds me back from achieving a more efficient way of operating. Still don't regret all the good time with it, but I seriously need to look at a 7300 for the shack, and 9700 to respark and VHF/UHF/SHF weak signal work. Thanks for the comment and kindnedd. Very much appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn
Thanks for the awesome and thorough video, Julian. Always appreciate your point of view on things in addition to any other content others have covered. I liked the thought about practically using Bluetooth in order to keep the hands warm; a lot of people no doubt would dismiss Bluetooth as a bell or whistle feature. 👍
I’ve read and watched a lot of adverse comments about this rig in terms of what it should and shouldn’t have. Well now it’s here and without a few contentious elements it’s about a complete QRP a rig as we are going to get. I own an Electraft a KX3 and love it, but a fully loaded one now costs an awful lot of money. I only need HF and I must confess I like having the antenna tuner built in despite having a good range of resonant EFHW and dipole antenna at my disposal. ICOM a have set the bar high and I would have no qualms about buying one. Great review 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
WOW! New subscriber here. I am getting back in to the hobby after an 8 year break. I have set-up a new home shack, but looking at options for portable operations. Your channel is absolutely amazing, I appreciate the details that you go into! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us and the effort you put into making these videos, they are amazing. Also just bookmarked your website as well. 73 de n1one (Bill)
Hello Operators. The Icom IC-705 is finally here. Join me as I go through some of the reasons I think this will become an iconic off grid qrp radio. 73 Julian oh8stn Share URL: th-cam.com/video/FEtYClfVz9I/w-d-xo.html 00:00 Intro 01:23 Learning curve 02:40 Versus the Yaesu FT-818 04:38 Features and capabilities 05:15 IF Filters and DSP 07:54 Reducing the data mode cable mess 10:12 Frequency stability 10:58 Audio interface 14:24 GPS, NavigationTime sync, 19:48 Wireless Audio 22:00 Power, Charging, Efficiency 27:17 Final thoughts Share URL: th-cam.com/video/FEtYClfVz9I/w-d-xo.html Interested in the WSPR test results? Find them here: oh8stn.org/blog/2020/10/29/icom-ic-705-frequency-drift/ Icom IC-705 Playlist ICOM IC-705 Portable QRP Ham Radio: th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA7WY3ol7ToswVg_allhpDBb.html
Thank you for the review, Julian. While I use an Icom IC-7610, my other radios are Yaesus. FT-897D, FT-857D, FT-817ND. So this was most helpful. While I haven't any plans on purchasing an IC-705 it's great information.
Thanks for that Bob. I hope I wasn't too brutal our beloved 817. I wanted to include that since people make the comparisons on price without understanding the capabilities of the 705. I'm glad you found it interesting. It's even more awesome that you shared this with me. Thanks for the kindness and the comment, it's very much appreciated.
@@OH8STN You are most welcome, Julian. No, you weren't too brutal on our beloved FT-817ND. It is, after all, half the price of the IC-705. You do get what you pay for. The FT-817ND does precisely what I want it to do. So I'll stick with it. I really do appreciate your reviews. In fact, your review of the Chameleon F-Loop magnetic loop antenna led me to purchase one. It is everything you said it was. Extremely well built and very easy to deploy and use. Thanks again for your fine reviews.
I Don't go sota, pota or portable, but i do have the 7300 & 9700, so i have coverage from 160M to 23cms, including 4 and 5M and rx on 8M...all modes... love my Icoms
I couldn't help but think, "This is the IC-Julians_tailor_fit_rig from ICOM' Nice review! I look forward to more on this radio. Hopefully you will get a chance to see how it performs above HF. Thanks again for an, as usual, great video! You constantly raise the youtube bar.
Thanks for the feedback and the comment. Yeah honestly, I wonder if some engineer in the depths of Icon has watched my "ft-818 disappointment" videos. You might remember, my tower is still set up for VHF and UHF. We don't have any d-star repeaters here in Finland, not the one. So the plan is to use my tower to shoot over to Sweden where they have plenty of d-star repeaters. Perhaps I'll also join in the Nordic VHF UHF contest with the 705. Again thanks for the kindness. Making these videos is only second to my passion for field comms.
I can't wait to get my 705! Sold my TH-D74 to put the money towards it. I wouldn't waste your time and money with the MAT-705 tuner. You have to dismantle the whole thing to replace the 9v battery. I've been recommended the MAT-125E which is rechargeable via cable and nearly £100 cheaper than the MAT-705. It has an 18650 battery. 73s. M7GTX.
A fantastic and informative review - excellent production too with floorless audio & video. I also love portable operation too with my IC705, your surroundings there look great!
Excellent series of videos, Julian. I'm very interested in portable and emergency comms. I'm primarily a cw and ssb guy, but hope one day I'll get around to learning more about the digital comms. I appreciate your well produced and informative videos.
Great review. It's actually pretty easy to adapt the AH-4 to work with the IC-705. I've been using the AH-4 (I owned it for years) with my new IC-705 and it works great. You can do End fed configuration with counter poise or even use balanced ladder line with the AH4 on a balanced multi-band antenna. Not nearly as small and portable as the AH-705 but if you already own an AH4 like me, it's worth building the simple break out harness to adapt the AH4 to the IC-705.
Thank you for sharing! Always very interesting topics, after watching i just give a try with my Sennheiser MM550-X bluetooth headphones and works perfectly you can enable the vox and operate the radio without the mike !
Outstanding. So no need for a Heil headset! Headsets are a very personal thing, unique to each operator. Being able to use the headset we like is simply brilliant. thanks for the comment and watching. Much appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn
I understand your love of this rig! It is what you have been pushing manufactures to develop for the last several years. If fact you are the Elmer Keith of the radio world! (For those who don't know, Elmer is the man that pushed Remington and Smith and Wesson into producing the 44 Mag revolver, The finest field revolver for decades!) Great Job!
