Why I Sold My Yaesu FT-817ND

I've gone and done it...I've sold the radio that has been my trusty companion for the past 6 years. Watch this to find out why I moved away from this iconic transceiver.

[@colinzylka]

Thanks for another great video....can’t wait to see the next one on the 703. You always have honest and forthright info when making your videos, plus they’re fun to watch! 73 Colin K7VIZ

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Colin! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@radioactive8772]

I know you will enjoy the 703 its a awesome rig I have two of them. Looking forward to warmer weather and more QRP. Thanks KG7CQG.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment!

[@timg5tm941]

Another enjoyable video! The 703 is another great rig and something tells me your love affair with the 817/818 isn’t quite over yet! 73

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Tim! You're probably right about the 817 😀

[@K9KMVTheUnluckyHam]

I’m lucky enough to own 2 IC-703+ radios. I had one back when I was in the U.K., and then got another one when I moved to the US. I like them and think you will have fun with yours. Looking forward to seeing your next video. K9KMV

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Mike!

[@forgetyourlife]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment 😀

[@davidsradioroom9678]

OK, that was a surprise. I thought you would have gotten something else. I am not familiar with the 703, so I look forward to your videos. 👍

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you!

[@brucecairnie3975]

Since becoming a ham, I’ve learned of all the growing edges of the hobby. Enjoy your next learning adventure, Tracy, and I’ll look forward to your future videos. In the meantime, as the 705 comes out, with the expected movement of people to it, I’m going to watch for an 817nd or 818 to have a more portable option than my 897D. Have fun!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Bruce! I hope the advent of the 705 brings the price of used 817's down a bit.

[@brucecairnie3975]

Outdoors On The Air that’s my bet as well. It’s a good time to be looking. I have my money ready and have been watching to see prices now.

[@Fleadog100]

I love the FT 817ND too. I'm going to sell my FT 817ND as I have acquired an Elecraft KX3. My heart breaks a little as the FT 817ND is such a great radio.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I know what you mean. Have fun with that KX3!

[@tmiw]

I've had my KX3 for a while and I picked up a secondhand FT817 for cheap recently. I bought mine mainly for VHF/UHF SSB, though (and maybe satellite work some day); I still prefer the KX3 for HF but we'll see how the IC705 reviews once it gets into people's hands this summer/fall. BTW, I heard that the filtering on the FT818 for 70cm isn't as good as the older models, so it might be better for those considering going the route I did not to buy new, especially if VHF/UHF is the primary use.

[@ralphnunn3]

Boy, that is a surprise. I'm new to the QRP world. I just recently purchased a FT-818, because I wanted to take it portable. I was educated on it, and made the purchase largely on the videos that you posted on it. Oh well. I'm not sorry I bought the rig. It will be fun to use when I finally do get out in the wild with it. Thanks for sharing your knowledge while you had it.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

The 818 will serve you very well, congratulations on your purchase. Hope you can get out soon and you will see what it can do when paired up with a good antenna.

[@enigmarbs2886]

Hi Tracy, I bought an used IC-703+ with build in Inrad SSB filter 6years ago and I love it, especially the build in Tuner and the easy settings of the filter, which is essential here in Europe. Well, you loose 2m/70cm with the IC-703, but on HF it's a great radio for me. I operate on SOTA with an 12V/6.3Ah LiFePo4 battery, my antennas are an trapped endfed for 10/20/40 ( abt. 11m long 1:49balun) or if I have more space to hang in summit I use the regular untrapped one, which is abt. 21m long ( but sometimes there are too many hikers on the Peak 😊). Sometimes I use the Difona HF-P1 an short vertical with adjustable coil. Have fun with your new radio! 73's de Steve DG4RBS

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, Steve! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@g4okt]

Thanks Tracy, that was a well considered offering. Yes I agree with the shortcomings of the 817ND. I had a 706 and 703 some years back and found both the fan noise and background noise to be high. The 703 is pretty good for QRP, but compared to the Elecraft stable, the RX current consumption was high. If I had a choice between the 706 and 703, I would have the 703 every time. We will soon see the quality of the Xiego G90 SDR (type) transceivers improve over time of course. I use Elecraft, but the exchange rate, shipping charges and VAT, now make them poor value for money. I'm sure you will enjoy the 703 and I look forward to seeing your next review. Cheers 73 Keith GW4OKT (QRP since 1981).

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Keith! I tip my hat to your masters degree in QRP 👍 What you say makes a lot of sense to me. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@warplanner8852]

Tracy, well, I *have* experienced blown finals with my FT-817 and it is a $125 painful experience -- and I live within 20 miles of the Yaesu HQ in Southern California so it was a drop off/pick up prospect. Once experienced, however, one tends to always keep the 817 plugged into a 50-ohm load ALWAYS. That said, the FT-817 was a marvelous radio concept when it came out in 2001 and, arguably, gave impetus to similar radios hitting the market and the "legitimization" of QRP in many QRO hams' eyes. Like the Icom IC-706 and related, it is a "milestone" rig. Still in all, technology has advanced considerably and the newer stuff on the market beats the pants off the FT-817. But I keep mine as a backup and for purely sentimental reasons. (I also keep and actively use my IC-706 MKIIg as well.)

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great points, thank you!

