W8USR - United States Radio

Icom IC-7300

Technical Specifications

The Icom IC-7300 features a high-performance digital processing system that provides clean, low-distortion transmit signals and exceptional receiver sensitivity. Key technical specifications include an all-mode capability (SSB, CW, RTTY, AM, FM), a high-speed automatic antenna tuner, 100 watts of heavy-duty RF output power, and a brilliant 4.3-inch color TFT touchscreen display.

Radio History

Here at W8USR, we purchased our IC-7300 in September 2019. The rig is a highly popular, compact HF/50 MHz amateur radio transceiver. It revolutionized the ham radio market by bringing professional-grade RF Direct Sampling technology into an entry-level, all-in-one package. It features a built-in color touchscreen, a real-time spectrum scope, and an internal sound card for digital modes.

Antenna Routing

We use this radio in conjunction with two antennas depending on the band currently in operation. The first antenna, used the most often, is our MFJ Enterprises Model MFJ-1796 vertical antenna. It covers the 40, 20, 15, 10, 6 and 2 meter bands (although we have another antenna for our 2 meter and 70cm operations).

When we switch over to 17 meters, we use a dipole antenna up in the attic running the length of our roof along the peak around 16 or 18 feet off the ground. We have the two coax cables running in through the back of the radio desk and simply connect the appropriate cable for the operation at the time. While not in use, the radio is always connected to a dummy load.

Station Role

The Icom IC-7300 serves as the primary base station transceiver in our radio shack. Its compact size, exceptional noise reduction, and crisp audio output make it our absolute go-to rig for handling daily check-ins, monitoring local traffic, and pursuing DX contacts across the HF bands. It is the reliable backbone of W8USR station operations.