The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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May 19, 2003
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The new IC 7800 is unveiled!!! It looks IMPRESSIVE!!!
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WB9YCJ on May 19, 2003
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They blew it with omitting Analog S- meters.
Otherwise seems like a great radio.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N0RKX on May 19, 2003
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It's a 781 with a 756 ProII grafted on.
It's way overpriced at $8K. Half of that may be appropriate. I'm glad they left 2m off of it. Which idiot decided it was a good idea to cover DC to daylight in one box?
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WB8NUT on May 19, 2003
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I think the TenTec Orion is a much more impressive radio without the flash and trash but at a much better price.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W5GI on May 19, 2003
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Saw the new 7800 at Dayton, looks interesting, but how will it perform?!?!? Presently have a 781-had 3 others, still a top performer and superior to the PRO for the most part. I just don't believe a fully DSP radio can beat good mechanical/crystal filtered radios. Although, I've had just about every rig-over 2000 radios, I still prefer my TS850 with DSP100 to most other radios because it has both crystal and DSP filtering which can be combined or run separately. Even at $8000 they'll sell just as well as the 781 did in its heyday. Based on initial impressions, I would like to have one.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KB2SSA on May 19, 2003
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Neat looking radio.
But seriously. What normal ham is going to buy this? Hams are known for digging in junk boxes to save a penny.
These are targeted at the Gordon Wests and the Bob Heils of the world. The guys that have $10K+ shacks already. You know the ones that win all the contests because they have 4 towers and monbanders on every band.
I wouldn't even look at it and drool. Why out of my price range and my FT-847 does the same as that radio. Spits out a signal and sucks them in. Nothing new here. I like using the analogy: Its like cars, A Ford Focus will get you from point A to point B and back again for 10 Grand, yet a Mercedes Benz will do the same thing for 50 Grand. Some people just have to flash the cash.
Only good part about this radio is that it will drive down the prices of the 756ProII to affordable but not cheap.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W9JCM on May 19, 2003
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She sure looks pretty but for 8K no way on earth. I can buy a nice jap motorcycle for that and have much more fun. I am a icom man but they blew it on this one. They better drop it to half 4K would be more like it. Thank god no 2 meters. I will keep my Pro thank you.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by VE2DC on May 19, 2003
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I'd like one... but it's pricey. OTOH, I've had a 781 for years... bought one a few years after they came out for half the price of a new one. Guess I'll be looking for a used 7800 in 2005...
BTW, There are a LOT of hams who actually could afford the 7800, but won't... it's a matter of priorities...(sometimes set by the significant other)... Like the 781, I'm sure they expect to sell more of them to commercial/government services...
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$8K A BARGAIN for Government agencies! PEANUTS!
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by WB9YCJ on May 19, 2003
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A bargain for government agencies (at $8K) when you consider a very similiar rig from Harris, Watkins Johnson, or Racal would come in at double or maybe triple the cost. Should be attractive with Uncle Sam and International agencies!
I can invision the Mil-Spec company in Arizona trying to exploit any lacking areas in this radio to offer an improved mil-spec version ($12K-?) just as they did for the 781!
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KW4CQ on May 19, 2003
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So what did Kenwood have to show at Dayton? Equal features or better performance can almost immediately drive Yaesu's $8k price down. Meanwhile I'll wait a year of so for the introductory price of $8k to drop to $4k as is typical in the past with these high end rigs.
Whew, somebody had me an oxygen mask!
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WA9PIE on May 19, 2003
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Though they included an ethernet port on the back of the rig (along with a direct serial connector), I wonder who will be the first equipment manufacturer to notice that the rest of the world has pretty much adopted USB for connecting devices to computers now.
Mike, WA9PIE
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WA9PIE on May 19, 2003
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Kenwood had a replacement for the TS-50 that they tried to pass off as a competitor for the IC-706.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KC6F on May 19, 2003
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CF Slot? How big can settings be? do you really need an IBM MicroDrive to hold a few lousy button positions? Do you need to carry your 7800 settings in your pocket (because you know everybody in the local ARC is going to have on of these by tommorrow).
VGA out? Why? Isn't computer control better anyway? If you can't see the 7 inch screen, how are you going to see anything else on this radio?
Two independent receivers? Why not just by two seperate radios and save $4000 dollars?
Built in PSK? So you can have the radio decode the PSK while you have it hooked up to your computer? That sounds necessary.
"Professional 6m receiver"? Better not get caught by the FCC with the radio or they will yank your license for having a pecuniary interest.
200 watt output? Why? Anybody who owns this is going to have a high power amplifier. And how many people would use this thing at field day?
Why don't manufactures get real and actually create innovative products-- like getting a software defined radio on the market that can do everything the IC-7800 can for $1500?
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KC6F on May 19, 2003
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I'll take Ethernet over USB anyday. USB is not as reliable as ethernet, especially in linux. Plus, with ethernet, you could hook this thing to a hub or network and share it on the internet. Beats usb hands down.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N0RKX on May 19, 2003
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USB is just fine what the port is intended for, controlling the radio. Full speed USB is 12.Mbit/sec. Controlling the radio doesn't involve passing huge amounts of data. As long as your PC is within 16ft of the radio USB is just fine.