[@m1cxf]

I had an 817 when they first launched and upgraded to the ND when that became available. I moved on from the 817 and the 857 as my arms were not long enough to see the display any more. I now use am IC-7300 at home and the IC-7100 when out and about. For QRP I turn the power down, it really is that simple, I always say "you can use a 7lb hammer to knock in a tack, try knocking in a 6" nail with a tack hammer". It is just the same as driving, you can still do 30 in a 200 mph supercar! Interesting to see how the IC-705 develops as I do like Icom.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@prestonshute7243]

I have one (IC-703+) that’s about 15 years old, it’s one of the last. When ahead and had the third party ssb&cw filters install by the vendor. Love this rig and I don’t think I’ll ever sell but I’m waiting for Christmas hoping the IC-705 is available. Always enjoy your video, hoping to work you 703 to 703. 73 wd4dda

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Preston, thank you for your comment! I'm looking forward to that contact with you. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@PH2LB]

I agree the FT817/FT817ND its a older design and has some disadvantages, but owning a ND for years I'm still impressed what this little backpack rig can do. For me it's still the #1 backpack rig on holidays because I also do VHF/UHF (and yes I have tested a KX2 and KX3 on HF and they are much better). But I'm very curiousness about the new ICOM QRP rig and when it's out there is a big chance that I will get the opportunity to test in the field. And maybe I will swap out my FT817ND for it, but only time will tell.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

[@Steve_Wardley_G6JEF]

Glad there are good opinions on this rig, I've just gawn and bought one.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Enjoy!

[@chrisblaase2700]

I had a 703+ and wish I had never parted with it. My primary HF rig is still an IC-706 although I have it listed for sale. Looking to finally get a “modern” rig. 72 de NV9Z PS I had an 817 for many years and absolutely loved it. I upgraded to an 818 last year.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@tookthe5th182]

I have one the very first 817's when they became available over 20 years ago. I share Tracy's sentiment regarding this rig. It has been to all parts of the world with me and has been completely flawless with the exception of a failed rear power connector. I have never run the rig on internal batteries which is why I think is the reason for not having the blown final issue. I loved the radio so much I bought a spare from a ham dirt cheap who claimed the rig was too complex. I even eyed buying the ND version but never pulled the trigger. (difficult to explain a 3rd one to the XYL HiHi) Both rigs are worth more to me than any money they might bring being sold. I am awaiting the eventual release if the 705 but there is one MAJOR flaw with this rig that may keep me from ever getting one. (I currently have an IC 7300 which is a SDR work of art for the $$) I think this issue wiil slowly drive most owners up a wall and I would not be surprised to see Icom change it in later versions. The Issue? One antenna port! :( What were they thinking.....?! 73

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@Aleziss]

That 705 is going to be 1500$ in Canada... that is a crazy amount of money for a 10W radio...

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I agree.

[@andrewd4890]

Kx3 price?

[@Aleziss]

@@andrewd4890 KX3/PX3SHKPK-K_KX3 Shack-in-a-Pack, KX3/PX3SHKPK-K $2,502.00US

[@RonanCantwell]

An interesting change! I'm looking forward to hearing how you find the new radio.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I've only had the 703 Plus in my shack for a day and I've already learned some interesting things about it. More to come 😀

[@williamsefton8408]

Hi Tracy, I’ve got an 817ND, an Elecraft KX2 and an Icom IC703..... The 703 is my favourite, ok the KX2 is the best of the bunch, but the icom is superb.... You’ll love the icom......

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for letting me know!

[@thuff3207]

I would agree I love my FT-817nd and I will not sell it for its my emergency radio. But the noise I deal with convinced me to get a Kx2. That radio I can travel with easily on planes to do Hotel ops while traveling. There the KX2 shines in size and performance. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the 817.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment!

[@W-733_KWX]

I totally agree with you Tracy. And these are all capable and reliable (except CN rigs). I may add: I had the 817 (same "user issues" as you), the 703+ (was too heavy in the backpack having the antenna, the battery and some food and water to bring along), the X108G (not reliable enough but a fun rig), and with that said I am dismissing the X90G and everything China branded for reliability concerns and the problematic after-sales service. IC705 is still on its expensive new-radio price, but it will decrease with time. And, I am looking at what the LAB599 has to bring, it looks very promising especially for the fact it's weatherproof. If it shows reliable, i'll definitely consider this radio. Either way, as Icom is reliable (I have a flawlessly working 7300), I'd also consider the 705 should it's price decrease a good deal. 73 from Europe.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great points, Christophe! Thank you for sharing them. 73 from Canada 🇨🇦

[@barrykery1175]

Like you, I did not like my FT817. You get a lot of radio for the buck. I honestly did not have an issue with the front panel. I accepted the front panel for what is was because it has limited space for its size. I upgraded to the IC703+ because it had a built CW memory keyer, DSP and an ATU. Even though I only use resonant antennas, there are times I need an ATU. I also own a KX3 and a KX2. The KX2 is not my go to radio for portable operations. But, it will take the jaws of life to pry the IC703+ out of my hands. It's a great radio. I power mine with a 5000 mah LiPo battery. I use two long zip ties to secure the battery pack to the side of the radio. Now it is completely self contained. Great informative video. Always enjoy watching all of your videos. KU3X/QRP

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Barry, thank you for your comment and for sharing your experience. Love your passion for the 703. Take care, my friend!

