As soon as reservations opened for the Yaesu FTX-1 via DX Engineering last year, I placed my order.
Details were sparse at the time, but we understood this would be Yaesu’s modernized successor to the beloved FT-817 and FT-818—the iconic bullet-proof radios that served the community for over two decades. Indeed they still serve me well!
This past week, new information surfaced via official Yaesu channels and FCC filings. A number of YouTube videos are already circulating, but I won’t be publishing anything myself until I have the radio in hand and can take it to the field.
That said, it feels like Yaesu was preparing for a full announcement anyway, especially with Hamvention less than two weeks away. Hamvention and the Tokyo Ham Fair have historically been the venues where major product launches from Yaesu, Icom, and Kenwood happen.
Summary & Observations
Before we begin: Here’s a summary of what we currently know about the FTX-1. I’m doing my best to keep things objective—there are no performance claims here, since no one outside of Yaesu has tested the radio yet. Some features suggest real potential (like the receiver architecture), but any speculation is clearly noted as such. Until we can get hands-on, this is simply an overview of confirmed details provided directly by Yaesu and its authorized retailers.
Note: All images are sourced from the Yaesu brochure. Pricing below is based on early estimates from authorized retailers and may be subject to change.
The FTX-1Field
(≈$1,499.95 US)
The field comes with Field Head with SBR-52LI (Li-Ion Battery), SSM-75E (Microphone), and DC Power Cables.
Via the attachable battery pack, the Field Head alone will output up to 6 watts. If a 12-13.8 V external power source is connected, it can output up to 10 watts.
FTX-1optima
(≈$1,899.95 US)
The FTX-1optima system includes: Field Head with SPA-1 (100 watt amplifier), SBR-52LI (Li-Ion Battery), SSM-75E (Microphone) & DC Power Cables.
That’s the only difference between the two versions: the inclusion of the SPA-1 amplifier. At least, based on the FTX-1 brochure (PDF).
As a QRPer, I initially discounted the amplifier. I typically run 5 watts or less and rarely exceed that, maybe once or twice per year. But after a closer look, I suspect many hams will opt for the amplifier version.
Here’s why:
- 100 watts output on HF
- 50 watts on VHF/UHF
- Dual antenna ports
- Built-in 2.5-watt speaker
- Integrated ATU for 160–6 meters
I’m guessing–pure speculation here–the internal ATU is similar to those found in base rigs—likely offering a modest matching range, perhaps up to 3:1. That’s just my assumption as I place the order, and I’ll wait for confirmation once the unit is in hand. I would love to be proven wrong as we all appreciate wide-matching-range ATUs.
Another point in favor of the Optima: the $400 price difference between the Field ($1,499.95) and Optima ($1,899.95) packages is actually less than the standalone cost of the SPA-1 amplifier ($649.95), should you choose to purchase it later.
So, although I doubt I’ll use the 100W amp often, I’ve gone ahead and ordered the Optima package.
Accessories
Here’s a list of currently known accessories with estimated U.S. pricing:
FC-80 – HF/50MHz 10W Automatic Antenna Tuner – $319.95:
SCF-1 – Cooling Fan – $54.95
FC-90 – HF/50MHz 10W Automatic Antenna Tuner (for Long-wire/50Ω antenna) – $319.95 [Note: this appears to be a stand-alone ATU, not one that attaches to the FTX-1 directly. I’ll confirm.]
SPA-1: 100W Power Amplifier (supplied with FTX-1 Optima) – $649.95
MHG-1: Side Carry Handle (for carrying FTX-1 attached with SPA-1) – $14.99
FGPS-5: GPS Antenna Unit – $69.95
BU-6: Bluetooth Unit – $54.95
SSM-BT20: Bluetooth® Headset (BU-6 must be installed in Field Head) – $36.95
SBR-52LI: (no photo) 6400 mAh Li-ion Battery Pack – $199.95
One item I’m particularly interested in is the SPG-1 Protection Guard, which is Yaesu’s own front faceplate protector. No pricing info available yet at time of writing.
You know what?
Yaesu has genuinely surprised me here.
This is a more ambitious and modernized package than I anticipated—one that smacks of 2025 design expectations. The modularity is compelling: field operators can assemble the package they need without carrying unused features into the field. It’s an approach that sets it apart from many competitors.
The concept is simple but effective—when it’s time to hit the field, you just detach the FTX-1 faceplate from your base station setup, pack it in your kit, and you’re ready to go QRP. No additional cables to disconnect, no reconfiguration required. Clean, simple, and efficient.