I think you're being too kind again but it's nice to hear. I understand this might be too much radio for many people oh, but it does satisfy a need in the market which hasn't been addressed before. I'm happy at least one of large manufacturers are listening
Thanks for the tremendous work that went into producing this video. It is greatly appreciated. I am patiently waiting to review the upcoming videos on this radio before I make my move and buy one for myself. I am going to sell my FT-857 to fund the project. I'm frustrated by the noise level in the city for HF. Restricting myself to vhf/uhf only. I am setting myself up to have a quick deploy portable HF system that I can use up north in the cabin or in the green spaces around the city. The Discovery TX-500 has put me in a bit of a holding pattern. Not sure if this radio will eclipse the IC-705 for my intended purpose. It looks more rugged then the 705, but not as feature rich. The lack of vhf/uhf may be the deciding point for me. When up north in the cabin for months at a time, I need a stable means of communicating with the family. No cell or wifi coverage up there, only satellites and stars. The use of JS8call for total grid down and winlink for emails when the grid is up is a wonderful solution for my needs. I'm 600 km as the crow flies from cabin to house. I have resorted to using a inreach satellite texting product, but it is very costly especially when the wife is not with me, she texted a lot. Currently, I am using the FT-857 and a G5RV 35' up in the trees to communicate with marginal success with ham friends in the city. The urban noise they experience makes it an unpleasant experience for stable and reliable communications. The cabin is right between to cliffs, so I am going to give NVIS a try. I have 1kw of solar with 2000W pure sine wave inverter for power. I run the radio off a Jackery 500 and shut off the charge controller and inverter to eliminate the noise caused by the solar system. I am already setting up for my portable system with a GooLoo 2000A battery booster/power supply, and a PAR ENDFEDZ EFT-40/120/10 Trail Friendly antenna the kids picked up for me at X-mas. Going to learn JS8Call and WinLink over the winter. So now I just have to make a decision on the radio. Looking forward to seeing how both these radios perform. Thanks ever so much.
No wonder it took some time to put together this review. It was very thorough, from the perspective of a practical field operator. I particularly appreciated the time you spent measuring and reporting receive current in different configurations. I'll grab an IC-705, probably after the initial feeding frenzy, although I expect this to be a VERY popular radio for the foreseeable future. I've always used Yaesu radios but Icom is earning some market share with the 705. I particularly love all the features they packed into this small and well integrated package, and how easy it is to have full control with a modern user interface. Having complete control via a single USB cable, including the radio functioning as a GPS is wonderful. Being able to charge the little radio's battery via USB is incredible. So in theory, a solar panel could charge a notebook PC and that could charge the IC-705 over the same USB port that's used to control it? That's about as simple as it gets, although there would be some efficiency loss in two DC to DC conversions. On the plus side, it would eliminate the possibility of a discharged computer battery and a half charged radio battery, or vice versa. I wish Icom had managed to have the IC-705 output 20W instead of 10W when running off external batteries. That seems to be the sweet spot for reliable communications and power usage. I know I can add a small external linear antenna, but that's not consistent with the integrated nature of the 705. Then again, we just entered Solar Cycle 25 so the QRP world is looking up.
Thanks for this comment. Yes time is relative. Its importantnot to think about the amount of hours going into it, otherwise it becomes depressing :D Current consumption is one of those ares we need to cover in-depth, and in the real world. I measured under rea world circumstances, makin git easier for everyone else to replicate my results. Too often we see manufacturers publishing numbers based on some obscure configuration, or having to perform a sacrifice before hand. So this part of the video wwas quite important. I think Icom did a great job considering the amount of tools avaiable to the operator. 20 watts. Yes, the military is right about this one. Remember though 20 watts is the military recommendation for wide bandwidth voice communications. If we remember narrow bandwidth data, we are playing with fire again. I've been using the 705 to check winlink email several times per day using 5-10 watts. RMS gateway stations are between 250-1200km away using Vara HF and ARDOP. Its been an absolute pleasure. On the flip sode, we wont be busting any pileups with 10 watts.Still it is a great tool. Powering I tried this. I made a cable nad DC regulator for my solar panels and laptop. The solar panel slow charges the laptop, while the laptop charges the 705. I can also charge the 705 the same way, minus the laptop. I have also used a USB/12v adapter to charge the 705 internal battery directly, via its USB port. These are the type of innovative options we need in the community.
What a great video! I really look forward to more. I had not considered a 705, but this video has at least put it on the radar. I will say I was confused a little about the power consumption comments you made. In round numbers the Icom is running in the mid-to-upper 200s mA range on receive for your tests which is impressive. However, the KX2 is typically comfortably below 200. Granted, it is not driving as many features and things like that sexy screen :D, but I didn't understand the comment that Elecraft (and Yaesu - which I do get) could take a lesson and do better. Can you expound on that. Thanks so much for all you do.
For elecraft, the kx2 has no possibility to be charged in the field. The battery must be removed, and charged externally with a smart charger. This is not consistent with an off-grid philosophy. The kx3 uses AA batteries and has an extremely long charge time. Neither elecraft radio can produce full power while running on their internal battery, which isn't really a problem. For Yaesu also using AA/nickel metal hydride batteries with the ft-818, it has no fast charge function, taking 8 to 10 hours to charge. So the comment about Elecraft in Yaesu learning something from the 705, is in regards to powering and charging in the field. Finally, about the Elecraft current draw. We must ask ourselves if the *under 200ma* number (found in their marketing material) is typical, or under very strict circumstances. Elecraft released a data sheet outlining how to achieve a low current setup which was anything but typical. So we have to remove the internal battery of the kx2, connect to an external supply, then measure the typical current consumption the way we really use to radio. I'm sure it's still pretty good. Great question and comment. Thanks for watching and 73. Julian oh8stn
Thanks Julian. Great review and is a prelude to the arrival of MY IC705 this week. Very exciting. So at 29 min you mention a battery pack a BP something. Could you clarify that please.
Excellent info, great presentation. Thanks for taking the time to focus on features for field operations. I’m looking forward to the antenna videos, too. N4DPH
Thanks for the kindness Bob. Please do start. There's a lot of benefit to data Communications on HF for preparedness. I haven't paid attention if you've made videos or not yet for the 705. If you have, happy to add them to my playlist.
I did Connect my AirPods successful with the 705, when I turn the radio on the bluetooth connects to the airpods and if I turn off the radio the AirPods connect back to my phone!
