Icom 2730A Review: The Ultimate Guide.
The icom 2730a is a dual band mobile transceiver designed for reliable and efficient communication. With its easy-to-use interface and powerful performance, this radio is a popular choice among amateur radio operators.
The icom 2730a is a versatile and practical solution for mobile communication needs. Whether you’re a serious operator, a weekend volunteer, or just someone who needs reliable communication on the go, this radio delivers. With its durable construction, dual-band operation, and intuitive interface, the 2730a is a top-of-the-line mobile transceiver.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features, performance, and overall value of the icom 2730a. So, let’s dive in and see what this radio has to offer.
Features Of Icom 2730A
Dual-Band Mobile Radio With 50 Watts Of Power
The icom 2730a is a dual-band mobile radio with an impressive 50 watts of power, making it an excellent choice for both amateur and professional radio operators. With its high output power, the device can easily cover long distances, providing clear and reliable communication.
Key features:
- Dual-band radio with vhf/uhf frequencies
- 50 watts of output power
- Built-in speaker for clear audio
- Compact design for easy installation in any vehicle
Large Lcd Display And Intuitive User Interface
The icom 2730a features a large lcd display that makes it easy to view and navigate through various settings and functions. The user interface is intuitive and straightforward, making it easy to customize settings and access different features.
Key features:
- Large, clear lcd display
- Intuitive user interface for easy navigation
- Customizable settings for personal preferences
- Backlit keypad for use in low-light conditions
Multiple Operating Modes, Including Fm, Am, And D-Star
The icom 2730a offers multiple operating modes, making it a versatile device that can be used in various settings. With fm, am, and d-star modes, the device can easily access different frequencies and types of communication, including digital modes.
Key features:
- Multiple operating modes for versatility
- D-star digital mode for clear and reliable communication
- Fm and am modes for traditional communication
- Digital voice memory for recording and playback of conversations
Built-In Gps And Bluetooth
The icom 2730a comes equipped with built-in gps and bluetooth capabilities, which add to the device’s overall functionality and convenience. With gps, the device can determine its location and display it on the lcd screen, while bluetooth allows for hands-free operation and wireless communication.
Key features:
- Built-in gps for location tracking and display
- Bluetooth for hands-free operation and wireless communication
- Compatible with third-party bluetooth accessories
- Easily connect to mobile devices for seamless communication
High-Quality Sound Output And Microphone
The icom 2730a offers high-quality sound output and a dynamic microphone, which provide clear and reliable communication, even in noisy environments. With its emphasis on clear audio, the device is an excellent choice for mobile communication on the go.
Key features:
- High-quality sound output for clear audio
- Dynamic microphone for crisp and clear voice transmission
- Noise-reduction technology for clear communication in noisy environments
- Large speaker for loud and clear audio
Design And Build Quality
Description Of The Physical Design And Dimensions.
The icom 2730a is a dual-band mobile radio that has a modern and sleek design. It measures 140mm x 41. 9mm x 168mm and weighs around 1. 1kg, making it easy to install in your vehicle, boat, or other outdoor settings.
Here are some of the key physical attributes of the icom 2730a:
- Large lcd screen with adjustable brightness and contrast.
- Backlit keys for nighttime use.
- Programmable function keys for easy customization.
- Detachable faceplate for convenient installation and operation.
- Compact size for easy portability.
Durability And Resistance To Harsh Outdoor Conditions.
The icom 2730a is built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, making it ideal for use in off-road vehicles, boats, and other outdoor settings. It has a rugged and durable construction with a robust heat sink system that ensures reliable performance even in extreme temperatures.
Here are some of the durability features of the icom 2730a:
- Waterproof rating of ip54, making it resistant to splashes and dust.
- Mil-std-810 rating for shock and vibration resistance.
- Heat sink system for cool and stable operation even in high-temperature environments.
- Sealed construction to protect against moisture, dirt, and other contaminants.
Ease Of Installation And Setup.
The icom 2730a is designed for easy installation and setup in your vehicle, boat, or other outdoor settings. It comes with a comprehensive user manual and intuitive menu system that makes it easy to program and operate. Here are some of the key features that make the icom 2730a easy to install and set up:
- Detachable faceplate for easy mounting and wiring.
- Simplified menu system with intuitive icons and graphics.
- Multiple scanning and programmable memory channels for easy access to your favorite frequencies.
- Optional bluetooth capability for wireless operation and control.
- Free programming software and cloning cable included for easy customization and programming.
Performance And Functionality
Detailed Review Of The Device’S Performance In Various Operating Modes
The icom 2730a is a powerful and versatile dual-band mobile radio with numerous advanced features. Here are some detailed reviews of the device’s performance in various operating modes:
- Dual watch mode: The icom 2730a is capable of monitoring two bands simultaneously, making it a great option for hams who want to keep an ear on both vhf/uhf bands. The device’s dual-watch mode works flawlessly, allowing you to monitor both bands with ease.
- Memory channel mode: With 50 memory channels available, the icom 2730a lets you store and recall your favorite frequencies quickly and easily. The device’s memory channel mode works exceptionally well, allowing you to set up custom channel groups and scan them effortlessly.
- Ctcss/dtcs functions: The icom 2730a features both ctcss and dtcs coding functions, which allow you to communicate with other hams privately and without any interference. The device’s ctcss/dtcs functions are top-notch, providing clear and distortion-free communication.
- Gps functionalities: The icom 2730a comes with an optional gps unit that provides location data and enables position reporting. This makes the device perfect for hams who enjoy aprs or other location-based services. The gps functionalities work seamlessly, offering accurate positioning and easy navigation.