As for sharing the radio on the internet, that sounds like a disaster just begging to happen.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by K8DXX on May 19, 2003
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Agree.. The Orion appears to be far beyond the needs and price range of most hams. Still, if I did not have three fairly new, fairly high-end rigs in my shack, the Orion would be next on my list. The Orion clearly represents a long awaited melding of the best analog and digital technologies at a (relatively) affordable price.
When asked what the price of the '7800 would be, an Icom rep told me, "3 - 4 times the price of a loaded Orion." Does that mean $12 - $15K. That price in itself is a new benchmark!
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KE4MOB on May 19, 2003
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Or, you can have a good used rig for $400 that will sound just as sweet!!!
$8000??? Where's the gold plating and mahogony inlays??
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N3IJW on May 19, 2003
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Good grief, check out the veritable plethora of Knobs Dials and Buttons (KDBs) on that sucker! Kudos to Icom on the benchmark Blinky Light Platform (BLP), now price it at $2K and I'll take it :)
Sure, none of us may ever buy one (or even use one), but it's still neat to see what's at the very top. I guess it's also a good sign for the hobby in general that such equipment is even made available to us.
Yours Truly,
A diehard KDB and BLP fan
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by AD7DB on May 19, 2003
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If your club or organization is always getting on the nightly news with how hams are providing public service, then you don't want the public seeing you using a pile of junk. Use this radio and it's worth the money in PR.
But for the rest of us, it's just too expensive.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by G3SEA on May 19, 2003
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Just when you thought everything was becoming more user friendly :)
The front panel resembles a 747 instrument panel :)
Great Radio though and I'm sure there will be many who will afford it.The Icom Marketing folk are betting on it :)
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KC7MM on May 19, 2003
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A real piece of work! I wish I could have one. As for price, I'm sure it reflects the development and marketing costs. If you want the very best, you need to spend the money.
Now, if I only had the money....
Keep pushing the envelope Icom and Ten Tec! That's what free enterprise is all about.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N7UQA on May 19, 2003
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I don't care how much it costs, I WANT ONE!! Having been an Icom fan for years I have been looking for a chance to own one of Icoms best. Back when I became licenced the 781 was the top Icom rig to own. Several years ago I bought a new 775DSP because it was within my means. As long as this radio is 8k or less I will be able to afford it. But it will take some time to save up the money...
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KK7AC on May 19, 2003
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Some tech asked "where's 2 meters?" ... In your 2 meter radio. This is HF not a no-code-appeal-to-all-colors radio. It's an HF performer.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by K3PZ on May 19, 2003
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Icom can sell a few IC-7800's at $8K each or they can sell thousands at $2.5K each which is about the average price point of all the other high end rigs on the market. We will see how long it takes them to figure that out!
Paul
K3PZ
Myrtle Beach, SC
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W9SN on May 19, 2003
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Some of you sound like a bunch of old hen's pecking about how the price of gas used to be 15 cents. It's only money...I will have one too. If you can't run with the big dogs....get off the porch.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD7EFQ on May 19, 2003
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I was told at the ICOM booth that they haven't set the price yet but plan on around $10,000. I talked with the Ten Tec people, and they said they'd be happy to sell me TWO ORIONS for less than the 7800 will cost, and I would still end up with better recievers. The +40dbi 3rd order figure ICOM claims did not list what spacing that figure was from. They could easily achieve that figure at 20Khz spacing, but cut it to 5Khz spacing, and most likely the Orion will outperform the 7800. And it's only approx $3500.
I think I'll stay with Ten Tec.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WS4V on May 19, 2003
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Sorry..but this 7800 is going to blow that Orion back into..well...the ORION. Plus, it has a built in power supply and antenna tuner. Why Ten Tec omitted these is beyond me. Looking at that monochrome display on the Orion is also a major drawback.
Buying a major competition, high end radio and having to attach to use an after market, extra tuner like an LDG is just POOH POOH to me.
Ten Tec can say what it likes but you know they're shivering in their boots over this competition. Yaesu is too...and Kenwood..well who knows? Who cares...
Say what you will but price for price pound for pound I'm going with the ICOM.
Plus, petty as this may sound, ICOM's nameplate isn't the size of a small highway billboard like that ORION nameplate...how tacky!
Also if you downloaded the pre production brochure on the 7800 you'll notice it provides PSK readability, four antenna connections, true dual receive and more. Plus, there's no need for extra filters like the ORION.
I'm done buying extra filters like what's needed with the MK V, etc.
If you own a PROII you'll immediately wonder why so much money was wasted on "closing that skirt" with a selective filter when the radio now can do it all electronically.
Aesthetically, I just cannot get used to Ten Tec's equipment, either.
I just think they make UGLY equipment. It reminds me of old Soviet equipment. Heck, half of their equipment still utilizes LED's.
The 7800 is EXACTLY what I've always dreamed a top of in a top of the line radio.
ICOM is definitely listening, too.
