VIDEO REVIEW:
Introduction
In a recent look at Icom's refreshed IC-7300, Peter G3OJV from Waters and Stanton walks through the headline features of the IC-7300 Mk II announced at the Tokyo Ham Fair. The original IC-7300 changed the HF transceiver market when it arrived around eight years ago; the Mk II builds on that legacy with several practical upgrades aimed at improving usability, noise control and display flexibility.
Why the IC-7300 mattered
The IC-7300 was a landmark rig for the amateur market. As a fully SDR transceiver that sold "over a 100,000 units" since introduction, it "really rocked the market" by delivering modern receiver architecture and a compact, user-friendly layout at an accessible price. That success set a high bar and makes the Mk II an eagerly anticipated refresh.
What's new on the IC-7300 Mk II
The Mk II introduces a handful of practical, user-focused changes rather than a radical redesign. These updates reflect eight years of technology refinement and user feedback.
Separate receive antenna socket
One of the most welcome additions is a dedicated receive antenna socket on the rear panel. For many operators dealing with elevated noise levels on transmit antennas, the ability to connect a separate receive-only aerial — for example a small loop or beacon antenna — can substantially reduce noise and improve signal-to-noise ratio.
In short: separate RX circuitry gives you an extra tool to fight local noise without changing your transmit antenna setup.
HDMI output for external monitors
The Mk II gains an HDMI port, allowing any compatible monitor to be used as a larger display. There are two clear benefits:
- You can view more information simultaneously — useful for panadapters, waterfall displays and menus.
- Large-screen CW decoding or long panadapter traces become far easier to read, especially at a distance from the radio.
This addition recognises how much more data modern transceivers present on-screen and makes it simple to expand the display footprint with readily available monitors.
On-board CW decoding
The Mk II adds CW decode on-screen. Built-in decoding allows copy of Morse directly from the radio's display (or larger HDMI monitor), which is useful for learning, contesting, or copying weak CW signals without a separate decoder box or PC.
Improved receiver performance
Icom have emphasised receiver improvements. While final judgements await hands-on tests with production units, it’s reasonable to expect incremental but meaningful gains from eight years of SDR development — better dynamic range, improved filtering and noise handling, and overall enhanced IF/ADC implementation.
Market context and pricing
The HF transceiver market is competitive. Recent entrants like the Yaesu FT-710 have pushed performance and pricing, and the original IC-7300’s price point is now very close to these newer rivals. That competition benefits buyers, but it means the Mk II’s exact pricing will influence where it sits in the market.
At the time of the announcement the price was unknown. Given current market dynamics, expect Icom to position the Mk II to remain competitive against the likes of the FT-710 while preserving the IC-7300’s reputation for strong performance at a reasonable cost.
Availability and ordering
Icom suggested availability around the end of the year, though production timelines often slip and early 2026 is a practical possibility. Retailers are taking expressions of interest, but Waters and Stanton do not request deposits until pricing and confirmed delivery dates are available.
"“We don't take deposits because it can be rather awkward... but if you're interested, we'll put you on the list.”"
If you want to be notified when the Mk II becomes available, registering interest with a trusted dealer is the sensible route rather than paying an early deposit.
Conclusion
The IC-7300 Mk II looks to be a thoughtful evolution of a very successful platform: the addition of a separate receive antenna socket, HDMI output, on-board CW decoding and improved receiver circuitry are practical upgrades that address real operator needs. Until we have a production unit for testing we can’t quantify the receiver gains, but the Mk II promises to keep the IC-7300 family competitive in a crowded HF market.
If you follow Icom gear and are considering an HF SDR around this price point, the Mk II is worth a place on your short list — especially if you value flexible display options and the ability to fight local noise with a dedicated receive antenna.
For more information please visit our online store or alternatively contact us and our team will be happy to assist you!