If you’re someone who wants a 100W radio for field work but finds $1,899 steep, don’t overlook the FT-891—in my opinion, it remains one of the best values in the market at $630 US.
Still, the modular approach of the FTX-1 is refreshing. Snap the Field Head onto the amplifier and it becomes a base station. Detach it and you’ve got a capable QRP portable. Even a dedicated OEM front protection guard is offered.
Yes, it’s in the same pricing tier as the IC-705 and Elecraft KX2/KX3, but unlike those, the FTX-1 can be bundled with an OEM 100-watt amplifier—complete with dual antenna ports, a built-in speaker, and an internal ATU—for just $400 more. I love my Elecraft KXPA100, which pairs beautifully with both the KX2 and KX3 (and virtually any other HF radio), but it’s currently priced at $1,649.95 on its own.
Given that these units are manufactured in Japan, and I’m based in the U.S., I’m hopeful that these prices already reflect the 10% baseline tariff now applied to most goods from Japan. At the moment, I’ve seen no mention of surprise import costs—but that’s always something to watch.
What’s Next?
My order is in, and you can be sure that once the FTX-1 arrives, I’ll take it straight to the field and post a full field report and activation video. We’ll take a look at it together. Four to six weeks later, I’ll post a proper review.
Addendum: Yaesu USA Overview Video
Yaesu USA recently released an official video overview of the FTX-1, where they elaborated on several technical features.
One detail that stood out in both this video and the product brochure: the FTX-1 shares receiver architecture with the FT-DX10—a very capable transceiver with excellent RX performance. While I don’t expect the FTX-1 to match the FT-DX10’s filtering or front-end capabilities, this could bode well for its overall receiver performance.
Check out the video here:
I don’t understand the $319 for the QRP ATU but $400 more for to add a 100W amp with ATU built in. It’s a lot of money to spend to be a beets tester as well. I’m going to guess that the system is going to have some bugs in it and I just hope for those that jump on the 1st production run to run into any serious ones. If and that’s a big if I get one I’ll let it be out for 6 months to a year before I buy one.
My experience, though, with Yaesu, Kenwood, Icom, and Elecraft radios is that they’ve been thoroughly tested prior to being released. Sometimes there are minor bug fixes, but I would be surprised–it would be uncharacteristic for them–to ship something more akin to a beta unit like Xiegu would.
Beta not beets tester
Looks REALLY nice. Lots of capability, and as you said, some surprises in the optional gear. Pricing is fair and about what I thought it would be. It’s like anything else in this hobby, if you can afford it and want it, get one. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
I went all-in on the Icom IC-705 with the radio, a couple high-capacity BP-307 battery packs, and the AH-705 tuner, so I can’t see getting the new radio…yet!
Despite the value pricing for the radio + 100W amplifier, I still think I would get the 10W version with separate FC-90 auto tuner (and of course, the cool SPG-1 face protector). Not that I’m really planning a new kit…;)
I hear you. Honestly? Before I saw pricing, I planned to get the FTX-1F and the attachable ATU. I *almost* added that ATU to my Optima order, but held off (for now). 🙂
According to page 44 of the manual, “The Automatic Antenna Unit (ATU) is built in each Optima. So, looks like another reason to get that.
My order is in
What package did you grab?
Excelentente página, pero lamentablemente no puedo registrarme en la página página de qrper.com
¿Qué problema tienes exactamente? Tu comentario se publicó sin problema. ¿Hay algo más que esté causando un inconveniente?
Maybe I am just turning into an old timer now, but I gotta say, this new Yaesu doesn’t really excite me.
At this point if I am going to drop in the neighborhood of $1500 – $200 for a field radio, I rather buy an Elecraft KX.
Hey, I get it. Elecraft is WAY more my style when it comes to field radios than the FTX-1. For example, you can see how often I use the IC-705 in the field compared to any of the KX series. 🙂
I enjoy reviewing radios, otherwise I’d not purchase the FTX-1. I’m hoping, though, that it might really surprise me, fun factor-wise. We’ll see. You know me, Matt. I’m taking a bullet here. 😜
You’re taking one for the team Thomas 😂
I’m far more interested in watching your activation video(s) with the radio than I am with the radio itself.
72
Exactly ! I think this is a ‘design by committee’ nightmare ! They clearly did not look at the people who were dying to get a ‘newer’ version of the extremely popular 817/818 radios…. so they boiled the ocean with everything but the kitchen sink..oops..they did include that too in the accessories I think. Im sure there are people who will buy it but I sure would not… find a used KX2 for much less…fully loaded..with a tuner etc.
