NEW! VHF/UHF Bluetooth Ham Radio, VGC VR-N7500, APP Programmable

[@HamRadioConcepts]

Easy to conceal in the mobile as well..

[@jluellen91]

This is pretty awesome, the fact that the radio can interface with Bluetooth being native - it opens a whole new world of maker/hacker possibilities. Store a list of radio frequencies and GPS locations of the repeaters, easily populate all of the repeaters near by, regardless of whether you know about them or not e.g. cross country road trip, NEVER HAVE TO PROGRAM A NEW REPEATER AGAIN... Allow the app to track your GPS location, push your location to "the cloud" and everyone can see other people running the same radio. Add another receiver to it, tuned to APRS, and work as a mobile APRS relay easily. Better yet, if you receive an APRS beacon, but your cell phone doesn't have cellular signal, simply relay the beacon - instantly create a larger footprint for APRS...

[@neosentry]

If they release a CarPlay app for this thing, it’ll a be the perfect VHF\UHF mobile ring. ... it’s not far off now, truth be told.

[@teknowil]

i have an android car radio with a 10 inch display this would work great

[@TedZarcone]

It's part way there now, you can use the car radio in Android auto/carplay to listen and transmit over the radio. Now if you can get the app on the car radio that would be perfect.

[@WW5RM]

If its a android device why won't it work?

[@TedZarcone]

@@WW5RM it's basically up to the developer. I have scanner radio pro on my car radio, didn't know it was an option to it just showed up automatically. Anything installed on your phone that is Android auto compatible shows up automatically. Hope they either create an app for it or release the APIs so someone can develop an app for Android auto. Now if you root your phone I believe there is a way to do it manually.

[@WW5RM]

@@TedZarcone so CarPlay is a os?

[@grantmcduling9760]

I just love the way amateur radio is evolving. Thanks for keeping us up to date, Eric. Grant VK4JAZ

[@scotthill6807]

This would make for a very clean installation in a vehicle.

[@johnnykeeton8369]

I had my doubts about this radio but after watching your video I decided to purchase it. I am happy so far and I am using it as my new uhf/vhf base station. Thanks for all the videos you post they have helped me get into the hobby.

[@CtPirate]

Thanks HRC you cost me $550 for TWO RIGS!!! I needed to go with the bluetooth mic for the second vehicle. LOL

[@geraldcampbell6834]

This would be cool to connect to one of those aftermarket double din android car stereos!

[@HamRadioConcepts]

I thought of the same thing. The Android double DIN.

[@NelsonReyesJr]

Great idea!

[@andrewfisher1051]

I was thinking the same thing, and wonder if the manufacturer was thinking that way as well

[@DavidS-iw4ei]

I hope to have the radio today. I'll try it out on my Android car radio and the Anysecu W2Plus.

[@DavidS-iw4ei]

Works great on my Anysecu W2 Plus network radio.. The Bluetooth on my Android car radio is giving me problems. The app works fine. Join the network works great. I made a group called US Travel.

[@LeoStarrenburg]

Installed one on my motorcycle using a Samsung Galaxy J1 phone and the VGC app to switch channels etc. It works fb with my helmet comms, made a wired PTT as the supplied BT one isn't great imho. Also have the bluetooth -75 speaker/mic and the -78 'HT', but I found the phone most practical when on the road. I have no idea of maximum no. of channels but I haven't run out of space to date. No VFO as far as I know, but I use it on the road so the channels are fine for me.

[@mitchellpurelife]

I like it. Would love for it to be in my Christmas stocking! The Bluetooth connectivity with a smartphone app make the possibilities endless!

[@jones76048]

I would be interested to see if they can support any digital modes other than APRS

[@N0SSC]

I’ve been complaining about the lack of smart tech in radios, but I think totally blowing away the front control panel is a bridge too far for a mobile ham radio. But I still want it badly.

[@94Gidge]

@Jason Bowman don't know if you can get them in the states but GME have had a UHF out for about 3 years now that is exactly that. It has a display mic for every day use and Bluetooth connection for setting. But because of the more restrictive laws in Australia it's only 5 watt transmit power and anything but the standard band (477 mhz) is receive only

[@trifishtri]

This could make an interesting setup for hiking / camping. Have it in a pack and use your phone to change channels without digging around. Once you setup camp you have a pretty legitimate setup. Think SINCGARS Radio with Bluetooth controls on your phone.