Something interesting I thought of when you mentioned charging via usb, which I didn't know you could do. I wonder if it would be possible to use a high capacity power bank to charge the radio, and output 10 watts at the same time. Or is the 10 watt output only enabled with a external 12 volt supply? Either way, something like Anker's Powercore 26800 seems like it could keep the radio on for days or weeks at a time. The 705 is certainly one of the greatest radios in a long time, and surely will be for a long time to come. Myself, I have neither the budget nor the experience or patience for qrp as of yet, but hopefully I can afford a 705 someday. Using my Yaesu FT-891, a one wire solution for everything even GPS is very appealing. Great video, 73 de W8IJC
Thank you. I'm really enjoying my 705 and now with the new Solar Cycle beginning to take hold, I believe reach with QRP will improve, has already improved greatly. Can't wait on your review of the tuners. At present I'm using a MFJ QRP Tuner pocket tuner and for the most part, it does the job but an autotuner would be so nice. Thanks again and I can't wait to view your next video. 73🙏🙏🙏👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿
Julian. Great job this is the best 705 review on the net. I hope iCom is giving you some kick-back!! I purchased the 705 recently but have not had a chance to even take it out of the box. Now what to do about feeling like I’m cheating on my FT818!😂
Another great video. As I have yet to get on the air from my qth with Hf, I am wondering about portable off-grid operations. I am interested in the IC-705. It sure has a lot of capabilities but does it sacrifice the audio or a nothing else. You mentioned that there wasn’t much drift so that sounds good. Your reviews are detailed and good explanation of why you are doing things. Great job! Even a noob (new guy) like me can understand. Say hello to my relatives in Finland. Lol. 73 de KI5HXM
Hi Julian, fantastic channel where I can learn all about my IC705 and prepare for my field trips. But I need to ask you a question and that you can guide me, I need some headsets to be able to operate hands-free and in vox mode when necessary and I have doubts between the Heil HTH dual or the BM 17. Maybe none of these and maybe you have any better recommendation because you have used them etc... I would be very grateful for your advice. I am a satisfied subscriber of your videos and a follower of many of your tips. A greeting from Spain. 73 by EC5WR
Getting back into the hobby I am excited to see this rig and was hoping that Yaesu would have had their version out by now. Although an FT-818 is half the price, it has a very hollow feeling considering compared to the feature-rich IC-705. What has stopped me from getting the FT-818 is the lack of being able to install both filters at the same time, probably their biggest mistake when they release the FT-818 to overcome some parts obsolescence. I would feel much better being out in the rain for POTA much better than the IC-705 that seems a little harder to keep dry. Thank you for this review a couple years ago and I hope Yaesu still releases their version worthy of an off-grid mil-spec rated radio. 72 es Cheers, Dave - KU9L
Excellent review. Thanks for taking the time to do it. The 705 looks really cool. I previously had an IC-7300 so operating the 705 should be easy for me. I am curious how the receiver specs compare to the 7300. I'm waiting for a lab review. 73 and I hope to work you on 40M someday., de WA3RSL
Thanks and that would be amazing. It would be great to see a comparison. The 7300 is beginning to look like a good solution for the home staiton. 73 Julian oh8stn
Yes, there is the corrent one and a high capacity version. I am really looking forward to the high capacity battery. I've already woried up a solar panel to charge the 705 directly. Powering this raio is pretty awesome actually.
if you get board one day, I would love to see you help a person like me get this thing hooked up to make some digital contacts, I keep messing with it, I spent the whole weekend messing with it, and the best I did was mess up my radio and learn how to reset it to factory settings hehehe. Thanks my freind and keep making these awesome videos. Dale KI5ARH hope to hear you on the air one day. that will be a fun day for me, when I make a digital contact with you sir. Dale
So have you not tried the MAT-705 antenna tuner? I recently purchased the IC-705 with the MAT-705 tuner and the MPAS 2.0 backordered. I'm interested in whether I made the right choice to pull the trigger on the MAT-705 rather than wait for the AH-705.
To be honest, although the Mat-705 tunes well, it is very poorly designed. The battery lasts days if not hours, the light lenses fall out when you take it apart, and the battery is held in with double sided tape. If one forgets to turn it off, the battery is most likely dead when using it again. Unfortunately, It's a gimmick. Btw, I'm waiting on the AH-705. If I wanted or needed something sooner, it would be the excellent Elecraft T1.
Thanks you for the comment and kindness. The passion for the quality of production is only second to my passion for portable ham radio. 73 Julian oh8stn
Great video. I still do not understand how the GPS data from the 705 makes it too the laptop. Is it automatically on the usb cable? I had FT8 on my laptop plugged in via usb to the705 and have not seen the GPS stream to use to sync the laptop clock.
You have to enable the GPS on the 705. Then the GPS data will stream from the 705 to your laptop on a second com port. If GPS is enabled, when you go to device manager and look at your com ports you'll notice there are two com ports for the 705. One is for the audio interface and cap control, the other one is for gps. The advanced user manual is your friend. Once you have the GPS enabled, you can download an app called GPS time. GPS time will then manage the time on your laptop from the GPS built into your 705.
Great video Julian. Wonderful rig this Icom, but i am afraid of it not being enough rugged for the field. That's the very reason why I am waiting for the LAB599 since it's weatherproof, hopefully it will be as reliable as an Icom.
I totally understand. That's the difference between the two radios and the customers who will buy them. If I totally rugged radio is what you're looking for, then it's definitely the tx500. If you need VHF UHF and all the features this radio offers in a small package, then of course it's the 705. Totally understandable. Time will tell how rugged this radio is. Thanks for the comment.
I am an Icom user for the most part. I love the 705 but am wondering if its size and plastic body will hold up to my off grid camping. With the Lab599, it is metal, slimmer and wouldn't worry me it would get broken as easily as the 705. Also, I wish Icom had made it with an on board battery that would do 10 watts. Still debating between the two rigs. Thanks for the awesome review!
At ~2:57 into the video: "...all the accessories you can imagine. " I can imagine an ATU & included software to interface with a computer (like many other OEM's). I see the external ATU on your Yaesu ("required" (your word) apparently). You do a good job reviewing stuff, but there are very few absolutes in life. Why did you engage the NB when out in the field? Thanx for the vid.
Hey Julian, Great video as always. I am still on the fence for the 705. While it does a hell of a lot for the money, it might just do more than the way I operate. Not having a auto tuner is no big deal and the now that the IC 705 is here and I can see it a bit more I still think it is a great rig. Who knows I might just have 1 in the very near future. lol. Thanks for all your input and expense , I sure hope the big 3 radio companies are helping you out. Thanks Again from here in Kansas. Robert n0yg
Yeah tbh if I could only have a single all mode all band rig and for some reason could or would only operate qrp, I would take this in a heartbeat. The wonderful thing about where we are today, is we have lots of great choices to fit every operating style. On the flip side, we might find if we have tools we have not used before, we very well might find a useful way to use them. 73 Julian oh8stn
Great video, I’ve been waiting on your review. I’m replacing my 817 and associated gear with a 705. I’m a 7300 user and the 705 will be a great mobile unit. Thanks!
Are you running Debian Unstable on your Raspberry Pi? I should look through all of your videos (though I have watched many!) and see for myself, but I'm not sure that was addressed. I want to be able to use the most recent WSJT-X and JS8Call at the same time (which you are doing, I think) but dependencies in Raspbian are not letting me knock that out. GREAT review! I got a 705 in October and am loving it. It's more than I'd hoped it would be. Wonderful channel and please keep up the great work!
I'm using the latest Raspberry Pi OS. You can also add those repositories yourself. You can download js8call directly from the main web page. You don't have to rely on the outdated raspbian repositories. There's also an Ubuntu version for Raspberry Pi now.