So many fussed about no more real analog S meters.
I love the analog/digital S meter look in the 7800. What a great compromise and I bet it's going to be extremely good looking and accurate.
Having used the 781 in the past I always loved the looks of the radio but the CRT display was getting a little long in the tooth and antiquated.
It looks like with the 7800 everything you need to know about the radio's parameters can be immediately seen on the screen. The scope just looks fantastic, too.
I simply cannot wait for this new 7800 to hit the market!
73 to all.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD7EFQ on May 20, 2003
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To WS4V, To each their own. If Bells, whistles, and lights were my bag, I'd get a slot machine from Vegas and put it in my shack. If I am paying good money, I want performance. I'll wait to see the ARRL tests, but
I have a hunch I know who will have better test figures. IF You can't hear them, you can't work em!
73's
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W3ETC on May 20, 2003
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It sure is an amazing thing that there is such an elaborate and expensive radio out there to buy. Kind of makes you think they took the amateur out of radio which such a device. Course maybe that is how it has always been. I hope that some of the other radios will come down in price now that this guy is out there.
73's
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD7EFQ on May 20, 2003
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Also, The Orion is software defined and upgradeable, the guy at Icom didn't know if the 7800 was compatible to download software upgrades like the Orion, which leads me to believe it isn't. They would know a detail like that at a premier unveiling event. I would like to know if it really is software upgradeable.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KW4CQ on May 20, 2003
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Does anybody know where you can find and download the IC-7800 BROCHURE?
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KG6AMW on May 20, 2003
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Someone said it would be priced at about $8,000. Is this confirmed by ICOM or is it just a guess?
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by K4SFC on May 20, 2003
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To WB9YCJ, they look like analog "S" meters to me in the photo.
This radio will be purchased by the same guys whose station photos are on "QST". The rest of us "poor trash" just don't get it.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by VE2DC on May 20, 2003
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For a brochure try:
http://qtc-japan.net/2001/03_news&topics/ic-7800new.pdf
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N0RKX on May 20, 2003
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"The +40dbi 3rd order figure ICOM claims did not list what spacing that figure was from. They could easily achieve that figure at 20Khz spacing, but cut it to 5Khz spacing, and most likely the Orion will outperform the 7800."
Exactly.
So far all I've seen is some people bragging about the feature set of the 7800/785. It does have some pretty lights. It will also decode PSK and RTTY on the 7" LCD. I'll bet the PSK and RTTY that gets decoded on my 17" display looks better and is actually usefull. It's got ethernet and USB ports that it doesn't need. It's got a CF slot. FOR WHAT? Saving memories and settings? Most radios these days will do that without compact flash. 200W finals. Most of the guys who can afford it have amps that need 50W drive for 1500W out.
Strip that extra $4000 worth of useless crap off the radio and get it in the lab to see how it stacks up. I think the Orion will still be the price/performance leader.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KG6AMW on May 20, 2003
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Interesting, comparing a radio that has not been formally reviewed by an independent source against a mocked up radio that has yet to receive FCC approval. I'll wait 36 months for the price to settle and skeletons to show themselves.
KG6AMW
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N3IJW on May 20, 2003
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Slightly more info here:
http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/hamhf/0041.html
And I quote: "A price has not been announced (... but it will likely be grounds for divorce)."
Another advantage to being single :)
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WA8VBX on May 20, 2003
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Looks nice, tooooo expensive for my taste. Hey one thing I noticed that was missing, where is the timer for the microwave and coffee machine. If it is to beat all radio, then it should have a coffee maker and microwave so we can eat and drink in the shack. Now as far as the mother nature call, guess you will still have to get up out of the chair for that.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W7JK on May 20, 2003
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I love this rig! Hopefully Yaesu or Kenwood will introduce comparable models for half the price.
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Welcome To The Icom Marketing Research Project
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by AA5CH on May 20, 2003
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I saw the "pre-release" brochure, read the supplied specs, and guessed that the street price for a 7800 would be $4-5K, running closer to the top end of that range...this before I heard the $8-12K rumors coming out of Dayton.
I could not help but recall a Social Psychology lecture about the "door-in-the-face" sales technique in which a salesman begins his pitch with an outrageous price, but then aggressively discounts it after seeing the "mark's" shocked reaction.
It seems to be quite an effective marketing technique by Icom...to introduce a new transceiver at Dayton and instruct those manning the Icom booth to only make vague references to the projected price relative to a competitor's high end product. Then they sit back and monitor the exchanges on reflectors and forums such as this as a way to determine what price the market will bear, having created a significant amount of headspace with the $8-12K rumor mill. Hams all over the country are talking about the transceiver and Icom conducts marketing research with no one being the wiser.
Those of you who have stated here and elsewhere that you will gladly pay $8K plus for the 7800 may very well do just that. When I saw the features and the specs, my first impression was that this is the transceiver I have been waiting for and I was willing to pay <$5K for it. I am lucky in that price is not big issue for me; however, at $8K plus I don't believe it is $3-4K better than anything I have in the shack currently. The sound that you hear is the door slamming shut, but it ain't locked....