[@TingILi]

I sold 2 but still have one on my table. FT-817 has become a legend.

[@n8nkqrp595]

I had to chuckle (since my name is Chuck) at the buyer's testimonial. Ok, I know it wasn't a testinmonial. He was just happy. But it reminded me a little of he ARRL reviews, such as with a high-end rig ($5,000+) and at the end where they summarize it's capability, they'll state something like 'stations up and down the East coast were worked over the course of a relaxed weekend'. Haha. I read those and think "huh. And I just worked the Czech Republic using QRP and a piece of speaker wire laying on my deck, 25cm above the ground". lol. It's on here if you wanna see, neighbor. Nice vid! Thank you! 73 OM

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Now that's an impressive contact! Good luck with your channel. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@n8nkqrp595]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Haha, funny what sheer boredom does to a ham :) 73

[@KX4UL]

Looking forward to seeing how the IC-703 works out. I am a big fan of Icom radios, but deeply saddened you sold your FT-817nd. You made some strong pros and cons concerning the FT-817nd that I agree with. However, I am now on my 4th FT-817nd...lol! Each time I sold one I deeply regretted it and bought another. The one I have now was bought new as a backup by a HAM to his original and he never used it. Like brand new in the box with all the goodies I couldn't resist! I'll never sell it. Too bad you couldn't have kept yours. 73!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Like you, one day I'll have another 😀 73 my friend!

[@M0RSF]

That was a surprise selling your 817ND. I’m sure you’ll enjoy the 703. Stay safe & 73 Chris M0RSF

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Chris! Take care and 73 from VE3TWM.

[@robduncan599]

I own both radios. My ft817 was one of the first original ones , I consider the receiver one of the best it is not noisy, but it can be overwhelmed by strong signs. The ic 703 with 500khz cw filter is a outstanding performer ( see my cw filter video's). Sadly both rigs are on life support with the ft817 looking though it won't make it , and my ic 703 needs new finals and tx filter work . But make no mistake your 703 ,if it's a good one you will be delighted, well was ,and hope to be again . Quite simply both rigs are FAB ! Greetings from Scotland MM0UDI .

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience! Just to clarify my point on the 817 having a noisy receiver, in my home shack with ambient QRM of 8 s-units, the 817 was tough to listen to. No such problem out in the field where QRM was not an issue. 73 from VE3TWM in Canada 😀

[@williamstaylor5449]

Enjoy the new rig. I wish that I had bought one when they were new..

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I know what you mean.

[@indridcold8433]

Will you be getting a FT-857D for more power and versatility? It seems similar to the FT817 but with more power.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

No. I have an FT-897 for those times I want more power.

[@forgetyourlife]

the FT-857 was discontinued 2 months ago.

[@VE3IPS]

The best is to have both the 817 and the 703 as they solve different problems. I enjoy my 703 in the Icom backpack and have travelled with it as carry on. For SOTA the 817 is better. I do not regret selling the G90. I am on the list for the 705

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, John! Take care, my friend.

[@Possumliving]

Hello Tracy; my name is also Tracy. I bought my original version FT-817 upon its (I think 2001) release. In fact if mine wasn't the first one in Huntsville AL, it was among the first few. I still have it and have no intention of selling it.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Tracy! Boy, we could have a good discussion on the pros and cons of that handle. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@johnk8091]

I have a number of QRP rigs - FT-817ND, IC-703 PLUS, ELECRAFT KX3, McHF clone RS-978. My favourite by far is the IC-703 Plus - it has a really good built-in tuner, BIG display screen, spread out knobs, removable front display, built-in adjustable CW beacon transmitter, two microphone jacks, 10 watts out with external power etc etc. I will be getting an IC-705, but I will always keep my IC-703 Plus and FT-817ND. I rate my worst purchase as the KX3, I loaded it with all extras and external PX3 panadapter. It cost me almost $ 3000.00 to ship and pay import duties into Africa !!!! I look forward to your IC-703 + video.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, John! You have a terrific selection of gear.👍

[@dougn7bfs]

Curious what you didn't like about your KX3 purchase John? What about the Icom was better?

[@eldontyrellcorp]

The noise can easily be fixed With a dsp. Initially when I bought it more than 10 years ago, I installed the one big ear dsp module and this is perfectly working. I also have installed the one big punch which helps a lot. But you are right that the general tendency is going with sdr radios. And there are some very cheap Chinese rigs out there, but I'd never buy them as I'm pretty sure you would be wrecked if ever your rig breaks. Better to buy transceivers from well known brands.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I agree!

[@kg7wbw359]

The DSP adds approximately $80-$100 USD to the cost of the FT-817.

[@Garbanzo884]

There is a mod for the Power Amplifier blowing. If one takes two 6.8 ohm surface mount resistors in series at the input of the RF Amp board the amplifier cannot go into oscillation. It does drop the RF out slightly (4.7 vs. 5 watts, a drop of -0.26dB) but oscillations won't happen. I have an 817 where the PA blew and I found a store in the UK that has the whole RF Amp board for $38. DE WB9RXJ

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

This is a great tip! Thank you for sharing. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@johnwilliams-hz6vb]

had two too many Icoms,never again.Ordered a ft818nd and very very happy.