[@carlossantini3605]

Thanx Eric for the review, it would be nice to see a DMR version in the market.

[@snake_eyes_garage]

I agree. It is already a connected radio so not sure why not DMR. As it is, interesting. Plus DMR, compelling. But who knows what the transmit and receive quality, or longevity is. Looks cool though.

[@TedZarcone]

Yes DMR would be really nice. I wonder if this can be added at a later date since it is app based. Don't know too much about it DMR honestly, first HT coming this Tuesday with DMR (AT-D878UV). Saw this in my searches and almost bought this radio first lol. Now might get this second. KC3IGM.

[@stevenbrannen1568]

I like this radio. I have an older car that is a convertible. It is true most people would not like the car but i do. The great thing about this radio is i can put it in and it would not be seen.

[@leo2944]

Imagine if you can use android auto or apple car play on these, will be a revolution

[@jasonbuildsstuff]

Tinkering with one of these now, thanks for the review. Good job, as always.

[@kb9oak749]

Really interesting bit of kit. Would like to see the APRS and maybe some mobile ops? 73!

[@OZ6JO]

Search for the Tech Minds review of the same radio. 73 - de OZ6JO (got the radio 2 days ago.)

[@MyTube4Utoo]

I love gadgets, and that radio is pretty gadgety.

[@TMS5100]

Just the thing to anger all the fudds. I love it! They're still raging since morse code got removed from the tests. APRS? Bluetooth? All the fudds colostomy bags will explode!

[@b4a9ksy]

Try not to be a D-Bag your whole life.

[@gmctech]

omg.... a black box with blinky LEDs !!!!!!..... must have! this is going on my motorcycle.... it's the answer to all my prayers!

[@wm6h]

Be interested to see the API available over Bluetooth. I’d write my own app. Maybe ESP32 with a gps.

[@brianrose2487]

Enjoy the new gear idea's! Great video!

[@dwayne5530]

If that was DMR I would be interested and sold. I have an old phone that I could use for the face. Mount the main unit under a seat and use a RJ45 connector if I needed to make the mic cable longer. Plenty of places I can mount the old phone that wouldn't be in the way. If someone made that type of radio I bet it would be a big seller but just as a VHF/UHF not sure I'd be a buyer.

[@sramsdellwdm]

The hell with dmr.

[@seanyouknowwho798]

A lot of great features in this radio! Seems to be a great quality build too. But seems like it might not be suitable for an emergency use yet. One reason is that if you are activated for a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), it is common to have someone assigned to setup all CERT radios with set programming specs (freq, offset, channel, etc.). CHIRP and other software can do this very quickly, relatively speaking compared to the radio in your video. Second reason not for emergency use is you now have another device to carry around to support the radio....your phone or tablet. Along with that is the need to provide power and maintain that phone or tablet, likely having different charging cords (Android vs Apple), need to know each phones settings to get Bluetooth link to radio, etc. A simple baofeng radio will be much easier for emergency use with ability to have common programming support and no user specific equipment issues. While not as much an issue, but for club communication events, similar concerns could arise. Have supported parades and other community events with ham radio communications and such issues did arise in those situations as well. All that said, technology can evolve and likely will overcome some of these issues over time as the developers better understand how the radio can be used.

[@8vRocco]

I will be tuned for part two! I was actually looking at purchasing the mobilinkd TNC for APRS but now I am going to hold on for part two of this has a TNC built in it.

[@tabineshhtc]

Very few people using their tablet upside-down.

[@thomaslange2262]

Does it do cross band repeat? That would make it an amazing value if so.

[@caseyl3631]

Thanks for reviewing! I would like to see how well it works when you're phone isn't hooked up. Like how quickly can you mute or turn down the volume, does it remember what frequency it was on last or does it default to like ch1 or something. Because although the phone app is nice, I'm sure it's slow to connect over BT and for reliability and emergency, I want something that works without a lot of fuss. I ldont mind the fuss when not in emergency. Also, This thing is a software upgrade away from working with the repeater book app like my 857d. Man that'd be slick!! Thanks again!!!

[@jonb3902]

Works just fine without being connected. Memory up/down and volume from the mic. BT connects rather quickly.

[@davidyarbrough6922]

I WANT THAT RADIO! Its exactly what im looking for to fill the gap in my emcom box im building! That an a micro size cb radio and i am set! Wow thanx for this video. Gonna have to put life insurance on my dogs so when theyre gone ill have the money to get that.

