Kenwood TM‑D750A Preview: Release Date, Specs & Pricing
The Kenwood TM‑D750A heralds a new era in tri‑band mobile transceivers, integrating APRS and D‑STAR compatibility, built‑in Wi‑Fi (so you won’t need a separate hotspot), and dual‑watch reception into a sleek, user‑ready design. Here’s what we know so far and what to expect when it lands in summer 2025.
Release Date & Availability
- Summer 2025 Target: Multiple authorized dealers list the TM‑D750A for summer 2025 delivery, with some quoting an ETA as early as June–July 2025 .
- Pre‑Orders Open: Retailers such as DXEngineering and Ham Radio Outlet are accepting reservations now, typically with a refundable deposit to secure first‑shipment allocation .
- Territory Launch: Kenwood USA has yet to publish an official U.S. release notice, but international previews (Hamcation 2025, regional hamfests) are already showcasing working prototypes .
Kenwood TM‑D750A Core Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmit Bands | 144–148 MHz, 222–225 MHz, 430–450 MHz |
| Receive Range | 118–524 MHz; 800–1300 MHz |
| Modes | FM Analog, D‑STAR DV, APRS Packet |
| Power Output | Up to 50 W (rear deck); variable 5 W/10 W for mobile |
| Display | 3.45″ TFT color LCD, high‑brightness, wide‑angle view |
| Connectivity | Built‑in Wi‑Fi (no external hotspot needed), Bluetooth, USB‑C, microSD slot |
| APRS TNC | Built‑in KISS TNC, 1200/9600 bps packet, standalone digi |
| GPS | Integrated GPS module & patch antenna |
| Simultaneous Rx | Dual independent receivers for voice/data |
| Dimensions | 7.22″ × 3.66″ (remote head) |
| Power Requirements | 13.8 V DC; rear deck draws up to 50 W |
Key Features & Innovations
- Full APRS Integration: A standalone digipeater plus iGate functionality means real‑time two‑way packet data for mobile mapping and status reporting—no PC tether required.
- Built‑in D‑STAR & Wi‑Fi: Directly access D‑STAR reflectors over the radio’s Wi‑Fi link—no smartphone hotspot, no cable—and even control reflector connections from the front panel.
- Dual‑Watch Reception: Monitor two channels or modes simultaneously—ideal for running APRS while keeping an ear on a local repeater or another band.
- Remote Control Panel: Detachable head with embedded speaker lets you mount the controller in the cabin and stow the RF deck under the seat, simplifying power and antenna hookups.
- Advanced Voice Guidance: Over 900 programmable voice prompts (with four adjustable playback speeds) guide you through menu navigation and confirm channel changes—even with eyes on the road.
Price Speculation
Kenwood hasn’t released a U.S. MSRP yet, but community sources point toward $1,100–$1,300 USD, based on pricing for comparable tri‑band mobiles like the TM‑710A and IC‑9700. European listings (e.g., £1,199 GBP ex‑VAT) convert to roughly $1,500 USD, suggesting North American pricing may land in the upper four‑figure range once duties and distributor margins are added .
What’s Still Uncertain about the Kenwood TM‑D750A
- Power Levels: Final confirmation on lower‑power output settings (5 W/10 W) is pending—important for portable operations and minimizing heat under high duty cycles.
- DSP Suite Details: Expect a 32‑bit DSP engine with noise reduction, IF shift, and notch filtering, but the exact menu and filter bandwidth options remain to be published.
- Accessory Ecosystem: Kenwood traditionally offers modular add‑ons—watch for an automatic antenna tuner, external speaker mic, and mounting kits to be announced post‑release.
Conclusion
The Kenwood TM‑D750A looks set to redefine mobile operation by marrying APRS, D‑STAR, analog FM and truly independent dual‑watch reception in one package—with Wi‑Fi enabling reflector and network connections without a separate hotspot. If timing holds, dealers will begin shipping in summer 2025, at a street price near $1,200 USD. Keep an eye on Kenwood’s official channels (KENWOOD) for the final specs and hands‑on reviews later this year. Maybe Kenwood will provide a radio to the Higginsreport.com? Wink-wink…