This is such a mixed bag. On the one hand, I had suspected they were planning such a modular approach with a QRP control head plus an amplifier option and was excited about that. On the other hand however, I am completely *stunned* by their response to obvious questions, stating that it will NOT BE POSSIBLE to mount the amplifier separately and use a separation kit. Any sort of mobile installation or setup for limited desk space is apparently completely off the table, which is an *unbelievable* open-goal miss.
Additionally, it’s yet another thing that some completely clueless executive wants to call a “field” radio but that comes with absolutely zero ingress protection rating for water and dirt. Certification to IP54 standards should be the bare minimum expectation in this market segment, and IP67 should be the goal and certainly met by a radio at this high of a price point.
I’m intrigued, but disappointed. Now I’m left sitting here pondering whether I’d be better off buying a KXPA100 to pair with my existing Lab599 TX-500. I want something physically small enough to fit in the limited-depth headboard space of the bed in my travel trailer but capable of 100W, and without support for a separation kit it looks like the FTX-1 series will not be able to do that. For actual QRP field use I need basic durability so a very expensive radio won’t get ruined just from normal use, and it doesn’t seem to offer that either. Yaesu, you were so, so close, but why??
I have somwhat similar feelings.
I don’t think the lack of separation kit is a problem.
I’d bet you could homebrew one yourself. I’ve homebrewed a separation kit for the 891 because the stock one is pricy and I wanted different sizes. Getting a shielded cable into an RJ 6P6C connector was a pain but it was doable and the kit works nicely.
However, you’re right the FTX-1 QRP doesn’t seem very durable and also I don’t like touch displays very much. I don’t see myself operating that with cold hands atop a SOTA summit. This is why I’m not too fond of the IC-705, too.
The radio is also relatively hefty for a QRP radio. 1.25kg the QRP unit only, with the amp the entire unit becomes 3.9kg. As opposed to that the FT-891 is just under 2kg, with a lightweight tuner that’s some 2.4kg. The TX-500 is around 500g I believe (don’t have one yet).
I don’t think the FTX-1 is designed very much for the sort of field ops where you need ruggedness and light weight (ie. hiking and such), I think it’s meant for the more casual field op where you go to a picnic table or a cabin porch on a sunny saturday.
The response they’ve given so far is that a separation cable won’t work, not just that they don’t currently offer one. They’re saying that the design isn’t compatible with a longer cable, that it has to be short. Why is unclear, but that would preclude a DIY or aftermarket solution if true.
If it’s for picnic table or porch operation, why bother with a QRP rig in the first place? Weight and bulk don’t matter for those situations, and you can always turn power down if you want. The entire point of a specifically QRP radio is that it can be small and lightweight to take places beyond that, yet manufacturers design them to just be small and expensive base stations.
My order with HRO is in as of Friday. Waffled on Optima vs Field and ended up with Optima.
Curious if you were in Morganton Friday afternoon? Thought I spotted you but the person wearing sunglasses plus distance prevented me from saying hey.
It wasn’t me. Friday, I was here in the Asheville area. Next time you spot me, though, just give a good yell! 🙂
pricing is way to high. the prices you posted here are only for the wealthy to afford. to sell them cut that pricing in HALF.
the FTX-1F is comparable pricing to the IC-705 though it lacks somethings the 705 has. It was priced exactly where I expected it to be priced.
Hi Tom,
According to Yaesu’s architectur diagram, it’s more like the FT-710, not a superheterodyne like the FTDX-10, and it’s a good thing.
Best regards,
Georges F6DFZ
I am surprised that GPS and Bluetooth are separate. They are included with the IC-705. I thought about this but after seeing the video and the brochure, I will probably stick with my IC-705 and KX2. I would rather spend my money on a KXPA100 which would work with more radios, including both of mine. I have a feeling that the DSP performance will not be as good as the FT-710, otherwise they would be boasting about it. We shall see. I know Thomas will give us a good review.
I had been all in on this radio since the Tokyo Hamfair announcement and display. I had been saving for it for 8 months. When the details came out, I was disappointed by the lack of full duplex and the missing WiFi. I then had to reconsider even getting it or maybe going after a used IC-705 that will be offloaded during the wave of operators funding the purchase of an FTX-1.