[@HamRadioConcepts]

Micro CB video is almost done

[@AdventureWithDanan]

This looks great! I think this’ll be perfect for what I want to do and the limited dash space I’ve got.

[@wassman27]

Look forward to part 2. I wonder if it can transmit APRS or just recieve. If it can do both it would make a perfect Moto rig.

[@jonb3902]

Also transmits and can function as a digipeater.

[@wassman27]

@@jonb3902 you know of any videos showing this?

[@DialM4Microcontrollr]

Great! High, medium, and low transmit power, what are they? May get one

[@CtPirate]

Can't wait to see part 2, I'm ready to pull the trigger

[@CripSkillz]

Do it mine showed up in like 4 days

[@CtPirate]

@@CripSkillz Ok I got mine today! Dam I hope this is all I think it will be, if so I'm going for a second one for the other vehicle but will do a bluetooth mike for total stealth mode

[@CripSkillz]

@@CtPirate it's working great I am deff liking it have fun I know you will

[@CtPirate]

@@CripSkillz Bad ass man, just so you know you cost me $500+ for two rigs grrrrr

[@CripSkillz]

@@CtPirate dammmm man I only spent 216 lol no ptt

[@marty64thornton]

I still have my relistic htx 202 2miter radio

[@davidsradioroom9678]

This is an interesting concept. I can see some advantages and disadvantages using Bluetooth. Let's see how this concept plays out.

[@DavidS-iw4ei]

Great Info. Like you said. Should be great on my Motorcycle or hide it in my wife's car. But I heard an Internet rumor out of the UK. That the AnyTone Mobile might have a Bluetooth app to control the radio..

[@Catbert814]

I have a android head unit so this is perfect

[@topcritter]

Eric, that radio looks cool. I think I definitely would find interest in it as I grow in the whole Ham Hobby. I'm still an infant in the learning curve. As far as a part "Two",...yeah sure, sounds great. Would like to see in practice. P.S. i'm still waiting for part "three"on the GMRS video. LOL

[@HamRadioConcepts]

ok ok, LOL, I'll get back to the GMRS. haha

[@MarkyShaw]

I think it's a pretty neat idea for sure. I read on their website that depending on your car, it can also use your car's centralized display which would be super rad too. Not sure what dictates that. Either way, I think it's an affordable option for folks that want touchscreen control and already own a tablet. Still cheaper than an FTM-400 and even the crappiest tablet has a better touchscreen than that thing.

[@StraightOuttaUrbex]

Awesome bit of kit can I set it up to cross band from Zello to analogue as a cross band

[@ship-west176]

A little concerned with the requirement for an app. What happens if the app goes away in a few years? There could be a more generic web based interface. Maybe with an up-down volume & channel control on the microphone, how often do you need other controls. Like the magnetic Mike attachment, no metal in the car, just add an attachment point, no special hangar needed.

[@ngreed]

Looks like a cool radio. APRS features next please!

[@Muirtty]

Very cool. I think this will catch on. I'm still a little shy about the quality of the rf circuits and the known shortcomings of Chinese radios. Is the receiver good? How about intermod and selectivity?

[@mdouble100]

Very interesting radio, thanks very much for sharing. I'm just in the process of installing my ICOM IC-2300H in my new/old Ford Ranger. With limited cabin space having a small transcever tucked up under a seat, offering hands free operation would be ideal. I'm wondering now why ICOM, Yaesu or Kenwood have not offered such a mobile radio. In this era where distracted driving is such a big issue, the timing for the introduction of such a radio would seem seems perfect.

[@b4a9ksy]

If your pad goes down then you lose comms too? It's a good idea but it should have at least a small screen on it as a back-up.

[@chrisdick9860]

that would also make a cool radio to talk on GMRS repeaters from home as i use an android based desktop computer

[@Drekkag]

Also would like to see someone do a spectral purity test with this. Make sure we don't pollute our air waves with the unneeded harmonics.

[@kckoellein]

I appreciate you for saying this... but... LOL what's the use anymore. That battle was lost a lonnnnnnng time ago. The FCC is a lame duck.

[@jonb3902]

It's FCC certified so it's been done.

[@kennethherring2918]

If you can Channel up or down with the Mic, that's great. However, in a mobile situation I would think it would distract the driver if he/she has to use the mobile app to change channels. In other words, it seems to me that it would be just as distracting as making a phone call with a smart phone as you drive. But then again - I could be wrong.

