Radioddity DB35-UV Dual Band Mobile Radio 35W Review

The Radioddity DB35-UV is a compact dual-band mobile radio designed for amateur radio operators who want more capability than a handheld transceiver can provide without moving up to a large, complicated mobile station. With 35 watts of output power, VHF/UHF operation, a detachable faceplate, multiple operating modes and a relatively compact installation footprint, the DB35-UV is an interesting option for vehicles, home stations, field operations and emergency communications.

Radioddity has become increasingly well known for producing affordable radios aimed at both newcomers and experienced operators. The DB35-UV fits that philosophy particularly well because it attempts to combine the useful features of a traditional mobile transceiver with an installation-friendly design.

What Is the Radioddity DB35-UV?

The Radioddity DB35-UV is a dual-band mobile transceiver intended primarily for amateur radio use on the VHF and UHF bands. Its 35-watt output places it between a typical handheld radio and the 50- to 75-watt mobile radios commonly found in larger vehicle installations.

One of its most useful design features is the detachable control head. Instead of having the entire radio body mounted directly behind the dashboard or within easy reach of the operator, the main radio chassis can be installed elsewhere while the faceplate and controls are positioned where they are convenient to access.

That can make a significant difference in modern vehicles where dashboard space is limited.

The radio is also small enough to work well in applications where a full-size mobile transceiver would be inconvenient.

Design and Build Quality

The DB35-UV has the appearance of a modern compact mobile radio rather than a traditional large amateur transceiver. Its relatively small footprint makes it easier to install in vehicles, workshops, temporary communications stations and other locations where space is limited.

The detachable faceplate is arguably one of its most important physical features.

For vehicle operators, this provides much greater flexibility when deciding where the radio should be installed. The radio chassis can be positioned under a seat, inside a suitable compartment or elsewhere in the vehicle, while the control head can be mounted in a convenient location.

This is particularly useful for vehicles that have limited dashboard space.

The compact design also makes the DB35-UV interesting for portable communications setups. A radio of this size can be incorporated into an emergency communications box or field station without consuming the space required by a larger mobile transceiver.

As with any compact radio, however, installation should provide adequate ventilation. Even though the DB35-UV is not an extremely high-powered transmitter, transmitting at higher power for extended periods generates heat.

35 Watts of Transmitting Power

The 35-watt output is one of the biggest advantages of the DB35-UV.

A typical handheld amateur radio operates at only a few watts. Increasing transmitter power to 35 watts can provide considerably more effective communication capability when combined with a properly installed external antenna.

It is important to remember that transmitter power alone does not determine range.

A 35-watt mobile radio connected to a poor antenna can perform worse than a lower-powered radio connected to an excellent antenna.

For mobile operation, antenna location, antenna efficiency, feed-line quality and vehicle installation all matter.

Nevertheless, 35 watts provides a useful amount of power for:

• Local simplex communications
• Repeater operation
• Mobile-to-mobile communications
• Emergency communications
• Public-service events
• Rural communications
• Base-station operation
• Field communications

The additional power is especially useful when the radio is being used with a good roof-mounted mobile antenna.

Dual-Band Operation

The DB35-UV is designed for operation on both VHF and UHF amateur radio frequencies.

This gives the operator considerably more flexibility than a single-band mobile transceiver.

VHF is commonly used for 2-meter amateur radio communications, while UHF is widely used for 70-centimeter communications. Both bands have extensive repeater networks throughout the United States.

Having both available in the same radio means an operator does not need separate radios for basic VHF and UHF mobile communications.

This can be especially useful for someone traveling between different areas because repeater systems vary considerably from location to location.

A dual-band radio can also be useful during emergency communications when one band is being used for a primary communications channel and another is being used for coordination or monitoring.

The Detachable Faceplate

The detachable faceplate deserves special attention because it changes how the radio can be installed.

Traditional mobile radios generally require the complete radio chassis and control panel to occupy the same location. That can be difficult in newer vehicles where manufacturers have integrated large infotainment screens, climate controls and other electronics into the dashboard.

With the DB35-UV, the radio's main body can be placed somewhere else.

This opens up several installation possibilities.