[@k2cjbradio]

Have fun with it Tracy!! 73 my friend!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you Chris! 73 and take care.

[@paulhastings3109]

73 and see on the air. I am sure you will be making more videos, can't wait to see you on the bands some time.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you, Paul! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@wadepatton2433]

Cool, was not aware of the 705. But I do have a 7300, and also an 817, an also a Ubitx kit... so much radios so little time. The 7300 was my first Icom HF rig and now I know why my Elmer was so excited by his 746 Pro back in that day. Looks like I might have to try a 705 once the dust settles and I can find one on the used market (as I did the 7300). The 703 appears to be the low-power edition of the 706--oh how they changed things. The original "shack in a box". Good luck.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Wade! That's a nice gaggle of gear you've got there.

[@billryland6199]

My new Yaesu FT-891 will be delivered today. I want to operate portable in my back yard at at parks but would like to have more than 5 watts available if needed. The 891 is small enough to carry in a day pack but has all the features needed. The main thing I don't like about it is many common functions are buried in the menus with only 3 programmable buttons to select them.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have fun with that new rig!

[@ae1tpa92gwtom2]

Thanks Tracy,... At first I thought you were selling yr 897,.whew,.. .Im baulking the sdr transcievers as long as possible, all of my rigs are superhet technology, but can see the appeal, aspecially with the ease of connectivuty for digital modes,., gd luck with the 703, Im sure it was a bargain,. the 7300 is prolific, as you say, . cheers n 73s as always,..

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Hi Tom, nice to hear from you! No plans to sell the 897 at this point, but I will admit to being intrigued by the 991A (especially since I am starting to get into Fusion). If only the power draw wasn't so darn high. 73 from Tracy VE3TWM.

[@ae1tpa92gwtom2]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Hi Tracy, I have to admit, I do like my 991a, you will too, but Keep both my 897Ds, at my other location,...bandscope, antenna tunner, fusion, usb connections, u will like it, but i cant get over how simple, reliable, rugged the 897 is, cheers n keep well, from Bahrain, ciao my friend

[@kb2ehj]

i curious, what gauge wire are you using with the anderson power pole for the ground wire?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

12 gauge.

[@kb2ehj]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir thank you!

[@tmiw]

The IC705 seems pretty promising but I'm reserving judgement until it actually comes out. One thing I have a concern with is RX battery consumption; my KX3 for instance only needs ~200mA while I can imagine something with a large color screen like the 705 needing significantly more. (Then again, the FT817's is 2x the KX3's and people seem okay with that.) Also, have you heard about the Minion SDR much at all? It seems even smaller than the FT817 but doesn't have the same ergonomic issues. Might be worth a look if you decide you want to go SDR, anyway.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Your concern about the 705's power consumption mirrors my own. I have only just learned of the Minion, it;s an interesting looking product.

[@forthy62]

I am one of the lucky guys who has it all :-) FT-817ND, KX2 and a IC-703 (no plus). All have their advantages and disadvantages. You will have lots of fun with the IC-703. Its internal ATU is great, receiver is great too. Unfortunatly no internal batteries. If you want to protect it a little out in the field, think about the Escort side handles from portable zero. 73, Stephan, DF6PA

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

That's a great collection of rigs you have, Stephan! Thank you for the tip on the Escort handles. The Icom one is more like a finger-le as I can barely get three fingers into it. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@ag1382]

Sold my 817nd and bought a 703+ many years ago, quick first buy when the + model introduced. It was my go to QRP/Portable rig. Oh, do I have a room full of antennas bought for QRP/Portable use. Still have it and bought a KX2 about two years ago. Depending on your requirements/needs both rigs have their strengths. I get a big kick out of operating both. Sadly I do not need both. Do you have any idea what the current market is for a mint 703+ with Icom backpack?

[@cliffengle2897]

Art, if you're selling I may be interested. Take care, be safe. Cliff W3KKO

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience! Here in Canada, a good price for an 817 or 817ND that's been taken care of would be in the $550 CAD range (with accessories).

[@andrewd4890]

Might be worth asking for 703 prices at the Icom703 group at groups.io.

[@ag1382]

Andrew D Thanks Andrew...

[@kensmith5538]

hello... just a quick note... first off... I really enjoy your channel and am a big fan of portable operation. I'm not 100% sure on this, but I don't believe the 705 is an SDR... I think it has the look of one, but I don't believe it is. I'm sure I'll get corrected if I am... btw.. just looked.. we've worked.. 5'19 2019 ssb POTA... I was even in your video.. was fun to hear myself... I worked you mobile.. have fun! 73 de KE8KW

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, and thank you for the contact! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@DuhBiggestDog]

I've had my IC-703+ probably close to 10 years now. Used it on SSB CW and Digital without a hitch. CAT control is flawless. Onboard tuner works well but not quite as well as the Elecraft T1. Being 99% CW I love the keying. Keyer and sidetone very nice. Never had a problem with the finals. Good audio reports. You will want the 500Hz filter for CW. Never gonna sell mine.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the testimonial on the 703 Plus. Mine has the 500Hz filter 😀

[@daviddietrich9449]

I was going to purchase the FT-818 in 2019. I instead purchased the FT-891 based on recommendations from fellow hams on one of the Facebook groups I belong to. I am glad I did. I decided against the FT-818 for many of the reasons you discussed here. Especially it being noisy, small buttons with everything being buried in a menu, 20 y/o design, and some mechanical weaknesses. SOTABeams solved one of the mechanical weaknesses (power connection) with an attachable connector, but the power connector would still possibly fail in the future. My main reason was the lack of real enhancements from the 817ND. All Yaesu did was swap out some components to increase the power output by a Watt and a few other minor changed. All they really did was change the model number and not come out with a "new" radio. For field radio, I think I made a good decision to get the 891 instead.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Have fun with that 891.