But then, I had to reset to reasonable expectations. Expecting a “miracle radio” from Yaesu was a bit of a dream. Satellite contacts galore and swling from the easy chair may need to wait. This is still an amazing radio, even with the “missing” capabilities. I don’t have a lack of rigs as much as a lack of time to operate/play radio.
I’m a Yaesu lover and have built up an expectation for their set of tools for pulling out a DXpedition from the noise. But, now had had to consider which version made more sense for me. I had always liked the IC-705’s feature set and clean operation, despite the lack of an atu, which had people grousing when it came out.
The optima is worth the price, but I never use 100w, despite have a couple perfectly usable amps (xpa125b and pax100), so I went for the “F”, and plan to have fun with the rig and not focus on what isn’t there. Plus, if it had everything, where would the challenge be.
My order is in for the Optima as well as the FC-80. I’m excited. Looking forward to learning more about this radio and hope to see one at Hamvention.
As a Yaesu fan I have to say this is a bit of a mixed bag for me. The feature set and modularity are nice but the overall package is one I think I’ll pass on for now. With home and away radios that meet my QRP/QRO needs there isn’t really room in the stable. I certainly do see the appeal for a new ham wanting an all-in-one modular setup or an established ham wanting to downsize or stay with one operating system at home or in the field.
Now – if they had rolled out something on the scale of an 818 with that frequency range, 10W (20 better!) with modestly updated tech, fairly bulletproof design and called it the FT-820 they would already have my money 🙂
Hi
The 5 watt version is the head only, is it possible to buy the amplifier later on and attach the head.
Any idea??
Vu3mes
Yes, the amplifier unit is sold separately, but it costs $250 more purchased separately than in the package. ($1500 for the Field unit, $1900 for the Optima package of the head unit and amp together, $650 for the amp separately)
Lot of bells and whistles, yes, but… is Yaesu going to fix the really bad usability of it’s software interfaces?
For example, will Yaesu finally introduce a tunable average function for the spectrum?
Are you sure these radios have Internal ATU’s?
I can’t seem to find any reference to internal antenna tuners in any of the specs.
If there are internal ATU’s, why is Yaesu selling TWO separate ATU’s as optional accessories? I’ve never heard of needing two different ATU’s for the same radio.
Please clarify this. If they do NOT have Internal ATU’s, that’s a major problem in my book. Thanks, Thomas for your reply.
The FTX-1F (the basic QRP radio) does not have an internal ATU. The optima package does since the 100 watt power amplifier (according to the FTX-1 brochure) contains an ATU.
For a portable/flexible field radio with 100w at $1900 and all of the features, seems like a great deal. I’m curious to see what the power draw is on the 100W amp. It’s lighter (a pound +) than a 7300 or the 710 field.
My IC-705 + PA500 amp (60W max) was all-in close to $2800 – ultra portable and very efficient. Not planning to change. (The Elecraft KPA100 is $1750 with a tuner, like the PA500 a high-end amp-add to any field radio.)
HRO called me regarding the FTX-1 I had reserved and ended up choosing the FTX-1 Optima over the field version. I just couldn’t ignore the $250 price difference. They said it would be shipped in two weeks, so I’m really looking forward to it.
This is an amazing Radio, even with only the basic specs available on the Brochure. I believe Yaesu really nailed it. We will know better when we actually have it in our hands. The Optima has such a small footprint, why would anyone need a separation kit. Why would anyone complain about the need for waterproofing, have you heard of a plastic bag. If it has the heritage of the FTDX-10 this will be a game changer. It may be a lot better than a 705 or KX, but who knows yet. It has a lot more frequencies and if you can’t carry a couple of pounds extra on a hike, maybe just stay in the park. Seriously, we need to see how it all plays out. I have to laugh at the “pricey” comments. It is the same price as the 705 and a KX is a lot more. This radio is the FT-817 on steroids and an excellent replacement. The display looks a lot like my FT-710 which in itself is amazing. I love its brilliant, practical, and easy to use menu and it appears that the FTX-1 will be similar. I like the modular system, get what you need and not be forced into features you don’t need. After all it comes with a microphone, your are not forced to have to buy one extra.
I have had my order in since last year and have now added an FC-80. It will be my main POTA machine. Most of all it will be fun to enjoy all the features that the 705 and KX don’t offer, even though they are still good radios. This radio just might be a whole lot better. I am just happy I waited. I loved my FT-817, but now it has been brought into 2025. They will always be those who swear their brand of radio is better because it is “Green”.
I am looking forward to Thomas’s review. I may do one myself if I am able to pull myself away from the FTX-Field.
73 Tim, VA3UZ