The control head could potentially be positioned near the driver while the radio chassis is installed underneath a seat or in another appropriate location.

For a home station, the detachable design can also make it easier to place the radio controls on a desk while keeping cables and the main chassis organized elsewhere.

For an emergency communications box, the detachable faceplate may allow the operator to create a much cleaner installation.

Display and Controls

The control interface is designed around the needs of mobile radio operators.

A mobile transceiver needs to allow the operator to quickly identify the active frequency or channel, adjust settings and change operating parameters without spending excessive amounts of time navigating menus.

This becomes particularly important when the radio is being used inside a moving vehicle.

The DB35-UV's control head makes it possible to keep the important controls within reach while the main radio remains out of the way.

New operators may need some time to become familiar with the menu system. This is common with modern amateur radios because manufacturers increasingly provide a large number of functions in relatively small radios.

Once configured, however, many operators will likely spend most of their time using stored channels rather than manually entering frequencies.

Repeater Operation

One of the primary reasons many amateur radio operators install a mobile radio is repeater access.

The DB35-UV can be used for conventional VHF and UHF repeater communications when properly programmed for the repeater's frequency, offset and tone requirements.

A properly programmed repeater channel can make mobile operation extremely convenient.

Instead of manually entering the repeater frequency every time, the operator can simply select the stored channel.

This is especially useful when traveling.

An operator can program repeaters along a planned route before leaving home and then move through the channel list as they travel.

Programming

Programming is an important part of getting the most from any modern mobile radio.

The DB35-UV offers numerous programmable settings, allowing the operator to configure frequencies and other operating parameters.

For someone purchasing the radio as a first mobile transceiver, programming can initially seem complicated.

That isn't necessarily a criticism of this particular radio. Modern amateur radios simply have a lot of functionality packed into a relatively small package.

The best approach is to create an organized channel plan.

For example, an operator might create groups for:

Local Repeaters

Nearby repeaters can be programmed together for everyday communications.

Travel Repeaters

Repeaters along frequently traveled routes can be stored separately.

Simplex Channels

Common VHF and UHF simplex frequencies can be organized into their own group.

Emergency Communications

Locally appropriate emergency and public-service channels can be programmed according to applicable amateur-radio rules and local communications plans.

A well-organized memory system can make the radio much easier to use.

Mobile Performance

The DB35-UV makes a lot of sense as a vehicle radio.

Its 35-watt output provides a substantial increase over a handheld transceiver, while the compact chassis helps simplify installation.

The biggest performance improvement will generally come from combining the radio with a good external antenna.

A properly installed dual-band antenna mounted in a favorable location can make a tremendous difference.

A magnetic-mount antenna can be convenient for temporary installations, while a permanently mounted antenna can provide a more robust long-term solution.

For serious mobile operation, antenna placement should be given at least as much attention as the radio itself.

Home Station Use

Although the DB35-UV is marketed as a mobile radio, there is no reason it cannot serve as the centerpiece of a small VHF/UHF home station.

With an appropriate power supply and outdoor antenna, the radio can become a useful local communications station.

This can be an attractive option for someone who does not need HF capability but wants dependable VHF/UHF communications.

A home operator could use it for:

• Local repeater communications
• VHF simplex
• UHF simplex
• Community communications
• Weather monitoring
• Amateur radio club activities
• Emergency communications
• Public-service events

The radio can also serve as a useful secondary station alongside an HF transceiver.

Emergency Communications

The DB35-UV has considerable potential as an emergency communications radio.

The combination of dual-band operation, 35 watts of power and a detachable control head makes it suitable for vehicle-based emergency communications.

During a power outage or other emergency, a properly equipped vehicle can become a useful communications platform.

An operator could have the radio connected to an external antenna, powered by the vehicle electrical system and used to access local repeaters or simplex networks.

It can also be incorporated into a dedicated emergency communications box.

For preparedness-minded amateur radio operators, this is an appealing characteristic.

The radio isn't a complete emergency communications system by itself, however.

A serious emergency setup should also include backup power, spare fuses, suitable coaxial cable, antenna options, backup communication methods and a way to operate if the vehicle becomes unavailable.

Power Requirements

Like other mobile transceivers, the DB35-UV needs a suitable DC power source capable of supplying the necessary current during transmission.

