Yaesu hasn't really given us the value proposition. From their website posting, one would think that it has better audio, is easier to use, and will be available at the end of March! So, there you go.
"The new FTM-500DR will be available the middle of April 2023. The information shown is preliminary and may be subject to change without notice or obligation. As of February 2023, this device has not been approved by the FCC." https://www.yaesu.com/indexVS.cfm?c...C21D8DCDB78ECBBDCA&DivisionID=65&isArchived=0
Hmm, probably a replacement for the 300. Folks that bought the 400 did more so for the screen size, I should think. That said, this is a very high-end radio head unit. Hope to hear about the actual features soon. Someone sent me a PM message linking to the FCC submission. Here it is.
Yes, you are right. I own a FTM-400 and the size of the display is in the diagonal 9cm and with the new FTM-500 I read, it should be around 6cm diagonal. But the display got some new features, like to touch at the signalpeaks to change fast the frequency. With the FTM-400 the knobs are to use and this way is much to slow for to catch a short CQ or something else. So Yaesu gave the new device more a mobile character. The FTM-400 is best usable in the homeshack, thats why I bought it in the past. And I dont want to change.
Looks like the FCC approved the device on 3/30. (here) I wonder how long it will take Yaesu to start marketing the FTM-500 here in the US. After watching everything that I can see on this, I think I'm going to forego the FTM-500 and pick up an FTM-200 for my new bronco (assuming it ever actually gets built). I just don't see the cost benefit for my use case.
https://www.yaesu.com/indexVS.cfm?c...C21D8DCDB78ECBBDCA&DivisionID=65&isArchived=0 pricing is $650 USD
Here's an interesting "parts" offer: https://www.dxengineering.com/searc...wordMatch&SortOrder=Ascending&keyword=ftm-500
Due to demand and limited supply, I think the actual sales price is going to remain at $650 for a while, unless Yaesu offers coupons, maybe for Hamvention next month.
I placed my order today. HRO says delivery by May 31, yikes! However, the good news is that there is some undisclosed number of them being sent by air to various retailers, so there is a chance you'll get one before May 31.
$899 Aussie dollars… Do-able. Still slightly less to part with as compared to the I-Com 52 colour screen hand-held… just sayin…