[@spokehedz]

I wonder if the firmware is limiting this... if there is an SDR inside that might do more than the stock firmware lets you.

[@slosolo2]

In video 2 can you please clarify that the App works without data. I'd like to use this with an old android phone that doesn't have any service plan and therefore only wifi connection to the internet.

[@JReed305]

I want to see operation with a Bluetooth headset. Think this would be an awesome rig for my motorcycle.

[@CripSkillz]

I could probably try it have my Bluetooth earbuds w mic hummm

[@JReed305]

@@CripSkillz I am wondering if it would work with a Sena

[@wc3sam]

I think the aprs only uses aprs.fi but it receives from web and radio I would love to see packet software for radio so we could talk to the ISS.

[@JosephMassimino]

They charge $9.95 to use Paypal, but give no other choices to pay. shipping does not appear, so it looks like shipping to Florida is zero dollars. They need to improve their web site and give people the ability to see shipping, and if it is zero, tell them so. The only way to know is to go to Paypal checkout and see what they submit for payment. The bluetooth button is and option and it brings the price up over $200 by a little. It's too bad it does not have DMR. I have so many analog radios, and the Only thing that would push me to buy it would be a digital mode, either DMR, or Dstar. Then I wonder what it would put on the screen if you accessed a Openspot2? I have the CS800D, and the big display when Connect Systems sold it for $150.00, It is rather nice. Too bad Jerry does not let hams program the display output. We have a lot of talented ham programmers that could do some amazing programming. Jerry Wagner, if you are reading this, make the big display programming open source.

[@dwayne5530]

Yeah I'm not a fan of the color scheme or fonts used on the big display. Third party programmers could do a good job making the UI look modern

[@robertchambers5821]

Awesome Video!!! When connected to APRS and a bi-directional iGate, will the data from other stations be shown on the Table/Phone with out using the wireless internet? Is it possible to add an external GPS? Table/Phone GPS isn't as accurate as a dedicated GPS antenna. Will it be capable of using EchoLink? I'm assuming they are able to upgrade the radio as it's an SDR. 8P6RC

[@skylerwelch1129]

My phone has a dual connect feature. Can I pair with the VGC VR-N7500 while also paired to my vehicle and listen music? Thanks!

[@thuff3207]

it’s definitely interesting and a good idea.

[@Schollergrott]

I recently bought the VGC handheld, also built in Bluetooth. But doesn't connect with my car. So, you always need an extra headset or BT microphone. BUT: the headset can't do the PTT, you need the extra PTT-BTT for 20 dollars. WTF? Should I give the 7500 a chance? My Yaesu FT-M 500 works with my headset perfectly, but doesn't connect to my car too. That's really poor these days. I suppose the BT-protocols are to old... WHERE CAN I FIND THE OTHER VIDEOS ABOUT THE VGC 7500?

[@WB-Brown]

Imagine if this radio's app linked up with apple car play or android auto. Then it would be seen on the main screen of the vehicle. Then using the speakers and mic from the car using the little PTT button, I might be interested then.

[@troyr57]

Seams like a good idea, hopefully someone can figure it out.

[@TedZarcone]

Can use BT with Android auto and carplay to listen and transmit through car radio now. Just can't see the app through the display. Can even use the included PTT button that is BT to let the car radio mic. I would think since there is an app for both IOS and Android an app for the radio could be done in future as well that would be really nice.

[@hotforit]

Seems like a natural for a GoBox. KB1ZYI

[@alaintaveau6833]

Interesting device.Thanks for the video.👍

[@majsingh]

This is very interesting. I could think of a few use cases already. Do you have any stats on the amount of memory slots and banks available?

[@MarceloXQ6BQ]

Interesting! I would like to know it the APRS features are already included, or how can you make them work.

[@robertgammons173]

Eric, lets pop the top off that radio and take a look inside!

[@VK9TOM]

Looks like a fun toy to play with 73s Tom VK3FTOM

[@TheBnjmnlrd]

Love it. Can anyone confirm that iOS has been updated with other functions?

[@wwhitby]

Very interesting concept!

[@NexxuSix]

Makes me wonder if it’s full or half duplex? It looks like a good candidate for satellite work. All of your Sat tracking apps and interface on one device. Thoughts?

[@fred-283]

Which power steps are there? I hope, it does not always transmit 50W only...