A vehicle battery and charging system normally provide the required power for mobile operation.

For home use, the radio should be paired with an appropriate regulated DC power supply.

One advantage of a 35-watt radio is that it doesn't require the same level of power infrastructure as a high-power HF station.

That makes it easier to integrate into portable and backup-power systems.

For emergency use, operators should consider how long they expect to operate and how much battery capacity will be required.

Receiving generally consumes considerably less power than transmitting, so operating style has a major impact on battery endurance.

Audio Quality

Audio is an important consideration for any mobile transceiver.

The operator needs to clearly hear other stations, particularly when driving or operating in environments with significant background noise.

The DB35-UV's compact design means the speaker arrangement and installation location can have an impact on perceived audio quality.

Mounting the radio or control head where the speaker is not obstructed can help.

For noisy vehicles, an external speaker can also be considered if the installation supports one.

This is one area where installation matters almost as much as the radio itself.

Who Is the DB35-UV Best For?

The Radioddity DB35-UV is particularly well suited to several types of amateur radio operators.

New Amateur Radio Operators

Someone who has earned a Technician license and wants to move beyond a handheld radio may find the DB35-UV appealing.

It provides substantially more output power than a typical handheld while retaining access to the popular VHF and UHF bands.

Mobile Operators

This is perhaps the radio's strongest target audience.

The compact chassis and detachable faceplate make it particularly attractive for vehicle installations.

Emergency Communications Operators

Operators interested in emergency preparedness can use the DB35-UV as part of a larger mobile communications system.

Field Operators

Its compact size makes it practical for temporary communications stations where space and portability are important.

Home VHF/UHF Operators

Someone who primarily uses local repeaters and simplex communications may not need an expensive high-end base station.

The DB35-UV can provide a relatively compact alternative.

Who Might Want Something Else?

The DB35-UV is not going to satisfy every amateur radio operator.

An operator interested primarily in HF DXing, contesting or long-distance HF communications will need a radio designed for those bands.

Likewise, someone who wants maximum transmitter power may prefer a larger 50-watt or 75-watt mobile transceiver.

Operators who want advanced digital networking capabilities should also carefully compare the radio's capabilities with their requirements before purchasing.

The DB35-UV is best understood as a compact VHF/UHF mobile transceiver rather than an all-band communications platform.

Advantages

The DB35-UV has several characteristics that make it attractive.

35-watt output provides substantially more power than a handheld.

Dual-band capability allows access to both VHF and UHF communications.

Detachable faceplate provides installation flexibility.

Compact design makes the radio suitable for vehicles with limited space.

Mobile and base-station versatility allows it to be used in more than one environment.

Emergency communications potential makes it useful as part of a preparedness communications setup.

External antenna compatibility allows the operator to significantly improve performance compared with a handheld antenna.

Potential Disadvantages

There are also some considerations to keep in mind.

The radio's compact size means that the operator needs to become familiar with its controls and menu system.

Programming modern radios can also require some patience, particularly for new operators.

The 35-watt output is useful but isn't equivalent to a high-power mobile transceiver.

And as with every VHF/UHF radio, the antenna installation can have a tremendous effect on real-world performance.

A poor antenna cannot be completely compensated for by additional transmitter power.

Antenna Recommendations

If you purchase a DB35-UV, don't overlook the antenna.

A good dual-band antenna can dramatically improve the usefulness of the radio.

For vehicle installations, a quality roof-mounted dual-band antenna is an excellent choice when permanent installation is practical.

For temporary installations, a magnetic-mount antenna may be more convenient.

For home stations, an outdoor vertical antenna mounted as high and clear as practical can provide much better coverage than a small indoor antenna.

Coaxial cable should also be selected carefully and installed properly.

The radio, coax and antenna should be considered one complete RF system.

Final Verdict

The Radioddity DB35-UV is an interesting compact mobile transceiver for amateur radio operators who want more power and capability than a handheld without installing a large mobile radio.

Its combination of 35 watts, dual-band VHF/UHF operation and a detachable faceplate gives it considerable flexibility.

The detachable control head is particularly valuable for modern vehicle installations because it allows the operator to separate the controls from the main radio chassis.

