Icom IC-7300MKII (IC-7300 MK2): The Next Evolution of a Modern Classic
Discover the Icom IC-7300MKII—now with HDMI, USB-C, LAN remote, and higher RMDR. Compare it to the IC-7300 at GigaParts, Huntsville’s ham-radio superstore.
Pre-release notice: Details reflect manufacturer communications before final approvals; features and specs may change by region.
Few radios have shaped modern amateur radio like Icom’s IC-7300. Its direct-sampling SDR platform redefined value, performance, and accessibility. Now, the Icom IC-7300MKII (IC-7300 MK2) carries that legacy forward—delivering refined RF performance, modern connectivity, and quality-of-life upgrades for today’s operators.
If you’ve been searching for “IC-7300MKII” or “Icom 7300 MK2,” you’re in the right place. Here’s what’s new, how it compares to the original, and where to try it hands-on in Huntsville, Alabama.
IC-7300 vs IC-7300MKII: At-a-Glance Comparison
Quick spec comparison (pre-release; subject to change)| Feature | IC-7300 | IC-7300MKII | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receiver platform | Direct-sampling SDR | Direct-sampling SDR | Same proven architecture with refinements |
| Output power | 100 W (HF/50 MHz) | 100 W (HF/50 MHz; 70 MHz EU variant) | Familiar class; 4 m on EU variant |
| RMDR (2 kHz) | ~97–100 dB | ~105 dB (typ.) | Better adjacent-signal handling |
| TX phase noise | — | ~12 dB lower @ 1 kHz | Cleaner transmit near strong stations |
| External display | — | HDMI (scope/waterfall/menus) | Big-screen ergonomics & demos |
| PC interface | USB-B | USB-C (dual virtual COM + audio) | Simplifies CAT + digital modes |
| Network connectivity | — | Built-in LAN remote (RS-BA1) | Remote ops without a shack PC |
| RX antenna I/O | — | RX ANT IN/OUT | Add loops/filters/preamps on RX path |
| RX standby current | ~0.9 A | ~0.7 A | Lower heat/power over long sessions |
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What’s New—and Why Operators Care
- Higher RMDR & lower TX phase noise: Holds its own in crowded band conditions and multi-station environments.
- HDMI to a big screen: Mirror scope, waterfall, and menus for comfortable operating and live demos.
- USB-C (dual COM + audio): Fewer driver headaches; run WSJT-X and logging at the same time.
- Built-in LAN remote: RS-BA1 v2 remote ops without a PC at the radio—simpler, leaner remote stations.
- RX ANT IN/OUT: Add receive-only antennas or inline filtering to tame noise at suburban QTHs.
Who Should Upgrade?
- Contesters & DXers: Noticeable adjacent-signal improvement and cleaner transmit behavior.
- Digital-first operators: USB-C streamlines CAT + audio for FT8/RTTY/JT modes.
- Remote/portable users: Built-in LAN + lower RX current = easier remote power budgets.
- Clubs & educators: HDMI makes instruction and group operating more engaging.
Quick Starts (How-Tos)
Digital Modes Setup (USB-C)
- Connect USB-C to your PC; note the new audio codec and COM ports in Device Manager.
- In WSJT-X (or similar), select the MKII audio device and CAT COM port; set CAT to 115200 bps.
- Enable PTT via CAT; set audio levels to avoid ALC overdrive; confirm clean IMD on transmit.
Remote Ops (RS-BA1 v2)
- Assign the rig a DHCP reservation/static IP on your router.
- Forward required RS-BA1 port(s); use strong credentials.
- Test internally (LAN) before exposing any WAN access; consider a VPN for security.
Noise Mitigation via RX ANT Path
- Add a small receive loop or Beverage-on-the-ground (where practical).
- Place a high-quality common-mode choke at the feedpoint and shack entry.
- Experiment with inline filters/preamps on the RX IN/OUT loop for local RFI.
Availability & Regional Notes
- Announcement: Late August 2025 (JARL Ham Fair, Tokyo).
- U.S. shipments: Planned for late 2025 pending approvals.
- Coverage: 70 MHz on the EU variant; regional band options vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the IC-7300MKII have HDMI output?
Yes. HDMI mirrors the frequency display, spectrum scope, waterfall, and menus to an external monitor.
Is it still USB-B?
No. The MKII uses USB-C and exposes dual virtual COM + audio so logging and digital modes can run concurrently.
Can I operate it over a network?
Yes. Built-in LAN supports RS-BA1 v2 remote operation without requiring a PC at the radio.
What’s actually better than the 7300?
Higher RMDR, lower TX phase noise, HDMI output, USB-C, LAN remote, RX ANT I/O, and lower RX current.
Does it cover 70 MHz?
Yes on the EU variant; coverage depends on market/region.
When can I buy one in the U.S.?
Targeting late 2025 pending approvals. Follow GigaParts for information on release and pricing.
See It Locally in the Rocket City
GigaParts | Technology Superstore
6123 University Dr NW, Huntsville, AL 35806 · (256) 535-4442
Bring your operating goals and compare the IC-7300MKII vs IC-7300 with our team. While MKII units are not yet in stock and availability is unconfirmed, we can walk you through the expected features, demonstrate comparable HDMI/USB-C/LAN workflows, and help tailor antennas, grounding, and remote-op plans for your noise and terrain.
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Last updated: October 27, 2025
Sources & References
- Icom (Japan) — pre-release announcement
- Icom America — product communications & RS-BA1 documentation
- JARL Ham Fair — announcement timing/context
Note: External references are cited for verification; availability and specifications may change at production.