[@forgetyourlife]

Theres pleanty burried in the 891 menus as well.

[@daviddietrich9449]

@@forgetyourlife I totally agree. I understand with "set and forget" functions but stuff like RF power, keyer speed, etc. should be easier to set on the fly.

[@o00scorpion00o]

@@forgetyourlife Most of the 891 menus are set and forget. There's some convenient features, one is being able to tune an external tuner by pressing ptt and up on the mic, this automatically sends a 5w carrier ( AM set to 5w in the menu ) and also changes the meter from power to SWR, this is really cool, I have set it to external tuner for the MFJ-939Y auto tuner. 2 MIC EQ settings is also convenient with good EQ options. The 891 has a remarkably low noise receiver and it's leaps and bounds better than the 450D for example or the 7300. The audio is really good via headphones.

[@forgetyourlife]

@@o00scorpion00o whoa! 2 year old reply.

[@bill-2018]

I got my 817ND three years ago because of local broadband QRM making things difficult at the home QTH and my h/b rig is too large for a motorcycle. It does what I want so I'll keep it for years even if the design is 20 years old. Why change a good product? G4GHB.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I agree 100% with you.

[@charlieb.4273]

It is always a great idea to keep learning and exploring another brand is not a bad way to do it. As to the 817nd, I think I’ve pushed this radio as far as I can. I’ve been portable from 10F to 100F, dry or humid it has never under delivered. I’ve also used it as my primary home radio, over 1000 SSB and over 3500 CW QSOs. I’ve worked it to death. It was my 1st rig and I’ve worked VHF repeaters with it. I’ve also worked 6m FM and listened to short wave am broadcast. It is a true work horse and I consider it the Swiss Army knife of ham radio. I am keeping my FT-817nd even as I move on to new radios, I even purchased another one before the 818 came out. Why? I am a bit of a preppier, I know this rig front and back, it is so versatile that I cannot imagine an ECOM situation that this radio could not contribute a solution for. I think there is an advantage to knowing your rig in a way that only a few thousand QSOs can give you. There are and there will be better rigs out there. But for me, none so handy. Charlie KM4ZZ

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, Charlie!

[@juanfgonzalez2039]

I have a 817 new to ham what kind of antenna is good for qrp?

[@sparky42]

a perfectly resonant antenna for QRP is always best

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

gotta agree with sparky42...make it a full sized half wave, though.

[@billchinook3292]

I've had two 703's and had issues with the finals in both, and no, I wasn't overdriving them and only used resonant antennas. Apparently it's a known issue with them. I eventually bought an 817ND and loved it......BUT.....I sold it and bought a KX3 about 6 months ago. I wish I had bought the KX3 years ago, what a rig it is. Good look with the 703, but watch the finals

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience (and for the warning)!

[@AdamSWL]

The IC-703+ is an excellent radio. It has a very quiet receiver in comparison the the 817. Paired with the 817 for use above 50Mhz, it makes for a great little portable setup.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience, Adam!

[@ON6KE]

One the the biggest mistakes I made was selling my IC-703plus. I'd love to see one 2nd hand in mint or near mint condition. 73, good DX Gust ON6KE

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

We all make that mistake from time to time, Gust! Hope you can find a good one. 73 from VE3TWM.

[@rjy8960]

I decided to update my QRP station this year from my FT-187ND. Whilst I like the IC-705 it seems to me to be a little fragile to be taken out /P when compared to the construction of the FT-817. The 705 is a truly amazing piece of kit and is a very good replacement for the 817 in pretty much every way. My 817 has the CW filter, 3000mAh battery pack, peg-legs, Power Pole connector on the rear and the Wonder Wand antenna kit and goes into a nice small carrying case. Am I going to sell it? Absolutely not. The sellers remorse in the FT-817 divorcee club seems to be quite high. Even to this day it still has its place in the QRP world; it can handle digital modes and there hasn't been a paradigm shift in the world of Amateur Radio that would now render it obsolete - it's just as relevant now as it was when it was introduced. Granted, some radio's offer better performance in certain ways but there is no such thing as a perfect radio that suits every operator. What is a shame is that Yaesu hadn't used time prior to it and the 818's discontinuation to build a better successor. Yaesu in general seem to have taken their eye off the ball. Personally I've gone for the Lab599 TX500. I'm really more interested in HF rather than V/UHF portable. It's pretty solidly built and is very low power on RX. It has a daylight readable, large LCD display, nicely laid out control surface, is SDR based so has plenty of filtering and other features such as RF speech compression. I also like having the speaker in the mic. It is horses for courses - one OM's meat is another OM's murder.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Great comment! Thanks for chiming in.