73,
Brad
AA5CH
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W2MSK on May 20, 2003
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How much could they sell it for if they ditched the riduculous bells and whistles? Dump the CF card, internal power supply, 200 watts output (to drive a 50 w input linear!), external CRT drive, ethernet connector, RTTY/PSK decoder, "professional" 6m ("amateur" is ok with me), and other unnecessary marketing gimicks. I bet they could reach a price point of $4-4.5k, about where a top of the line xceiver should be!
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by K2ANE on May 20, 2003
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Icom is defining itself as a premier technology company and so they are pursuing a path to bring to the fore the most audacious examples of what they can produce. It is how they define themselves as a leader. It takes assets and engineering to bring off a unit like this one.
Perhaps some on this board will recall the recent automotive show in Detroit where Cadillac is now in the early stages of creating a new vehicle that will sell for in excess of 250,000 dollars. The rationale for this is based upon the top management at GM wanting to impress the world with their automotive ingenuity. Bells and whisltes such as heads up displays, outrageous audio systems, seats with multiple memories that will recognize which individual is sitting in it and adjust accordingly etc., advance the art of automobiles. Cadillac at one time was an innovator of advances in automotive technology. They are seeking to re-establish that lost legacy. Is all this necessary? No, but if you want to put forth your best foot and be perceived as a market innovator, leader and draw sales to your entire product line and look like a winner, the investment pays off.
Icom is demonstrating it can run away from the pack and the overall effect will be to lead Hams to their other product lines, since they by association, will be seen as consistent with the most advanced design philosophies and quality contol shared with the top line. And yes, many will want and acquire this unit. It is desirable and it is also a durable good that will amortize itself over a long period of time and with it's networking capabilities keep it technologically fresh for a long time to come.
Think of a box of Wheaties "The Breakfast of Champions" with the image of some super star athlete on the front. Does that imagery have a magnetic effect and make the product more desirable? Marketers know it does and that is why they'll spend the big bucks for endorsements. This new Icom is an endorsement by a company stating "We are the best and if we build it, they will come."
de Bill K2ANE/2
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by WS4V on May 20, 2003
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One of the greatest marketing schemes is to "build up" a price on an anticipated item way before it arrives to market. This is exactly what a company wants. Rumoured prices on the 781 when it first came out were much higher than the retail price. I suspect the same will occur with the 7800 or 785 (whatever it is called in the US)
This is a psychological marketing tactic. Everyone expects the price to be what is rumoured ($8K). When the price is much less it'll be a welcome surprise.
It's the same type of tactic when something sells for $19.95 rather than $20.00. It just sounds better to buy something at $19.95.
Needless to say I will be in line for the 7800/785...preferably with a new 0% APR for 12 months credit card. :) I will wait, of course, for the "kinks" to be worked out and the price to level off.
I'll also wait for the ARRL to review it. Don't expect a great deal of criticism from them on a flagship radio as everyone knows reviews and advertising sales go hand in hand.
But, as well, don't expect a great deal of problems with the radio.
ICOM has been working on such a radio for MANY years. I suspect it's already shippable and operational. It's just a matter of retail finalizing and, of course, FCC approval.
What I find amusing right now is all of the talk on the Ten Tec mailing lists blasting this new radio. Seems to be there are a lot of sore new Orion buyers out there who NEVER thought this day would occur.
I see everything from defending why the Orion has a plain B+W screen to why no power supply is included, etc.. in the ORION. Quite humourous.
Remember, too, this is just a protype model. It's likely that ICOM will take this hiatus to gather comments and suggestions and "refine" the radio, if necessary.
Price-wise I expect it to start at $6495.00 and, in the last marketing move, drop the price to $5500 very rapidly with an included free accessory (Heil 7800 studio microphone?).
Don't quote me on this please but this is what I expect.
$8000-10,000 really is out of line for even the most discriminating amateur..especially in today's economy.
The Japanese economy is also suffering greatly now, too. This may work in our favor, as well.
No doubt this radio is quite complex and will be the cream of the crop. A high price tag is inevitable.
Anyone thinking it will be $2500 is highly mistaken. It would be nice but it won't happen.
Let's just wait and see what develops over the next few months. This is truly a great time to be a ham!
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KY1V on May 21, 2003
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The problem with the IC-756Pro and Pro II is while Icom provides numerous filter combinations but only allows you to store 3 of them! What was Icom thinking?
If I am going to spend a boat load of time tinkering with 51 filter combinations, by george I want to save them and name them, for example...
SSB Contest Narrow 2.0kHz
SSB Contest Super Narrow 1.7kHz
SSB Rag Chew 3.6kHz
CW Quite 750hz
CW QRM Buster 240hz
etc., etc.,
If Icom fixes this by providing memory storage for filters, automatic recall and quick selection, I will buy two 7800's at 8K each!
