Keep it! I've had one for years. It's compact, durable, capable and fun. It's still my daily carry HT. It's a bit of a pain to program unless you use Chirp. But overall, I think you got a good deal on a nice radio. 73's
As most have detailed so far, they were great radios, so it might be worth it to see if the battery will take a charge and power the Radio up. You will be able to determine if it's worth holding on to or not. The one downside to this radio and some like it are the batteries.. They are ok for normal use, but will discharge over time if left unused...
I and my XYL both own a VX=7R each. During one of the hurricanes we used that to communicate with each other across Volusia County when she was out looking for supplies and gas. Mine is beat up but still is one of my go-to HTs. My XYL’s is her primary radio still over 10 years later and hers looks pristine! I think you had an awesome find! I bought after market batteries on Amazon to have extras and couldn’t be happier!
Nice find. I've had a VX-7R for many years and it is a work horse radio. The radio is a Tri-Band radio 144mhz, 220mhz, 440mhz, If you want to operate on 220mhz you would use the two long pieces of the antenna, if you only want to use 144mhz and 440mhz you would use the longest and shortest pieces of the antenna. The radio can be PC programmed with Chirp or RT Systems. I would say to keep the radio.
The VX-7R bands are 50/144/430. 220 is available in the USA version, making the USA version a quad band. The longest and shortest pieces of the antenna are used for 144/430 (maybe 220, not sure) and the two longest pieces for 50.
Keep it, definitely. It was my first HT, and it's still the go-to for when on the coast and things are lookin' iffy with the weather. Do poke around and secure the gizzie that lets you use alkalines, and if you can find one, one of the 3d party hi-cap batteries.
I'd hold onto it if I were you, I purchased 1 a lmost 30 years ago and I still wont part with it ! 2m 6m and 70cms plus airband still a very good extremely robust little radio .
It's a keeper if you have no need or desire for the Fusion capabilities. I bought a VX-8R when it was released. The VX-6, 7 and 8 series were and still are solid performers.
Any Yaesu HT of the VX series is awesome. They are mini-bricks. You drop it on concrete, it will dent the concrete. I love my VX-6R's (3 of them) and 1 VX-7R. They are awesome. Keep it.
Given you could get something new ( and with a new battery ) and same functionality for roughly the same price I think I’d sell it and recoup the money. It’s been used or at least plugged in, so, perhaps it doesn’t function properly. Worth checking that out too
I see that you did end up listing this for sale again on eBay. In your ad, you mention selling this and getting the vx-6. I will say after having both radios, I love the vx-7 and the vx-6 is frustrating in that the vx-7 menu is much better and is dual RX while the vx-6 only has one vfo. Anyway, just thought I share my thoughts as comparing them, I would choose the vx-7 by a lot over the vx-6. Peace, KF7GQY
Idk… you got a little bit of Yaesu history now. A product that failed to continue for reasons unknown. I’d keep it just for the “this was a thing?” Factor.
Humm, tough call. I have the VX-6R and like it. So, I'm not sure I'd be in the market for something like that. But, you know. You can never have TOO many HT's, right??? ;-)
It’s missing the manual and warranty card. The missing twist tie is another strike. Also be aware that the silver models will flake over time. Be sure to compare the serial number on the outside of the box to the number in the battery compartment. Be sure to also check that it’s a USA version so you get access to the 220 band too, making it a quad band. The price you paid is not bad for a new(ish) copy, but I avoid the silver ones due to the paint flaking. Also be aware that sometimes these models have issues with bad filters, making them sometimes deaf. They can be fixed with a couple of cheap parts, but getting the 3-pronged components off the board is a desoldering challenge.
I bought one of these new about 15 years ago, liked it a lot but didn’t use a lot (I was only dabbling in ham radio back then). Mine seems to have developed the bad filter problem you mentioned because the receiver has gone mostly deaf. It only picks up a strong signal that is nearby. Nate, AA7RM
@@natecejka I believe each of the two VFOs have a separate filter. I know I just replaced both when I was in there. Someone proposed an extra fix, which was to add a small capacitor to each of the filters to stop the flow of DC, and thus supposedly stop the filters from going bad, but the way the capacitors need to be placed is a bit hokey, so I didn’t try that.
@@F16_viper_pilotThanks! Someday I may lookup how to replace the filters and give it a try. Lots of other ham projects in the works right now, and not a lot of time for them. 😂
The VX-6r sells for $250. Not sure what the VX-7r has over the vx-6r. I like my vx-6 for being waterproof and the wideband receiver. Your radio does appear to be in good shape.
Do you need another HT or have an HT that has similar features and functions? If yes, I would recoup my money for another goodie. LOL, my XYL hates me spending money on radios.... 73, Bill.
I would return it as incomplete not as described using eBay's return policy. Since the power supply has been obviously opened it is not new old stock and the auction description is misleading. eBay almost always sides with the buyer in cases like this.