For someone building a mobile amateur radio station, an emergency communications vehicle, a compact home VHF/UHF station or a portable field communications system, the DB35-UV deserves serious consideration.

Its greatest strength isn't simply the 35-watt transmitter. It is the combination of useful power, dual-band operation and installation flexibility in a relatively compact package.

As with any amateur radio installation, however, the final performance will depend heavily on the antenna, installation, programming and operating environment.

For operators who primarily need reliable VHF and UHF communications, the Radioddity DB35-UV represents a practical and versatile approach to mobile amateur radio.

See The Radioddity DB35-UV On Amazon!

Icom IC-9700 VHF/UHF/1.2 GHz D-STAR Base Station Transceiver Review

The Icom IC-9700 has earned a reputation as one of the most capable dedicated VHF and UHF amateur radio transceivers available to serious operators. Rather than being simply another FM base station, the IC-9700 is an all-mode, tri-band SDR transceiver designed to cover a remarkable range of amateur radio activities.

It covers the 2-meter, 70-centimeter, and 23-centimeter bands and supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, D-STAR DV, and D-STAR DD. It also includes sophisticated satellite operating capabilities, a real-time spectrum scope, waterfall display, dual-watch operation, full-duplex satellite operation, LAN connectivity, USB connectivity, and an impressive touchscreen interface.

For an operator interested in weak-signal VHF and UHF, amateur satellites, meteor scatter, moonbounce, contesting, D-STAR, digital communications, or simply having an extremely capable VHF/UHF station, the IC-9700 deserves serious consideration.

Overview

The IC-9700 occupies an interesting position in the amateur radio market. Most modern HF transceivers include VHF and UHF capabilities, but those radios generally do not provide the same depth of functionality on the higher-frequency bands.

The IC-9700 was designed specifically around VHF, UHF, and 23 cm operation.

The U.S. version covers 144-148 MHz, 430-450 MHz, and 1240-1300 MHz. It supports 100 watts on 2 meters, 75 watts on 70 centimeters, and 10 watts on 23 centimeters for SSB, CW, FM, RTTY, DV, and DD operation.

That power arrangement makes considerable sense for the intended applications. Two meters and 70 centimeters are commonly used for terrestrial weak-signal work, contesting, repeater operation, satellite communication, and other activities where additional transmitter power can be useful.

The 23 cm band is a different story. Ten watts is a respectable amount of power from a compact transceiver at 1.2 GHz, and the IC-9700 provides a convenient way to get into 23 cm without requiring a separate transceiver.

Design and Build Quality

The IC-9700 has the familiar appearance of a modern Icom desktop transceiver.

The front panel is dominated by a 4.3-inch color touchscreen. Around the display are physical controls and buttons that provide direct access to many frequently used functions. A large tuning knob occupies the right side of the radio.

The overall design will be immediately familiar to anyone who has operated an Icom IC-7300 or other recent Icom SDR.

The radio measures approximately 9.4 inches wide, 3.7 inches high, and 9.4 inches deep, with a weight of approximately 10.4 pounds. It requires a 13.8-volt DC power source and can draw substantial current when transmitting at full power.

This is definitely a desktop base-station radio rather than a handheld or lightweight portable rig.

The construction feels appropriate for a serious station. The controls are substantial, the display is easy to see, and the combination of touchscreen and physical controls works particularly well during normal operation.

The SDR Architecture

One of the most important features of the IC-9700 is its SDR architecture.

The radio uses RF direct sampling on 144 and 430/440 MHz. On 1200 MHz, Icom uses a down-conversion IF sampling architecture.

That distinction is important because the IC-9700 isn't simply an old-style VHF/UHF superheterodyne transceiver with a modern display attached.

Digital signal processing plays a major role throughout the receiver and transmitter.

The result is a radio capable of providing excellent filtering, spectrum visualization, noise reduction, signal management, and other digital functions.

For operators who have become accustomed to the flexibility of modern SDR HF transceivers, the IC-9700 brings much of that experience to VHF and UHF.

The Spectrum Scope and Waterfall

One of the first features many operators notice is the spectrum scope.

