In-Depth Review: Radio and Accessory Bundle - 4 Items Including Icom IC-9700 VHF/UHF/1.2GHz D-Star Transceiver, Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna, Comet 144/430/1200MHz Triplexer, and Ham Guides TM Quic
The Radio and Accessory Bundle featuring the Icom IC-9700, Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna, Comet Triplexer, and Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card offers a comprehensive setup for amateur radio enthusiasts interested in VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz bands. This bundle brings together high-performance components for both the serious operator and the aspiring ham. In this detailed review, we will explore each of these components individually and assess how well they work together as a complete package for radio communication.
1. Icom IC-9700 VHF/UHF/1.2GHz D-Star Transceiver
Overview: The Icom IC-9700 is a top-of-the-line transceiver that covers the VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz bands, offering unparalleled flexibility and performance for operators across a wide range of frequencies. The device integrates advanced digital technologies like D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) and is designed with ease of use and robustness in mind.
Key Features:
VHF/UHF/1.2GHz Coverage: This transceiver spans three crucial bands: 144–148 MHz (VHF), 430–450 MHz (UHF), and 1200 MHz (1.2 GHz). It supports both FM and digital modes like D-STAR, which is increasingly popular in amateur radio for efficient communication.
D-STAR Integration: D-STAR functionality allows the IC-9700 to operate in both voice and data modes, providing the ability to communicate over long distances without relying solely on repeaters. This is a big plus for those wanting to access global networks or use high-tech digital communication formats.
Color Touchscreen Display: The IC-9700 is equipped with a 4.3-inch color touchscreen, which provides intuitive operation, ease of access to features, and vivid information displays. It makes frequency management, mode switching, and other settings simple and visually clear.
High-Performance SDR: The Icom IC-9700 includes software-defined radio (SDR) technology for superior performance, including high resolution and wide dynamic range. This allows operators to enjoy excellent reception even in crowded or noisy bands.
Satellite Communication Ready: It has the capability to work with amateur satellites, making it a versatile tool for satellite communication enthusiasts.
Performance: The IC-9700 offers exceptional sensitivity and selectivity, delivering clean, clear signals even in the busiest environments. With its advanced digital processing and low noise characteristics, operators can make reliable long-range contacts across multiple bands. Whether you're participating in local communication or global D-STAR networking, the IC-9700 excels in all respects.
Ease of Use: While its advanced features are impressive, the Icom IC-9700 can seem overwhelming to beginners. However, the user interface is well thought out, with the touchscreen and simple menu structure helping to mitigate complexity. For experienced operators, this radio will feel like second nature.
Verdict: The Icom IC-9700 stands out as a flagship product for serious VHF/UHF/1.2GHz enthusiasts, offering solid performance, versatility, and cutting-edge digital capabilities. It's a perfect choice for users who demand more than just basic FM transmission, with an array of features that will please both seasoned and advanced amateur radio operators.
2. Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna
Overview: The Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna is a well-regarded antenna for VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz operations. It's engineered to deliver high performance on the 144 MHz, 430 MHz, and 1200 MHz bands, matching perfectly with the Icom IC-9700 for comprehensive coverage across all three frequencies.
Key Features:
Tri-Band Operation: The antenna is designed to operate effectively across three bands: 144 MHz (VHF), 430 MHz (UHF), and 1200 MHz (1.2 GHz). This makes it an ideal match for the IC-9700, which supports all three bands.
Compact Design: While it’s a vertical antenna, the Comet tri-band antenna maintains a relatively small footprint, making it suitable for users who may have limited space but still want to access multiple bands.
Durability: Constructed from high-quality materials, the antenna is built to withstand harsh outdoor environments. It's UV-resistant, which is important for longevity in outdoor settings.
Broadband Performance: The antenna offers good broadband characteristics, meaning it provides consistent performance over a wide range of frequencies on all supported bands.
Performance: The Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna delivers strong, reliable performance on VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz frequencies. It produces a broad radiation pattern for general communications but is especially effective in urban environments, where its vertical design helps reduce interference from nearby buildings and obstacles.
Ease of Setup: The antenna comes with a robust mounting kit and can be easily set up in either a horizontal or vertical orientation. It’s suitable for home installations as well as mobile use when paired with a suitable mount.
Verdict: The Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna is a fantastic companion to the Icom IC-9700. It provides excellent coverage for all the supported bands, is durable, and easy to install, making it a solid investment for any serious operator who wants reliable and high-performance antenna gear.
3. Comet 144/430/1200MHz Triplexer
Overview: The Comet Triplexer allows users to combine three separate signals—VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz—into a single feed, which can then be connected to a single antenna. This device is indispensable for users operating multiple bands and seeking to streamline their equipment setup.
Key Features:
Band Separation: The Triplexer separates the VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz signals effectively, allowing them to be combined into one cable running to the antenna. This eliminates the need for multiple antenna installations.
High-Quality Construction: Built to minimize interference and signal loss, the Comet Triplexer is designed for high performance, handling the power levels and frequencies commonly used by amateur radio operators.
Compact and Easy to Install: Despite its multi-band functionality, the Triplexer is compact and simple to install, with clear markings for each band. It provides a straightforward connection for operators to integrate their equipment efficiently.
Performance: When paired with the Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna and the Icom IC-9700, the Triplexer ensures that signal integrity is maintained across all bands. It prevents unwanted interaction between frequencies, helping to optimize the performance of each band.
Verdict: The Comet Triplexer is an essential tool for any operator using a multi-band antenna. It performs reliably, ensures minimal signal loss, and simplifies the setup by allowing users to run a single antenna for three bands.
4. Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card
Overview: The Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card is a practical addition to the bundle, designed to assist operators in navigating common settings and procedures on their radio equipment. It’s especially useful for newcomers or those who want a fast, reliable way to look up key information without delving into manuals.
Key Features:
Essential Info at a Glance: The reference card includes frequently used settings, frequency bands, and key operating procedures for ham radio.
Compact and Durable: Made from a sturdy, laminated material, it’s small enough to keep nearby during operations and can withstand wear and tear in a field environment.
Beginner-Friendly: For new operators, it’s a helpful guide to quickly set up and troubleshoot their equipment, especially when paired with the IC-9700 and other accessories in the bundle.
Verdict: While not a critical piece of equipment for experienced operators, the Ham Guides Quick Reference Card is a great tool for simplifying the learning curve for newcomers to the hobby or those operating complex equipment like the IC-9700.
Final Thoughts:
The Radio and Accessory Bundle, featuring the Icom IC-9700, Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna, Comet 144/430/1200MHz Triplexer, and Ham Guides TM Quick Reference Card, is an excellent package for amateur radio operators.
The Icom IC-9700 is a powerful transceiver with top-tier capabilities, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced hams interested in digital communication and satellite operations.
The Comet Tri-Band Vertical Antenna ensures exceptional performance across the essential VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz bands, making it a strong performer for local and long-distance communications.
The Comet Triplexer simplifies the setup by enabling multi-band operation on a single antenna, providing ease of use without compromising signal quality.
The Ham Guides Quick Reference Card is a thoughtful addition for those needing quick access to essential operating info during real-time use.
Each component works together seamlessly, offering both performance and convenience. Whether you're a newcomer looking for an all-in-one starter kit or an experienced operator upgrading your setup, this bundle delivers value, versatility, and quality. Highly recommended for those serious about exploring the full spectrum of amateur radio capabilities across VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz bands.