By the way, that VGA output will come in handy displaying the monitor on my Sony 27" Flat screen displays.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD7EFQ on May 21, 2003
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One thing has become clear to me is that Amateur Radio operators have ego's bigger than race car drivers. The argument of Icom Vs. Ten Tec, vs Yaesu, vs Kenwood on the Amateur websites is 100x worse than the Ford, vs Chevy, vs Dodge etc. This topic has given me a reality check. I am not an Orion owner (yet), as it is hard for me to justify giving up my Omni 6+. Hence I am not defending my new Orion purchase as WS4V insinuates. However, a good perspective to put this in is, If I have $10K to spend, A SMART move would be to put an $8K down payment on a NEW HOME. Then take $2000+ and put it into an antenna system. Location + antenna will make a bigger difference in Station Performance than buying a 7800 for $10k. 73's.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by NF1J on May 21, 2003
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The accessory this rig needs to come with is a large leather codpiece. For there are those of us who could afford one of these, and get it into the shack, but when our wives found out what we paid, they would try to emasculate us.
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by N8IK on May 21, 2003
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NF1J: If you can't sneak it in through the basement window, bring it in through the front door wrapped in a fur coat!
73 de Ian
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by W2VD on May 21, 2003
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I agree with KD7EFQ about taking the money (which could be used for a 7800 purchase) and applying it to a down payment on a house and a nice antenna system.
The 7800 does look like a nice new toy. But a very expensive toy. I could not justify spending megabucks on a 7800. On the other hand, I'm sure there are others who would have no problem plunking down the bucks for a 7800. I guess it boils down to a matter of individual needs and choices. But for my needs, my two Elecraft K2's do a good job. And they are just "a little" bit cheaper. hi
73 de Mike, W2VD
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KE4ZHN on May 21, 2003
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Beautiful rig...but WAY too much coin for a radio! Do the people at Icom really think that hams will spend this kind of money on a rig? As "frugal" as most hams are, I highly doubt the Icom folks targeted the amateur community alone for this radio. Im sure they expect government customers more then anyone else to buy these. After all, the governments of most countries have oodles of tax money to piss away on things like radios, and missles and bombs and whatever. The average Joe Ham sure wont be able to afford this beast. Besides, what person in their right mind would invest enough money in ONE radio to buy a real nice used vehicle? Or for that matter, this kind of money would make a nice down on a house! Oh well, just another high dollar piece that only the Bill Gates`s of the amateur community can afford.
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Wow, neat lookin beast!
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by NK7J on May 21, 2003
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I have a Icom 756Pro that I like very much, and would love to have one of these too but wow, the price. I am sure some are right that this is a sales strategy being used.
I think Icom is on the right track with the amatuer market, they are being aggressive in new product development even though some of the features may not be what *you* think they should be. Kenwood right now is in a slump for ham products, I am a dealer for commercial Kenwood communications products and they are doing quite well on that side. I think thier focus is on the commercial/public safety sector right now. They are giving MA/Com and Mojo a run for thier money. Yaesu, what can I say they are hanging in there. I am not real fond of most of thier products but really like the FT-100D I have.
It astounds me that poeple makes comments like "ethernet and USB what a waste of time... blah blah". I would have LOVED for my pro to have either of those.The ethernet would be my choice as it would be easy to use a hub and network it. These guys put on what they feel or are told we need. As for the FC I am sure they have a reason, I would have to sit and play with the radio to figure out what advantage or lack of it has before shooting it down.
I am hoping this radio comes in around <$4k and I will buy one (once I save enough soda cans ;-) )
Also before shooting up strays to try and degrade a new product for us give it a chance.
One more thing, I left out Ten-Tec in my guess on where producers are. The reason is I do not follow thier products as I simply cannot stand to look at such ugly radios (of course that is JMHO).
God Bless
Jack NK7J
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Tokyo by night
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by N0TONE on May 21, 2003
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Too busy. Sorry, I just can't get into the big display. Radios are an auditory thing for me. If I want a spectrum analyzer, I use a spectrum analyzer.
I spoke with the Icom booth dude, and he said, "$4000 but don't quote me." So I didn't quote him ;)
I asked him if the transmitter would also have impressive specs and he said that Icom's transmitters already have good enough specs so don't expect any improvement there.
And I was starting to dream that one of the big rig manufacturers was actually going to DO something about the splatter problem prevalent on the bands today.
AM
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by W4CNG on May 22, 2003
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Does it have 60 meters? If not, I guess we will have to await the ProIII version in a couple of years.
Steve W4CNG
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD7EFQ on May 22, 2003
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Oh, I get it now. Looks and flash are integrated into the sensitivity/selectivity circuits via an "UGLY" Chip. if it's an "UGLY" rig then it cant possibly perform. Once the Ugly chip (usually implanted between the ears of the operator) engages, then that particular radio is DOOMED!...:-) 73's
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Ugly Radios
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by NK7J on May 22, 2003
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Ummmm, I think you misunderstand where I am comming from. I have used a couple Ten-Tecs and yes some of them are good radios. I like the fact they are American made BUT, if I can get a rig that performs just as well (maybe even a hair less), costs the same or less and I can actually bare to look at it and show it to some non-hams and actually impress them then I will buy it!