The scope provides a visual representation of activity around the operating frequency. Instead of tuning blindly across the band looking for signals, the operator can see signals appearing on the display.

The waterfall adds another dimension by showing activity over time.

This can be extremely useful during contests or weak-signal operating.

For example, an operator monitoring a portion of the 2-meter SSB band can watch the waterfall for signals that might otherwise be difficult to locate by tuning alone.

The scope can also be useful when searching for satellite signals, monitoring repeater activity, or looking for weak stations.

For weak-signal enthusiasts, this feature alone can make the IC-9700 feel dramatically more modern than older VHF/UHF multimode radios.

The Receiver

The receiver is arguably one of the strongest reasons to purchase an IC-9700.

VHF and UHF operators often deal with very different conditions from HF operators. A weak signal may be only a few kilohertz away from a very strong signal. Contest locations can contain large numbers of transmitters operating simultaneously. Satellites can present rapidly changing signal levels.

A receiver needs more than simply good sensitivity.

It also needs selectivity and dynamic range.

The IC-9700 has demonstrated strong performance in these areas. The ARRL product review specifically highlighted its ability to receive weak signals while maintaining good dynamic-range performance.

That makes the radio particularly interesting for serious VHF and UHF operators.

Weak-Signal VHF Operation

The IC-9700 is an excellent match for operators interested in 2-meter SSB.

While FM dominates casual 2-meter operation, SSB opens an entirely different side of amateur radio.

With a suitable directional antenna and favorable conditions, operators can work stations much farther away than they might expect from ordinary FM operation.

The IC-9700 provides the power, filtering, receiver performance, and spectrum display needed for this type of operating.

It is particularly well suited to:

2-meter SSB

2-meter contesting

Weak-signal contacts

Meteor scatter

Tropospheric propagation

EME

Portable hilltop operation

VHF DX

Contest station operation

The 100-watt output on 2 meters is another major advantage.

For operators coming from a typical 50-watt VHF transceiver, the additional output can provide a useful increase in signal strength, although antenna height, antenna gain, feed-line quality, and propagation remain extremely important.

70-Centimeter Operation

The 70-centimeter band receives the same attention from the IC-9700.

The radio provides up to 75 watts on 70 centimeters for most major operating modes.

That makes it useful for both local and long-distance UHF work.

70 centimeters is particularly interesting for operators who enjoy weak-signal work because the band can support serious DX under favorable propagation conditions.

The IC-9700 also makes an excellent satellite radio because many amateur satellites use combinations of 2 meters and 70 centimeters.

23-Centimeter Operation

The inclusion of 23 cm is one of the features that really separates the IC-9700 from many competing amateur radios.

The 23-centimeter amateur band is 1240-1300 MHz in the U.S. version, and the IC-9700 provides up to 10 watts of output on the band.

23 cm is a fascinating part of amateur radio.

It offers opportunities for:

Weak-signal contacts

Point-to-point communication

Satellite work

Moonbounce

Digital experimentation

High-gain antenna experiments

Microwave-oriented amateur radio projects

The biggest challenge is that 23 cm requires considerably more attention to feed-line loss, antenna construction, connectors, and system design.

At 1.2 GHz, poor-quality coaxial cable can introduce significant losses.

Fortunately, the IC-9700 gives an operator a relatively simple entry point into the band.

Instead of purchasing separate equipment for 23 cm, the operator gets all three bands in one radio.

D-STAR

D-STAR is one of the defining features of the IC-9700.

The radio supports D-STAR Digital Voice as well as Digital Data operation. Icom also includes D-STAR gateway-related functionality that can allow the radio to function in Terminal or Access Point modes under supported configurations.

For operators already involved with D-STAR, this makes the IC-9700 considerably more attractive.

D-STAR can provide clear digital voice communication while also allowing connectivity through D-STAR repeater and gateway systems.

The radio's Digital Voice capabilities also integrate nicely with its other operating functions.

Dual D-STAR Receive

Another particularly interesting feature is dual D-STAR reception.

The IC-9700 can decode two D-STAR voice streams simultaneously under supported dual-receive configurations. Icom lists dual D-STAR receive among the radio's capabilities.