Another terrific review of the 705, Julian !! I've been doing some testing with a 6800mAh 12.5V Li-Ion pack today, running both the 705 and the Pi3B+. With the transmitter backed down to 5W on FT8, I got over 6 hours run time before it all died. Every station that I tried to contact, including several Europeans, were confirmed. I didn't get great receive signal levels from them, but I didn't care...a contact is a contact. I saw Vecro on top of your 705. This for your RPi ? I'm still looking at ways to mount the headless Pi to the radio. Thanks for all you do and inspiring me to get out in the field. W4ZQ Terry
Thank you Terry. Yeah the velcro on top of the radio was for the Raspberry Pi. I read the advanced user manual that says the GPS antenna is just under the top plate, so I put Velcro on the back of the radio for the Raspberry Pi now. It works really well. Congratulations on your setup. Thanks for the feedback and kindness, It's very much appreciated.
Great video Julian! Can you please tell us the make and model of the tripod and the make and model of the long roll-up solar panel? Very informative and will be looking for more on the 705. Thanks!
Here is a video covering the solar panels including the Long roll up one in this video. The video has the background and differences between them. The description has the links. th-cam.com/video/hiA9C9H9GQk/w-d-xo.html Here is my PowerFilm playlist. th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA4BFf7wutLxDfEFt3JQd5n7.html
Mahalo from Hawaii, You are the BEST. As a Merchant Marine Captain , often living out of a duffle bag, and an exKX3 owner/operator and have a 7300 at home …. I was pleased to see your video and order up a IC705 with tuner!
The best review so far. Outstanding.
I got my 705 and yes there is a learning curve. I look forward to the Bluetooth headset that will work with 705. Being new, this was the best choice for me with limited space and a radio I can put in the car to use with ARES, this way I do not have to have a 7300 and 7900 radios. Now to learn and setup the various software programs. First is FLDIGI. Be safe and thank you for another great video Julian.
Thanks for a great video. I got my 705 24 hours ago. There is so much to learn. I was comforted by your statement that you spent a month on this video. Not that it is hard to learn. Actually for basic operations it only takes a few minutes. But, there are so many features. It takes a few minutes for each one. You mentioned the power options. Brilliant!!!!!! Being able to map your route in google earth. WOW. Thanks again
Well, I'm sold. This seems to be ideal for everything I want in a HF rig. Now time to find the cash.....
Another Great video from OH8STN.
Thank you for sharing all this information. I like also the nice to listen voice !
Superb review and real world field ops usage scenarios as always. As a die hard Yaesu operator myself you build an excellent case for the 705. It seems as though Icom has done everything above and beyond and worthy of the high price tag. Thanks for taking the time to learn this radio and conduct a thorough in depth review. 73 DE KK4MND
Julian you continue to raise the bar. Outstanding!!
Well hello. Thank you for all the info you have provided in regards to the 705. And you go slow enough that I can keep up and understand what your actually talking about. Thank you very much you have been a big help. Ron z. The north American shortwave radio and toy robot museum.
Excellent Review, the description, radios feaures application aligned with real intended use and the future possibilities, so well thought out and educational. Thankyou :)
Thanks so much for this review!
All of my radios are Icoms except for one Yaesu. I still have my first Icom radio I bought in 1988/ 1989 timeframe, it still works!
Just found your channel recently and I have so much respect for you already. I feel like such a hopeless noob listening to you. I think I'm going to order a book and go for my license though. I'm looking forward to learning so much more. Thank you for all that you are doing OH8STN, I appreciate you greatly.
Great great overview!!! The best I have seen for this radio! KI5HFN. Oklahoma City, OK USA. 73!
🙏 Thank you.
The sort of review I am looking for. Well thought out and filled with info. Great Job! Thanks.
You had me hooked on the Discovery TX-500 with its 100mA current draw but now I am thinking that the built in sound card and battery options of the IC-505 might make it my preferred portable: decisions, decisions !!
Looking forward to your coming reviews on how the IC-505 and TX-500 perform in the field on battery grid down ops, the combined power consumption of everything (Pi, tablet etc) will be an interesting comparison.
Having got my FT-817 wet several times (and having to send it off for repair) I was hoping the IC-505 was more waterproof so that the touchscreen can be used in the rain
great review, much appreciated
Hi Julian, I just really want to thank you for not only a really indepth review, but also for the time spent in building your skillset with Icom products in order to give us this video... You really do lift everyones spirits at this testing time... Your skills and knowledge and presentation put you more than head and shoulders above others on TH-cam and you are constantly pushing the envelope, So, the 705 is a "keeper" then..... Thank you Julian... Kind regards.. Yoki
Julian: A professional level video without the usual terrible camera work, wind in the audio & umms & aahhs in the audio. Your enunciation is excellent. I have not enjoyed listening to an informative video like this ...EVER ! Well done & THANK YOU !
LOVE my IC705. I bought the super antenna based on your videos. I made 3 long haul QRP contacts today (my first time) using this radio and that specific antenna.
Outstanding 👍
Great feedback. Thanks. Just added the IC-705 to my list of equipment to buy during 2021.
Thanks much for all you do. Another great video. I have used the 817 for years and found that this rig is so much easier to handle.
Thanks Julian! Really nice coverage. You are the first one that I have heard highlight the GPS capabilities. A very tight looking rig!
Thank you so much. The off grid perspective forces us to look at the practical features a rig offers us in the field. Just grateful manufacturers are thinking/listening to us now.
73
Julian oh8stn
Kudos for this video Julian 👌 I figured it would only be a matter of time before you did a well-thought-out, concise video on the 705, and I wasn't disappointed. I also appreciate that while it took time to figure everything out you didn't rush the process just to be one of the "FIRST" IC-705 videos on TH-cam. I've followed your video series for some time, and as you ticked off each feature within the rig, with the "one USB cable" solution, combined with your quest for simplicity throughout the years, I could only imagine the smile on your face after using it for the first time. While ICOM seems to have hit on all cylinders with this transceiver it was curious on their choice for their brand mag loop... I'm looking forward to the next video - Thanks again! 👍
This is the single best review I’ve seen for the 705 hands down. Thank you not whining about the lack of a tuner and I REALLY liked the way you smashed the “way too expensive argument” with the cost analysts of how much you would end up spending on an 817 to upgrade. I just received my 705 about a week ago and can’t say enough good things about it. If you do a lot of portable work, get one of these radios and you won’t regret it. Keep up the good work man. 73 KI7NNS
Hoorah for frequency stability assessment!
Some of the best HAM videos on TH-cam, intelligent and relevant. As you have a G90, ft-817 and 705 a video comparing and then working through when each one is best to use in context to portable operation, would be very interesting.
Already working on it 😊
G90, tx500, x5105, ft-818, and ic705.
👍👍👍
Wow what a great clear speaker .thank you for a wonderful video.