[@VE3WZW]

I've just found your channel Tracy. Fantastic video. New subscriber. 73, V_3WZW We, I need a heads up on your thoughts of the IC-705. ????

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I'm waiting until Icom releases the specs for the 705 😀 then I'll give my take.

[@W9UUM_EN43]

Absolutely love my 703+. I will never sell it. I'm looking forward to upcoming videos.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for the testimonial!

[@tommycheshire5508]

The end of an era. Makes me think I should sell mine. I am waiting to learn to operate it but now, what is the point?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

PLEASE...do not sell yours unless you are dissatisfied with it's performance. The 817 is a great rig for portable use. That much is not changing. If I didn't need to sell mine to raise funds to buy another type of rig, I'd still own it.

[@Thetechologynut]

Always love your videos, I have a 818 and am looking at QRP, as a new ham I love the size but I understand your decision concerning the small lcd screen As all hams we tend to collect many radios

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Tony. To set the record straight, I did not get rid of the 817 due to the small screen size. It was just time to try something else.

[@ericschleppegrell4467]

Unless you're strapped for cash, why sell an 817 that you've certainly captured many great memories with? For me, the 817 was my first SOTA rig and will never sell it. I have had a KX3 which kept shutting off due to overheating so that went bye bye for the overpriced rig. Yet my 817 still has its place in my lineup.

[@alexeizhiltsov6797]

Exactly! I have the same thoughts - I would not sell a radio with so much memory related to it, and no big deal as to the amount one gets from its sale. Of course, we are all different, the author of the video had all reasons to sell, as some of my friends do when moving to another toy. But I keep them all, have not sold a radio in my lifetime, just keep buying them! 73 de R2ARM!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Do you remember that story about the (Spanish?) sea captain that burned his ship so his sailors would know they were not to leave the new world until they had accomplished what they set out to do? I want the 703 Pus to be my only QRP rig for a while so I am not tempted to revert to the 817.

[@CroPrepper]

I have a romantic bond with my 817... For sota its perfect because of VHF capability and analog squelch level, and low power consumption. Also, the VHF receiver is pretty damn good and beats all other VHF rigs I used. For field days I prefer bigger rigs but for backpacking, I still keep loyal to my 817nd.

[@skaramicke]

It would be a nice thing to do for the community to pass on the things you've loved so others can enjoy them too.

[@larrytaylor7753]

I had to take the same step. I couldn’t read the screen well.. It is too small and mounted perpendicular to the bench. I sold it and bought a KX2. It’s big display and amazing receiver won me over instantly. I have since sold it and upgraded to the KX3.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@CesarMendozaMtz]

Señores(as) muy buen día! Saludos desde Barranquilla, Colombia. Me encuentro buscando algo. Les cuento: Mi padre falleció hace cuatro años y él era radioaficionado, especialmente en la frecuencia de 40mts mediante un Yaesu y una potente antena de construcción propia. Su indicativo era HK1BMB y quisiera tratar de conseguir una foto de una de sus tarjetas de QSL. En ellas se indicaba, de manera simpática y jocosa, que era HK "Un Borracho Montando Bicicleta" a manera de acrónimo. Era muy reconocido en el medio particularmente entre los años 1978 y 2001. Miles de tarjetas de QLS como la que estoy buscando, fueron enviadas a colegas del mundo entero. Seguramente alguno de los miembros del grupo habrán escuchado de él. Me ayudan?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

With the hope someone can help, here is the translation: Ladies and gentlemen, very good day! Greetings from Barranquilla, Colombia. I find myself looking for something. I tell you: My father passed away four years ago and he was a radio amateur, especially on the 40m frequency using a Yaesu and a powerful self-built antenna. His callsign was HK1BMB and he would like to try to get a picture of one of his QSL cards. In them it was indicated, in a nice and humorous way, that it was HK "A Drunk Riding a Bicycle" as an acronym. It was well recognized in the media, particularly between 1978 and 2001. Thousands of QLS cards like the one I am looking for, were sent to colleagues around the world. Surely some of the members of the group have heard of him. They help me?

[@adamap2796]

I have two IC703 plus , one has never been out of its box and kept as a spare. Great radios.

[@SACWarrior70s]

Adam 8VC Whoa! Better take that gear out of the box and fully check it. Not fully aware if that model radio ever took software up-dates etc. but not a good time to rely on the back up, if it's not been ck'd out. Reguardless of the reputation of mfg. or maybe the said model itsself, still would ck it out and make sure it's ready to fly... I did that with a completely diff. electronics gear with a high reliability name, bought 3 units and stored two.... one failed out of the box...the other failed 6months out. . sucked.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have to agree with KCJ 2020 on this one! Thank you for the testimonial.

[@o00scorpion00o]

I really wanted a KX2, who wouldn't want a radio that weighs 0.3 Kg ? Incredible, sadly the waiting time is too long and I wonder will it make Elecraft cancel the Kx line ? if older parts are an issue maybe it's time for a new Kx range ? Anyway, I ordered the 818 from Martin Lynch in the U.K and should receive it Thursday, can't wait. It's rugged, compact and light enough. I'm mainly interested in HF and the 705 at this moment in time is too expensive for what I need, the 705 has far too much for me. I hope Yaesu don't forget the cheaper end of the market and forget about SDR and fancy screens, waterfall, bluetooth etc etc,

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Enjoy your 818!