Comparison With Other Similar Devices In The Market
The market for dual-band mobile radios is a crowded one, with several reputable brands and models available. So, how does the icom 2730a compare to its competitors? Here’s a quick rundown:
- Yaesu ftm-400dr: The yaesu ftm-400dr is a popular dual-band mobile radio that competes with the icom 2730a. While both devices are similar in terms of features, the icom 2730a edges out the ftm-400dr in terms of audio quality and ease of use. The icom 2730a has more intuitive menu options and a clearer and more natural-sounding audio quality.
- Kenwood tm-d710g: The kenwood tm-d710g is another excellent dual-band mobile radio that is often compared to the icom 2730a. While the kenwood tm-d710g is slightly more expensive, it offers more robust aprs functionalities and a larger screen. However, the icom 2730a provides better ease of use and a more intuitive menu system.
Explanation Of How To Optimize The Device’S Functionality
To get the most out of your icom 2730a, you should optimize its functionalities. Here are some tips to help you do that:
- Adjust the microphone gain: The icom 2730a has a sensitive microphone, which can pick up a lot of background noise. To optimize its functionality, adjust the microphone gain to the correct level. You can do this by using the mic gain control on the device’s front panel.
- Use the noise blanker effectively: The icom 2730a comes with a noise blanker that can eliminate engine noise and other types of interference. To optimize its functionality, learn how to use the noise blanker effectively. You can do this by adjusting the nb level using the device’s menu options.
- Take advantage of the customizability: The icom 2730a is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust its settings to your preference. To optimize its functionality, take advantage of this customizability. You can do this by setting up custom channel groups, scanning sequences, and other advanced features.
- Keep the device clean and well-maintained: Finally, to optimize the icom 2730a’s functionality, keep it clean and well-maintained. Regularly wipe down the device with a damp cloth and ensure that the power connections are secure and corrosion-free. This will help ensure the device works at its best for years to come.
Practical Applications
How The Device Can Be Used For Emergency Communication
The icom 2730a is a reliable and effective way of communication during emergencies. With its fm and d-star modes, the radio can function over long distances, and it comes in handy when other modes of communication are unavailable. Here are some ways this device helps during emergencies:
- The icom 2730a can reach other d-star radios within a 10-mile radius. This comes in handy in natural disasters, where traditional communication methods may not be reliable. With this radio, you can contact other users who are also using the d-star mode radio.
- When using fm mode, the radio has widespread availability in both the vhf and uhf bands. This is incredibly useful when communicating with first responders and other local emergency services.
- The radio’s lcd screen features an intuitive interface, allowing you to scroll through frequencies quickly. This is a critical feature for emergencies where every second matters.
Its Usefulness In Remote Areas And Off-Road Expeditions
One of the best features of the icom 2730a is the device’s suitability for off-road expeditions. With an output power of up to 50 watts, the radio can cover vast distances and reach friends or other drivers when you’re out of range of cell phone coverage.
Here are some ways it can be useful:
- The radio comes with a high-performance gps receiver, which allows you to track your location and share it with others.
- It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry on lengthy hikes or road trips. Its rugged design also makes it durable enough to withstand extreme weather or rough conditions.
- The radio’s high output power of up to 50 watts lets you communicate over long distances in areas with poor connectivity. It’s an excellent option for people who enjoy exploring the outdoors or those who work remotely in remote areas.
Advantages Of Using D-Star Mode For Long-Range Communication
D-star mode is a digital communication protocol developed by the japan amateur radio league. Using this mode with the icom 2730a has several advantages for long-range communication. Here are some of them:
- The d-star mode function provides crystal-clear audio that ensures excellent voice communication quality, even over long distances.
- The protocol compresses voice transmission, allowing longer and more robust transmissions than traditional fm radios. This feature makes the icom 2730a ideal for hikers or groups that go on long backcountry trips.
- D-star mode communication is incredibly secure, thanks to its proprietary encryption technology. This makes this feature suitable for people who prioritize privacy and secure communication.
Frequently Asked Questions On Icom 2730A Review
Is Icom 2730A A Reliable Ham Radio?
Yes, icom 2730a is a reliable ham radio with solid construction and great features, perfect for beginners and experienced users alike.
Is Icom 2730A Suitable For Mobile Use?
Yes, icom 2730a is suitable for mobile use, thanks to its compact design and front-facing speaker that ensure clear communication on the go.
What Is The Power Output Of Icom 2730A?
Icom 2730a has two output power levels: 50w for both vhf and uhf and 5w for both vhf and uhf.
Can Icom 2730A Be Used For Emergency Communication?
Yes, icom 2730a can be used for emergency communication. It has a built-in emergency alert feature that can activate a siren and send a gps signal to alert others of your location.
Does Icom 2730A Have A Cross-Band Repeat Function?
Yes, icom 2730a has a cross-band repeat function that allows you to use the radio to relay signals between two different frequency bands.
What Is The Price Range Of Icom 2730A?
The price of icom 2730a varies depending on the seller and location, but it generally falls in the range of $350 to $450.
Conclusion
After thorough research and analysis, it’s safe to say that the icom 2730a is a robust and reliable transceiver that delivers excellent performance. Its dual-band capabilities, user-friendly interface, and multiple features make it an ideal choice for ham radio enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The crisp, clear display and advanced functions, such as the digital signal processing, noise reduction, and voice recording, allow for seamless communication over long distances. While it may be a bit pricey compared to other transceivers in the market, the icom 2730a is worth the investment for its unmatched quality and reliability.
Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-range transceiver that can handle your communication needs, the icom 2730a is a perfect choice.