I take a prospective ham and show them what looks like 1970 vintage russian age radio and they are NOT impressed. Show then a Icom with a nice display that at least looks we have tried to keep up with technology and they at least will ask questions. I know this should not be the highest priorty in deciding on your next rig but if performance is on par and I like the operating features then thats what I will take. I would love to buy an American made radio and show it off but right now that is not possible (at least IMHO).
To be truthful 99.95% of the time what little performance is gained from one brand over another makes little difference to the casual or normal operator. Yeah maybe once in a while that extra little something might get you that extra JA running 100 watts. To me personally I like to enjoy using the radio as much as talking and for me radios like the newer Icoms are what I am looking for. If Kenwood, Ten-Tec or whoever comes out with the same features then by all means I will look there also.
I dont mean to offend people with ugly ra... oh I mean Ten Tecs, they are just not my cup of tea.
Nuff said
God Bless
Jack NK7J
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by KD7EFQ on May 22, 2003
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As I said earlier, To each their own. Personally I am tired of "Basic Black" so I guess understand to a point. I really like my Omni 6+ because it is White/Grey. Something different than Black and more Black. Also,the styling looks similar to the vintage Drake Radios, Tr7 era. I may however buy the Orion because of Ten Tec's legendary reciever performance, and service/support history in the unlikely event I would need it. I'm sure Icom makes good stuff, But the 7800 is Just Too Expensive!! And for a black rig, I think the Orion looks Sharp. Since this topic is about the Icom, I think I'll return to the Ten Tec Reflector now. 73's :-)
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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Anonymous post on May 22, 2003
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If this radio has what looks like stupid lcd analog looking meters for $8000, Icom is doing what Jap manufactures have always done ie. they like to do things in a certain way that nobody can figure out why they would be so stupid to do it that way.
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by WA8URE on May 22, 2003
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Well, I guess I'll sit back and enjoy my Elecraft K-2, with its superior receiver, and take the wife on three cruises, or more!
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I'll take the 200W
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by KF6IIU on May 23, 2003
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None of the other features really interest me, especially the price. For $8K I'd get more bang for my buck by using the money for down payment on a nice RFI-free vacation property somewhere.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by VE2VOL on May 23, 2003
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What a nice machine... Life is short I whant one Now!!
In 1955.. I was a new born...almost.. A complete Collins line cost aprox $2,500 including Power Amps + speaker + Antenna tuner + name it ( Dinausarius era...) so what cost $2,500 at that time would cost $16.091.00 in 2003... What cost $4,000 in 1980 (year of my first QSO) would cost $9,800 in 2003...
In 2003 to replace a BAND SELECTOR SWITCH on my Alpha-89 .. by Alpha (on the assembly line)...Cost $1,125.00.. ????
How much you lost with Enron??? with Nortel??? with (shit) Errickson?? Bombardier??? Aol??
If you like it.. buy it ..its a DEAL at $8,000 (more or less)Raise funds on eBay...sell your old techno..! Pro-11's, Mk-5, Field , 940,950, 781 Grand-Papa Radio.... Orion?? etc..etc..
Today $8,000 its a deal for this kind of new techno
God Bless America (and Icom)
73
Francoys VE2VOL
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by K0PD on May 23, 2003
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Ah bean's i can not believe all the excitement over a radio that at $8,000.00 still only talk's and recieve's just like my old FTone which was a $2995.00 radio in 1982 not counting all the extras such as filter's and memory ect.Darn was it not so long ago it was the 756 then the 756 pro and now the 756 pro2.I'm not envious of those who will and can afford to be the first on the block with the latest..i say power to them it's their money.My self if i could afford it i would buy the new Ten Tec Orion but i'm very happy with my old yaesu and besides check out all the 756 pro's for sale as i'm sure you;ll see the same thing with pro 2's and you can buy a good used plain old 756 for under a $1,000.00 and it was over $2000.00 + just a few short year's ago.
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by VK2NEW on May 23, 2003
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Although I am very much a Yaesu guy, I LOVE the Icom IC-7800. It is good to see that Yaesu and Icom are challenging each other to produce a benchmark for the new millennium ultimate rig. Although I think Ten-Tec has done a OK job with their Orion, I truly think it needs cosmetic surgery or a face lift. Apperance wise I very much like the look of the new Icom, except I would of liked to see maybe dual analog meters placed at the top lefthand side. I can not wait for the review.
I WANT 1.
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The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by KD2E on May 24, 2003
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Close your eyes, and I bet my 'ol TS520 has a better sounding receiver!!
For 8 grand, I'll buy a plane ticket and shake hands with the DX!!
Actually, I like the technology. If 8 grand meant nothing to me..I'd like to have one. If I had to save the money, I think I would find several other purchases that make more sense.