Great rundown. Thanks!! 73, K4TPC
Thanks for doing a review on this radio. Your positive response to this radio has convinced me to buy it. This radio with all its built in features makes total sense compared to carrying a bunch of cables and other accessories to get the experience to the level of operating with this radio alone. Wow!
Brilliant video, thanks for taking the time. I now know what my next rig will be, I'd better start saving. Stay Safe and 73, M6THQ
Thanks Julian for a great run down on the IC 705. I just switched my backordered LAB 599 to an in stock IC 705. Just got tired waiting for the LAB 599 (3 months and counting). Since I have an IC 7300, I am sure the IC 705 will be an easy transition. I certainly will enjoy the single cable solution and the bluetooth, talk about QRP luxury! If I need more watts, I can always crank up the FT 891. Looking forward to the new QRP solution, thanks for the review!
Excellent review, Thanks! Now we need it to go on sale ... a little bit above budget :)
I’ve received 2 in America I ordered from HRO in August. Still waiting to be legal in Thailand so I can buy some in Thailand I’m hoping by the end of this month or by the end of the year.
W5MMT / HS0ZAC
@@paulduncanson9898
P
Man this radio seems Kool
Thank you for another great video!
What an interesting radio! I so want one or two. :D
You are right about the potential for a lot of cable and box clutter with current and older radios, which is the main reason I put my own digi-comms/GPS interface together for my Xiegu G90, but that also illustrates how beautifully straight forward the IC-705 is to do digital modes with by comparison.
Really nice radio. Enjoy!
73 de N2NLQ
Fantastically thorough and enjoyable review, probably the best of all time! You’ve covered all the bases. I have the 817 as well as the 7300/9700 twins so am seriously thinking about completing the trifecta thanks to your salesmanship.
Thank you for the kindness. As you know, I have the 817nd. It has served me well for many years, but now it kind of holds me back from achieving a more efficient way of operating. Still don't regret all the good time with it, but I seriously need to look at a 7300 for the shack, and 9700 to respark and VHF/UHF/SHF weak signal work.
Thanks for the comment and kindnedd. Very much appreciated.
73
Julian oh8stn
Everyone was waiting for this one!
As others have said already...excellent review of this rig, a big thank you 👍
Thanks for the awesome and thorough video, Julian. Always appreciate your point of view on things in addition to any other content others have covered. I liked the thought about practically using Bluetooth in order to keep the hands warm; a lot of people no doubt would dismiss Bluetooth as a bell or whistle feature. 👍
Outstanding review! Your audio and video production chops are top notch as well.
Julian! Thank you for this new video. In addition to the Iсom 705, I also enjoyed looking at Finnish nature. For 9 months I can't get there :-(
I’ve read and watched a lot of adverse comments about this rig in terms of what it should and shouldn’t have. Well now it’s here and without a few contentious elements it’s about a complete QRP a rig as we are going to get. I own an Electraft a KX3 and love it, but a fully loaded one now costs an awful lot of money. I only need HF and I must confess I like having the antenna tuner built in despite having a good range of resonant EFHW and dipole antenna at my disposal. ICOM a have set the bar high and I would have no qualms about buying one. Great review 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I have been waiting for your review of this radio. You did not disappoint. Spectacular radio and an awesome review. thank you
Going down the 705 rabbit hole, arriving soon. Thanks for the entertaining and informative video. 73 de K7CO Jon
WOW! New subscriber here. I am getting back in to the hobby after an 8 year break. I have set-up a new home shack, but looking at options for portable operations. Your channel is absolutely amazing, I appreciate the details that you go into! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us and the effort you put into making these videos, they are amazing. Also just bookmarked your website as well. 73 de n1one (Bill)
Hello Operators.
The Icom IC-705 is finally here.
Join me as I go through some of the reasons I think this will become an iconic off grid qrp radio.
73
Julian oh8stn
Share URL: th-cam.com/video/FEtYClfVz9I/w-d-xo.html
00:00 Intro
01:23 Learning curve
02:40 Versus the Yaesu FT-818
04:38 Features and capabilities
05:15 IF Filters and DSP
07:54 Reducing the data mode cable mess
10:12 Frequency stability
10:58 Audio interface
14:24 GPS, NavigationTime sync,
19:48 Wireless Audio
22:00 Power, Charging, Efficiency
27:17 Final thoughts
Share URL: th-cam.com/video/FEtYClfVz9I/w-d-xo.html
Interested in the WSPR test results? Find them here: oh8stn.org/blog/2020/10/29/icom-ic-705-frequency-drift/
Icom IC-705 Playlist
ICOM IC-705 Portable QRP Ham Radio: th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA7WY3ol7ToswVg_allhpDBb.html
Thank you for the review, Julian. While I use an Icom IC-7610, my other radios are Yaesus. FT-897D, FT-857D, FT-817ND. So this was most helpful. While I haven't any plans on purchasing an IC-705 it's great information.
Thanks for that Bob. I hope I wasn't too brutal our beloved 817. I wanted to include that since people make the comparisons on price without understanding the capabilities of the 705. I'm glad you found it interesting. It's even more awesome that you shared this with me. Thanks for the kindness and the comment, it's very much appreciated.
@@OH8STN You are most welcome, Julian. No, you weren't too brutal on our beloved FT-817ND. It is, after all, half the price of the IC-705. You do get what you pay for. The FT-817ND does precisely what I want it to do. So I'll stick with it. I really do appreciate your reviews. In fact, your review of the Chameleon F-Loop magnetic loop antenna led me to purchase one. It is everything you said it was. Extremely well built and very easy to deploy and use. Thanks again for your fine reviews.
I Don't go sota, pota or portable, but i do have the 7300 & 9700, so i have coverage from 160M to 23cms, including 4 and 5M and rx on 8M...all modes... love my Icoms
To be honest with you Robbie, it wasn't until I had to 705 that I understood the level of integration, Icom operators enjoyed.
Great review! A perfect match for an EFHW antenna.
I would like to see you do a review of the KX3 or at least hear your thoughts on it.
Thanks for another great video. You’re my Elmer!
I couldn't help but think, "This is the IC-Julians_tailor_fit_rig from ICOM'
Nice review! I look forward to more on this radio. Hopefully you will get a chance to see how it performs above HF.
Thanks again for an, as usual, great video! You constantly raise the youtube bar.
Thanks for the feedback and the comment. Yeah honestly, I wonder if some engineer in the depths of Icon has watched my "ft-818 disappointment" videos. You might remember, my tower is still set up for VHF and UHF. We don't have any d-star repeaters here in Finland, not the one. So the plan is to use my tower to shoot over to Sweden where they have plenty of d-star repeaters. Perhaps I'll also join in the Nordic VHF UHF contest with the 705. Again thanks for the kindness. Making these videos is only second to my passion for field comms.
