This weekend I picked up the new Kenwood TH-D74 HT from Ham Radio Outlet here in Southern California. From the preliminary information, I new this radio was an updated version of the TH-D72 but with D-Star included, but I definitely didn't realize how sophisticated and complete this little radio is.
I can honestly say that I haven't been this impressed or excited about an HT since the introduction of the Yaesu VX-8. This radio is like the love-child of the Kenwood TH-F6, the Kenwood TH-D-72, and the Icom ID-51. The TX range covers 2 meters, 220 Mhz, and 440 Mhz. It has a built-in GPS and TNC supporting APRS and KISS modes, much like the TH-D72. The D-Star support is on par with the Icom radios and works flawlessly. Like the TH-F6, it can receive HF & MW bands, including support for SSB, AM, CW, and FM modes. Lastly, it features USB, SD-Card, and Bluetooth interfaces / connectivity.
This is an expensive radio, but my first impressions are that Kenwood has hit a home-run and this will be on the top of the list of every ham's "must buy" list!
I can honestly say that I haven't been this impressed or excited about an HT since the introduction of the Yaesu VX-8. This radio is like the love-child of the Kenwood TH-F6, the Kenwood TH-D-72, and the Icom ID-51. The TX range covers 2 meters, 220 Mhz, and 440 Mhz. It has a built-in GPS and TNC supporting APRS and KISS modes, much like the TH-D72. The D-Star support is on par with the Icom radios and works flawlessly. Like the TH-F6, it can receive HF & MW bands, including support for SSB, AM, CW, and FM modes. Lastly, it features USB, SD-Card, and Bluetooth interfaces / connectivity.
This is an expensive radio, but my first impressions are that Kenwood has hit a home-run and this will be on the top of the list of every ham's "must buy" list!