This can be extremely useful for an operator monitoring two digital channels.

For example, one receiver can monitor a local D-STAR repeater while another watches a different frequency.

Satellite Operation

Satellite operation is another area where the IC-9700 stands out.

The radio includes a dedicated satellite mode with extensive memory support. Icom specifies up to 99 satellite memory channels.

The satellite mode is designed to simplify the process of working amateur satellites.

Instead of manually adjusting the uplink and downlink frequencies independently, the radio can coordinate the frequencies as the satellite moves through the pass.

This makes satellite operation considerably easier.

The IC-9700 can also operate in full duplex, allowing the operator to listen to the satellite downlink while transmitting on the uplink.

That is a major advantage for satellite operators.

Being able to hear the downlink while transmitting is extremely useful because the operator can immediately determine whether the signal is making it through.

Satellite enthusiasts should also appreciate the large display and spectrum scope.

The combination makes it much easier to identify activity during a busy satellite pass.

Full-Duplex Operation

Full-duplex operation is one of the IC-9700's particularly important capabilities.

For satellite work, full duplex means the operator can transmit on one frequency while simultaneously receiving the other.

This is especially valuable when working satellites using separate uplink and downlink frequencies.

The IC-9700 can also perform dual-watch functions, although there are limitations regarding which band combinations can be monitored simultaneously. Icom's specifications identify full-duplex operation and dual-watch capabilities among the radio's features.

For serious satellite operators, this capability should be high on the list of features to consider.

Digital Data

The IC-9700 isn't limited to voice communication.

The radio supports D-STAR Digital Data, including DD operation on 23 cm. Icom specifies a 128 kbps data capability for DD mode.

This opens the door to experimentation beyond traditional voice communication.

Digital data operation is particularly interesting for amateur radio operators who enjoy combining radio with computers, networking, and experimentation.

Computer Connectivity

The IC-9700 includes USB and LAN connectivity.

This is increasingly important in modern amateur radio.

A computer can be integrated into the station for logging, digital modes, radio control, firmware management, and other applications.

The LAN connection is particularly useful because it allows the radio to become part of a network-connected station.

Operators interested in remote operation can also take advantage of Icom's broader network and remote-control ecosystem.

The radio's LAN interface and associated software support make it much more suitable for modern station integration than many older VHF/UHF transceivers.

Digital Modes

Although the IC-9700 is heavily associated with D-STAR, operators should not overlook its conventional digital-mode capabilities.

The radio supports RTTY and data operation, while its USB connectivity makes computer-based digital communication much easier to integrate.

Modern software can also be used for modes such as FT8 and other weak-signal digital applications.

This is particularly interesting on 2 meters and 70 centimeters, where digital weak-signal operation can provide an entirely different way of making contacts.

The ability to combine an SDR-based radio with computer software makes the IC-9700 a flexible experimental platform.

Controls and Touchscreen

The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is one of the radio's most noticeable features.

Icom uses an interface similar to the one found on the IC-7300.

For operators already familiar with the IC-7300, the transition to the IC-9700 is relatively straightforward because many controls and menus have a similar philosophy.

The touchscreen doesn't replace all physical controls.

Instead, the radio combines touchscreen menus with dedicated knobs and buttons.

That is an excellent approach for a base station.

Menus can handle advanced functions while frequently used controls remain immediately accessible.

Audio

The built-in audio system is perfectly adequate for normal amateur radio operation.

For serious weak-signal operators, however, headphones or a quality external speaker may be preferable.

Audio quality becomes especially important during long weak-signal sessions.

When listening to a station that is only barely above the noise floor, the ability to customize filtering and audio output can make a significant difference.

The IC-9700 offers extensive receiver filtering and DSP features that help operators tailor the receiver to different modes.

Memory System

The IC-9700 provides extensive memory capabilities.

The U.S. specifications list 297 simplex memory channels, 18 programmable scan-edge channels, six call channels, 99 satellite memories, and a large number of memories associated with the DR function.

That gives operators plenty of room for storing:

Local repeaters

D-STAR repeaters

Simplex frequencies

Contest frequencies

Satellite frequencies

Calling frequencies

Favorite monitoring channels

Digital frequencies

Having a well-organized memory system can make a significant difference in everyday operation.