[@o00scorpion00o]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir thanks, yeah I am enjoying it, it’s a really rugged compact radio and the audio is really good, low noise floor. Going to swap the NiMh battery for lithium, maybe 3s lipo or 18650 cells. The lithium will charge much faster .

[@eduardogarciamontesdeoca5935]

In term of capabilities I agree with you, but compare the ft817 (or ND model) with an Elecraft is unfair since the Elecraft uses SDR receivers, and the modest 817’s uses classic receivers. With the SDR receiver you can get a huge amount of filters because it’s all done by a software. However, the 817 still works pretty well for ham radio activities even with their 20 years on the market

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I agree 100%!

[@TingILi]

I used to have two FT-817 and IC-703 plus ..... but "Regret", So I now keep one FT-817 which with Bhi DSP kit for my collection and ready to buy IC-705.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Sounds like the best of both worlds.

[@wireworks616]

I too have upgraded, after years of my trusty ft-857, I sold it and replaced it with the ft-991A. Got to get with the times.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I'd like to try the 991A...if only the current draw were not so high!

[@forgetyourlife]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir and the menus so deep. holy cow! 180 menu items.

[@aar5pj]

I'm sorry to hear that you have left our cult. Yet, you are young and free to make your mistakes. Once you have seen the error of your ways you will be welcome to return and be once again a member of the true believers.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you 😆 I do believe one day I will be back.

[@merlinonline67]

I have a FT-818 and my main criticism is that it is so small that it runs hot, even on internal batteries, it really needs a heat sink

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Interesting. Here in Ontario I never noticed my FT-817 running hot. You might want to have that checked out.

[@mrice3274]

Alas, my original 817 died when the finals blew. Attempts to replace failed. Now it is relegated to receiving. Worked VKs and ZLs.

[@mrice3274]

Now loving my KX3.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Very sorry to hear about your 817. Glad to hear the KX3 is working well for you.

[@aussiedazvk4djh889]

Hi Tracy. Yes the QRP world has come into the 21st century. My poor old ft817nd has been to hell and back but still works well. 73's VK4DJH.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment, Daz! 73 from VE3TWM.

[@aussiedazvk4djh889]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Your welcome. 🙂

[@jaspatters1]

The sole reason I won't buy a 705 is because I have a 703+. With the exception of VHF/UHF it's every bit a 817 minus the downside. Rx is awesome, Rx voltage is low and wide range, tuner is amazing and can tune a fence post, 10 watts SSB makes it just plain fun. I sold mine once, never again!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@twohandsandaradio]

Well that was a plot twist! LOL My question on the 705 and it won't be answered until the masses get a hold of it... the 7300 is horrible to see in daylight. Not sunshine...just daylight. At night outside it's beautiful. I'm concerned the 705 will be equally as impossible to see. Anyway with that said I really appreciated your comment, "the 817 has never disappointed" that is exactly what I say each weekend about my 818. Indiana to the Slovic Republic on 6 watts (SSB) and Alaska from Indiana are two of my long contacts. The 818 just doesn't ever disappoint. I'm leaning towards the FT-857d. A big brother to the 818? I'm thinking Saturday QRP and then Sunday QRO of the 857.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@forgetyourlife]

To late most likely, The 857 has been discontinued. You get lucky and find old stock but doubt it.

[@stevepatterson2290]

I use the Yaesu 891 , with a battery and 25 watts and all the filtering it works for me , I have always been a fan of Yaesu , I never had anything else. Yaesu just does it for me

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your testimonial. A lot of people really like the 891. I may yet get one.

[@stevepatterson2290]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir don't think you will be disappointed

[@o00scorpion00o]

The 891 is one of the most underrated radios in Amateur radio. It's got a really low noise floor and really good audio with headphones. Having such good MIC eq really makes a difference too. Most menus people complain about are set and forget.

[@James_Bowie]

My FT-818 will see me out. Not prepared to keep on spending money on rigs just to have the latest thing. Personally, I would not have chosen to get a bigger and heavier QRP radio from the portability aspect. Let's see how it works out for you.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment. I know what you mean about the difference in form factor, I had to wrestle with those thoughts myself.

[@user-ss6zt2mo1l]

The 817/818 is a great all mode radio that is Not Chinese. It’s rugged. It sucks that’s it’s only 5/6 watts out. 5 watts on SSB is weak unless you put up a great antenna. The other problem in 2021 is finding a CW filter for the radio. They are almost impossible to find. This radio on CW is great and 5 watts is perfect. It’s a great radio when you set up a great antenna. If it’s your first radio buy the FT891 and turn the power down and bring a bigger battery

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for your comment! FYI I just bought my 817 back from the ham I sold it to...and life is good again 👍😀

[@BentConrod]

Yaesu missed the boat with the 818. I love my 817ND but there's no way it will be replaced with an 818.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Have to agree with you there.

[@BentConrod]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir Do a google search on Q900P.

[@GeorgeFoxMusic]

Biggest mistake ever of selling my 817 ,6 years ago. I bought a 818 a month ago and I am happy again! Never selling it again! ✌🏻 73s

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I get that completely. I'll own another one day.

[@hcy0]

I hope the 2nd hand prices of the FT-817/818 will drop in future.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Me too!