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by N4UE on May 24, 2003
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I've been reading all the pros and cons of the new 7800. VE2VOC's comments are most clearly aligned with my thoughts. If $4K to $8K is too much for you guys to spend, don't. Pretty simple. However, for the segment of the population that has good paying jobs it's not a big deal. I have made many trips to Japan. I always brought home a new 'toy'. Yeah, I can afford it, big deal. I bought one of the first 706Gs and still paid LESS than they are selling for here in the US, today. Just gotta be a smart shopper. I have a R-1051B (recieve only) made by General Dynamics / Bendix. It's fun to play with, but it cost you and I, $24K each, a LONG time ago. Everything is relative, and technology is marching on. To deny any company the opportunity to produce the latest state-of-the-art 'dream radio', is unrealistic and narrow minded. This technology will filter down and the price will drop accordingly. Yes, I love my Drake TR4-CW, but the display on my 756PRO is too cool to ignore.
One poster made the analogy to cars, Ford vrs. Chevy arguments. This is what makes it fun.
I lost a bunch of money on the stock market...oh well. I was still able to build a new home last year. I also really wanted an AC Cobra. Since 100 years from now, none of these discussions will matter much, I bought one. It sits in my shop and I derive great pleasure for looking at it and driving it. Someone else will own it when I pass, and I don't care if they use it like a 4X4. Won't matter to me.......
Like one poster said, if you can't run with the big dogs stay on the porch. If you can't afford the new generation of radios, go back to school and get a better job. All you're bitchin' is not going to change the progression of time, technology, and your own mortality......
Ron
N4UE
A cancer survivor
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by KC2IHD on May 24, 2003
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I also must agree with most of the other posters.I already own some of the so called top of the line HF rigs and the 7800 will just be another spit in the ocean for me. It will be a new addition to my collection :)
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by W2IHY on May 24, 2003
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I am glad to see ICOM or any of the manufacturers invest in the development of a (truly) high end radio. Development of products is about learning. Many of the lower cost products usually benefit significantly from the learning / development and customer feedback of the high end products in fact it is not unusual for lower end products to make further improvements/ refinements in some areas. The 7800 though expensive will influence future changes in the ICOM product line. If you choose not to buy one because of the cost wait a while because you will be see ICOM take their learning into more innovative mid range products. It looks to me that ICOM is serious about competing in the amateur market.
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by K6ZSR on May 25, 2003
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TO K4SFC:
In reply to your response, I would like to say that those of us that can afford the new Icom 7800 do not think of you or anyone else that can not afford this rig as "Poor Trash" We just think of you as not being able to afford such high priced equipment. You probably can't afford this equipment because you do not earn enough money or you made poor investments during your life so far. But how you can make an assumption that we think that somehow you are inferior to us because you cannot afford to buy high end equipment is beyond my thinking. When you see someone in a Mercedes Benz passing you in your(maybe a Chevrolet or a Hugo) do you think he really cares about whether you can afford a better car?...Or that he thinks of you as "Poor Trash"?? I don't think so.....
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by WS4V on May 26, 2003
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To: K6ZSR
I'm just curious (and believe me, I'm not being smart here) what do you classify as earning a good enough salary to justify spending on this rig?
I know a lot who, despite a "good" salary would never shell out over $2000 for an HF rig period.
Now, please don't get me wrong..I'll be one of the first in line for the 7800. I love ICOM equipment and am really looking forward to this radio.
I look at it this way...this radio saved me from buying a Yaesu MK V or Ten Tec Orion (which I still think is UUUUGLY!). The little little extra will be well spent on this radio.
I was the individual who posted this news article but I really didn't intend for it to become an "I can afford it, you can't.." fued. But, so be it..I appreciate all the responses regardless..
It's a beautiful radio, for sure. I still don't believe it will be at the $8K mark. More likely...$6K.
So, please, K6ZSR, what kind of ham (salary, job, etc.) do yo believe is "frontline material" for the IC7800.
73 to you and I look forward to talking to you on the air 7800 to 7800 and thanks for all who have posted thus far.
Rob,ws4v
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by WA2JJH on May 26, 2003
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Well it looks nice. I never thought I would see a day
for an $8000 HAM radio. A little too rich for my blood.
One could link a TS-870 with a used TS-850.
One would have a great set up for under $2800.
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by WB9JOX on May 27, 2003
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I think its a great radio, buuutttt price way out of line.Unless your not planning on selling many.I own 3 icom rigs , 756 pro 2 recent addition.I would be one of the first to buy that rig ,but not at that price. I can see maybe 4 k, but beyond that no way.otherwise keep up the good work .I thoroughly enjoy the 756 pro 2. 73's Ted
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by KY1V on May 28, 2003
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To WS4V:
I can answer that question, but it is subjective, not objective.
My wife earns 7 figures...not the average salary albeit, but I can probably buy any toy I want because of her income.
I have an FT-1000D, an FT-1000MP Mark V and a TS-2000. Why? Because I like to tinker with them. If I didn't have that kind of money what then? I would have four or five used lower end radios...why? Because I like to tinker with them!
Would I buy an Orion...not a chance. Regardless of the features, it looks like a junker to me. I would buy a Drake C Line first. Does the price matter...YES because it isn't worth that much to me to have to look at it! (or wait for it for that matter...any radio that I can't simply buy on impulse I don't buy)
Would I buy a IC-7800? You bet. To me it is a nice looking radio (and I like the simulated analog meters) and it has lots of features with which to tinker. Does the price matter...NO because I can afford it without thinking about it!
