Though I have not seen one, and only seeing the video. It does not get me going. The only thing I feel I am missing on my 817 is a little better receiver and variable receive bandwidth controls. I already have DSP. This is the only reasons I want a KX2. That icom is just has to many wiz bangs for me. To tell you the truth I would enjoy a new icom 735 over that 705. So I hope it is not a Elecraft killer as I have not gotten my Elecraft yet.
I have an Elecraft KX2 and a KX3. It's not an Elecraft killer for me. I'm not selling either one to get the 705. Actually, the no internal ATU on the 705 is a deal breaker for me, even though I only use resonant antennas and no ATU is needed. There are times I may need and ATU and an external ATU is just one more item I have to carry with me. Nope, my KX2 is my, "Go To Portable Radio" and it's here to stay. That is, until Elecraft decides to come out with a KX4. "Are you listening Elecraft ?" But.....I do have to say, I am impressed with the 705 and I am sure they will sell like hot cakes. Price? I bet it's over 2K ? Barry
Does anyone know the IC705's tx and receive current consumption? It's no good having a small rig if you need to take big batteries. Does it beat the KX3 (which in this regard is better than the FT817)? A small thing it lacks over the FT817/8 is the latter's dual antenna sockets. That's handy particularly for VHF/UHF field days with different antennas on 2m & 70cm.
I agree...no internal ATU...could run resonant antennas...battery is noice if you have a id-51..same battery...but need more info on battery consumption..still it looks nice..this may all be changed by release to USA happens...
Would consider if it were water proof/salt water proof with a lifetime corrosion warranty. Then I could take it to the beach without worry.
I think it would be very attractive as a QRP rig for those that already have IC-7300 or IC-9700 or IC-7610 and are accustomed to the Icom display layout and menu system as they would not have to learn another system. In this way it really wouldn't be a FT-818 or KX2/3 killer, as it would be targeting mostly Icom oriented guys/gals and not necessarily Yaesu and Elecraft users. Although there might be some crossover.