[@willian.direction6740]

Had both rigs and they are both good radios for portable.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@VE3UET]

I just bought an ft 818, and sold a much better 706 that was not compatible with my transverter, I already miss the Wx frequencies and the receiver sucks

[@richardsmith7068]

I would like to experience the Icom 703 plus but in the UK, they are very rare.

[@j204ever5]

I have one ......for sale. HB9DDS

[@DavidS-iw4ei]

Love your videos. But Sorry. I don't need GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth, D-Star or a BIG Display. It looks like it will be a power hungry unit. BP-272 battery is only 2000mAh. I know the FT-817 battery is 1500mAh. But the FT-817 doesn't have GPS, Bluetooth, WiFi, D-Star or a BIG Display to drain the battery. I know you will do a honest review on the IC-705 and hope you talk about testing the battery life. Change my mind on the IC-705.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

In case you missed it, I am not rushing to buy a 705. I'm going to focus my energy on the older 703 for a while, then let's see what happens.

[@stephentaylor280]

Good video. KK7T

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you!

[@Dimon39RUS]

Отличная история! 817 можно было не продавать, а оставить на всякий случай, места он занимает немного, и кто знает, вдруг пригодится когда-нибудь:) 73!

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

ты прав конечно Но я хочу посвятить свое время 703, не испытывая соблазна использовать 817. 73 VE3TWM.

[@warplanner8852]

Great story! 817 could not be sold, but left just in case, it takes up little space, and who knows, suddenly it will come in handy someday :) 73!

[@warplanner8852]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir you're right, of course. But I want to devote my time to 703 without being tempted to use 817.73 VE3TWM

[@2e0txe]

I strongly believe that screen on the IC705 is going to be one of its weakest issues. It simply won't take the backpacking around that the solid Yaesu and Elecraft rigs will handle. I very much doubt the touchscreen aspects and the LCD itself will enjoy the temperature extremes and finally.. That screen is going to KILL battery life. For me I love my FT857, another iconic Yaesu radio, but again, there is nothing that offers all the 857 does in the same small form factor. Fancy screens are not the answer for small radios running on battery power.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Damian. It will be interesting to see how the 705 does once it gets out there.

[@nl12689]

tnx agn

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

you're welcome!

[@j03m4r13]

Finally a new video! 73! DV6XCY

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

LOL! Thank you and 73 from VE3TWM.

[@gewglesux]

I have heard about the Finals Blowing up..something i'm not willing to deal with.

[@j204ever5]

NOT the ND Version!

[@gewglesux]

@@j204ever5 Thanks!!! i'm relieved!

[@j204ever5]

The IC-703 is just as old as the FT-817. And the same output. And no VUHF. And no internal battery. Somehow not understandable. If already, then a XIEGU G90. Or so.

[@RevGunn-jq3cq]

817X series is old technology and should have been upgraded years ago! I’ve been waiting for an IC705 type radio for years

[@nontimebomala2267]

Yawn. CW is old technology, why don't you redesign it?

[@cwqrpportable]

@@nontimebomala2267 That's the most interesting exuse I've ever heard for not knowing CW..... "CW is old technology". LOL. CW forever; anything else is just CB

[@cwqrpportable]

** excuse

[@kd8opi]

I thought this was a fair review/endorsement/critique of the 817nd. But, I laughed out loud after you took great pains to explain that the 817/818 is an old design, superseded by modern pure or hybrid SDR radios, ou went on to say you've sold it to try the Icom 703, which was designed around the same time and discontinued 11 years ago. That's like posting a video in 2021 that you're selling a 2001 Toyota Corolla to buy the much more modern 2003 Honda accord. Actually, its worse because ICOM no longer supports the 703. For all of its shortcomings, which you accurately lay out and I agree with (largely due to no DSP), the 817/818 are still supported by Yaesu. Given their popularity and accessory support, the 817/818 will likely be supported by Yaesu for 10 years after they discontinue the 818 (which won't happen for a while). That is their main selling point - and price.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Fair comment. Multiple good points made. Thank you for watching!

[@noimnotarobotcanubeleiveit7024]

817 are now seconhand worth more than when they were new

[@101jumpit]

IC 703 is a fantastic radio.Good choice .

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Thank you!

[@budiwaluyo6895]

i think yaesu will build 817 nd with advance develop, listening to user

[@fullsaildigital]

A superhet will always beat an sdr. Put an 817 and kx2/kx3 A/B and I would bet the 817 can copy a weaker signal better then the elecrafts

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

Interesting comment. I've never tried that, but would like to one day.

[@gmcjetpilot]

I'm am sure the guy you sold it to and said it's a great radio, appreciates you bashing it after the sale. Ha ha

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

But I didn't bash it. And I'll probably buy another in the future.

[@forgetyourlife]

@@OutdoorsOnTheAir ha ha, sounds like the 703 has blown up already. Hi Hi.

[@alanread6596]

What a shame selling a great radio like the ft-817nd it's a better radio when fitted internally with the bhi DSP unit.

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

So I've heard. But truthfully, unless I wanted to operate from my home, I never had a problem with the noisy receiver.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

next video please please icom 705 icom 703 thanks next?

[@OutdoorsOnTheAir]

I'm testing out my 703 in the shack now and hope to get it out to the field once this Coronavirus stuff is over with.