I can't wait to get my 705! Sold my TH-D74 to put the money towards it. I wouldn't waste your time and money with the MAT-705 tuner. You have to dismantle the whole thing to replace the 9v battery. I've been recommended the MAT-125E which is rechargeable via cable and nearly £100 cheaper than the MAT-705. It has an 18650 battery.
73s. M7GTX.
It´s a shame that thex didn´t integrate this small thing into the IC-705! Could have been perfect, but this way it is not.
Fantastic! Very thorough review and very helpful, thanks! 73
Thank you Dennis and thank you for that other thing as well. It was very refreshing 👍
73
Julian oh8stn
A fantastic and informative review - excellent production too with floorless audio & video. I also love portable operation too with my IC705, your surroundings there look great!
Excellent series of videos, Julian. I'm very interested in portable and emergency comms. I'm primarily a cw and ssb guy, but hope one day I'll get around to learning more about the digital comms. I appreciate your well produced and informative videos.
Great review. It's actually pretty easy to adapt the AH-4 to work with the IC-705. I've been using the AH-4 (I owned it for years) with my new IC-705 and it works great. You can do End fed configuration with counter poise or even use balanced ladder line with the AH4 on a balanced multi-band antenna. Not nearly as small and portable as the AH-705 but if you already own an AH4 like me, it's worth building the simple break out harness to adapt the AH4 to the IC-705.
Thank you for sharing! Always very interesting topics, after watching i just give a try with my Sennheiser MM550-X bluetooth headphones and works perfectly you can enable the vox and operate the radio without the mike !
Outstanding. So no need for a Heil headset! Headsets are a very personal thing, unique to each operator. Being able to use the headset we like is simply brilliant.
thanks for the comment and watching. Much appreciated.
73
Julian oh8stn
Great Operator Great Video for Great RIG... many thanks Julian
You are ery welcome. We are very lucky to have such options in the community these days.
73
Julian oh8stn
This video is excellent
I understand your love of this rig! It is what you have been pushing manufactures to develop for the last several years. If fact you are the Elmer Keith of the radio world! (For those who don't know, Elmer is the man that pushed Remington and Smith and Wesson into producing the 44 Mag revolver, The finest field revolver for decades!) Great Job!
After researching I couldn't agree more.
I think you're being too kind again but it's nice to hear. I understand this might be too much radio for many people oh, but it does satisfy a need in the market which hasn't been addressed before. I'm happy at least one of large manufacturers are listening
The IC-705 sounds really good! Vy 73's
Thanks for the tremendous work that went into producing this video. It is greatly appreciated. I am patiently waiting to review the upcoming videos on this radio before I make my move and buy one for myself. I am going to sell my FT-857 to fund the project. I'm frustrated by the noise level in the city for HF. Restricting myself to vhf/uhf only. I am setting myself up to have a quick deploy portable HF system that I can use up north in the cabin or in the green spaces around the city. The Discovery TX-500 has put me in a bit of a holding pattern. Not sure if this radio will eclipse the IC-705 for my intended purpose. It looks more rugged then the 705, but not as feature rich. The lack of vhf/uhf may be the deciding point for me. When up north in the cabin for months at a time, I need a stable means of communicating with the family. No cell or wifi coverage up there, only satellites and stars. The use of JS8call for total grid down and winlink for emails when the grid is up is a wonderful solution for my needs. I'm 600 km as the crow flies from cabin to house. I have resorted to using a inreach satellite texting product, but it is very costly especially when the wife is not with me, she texted a lot. Currently, I am using the FT-857 and a G5RV 35' up in the trees to communicate with marginal success with ham friends in the city. The urban noise they experience makes it an unpleasant experience for stable and reliable communications. The cabin is right between to cliffs, so I am going to give NVIS a try. I have 1kw of solar with 2000W pure sine wave inverter for power. I run the radio off a Jackery 500 and shut off the charge controller and inverter to eliminate the noise caused by the solar system. I am already setting up for my portable system with a GooLoo 2000A battery booster/power supply, and a PAR ENDFEDZ EFT-40/120/10 Trail Friendly antenna the kids picked up for me at X-mas. Going to learn JS8Call and WinLink over the winter. So now I just have to make a decision on the radio. Looking forward to seeing how both these radios perform. Thanks ever so much.
No wonder it took some time to put together this review. It was very thorough, from the perspective of a practical field operator. I particularly appreciated the time you spent measuring and reporting receive current in different configurations.
I'll grab an IC-705, probably after the initial feeding frenzy, although I expect this to be a VERY popular radio for the foreseeable future. I've always used Yaesu radios but Icom is earning some market share with the 705. I particularly love all the features they packed into this small and well integrated package, and how easy it is to have full control with a modern user interface. Having complete control via a single USB cable, including the radio functioning as a GPS is wonderful. Being able to charge the little radio's battery via USB is incredible. So in theory, a solar panel could charge a notebook PC and that could charge the IC-705 over the same USB port that's used to control it? That's about as simple as it gets, although there would be some efficiency loss in two DC to DC conversions. On the plus side, it would eliminate the possibility of a discharged computer battery and a half charged radio battery, or vice versa.
I wish Icom had managed to have the IC-705 output 20W instead of 10W when running off external batteries. That seems to be the sweet spot for reliable communications and power usage. I know I can add a small external linear antenna, but that's not consistent with the integrated nature of the 705. Then again, we just entered Solar Cycle 25 so the QRP world is looking up.
Thanks for this comment. Yes time is relative. Its importantnot to think about the amount of hours going into it, otherwise it becomes depressing :D
Current consumption is one of those ares we need to cover in-depth, and in the real world. I measured under rea world circumstances, makin git easier for everyone else to replicate my results. Too often we see manufacturers publishing numbers based on some obscure configuration, or having to perform a sacrifice before hand. So this part of the video wwas quite important. I think Icom did a great job considering the amount of tools avaiable to the operator.
20 watts. Yes, the military is right about this one. Remember though 20 watts is the military recommendation for wide bandwidth voice communications. If we remember narrow bandwidth data, we are playing with fire again. I've been using the 705 to check winlink email several times per day using 5-10 watts. RMS gateway stations are between 250-1200km away using Vara HF and ARDOP. Its been an absolute pleasure. On the flip sode, we wont be busting any pileups with 10 watts.Still it is a great tool.
Powering
I tried this. I made a cable nad DC regulator for my solar panels and laptop. The solar panel slow charges the laptop, while the laptop charges the 705. I can also charge the 705 the same way, minus the laptop. I have also used a USB/12v adapter to charge the 705 internal battery directly, via its USB port. These are the type of innovative options we need in the community.