So, the answer to your question "who can afford an IC-7800?" is...ANYONE who really wants one! It is subjective, not objective!
It just depends on how bad a person wants it!
73,
David
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by VK7JJJ on June 1, 2003
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Now Ian, that's why amateur operators have an ingenious nature to adapt the environment to suit our purpose...
Hostile XYL will quickly soften in a new coat or stole and lose focus on the 30kg black box underneath...
If the 7800 will come in at US$8k, then it will hit AUD$14k with the exchange rate. My XYL works on a 50/50 split.
I have to purchase something to the equal value of my new toys... Makes budgeting a real hassle..... This rig will cost me AUD$28k all up (US$16k).
Might just stick with the 950SDX and 790...
Cheers,
Corey.
VK7JJJ
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by K6QE on June 25, 2003
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I, personally, can't wait for the 7800 to come out. In my opinion the Pro II is sitting on top of the heap. The 7800 undoubtedly will displace the Pro II. Gentelmen, we are seeing ham radio at it's best when the marvelous world of DSP is unfolding into the technology of amateur radio. It is adding a dimension that 10 years ago would have been unthinkable. 8000 dollars is a lot of money to invest in a piece of equipment, I agree. But for those who can afford it, go for it and keep this hobby alive and well. Congratulations Icom!!!
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by KB6FPR on January 19, 2004
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The new Icom 7800 are being sold now in Japan and Canada. Radioworld's price is $13,500.
http://www.radioworld.ca/ham/amateur.php
I'll wait until they come down a bit.
Paul/N6PSE
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by KD5RUS on February 2, 2004
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$8,000?!
Unbelievable...
Listen-up Icom (and the rest): we want the quality and functionality very HIGH and the cost LOW (or at least reasonable). Got it?
In this modern age of sophisticated engineering and manufacturing techniques and automated technologies, radios like this should be widely available and affordable. I believe they should also be mil-spec.
Remember, amateur radio is an "avocation", not a profession. It is assinine and pompus to tease the limited budget of the hobbist.
There's no way I'd pay $8k for an amateur radio. I'm not paying $4k either...
If you want to sell a few "elite" radios to a few "elite" budgets, be my guest.
If you really want to build and endear an enourmous customer base, build the best radios money can buy for the dollars real amateurs have to spend. That's what's needed.
I will say that Icom is the closest to producing radio displays the way they need to be. The TFT all-digital (no more analog VU meters please; this is 2004) display featured on the out-of-reach IC-7800 should be standard on all rigs, all modes, mobile and base.
Other manufacturers...take notes.
$150 car stereos had this 5-10 years ago!
Respectfully,
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by V73NS on February 12, 2004
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706mkIIg / 746Pro / 756ProII <--- This is your brain.
7800 <--- This is your brain on drugs!
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by WA1GZY on March 14, 2004
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Icom has set a new benchmark! Look at what others spend for cars and boats. This is a hobby where everyone thankfully chooses their individual price/value/budget. I won't part with my IC-781 but will be saving my pennies! Just don't tell the xyl!
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RE: The New Icom 7800 is Unveiled!
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by AG1F on April 16, 2004
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I never bought any of those stocks. Why would you buy something that would be unsuccessful. I always thought the ICOM 756Pro was pretty but the price was rediculous. The 7800 is pretty, but that is all
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by AG1F on April 16, 2004
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I never bought any of those stocks. Why would you buy something that would be unsuccessful. I always thought the ICOM 756Pro was pretty but the price was ridiculous. The 7800 is pretty, but that is all
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by K4SX on May 4, 2004
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On Wednesday April 28th I had the pleasure of operating the new IC-7800 at a friend's QTH. My initial impression is that the radio is fantastic. I hope to go back and do more operating and testing soon. The following are my initial impressions: 1). The receiver is very quite, 2). The receivers are excellent and both have full function features, 3). The software is very easy to use, 4). The operating manual is very good and I found easy to use and understand, 5). The operational aspects of the radio are excellent and easy to use, 6). The power output is 200+ watts, 7). The talk-power is 200+ watts, 8). The on-the-air tests on 40M phone were excellent and the reports given for quality were excellent using a SM-6 microphone, 9). Selectivity was excellent, 10). The radio's appearance is very good - nice lookng radio, 11). The operating screen was very clear and the 3 function meters available were very good, 12). Overall impression was a outstanding. There will be many who believe $10k plus for a radio is too much and that point is very difficult to discuss/debate. It is of course all based on each individual's fundamental price point limits. I'll leave that debate and discussion to everyone else. I am very pleased and excited that a manufacturer has come out with an extremely nice, high-tech radio for Amateur use. I intend to purchase one. Thank you and 73.
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by K4SX on May 4, 2004
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Additional comments on the IC-7800: 1). Both TX and RX have fully functional tebble and base adjustments, 2). SSB transmit is capable of 2.9khz width, 3). I did not have time to test the radio on CW and will on my next visit.
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