[@inmyopinion_3672]

It's a cool concept, but it needs a face plate so that you don't HAVE to use a device. It would be really easy to have a blue tooth face kit. As is, if your phone dies your radio dies.

[@daniellavoie8379]

This would be a perfect radio to place under the dash of a Jeep Wrangler that's opened to the environment with no doors nor roof. Is the mic IP67 rated?

[@pasixty6510]

Looks like a great radio. I want to have one. But is there a CE logo on it for legal use in Europe ?

[@billtr96sn]

I want to see it in the UK, looks good to me

[@jtr82369]

This is awesome & a great price

[@bulldogbrower6732]

Eric, I know there is software for a tablet or a phone. Is the software for a windows PC ?

[@jamieb9556]

So be cool use the app to talk through the thing from a remote location.

[@grigorirasputin5020]

I would use it in the bathroom while sitting on the toilet.

[@joeblow8593]

Can you see if you can send and receive instant messaging, photos and file attachments (all without the internet) ... like packet radio was able to do way back in the day? Thanks!

[@bertrambirle9613]

Would be interested how it works when you connect it to a car bluetooth radio (only the audio).

[@alallan7584]

I love it.... does it have a built in duplexer ?

[@tikicowboy]

Can you use an Android smartphone as the mic? Like with a smartphone or network radio with a push to talk button. This would solve the need for a separate PTT button. Does the app allow you to set this up that way?

[@douglasdreger3852]

This looks very interesting.

[@Geno5]

I am very interested in ham radio. I really want to get into it. It just seems to me that it is a technology that I would compare to a horse and buggy. Correct me if I am wrong, but most Communities are going to digital communications versus UHF? Why should a person get into ham radio today

[@dennisjzim]

What is the frequency range of this radio? Does it receive air band freqs?

[@donaldhiles_k9sgz428]

Very Cool !!! Great price. I want one.

[@noth606]

Main issue here is longevity, or the absolute lack of it. Unless you just dedicate a phone or tablet to it that you never use for anything else that is, because apps lose support on newer OS releases and vice versa so while for some limited applications this might be fine I wouldn't see it as more than a gimmick. A radio is meant to be a standalone thing that you can have and use for a very long time IMO.

[@macandchawi]

will this radio work without the phone with the mobile app present? will someone else without the phone with the app that it is paired with be able to use it stand alone?

[@linaskerbelis5636]

Is it possible to add APRS functionality to it?

[@samblevins1708]

Well that's just cool.

[@apspot800]

Hey there. Does this unit do dual receive at all?

[@Mr_Meowingtons]

yeah i don't know about having to use a tablet if its windows compatible i might think of it...

[@bruehlt]

Checking out their web page.....can't decide between Meal #1 or Meal #2

[@CtPirate]

I have a android head unit in my Jeep and I'd like to see how that works with it. It would be nice and save some valuable real estate on my dash.

[@pawbin9605]

Super - Poland SP9PB 73

[@fdnyfish]

Where did you get it from? Is it available to buy

[@rmetcalf89]

Link is in the description

[@mikeklemens]

www.verotelecom.com/VERO-VR-N7500-50W-Dual-Band-Mobile-Radio-With-APP-Programming-p541441.html

[@WH6FQE]

Very interesting.

[@edongbal51]

great rig. would u mind to share how to buy 1? is it commercially available internationally?

[@gbamck]

m.verotelecom.com/VERO-VR-N7500-50W-Dual-Band-Mobile-Radio-With-APP-Programming-p541441.html

[@indianakid4050]

Okay Eric looks like a pretty interesting rig. But the Bluetooth to the phone or tablet in a vehicle don't think it's a good idea can people be paying attention to their phone or their tablet and not the road

[@NelsonReyesJr]

You set the blue tooth before you move. Just like anything else that takes your eyes off of the road. I think it is a neat radio that has a purpose. Waterproof a box for it and hell you could put it on a jet ski or a small boat. Set it and forget it!

[@asherdie]

No they can't be driving and have anything else going on. We should remove radios, gauges, street signs, advertising billboards and outlaw conversation in vehicles.

[@craigvk2paw17]

I wonder if it will work with apple CarPlay?

[@Drekkag]

Ok radio from China. I couldn't use it as driving all over the U.S. I need a head unit to program on the go and switch channels. I drive a semi and if caught even touching a phone or tablet to even change channels could earn me a ticket. I'll keep to my full function yaesu and icom radios.

[@theking-qe3jc]

Can you cross band repeat over Zello with this radio