What a great video! I really look forward to more. I had not considered a 705, but this video has at least put it on the radar. I will say I was confused a little about the power consumption comments you made. In round numbers the Icom is running in the mid-to-upper 200s mA range on receive for your tests which is impressive. However, the KX2 is typically comfortably below 200. Granted, it is not driving as many features and things like that sexy screen :D, but I didn't understand the comment that Elecraft (and Yaesu - which I do get) could take a lesson and do better. Can you expound on that. Thanks so much for all you do.
For elecraft, the kx2 has no possibility to be charged in the field. The battery must be removed, and charged externally with a smart charger. This is not consistent with an off-grid philosophy. The kx3 uses AA batteries and has an extremely long charge time. Neither elecraft radio can produce full power while running on their internal battery, which isn't really a problem.
For Yaesu also using AA/nickel metal hydride batteries with the ft-818, it has no fast charge function, taking 8 to 10 hours to charge. So the comment about Elecraft in Yaesu learning something from the 705, is in regards to powering and charging in the field.
Finally, about the Elecraft current draw. We must ask ourselves if the *under 200ma* number (found in their marketing material) is typical, or under very strict circumstances. Elecraft released a data sheet outlining how to achieve a low current setup which was anything but typical. So we have to remove the internal battery of the kx2, connect to an external supply, then measure the typical current consumption the way we really use to radio. I'm sure it's still pretty good.
Great question and comment. Thanks for watching and 73.
Julian oh8stn
Thanks Julian. Great review and is a prelude to the arrival of MY IC705 this week. Very exciting. So at 29 min you mention a battery pack a BP something. Could you clarify that please.
If I understand correctly Chris, this is the one you're looking for www.gigaparts.com/icom-bp-307-3150mah-lithium-ion-battery-pack.html
Excellent info, great presentation. Thanks for taking the time to focus on features for field operations. I’m looking forward to the antenna videos, too. N4DPH
Im alreay working on antenna videos. it will be slow going because winter arrived. Will get it dont though!
73
Julian oh8stn
You did a hell of a job on this video. I havn't dove into the digital side of portable ops yet. You make me want to start.
Thanks for the kindness Bob.
Please do start. There's a lot of benefit to data Communications on HF for preparedness. I haven't paid attention if you've made videos or not yet for the 705. If you have, happy to add them to my playlist.
I did Connect my AirPods successful with the 705, when I turn the radio on the bluetooth connects to the airpods and if I turn off the radio the AirPods connect back to my phone!
Outstanding. How cool is that!? 😊👍
Another great review Julian!
Thank you Anthony
Great demonstration. Thanks for sharing 👍
Incredible radio.. I’m following your channel since long time.. Keep on this way 👍🏻 73s de HB3XUT
Something interesting I thought of when you mentioned charging via usb, which I didn't know you could do. I wonder if it would be possible to use a high capacity power bank to charge the radio, and output 10 watts at the same time. Or is the 10 watt output only enabled with a external 12 volt supply? Either way, something like Anker's Powercore 26800 seems like it could keep the radio on for days or weeks at a time. The 705 is certainly one of the greatest radios in a long time, and surely will be for a long time to come. Myself, I have neither the budget nor the experience or patience for qrp as of yet, but hopefully I can afford a 705 someday. Using my Yaesu FT-891, a one wire solution for everything even GPS is very appealing. Great video, 73 de W8IJC
You can only get the full 10w on 12v.
Thank you. I'm really enjoying my 705 and now with the new Solar Cycle beginning to take hold, I believe reach with QRP will improve, has already improved greatly. Can't wait on your review of the tuners. At present I'm using a MFJ QRP Tuner pocket tuner and for the most part, it does the job but an autotuner would be so nice. Thanks again and I can't wait to view your next video. 73🙏🙏🙏👍🏿👍🏿👍🏿
You're too kind :)
Yes TBH this rig is more than I expected and hoped for.
73
Julian oh8stn
@@OH8STN I can't wait for the optional DC plug and the Auto Tuner (I bet it can tune a greater SWR than the standard 3:1)
Julian. Great job this is the best 705 review on the net. I hope iCom is giving you some kick-back!! I purchased the 705 recently but have not had a chance to even take it out of the box. Now what to do about feeling like I’m cheating on my FT818!😂
Thanks for the kindness. I can assure you we all have that cheating feeling.😂
Another great video. As I have yet to get on the air from my qth with Hf, I am wondering about portable off-grid operations. I am interested in the IC-705. It sure has a lot of capabilities but does it sacrifice the audio or a nothing else. You mentioned that there wasn’t much drift so that sounds good. Your reviews are detailed and good explanation of why you are doing things. Great job! Even a noob (new guy) like me can understand. Say hello to my relatives in Finland. Lol. 73 de KI5HXM
Hi Julian, fantastic channel where I can learn all about my IC705 and prepare for my field trips. But I need to ask you a question and that you can guide me, I need some headsets to be able to operate hands-free and in vox mode when necessary and I have doubts between the Heil HTH dual or the BM 17. Maybe none of these and maybe you have any better recommendation because you have used them etc... I would be very grateful for your advice. I am a satisfied subscriber of your videos and a follower of many of your tips. A greeting from Spain. 73 by EC5WR
Getting back into the hobby I am excited to see this rig and was hoping that Yaesu would have had their version out by now. Although an FT-818 is half the price, it has a very hollow feeling considering compared to the feature-rich IC-705. What has stopped me from getting the FT-818 is the lack of being able to install both filters at the same time, probably their biggest mistake when they release the FT-818 to overcome some parts obsolescence. I would feel much better being out in the rain for POTA much better than the IC-705 that seems a little harder to keep dry. Thank you for this review a couple years ago and I hope Yaesu still releases their version worthy of an off-grid mil-spec rated radio. 72 es Cheers, Dave - KU9L
Hi Julian
What tripod are you using with the 705 ? 73 de Pete.
Excellent review. Thanks for taking the time to do it. The 705 looks really cool. I previously had an IC-7300 so operating the 705 should be easy for me. I am curious how the receiver specs compare to the 7300. I'm waiting for a lab review. 73 and I hope to work you on 40M someday., de WA3RSL
Thanks and that would be amazing. It would be great to see a comparison. The 7300 is beginning to look like a good solution for the home staiton.
73
Julian oh8stn
Excellent content. The ID-51 battery comes in two mAh capacities if memory serves.
Yes, there is the corrent one and a high capacity version. I am really looking forward to the high capacity battery. I've already woried up a solar panel to charge the 705 directly. Powering this raio is pretty awesome actually.
if you get board one day, I would love to see you help a person like me get this thing hooked up to make some digital contacts, I keep messing with it, I spent the whole weekend messing with it, and the best I did was mess up my radio and learn how to reset it to factory settings hehehe.
Thanks my freind and keep making these awesome videos.