That’s a lot of money for an out of production radio, “mint” or not. Especially when you can get a VX-6r for $250.00 new with a warranty. On that note, if I could afford it and had the money burning a hole in my pocket I’d probably buy it.
Way too much to pay for this radio. I suggest selling it especially when you can buy a brand new Yaesu FT-70DR for around $170.00 from R&L Electronics.
If it works I’d keep it. 6 meters on an ht is pretty rare now. AI5SS
Yes, 6 is indeed rare on an HT.
Keep it! I've had one for years. It's compact, durable, capable and fun. It's still my daily carry HT. It's a bit of a pain to program unless you use Chirp. But overall, I think you got a good deal on a nice radio. 73's
That's a definite vote for KEEP!
As most have detailed so far, they were great radios, so it might be worth it to see if the battery will take a charge and power the Radio up. You will be able to determine if it's worth holding on to or not.
The one downside to this radio and some like it are the batteries.. They are ok for normal use, but will discharge over time if left unused...
I have one for over 17 years and never had a problem with my radio. Also it looks like new. I would keep. They are a great radio. 73
Another vote for KEEP.
I and my XYL both own a VX=7R each. During one of the hurricanes we used that to communicate with each other across Volusia County when she was out looking for supplies and gas. Mine is beat up but still is one of my go-to HTs. My XYL’s is her primary radio still over 10 years later and hers looks pristine! I think you had an awesome find! I bought after market batteries on Amazon to have extras and couldn’t be happier!
You have offered a very compelling response on the KEEP side, thanks.
Nice find. I've had a VX-7R for many years and it is a work horse radio. The radio is a Tri-Band radio 144mhz, 220mhz, 440mhz, If you want to operate on 220mhz you would use the two long pieces of the antenna, if you only want to use 144mhz and 440mhz you would use the longest and shortest pieces of the antenna. The radio can be PC programmed with Chirp or RT Systems. I would say to keep the radio.
The VX-7R bands are 50/144/430. 220 is available in the USA version, making the USA version a quad band.
The longest and shortest pieces of the antenna are used for 144/430 (maybe 220, not sure) and the two longest pieces for 50.
Thanks for the helpful input!
Appreciate the detail on the antenna...not having a printed manual...
Keep it, definitely. It was my first HT, and it's still the go-to for when on the coast and things are lookin' iffy with the weather. Do poke around and secure the gizzie that lets you use alkalines, and if you can find one, one of the 3d party hi-cap batteries.
Definitely good suggestions on the batteries. Gizzie, is that the technical name?
I'd keep it. If you don't want it I'd buy it. I have the Ft7Rb which is the black version. It's a great triband submersible radio.
After all the feedback, I'm leaning toward selling and buying the newer VX-6R. If you really want it send me an email thehoaham@gmail.com
As a new ham, if you don't need it, sell it. It's a nice HT though. Good luck.
Welcome new ham! Its a fantastic hobby / way of life.
@@HOAHamRadio Looking to start via CW but we will see.
I'd hold onto it if I were you, I purchased 1 a lmost 30 years ago and I still wont part with it ! 2m 6m and 70cms plus airband still a very good extremely robust little radio .
Another check on the KEEP side. Thanks.
You got me hooked Bob. I need to know if it powers up and works. If it works, I’d say keep it. You can’t have too many HTs.
Spot on, I think I need another one.
It's a keeper if you have no need or desire for the Fusion capabilities. I bought a VX-8R when it was released. The VX-6, 7 and 8 series were and still are solid performers.
That seems to be the consensus; good radio.
Just got a vx7r a month or so ago, I love it. I like that it does 6m too. I do know the silver finish has a tendency to wear off.
If you do keep it, I have a video on how to mars mod/freeband mod it
Thanks, if I keep it, the mod is definitely happening.
KEEP it!
The score is pretty even so far...
Hi Bob, I think ‘new in box’ might be a stretch, but cosmetically it looks great! Keep it, I wish I hadn’t sold mine!
Another check in the KEEP side of things, thanks.
Any Yaesu HT of the VX series is awesome. They are mini-bricks. You drop it on concrete, it will dent the concrete. I love my VX-6R's (3 of them) and 1 VX-7R. They are awesome. Keep it.
A very compelling argument on the KEEP side, thanks.
Keep it...❤
So far, its mixed from the crowd....
A friend gifted me one! Ask it needed was a new battery ! I do appreciate it’s water tightness
That water proof feature is definitely compelling.
Given you could get something new ( and with a new battery ) and same functionality for roughly the same price I think I’d sell it and recoup the money.
It’s been used or at least plugged in, so, perhaps it doesn’t function properly. Worth checking that out too
Good points on the SELL side, thanks.
Hello. Which radio are you referring to?