Antennas and Connections

One of the advantages of the IC-9700 is that it provides separate antenna connections for the three frequency ranges.

The radio uses an SO-239 connector for 144 MHz and Type-N connectors for the 430/440 and 1200 MHz connections.

The use of Type-N connectors for the higher-frequency connections is a sensible design choice.

At 70 centimeters and especially 23 centimeters, connector quality and feed-line construction become increasingly important.

A high-quality radio cannot compensate for a poor antenna system.

An operator buying an IC-9700 should budget for good coaxial cable, appropriate connectors, and a properly designed antenna system.

The Antenna Makes the Station

This point deserves emphasis.

Buying an expensive transceiver does not automatically create an effective VHF/UHF station.

The antenna system may be even more important.

For 2 meters, a good vertical antenna can provide excellent local coverage, while a horizontally polarized directional antenna can be much better for weak-signal SSB.

For 70 centimeters, antenna gain becomes particularly valuable.

For 23 centimeters, feed-line loss and antenna efficiency become even more important.

Operators purchasing the IC-9700 should think about the entire station rather than just the transceiver.

Power Supply Requirements

The IC-9700 operates from a nominal 13.8-volt DC supply.

The U.S. specifications indicate less than 18 amps of transmit consumption at high power.

A quality regulated power supply with sufficient current capacity is therefore essential.

It is not a good idea to pair a high-performance base station with an undersized or poor-quality power supply.

For a permanent shack installation, a reliable 25-amp-class or larger amateur-radio power supply provides reasonable headroom, depending on the rest of the station and operating requirements.

Portable Operation

Although the IC-9700 is clearly designed as a desktop radio, it can be taken into the field.

Its approximately 10.4-pound weight isn't unreasonable for portable contesting or hilltop operations, although it isn't a lightweight backpacking radio.

For VHF and UHF contesters, however, portability can be very useful.

A portable station placed on a hill or other elevated location can dramatically improve VHF/UHF performance.

Pair the IC-9700 with a directional antenna, mast, rotator, battery system, and appropriate feed line, and it can become an extremely capable portable weak-signal station.

Contesting

The IC-9700 is an excellent contest radio.

VHF and UHF contests can be very different from HF contests.

Operators frequently work stations based on distance, grid square, propagation, antenna height, and directional antennas.

The spectrum scope provides an important advantage because the operator can quickly identify activity.

The receiver's ability to handle strong signals is also valuable during contests when multiple stations may be operating nearby.

For a serious VHF/UHF contest station, the IC-9700 is an extremely attractive choice.

EME and Weak-Signal Work

Earth-Moon-Earth, commonly called moonbounce or EME, represents one of the most technically challenging areas of amateur radio.

The goal is to bounce radio signals off the Moon and receive the incredibly weak returning signals.

The IC-9700's combination of receiver performance, SDR technology, spectrum display, filtering, and high-frequency coverage makes it well suited to experimental EME work.

Of course, the radio is only one part of an EME station.

A serious EME installation generally requires high-gain antennas, excellent feed systems, precise frequency control, significant transmit power, and careful station design.

The IC-9700 provides a very capable foundation.

Remote Operation

Another strength of the IC-9700 is its suitability for station automation and remote operation.

The LAN connection allows the radio to communicate with a network, while Icom provides software and documentation supporting computer control and remote operation.

This can be useful for operators who want their radio located in a dedicated shack while controlling it from another computer.

Remote operation can also be attractive for contest stations and home stations where the antenna and radio equipment are located away from the operator's primary workspace.

Firmware

Modern SDR radios are increasingly dependent on firmware.

The IC-9700 is no exception.

Icom has continued to provide firmware updates for the radio, including updates affecting digital-mode operation. Icom's current product information specifically notes improvements for FT8 operation and additional functionality.

This is an important advantage over older radios.

The capability of a modern SDR can improve over time through firmware updates.

Potential Weaknesses

No radio is perfect, and the IC-9700 has some limitations.

First, it is expensive compared with a conventional VHF/UHF FM radio.

If your primary goal is simply talking through local repeaters, buying an IC-9700 may be excessive.