Dale
KI5ARH
hope to hear you on the air one day. that will be a fun day for me, when I make a digital contact with you sir.
Dale
very good video. finger has been hovering over the buy button for a while..time to press it!
Great video
Thank you for this!!♡♡♡
🤜🏻👍🤛🏻
Nicely done. Great radio and look forward to more videos on it from you.
Very well put together video. I'm learning new things about the 705 every day. 73 Chris M0RSF
Hello Chris. Yes quite and amazing little radio. Hope you are all well.
73
Julian oh8stn
OMG. I envy your life so much. Great review!
You don't envy my life, I assure you it's in many ways quite awful. I appreciate the kindness though :-)
Another great video. What is the stand you have the 705 sitting on. Thanks. 73 W4KEF
It is a table top tripod for the DJI Osmo Mobile gimbal.
Very well done video. Great information. I am afraid you lost me with DOS, Win10, Linux and Android. At that point I tuned out.
So have you not tried the MAT-705 antenna tuner? I recently purchased the IC-705 with the MAT-705 tuner and the MPAS 2.0 backordered. I'm interested in whether I made the right choice to pull the trigger on the MAT-705 rather than wait for the AH-705.
To be honest, although the Mat-705 tunes well, it is very poorly designed. The battery lasts days if not hours, the light lenses fall out when you take it apart, and the battery is held in with double sided tape. If one forgets to turn it off, the battery is most likely dead when using it again. Unfortunately, It's a gimmick.
Btw, I'm waiting on the AH-705. If I wanted or needed something sooner, it would be the excellent Elecraft T1.
Great video, very professional made.
Thanks you for the comment and kindness. The passion for the quality of production is only second to my passion for portable ham radio.
73
Julian oh8stn
Great video. I still do not understand how the GPS data from the 705 makes it too the laptop. Is it automatically on the usb cable? I had FT8 on my laptop plugged in via usb to the705 and have not seen the GPS stream to use to sync the laptop clock.
You have to enable the GPS on the 705. Then the GPS data will stream from the 705 to your laptop on a second com port. If GPS is enabled, when you go to device manager and look at your com ports you'll notice there are two com ports for the 705. One is for the audio interface and cap control, the other one is for gps. The advanced user manual is your friend. Once you have the GPS enabled, you can download an app called GPS time. GPS time will then manage the time on your laptop from the GPS built into your 705.
@@OH8STN Thank you. I could not find the GPS Time on the microsoft store.
I did find it and it all works great. Had to change the baud rate to 9600 to match the port setting. Thank you for all your help
Great video Julian. Wonderful rig this Icom, but i am afraid of it not being enough rugged for the field. That's the very reason why I am waiting for the LAB599 since it's weatherproof, hopefully it will be as reliable as an Icom.
I totally understand. That's the difference between the two radios and the customers who will buy them. If I totally rugged radio is what you're looking for, then it's definitely the tx500. If you need VHF UHF and all the features this radio offers in a small package, then of course it's the 705. Totally understandable. Time will tell how rugged this radio is. Thanks for the comment.
I am an Icom user for the most part. I love the 705 but am wondering if its size and plastic body will hold up to my off grid camping. With the Lab599, it is metal, slimmer and wouldn't worry me it would get broken as easily as the 705. Also, I wish Icom had made it with an on board battery that would do 10 watts. Still debating between the two rigs. Thanks for the awesome review!
At ~2:57 into the video: "...all the accessories you can imagine. " I can imagine an ATU & included software to interface with a computer (like many other OEM's). I see the external ATU on your Yaesu ("required" (your word) apparently). You do a good job reviewing stuff, but there are very few absolutes in life. Why did you engage the NB when out in the field? Thanx for the vid.
Hey Julian, Great video as always. I am still on the fence for the 705. While it does a hell of a lot for the money, it might just do more than the way I operate. Not having a auto tuner is no big deal and the now that the IC 705 is here and I can see it a bit more I still think it is a great rig. Who knows I might just have 1 in the very near future. lol. Thanks for all your input and expense , I sure hope the big 3 radio companies are helping you out. Thanks Again from here in Kansas.
Robert n0yg
Yeah tbh if I could only have a single all mode all band rig and for some reason could or would only operate qrp, I would take this in a heartbeat. The wonderful thing about where we are today, is we have lots of great choices to fit every operating style. On the flip side, we might find if we have tools we have not used before, we very well might find a useful way to use them.
73
Julian oh8stn
Great video, I’ve been waiting on your review. I’m replacing my 817 and associated gear with a 705. I’m a 7300 user and the 705 will be a great mobile unit. Thanks!
ICOM should have specified type-C USB over micro-USB. It's been twenty years of required adapters.
Fair enough
Are you running Debian Unstable on your Raspberry Pi? I should look through all of your videos (though I have watched many!) and see for myself, but I'm not sure that was addressed. I want to be able to use the most recent WSJT-X and JS8Call at the same time (which you are doing, I think) but dependencies in Raspbian are not letting me knock that out.
GREAT review! I got a 705 in October and am loving it. It's more than I'd hoped it would be. Wonderful channel and please keep up the great work!
I'm using the latest Raspberry Pi OS. You can also add those repositories yourself. You can download js8call directly from the main web page. You don't have to rely on the outdated raspbian repositories. There's also an Ubuntu version for Raspberry Pi now.
@@OH8STN VERY helpful. THANK YOU for that quick response.
Another terrific review of the 705, Julian !! I've been doing some testing with a 6800mAh 12.5V Li-Ion pack today, running both the 705 and the Pi3B+. With the transmitter backed down to 5W on FT8, I got over 6 hours run time before it all died. Every station that I tried to contact, including several Europeans, were confirmed. I didn't get great receive signal levels from them, but I didn't care...a contact is a contact. I saw Vecro on top of your 705. This for your RPi ? I'm still looking at ways to mount the headless Pi to the radio. Thanks for all you do and inspiring me to get out in the field. W4ZQ Terry
Thank you Terry. Yeah the velcro on top of the radio was for the Raspberry Pi. I read the advanced user manual that says the GPS antenna is just under the top plate, so I put Velcro on the back of the radio for the Raspberry Pi now. It works really well. Congratulations on your setup. Thanks for the feedback and kindness, It's very much appreciated.
Great video Julian! Can you please tell us the make and model of the tripod and the make and model of the long roll-up solar panel?
Very informative and will be looking for more on the 705.
Thanks!
Here is a video covering the solar panels including the Long roll up one in this video. The video has the background and differences between them. The description has the links. th-cam.com/video/hiA9C9H9GQk/w-d-xo.html
Here is my PowerFilm playlist. th-cam.com/play/PLKMrdrsNkFA4BFf7wutLxDfEFt3JQd5n7.html