I ended up getting the id-50a and the id-52a plus to go along with my ic705 shtf kit.
Can't see how you could possible go wrong with that combo.
Make sure it's the US version with 144-148
Thanks, really good suggestion.
I see that you did end up listing this for sale again on eBay. In your ad, you mention selling this and getting the vx-6. I will say after having both radios, I love the vx-7 and the vx-6 is frustrating in that the vx-7 menu is much better and is dual RX while the vx-6 only has one vfo. Anyway, just thought I share my thoughts as comparing them, I would choose the vx-7 by a lot over the vx-6. Peace, KF7GQY
Thanks for the additional feedback. ...comments like this make me want to keep it, which may end up happening in the end.
Idk… you got a little bit of Yaesu history now. A product that failed to continue for reasons unknown. I’d keep it just for the “this was a thing?” Factor.
Another check for KEEP.
Humm, tough call. I have the VX-6R and like it. So, I'm not sure I'd be in the market for something like that. But, you know. You can never have TOO many HT's, right??? ;-)
I think I need just 1 more...
Check and see if there is a call sign programmed in the unit. I would keep just because of the 6M Ht. 73
6M is a compelling reason for sure.
Got the same deal myself! Good radio.
I see I'm in good company!
It’s missing the manual and warranty card. The missing twist tie is another strike. Also be aware that the silver models will flake over time. Be sure to compare the serial number on the outside of the box to the number in the battery compartment. Be sure to also check that it’s a USA version so you get access to the 220 band too, making it a quad band. The price you paid is not bad for a new(ish) copy, but I avoid the silver ones due to the paint flaking. Also be aware that sometimes these models have issues with bad filters, making them sometimes deaf. They can be fixed with a couple of cheap parts, but getting the 3-pronged components off the board is a desoldering challenge.
All great suggestions; not gonna be happy when the silver starts to flake!
@@HOAHamRadio Yeah, that seems to be the only downside to those. But maybe with gentle usage it won’t be an issue for you.
I bought one of these new about 15 years ago, liked it a lot but didn’t use a lot (I was only dabbling in ham radio back then). Mine seems to have developed the bad filter problem you mentioned because the receiver has gone mostly deaf. It only picks up a strong signal that is nearby.
Nate, AA7RM
@@natecejka I believe each of the two VFOs have a separate filter. I know I just replaced both when I was in there. Someone proposed an extra fix, which was to add a small capacitor to each of the filters to stop the flow of DC, and thus supposedly stop the filters from going bad, but the way the capacitors need to be placed is a bit hokey, so I didn’t try that.
@@F16_viper_pilotThanks! Someday I may lookup how to replace the filters and give it a try. Lots of other ham projects in the works right now, and not a lot of time for them. 😂
I have this radio. Not sure why Yaesu discontinued it?
I would guess electronic component shortage...
Looks like it was a display model that didn't sell. Charge up the battery and give it a spin!
Thanks for weighing in...still undecided at this point.
The VX-6r sells for $250. Not sure what the VX-7r has over the vx-6r. I like my vx-6 for being waterproof and the wideband receiver.
Your radio does appear to be in good shape.
Another check on the KEEP side. Thanks.
Do you need another HT or have an HT that has similar features and functions? If yes, I would recoup my money for another goodie. LOL, my XYL hates me spending money on radios.... 73, Bill.
Valid points...all of them.
Mint condition is worth keeping. But for $300…. Not for me and I was a fan of my 7 until I lost it years ago. 😢
I'm back and forth on it now; may sell and get the VX-6R still in production.
@@HOAHamRadio the vx6 is a great little radio. No plans on ever selling mine.
I would return it as incomplete not as described using eBay's return policy. Since the power supply has been obviously opened it is not new old stock and the auction description is misleading. eBay almost always sides with the buyer in cases like this.
You have valid points, the description missed it just a bit.
That’s a lot of money for an out of production radio, “mint” or not. Especially when you can get a VX-6r for $250.00 new with a warranty. On that note, if I could afford it and had the money burning a hole in my pocket I’d probably buy it.
I've had my eyes on the VX-6R some time ago; if I do sell this, I will be getting one.
@@HOAHamRadio I’ve been looking at getting a vx-6r for a long while now but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I’m sure I’ll get one someday.
Sure would be nice to know why the 7 production was stopped but the vx6 is still going. No answers from Yaesu.
Details they don't give us; I would like to be informed so I know I'm making the right decision.
Way too much to pay for this radio. I suggest selling it especially when you can buy a brand new Yaesu FT-70DR for around $170.00 from R&L Electronics.
I've been looking at the FT-70...wish it were IP67. Other than that, I've heard GREAT things about it.
I have two....sell it to me😅
After all the feedback, I'm leaning toward selling and buying the newer VX-6R. If you really want it send me an email thehoaham@gmail.com
Chinese copy.
LOL, perhaps.