A much less expensive dual-band radio can handle ordinary repeater communication.

The IC-9700 makes sense when you actually intend to use its advanced capabilities.

The second issue is complexity.

There are many functions packed into the radio.

A new operator may initially find the menus overwhelming.

The solution is simply to learn the radio gradually.

Start with FM and basic VFO operation.

Then learn the memory system.

Next learn the spectrum scope.

After that, explore SSB, digital modes, D-STAR, and satellite operation.

The third limitation is 23 cm output power.

Ten watts is respectable, but operators interested in serious 23 cm DX, EME, or other specialized applications may eventually want an external amplifier.

That isn't necessarily a criticism of the radio.

At 1.2 GHz, external amplification and specialized antennas are common parts of advanced stations.

Who Should Buy the IC-9700?

The IC-9700 is particularly well suited to several types of amateur radio operators.

VHF/UHF DXers

If you enjoy chasing distant stations, unusual propagation, and weak-signal contacts, the IC-9700 is an excellent choice.

Satellite Operators

The dedicated satellite features and full-duplex capability make it one of the most appealing choices for serious satellite enthusiasts.

D-STAR Operators

If D-STAR is an important part of your amateur radio activities, the IC-9700 provides an unusually complete base-station platform.

VHF/UHF Contesters

The receiver, spectrum scope, output power, and multi-band capabilities make it extremely attractive for contesting.

Experimenters

The SDR architecture, computer connectivity, digital modes, D-STAR data capabilities, and 23 cm coverage provide a tremendous playground for experimentation.

Established Base Stations

Operators who already have HF equipment and want a dedicated VHF/UHF station will find the IC-9700 particularly appealing.

Who Should Skip It?

If all you want is a basic repeater radio, the IC-9700 is probably more radio than you need.

If you primarily operate FM from your vehicle, a mobile radio is a more appropriate solution.

If you only occasionally use VHF and UHF, spending money on a high-end tri-band SDR may not provide much benefit.

The IC-9700 is best appreciated by operators who actually intend to explore the capabilities it provides.

Final Verdict

The Icom IC-9700 is much more than a high-end VHF/UHF base station.

It is a complete amateur radio platform built around three important bands: 2 meters, 70 centimeters, and 23 centimeters.

Its combination of SDR technology, excellent receiver performance, spectrum scope, waterfall display, touchscreen controls, high power on 2 meters and 70 centimeters, 23 cm operation, D-STAR, digital data, satellite functions, full-duplex capability, USB, LAN connectivity, and computer integration makes it one of the most versatile dedicated VHF/UHF transceivers available.

The radio's greatest strength is its flexibility.

One day it can be used as a traditional 2-meter FM base station.

The next day it can be used for 2-meter SSB weak-signal work.

Another day it can become a satellite station.

It can also be used for D-STAR, digital modes, 70-centimeter DX, 23-centimeter experimentation, contesting, meteor scatter, or even advanced EME projects.

That versatility is what makes the IC-9700 special.

For the casual operator who only needs a repeater radio, the price and complexity are difficult to justify.

For the serious amateur radio operator who wants to explore everything VHF and UHF have to offer, however, the IC-9700 is an outstanding investment.

It is particularly difficult to find another single desktop radio that combines this many VHF, UHF, 23 cm, satellite, SDR, and D-STAR capabilities into one package.

Overall Rating

Build Quality: Excellent

Receiver Performance: Excellent

Transmitter Performance: Excellent

2-Meter Capability: Excellent

70-Centimeter Capability: Excellent

23-Centimeter Capability: Excellent

D-STAR: Excellent

Satellite Operation: Excellent

Weak-Signal Operation: Excellent

Spectrum Scope: Excellent

Computer Connectivity: Excellent

Ease of Use: Very Good

Value for Advanced Operators: Excellent

Value for Casual FM Operators: Fair

Overall: 9.5/10

The Icom IC-9700 is one of those radios that can grow with the operator. You can begin with basic FM operation and gradually discover more advanced features as your interests develop. For anyone serious about VHF, UHF, 23 cm, satellites, weak-signal work, D-STAR, and digital experimentation, the IC-9700 is a radio that can provide years of operating opportunities.

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