Yaesu FTX‑1F Preview: Release Date, Specs & Pricing Guide
Any day now! The much anticipated Yaesu FTX‑1F represents the next generation of field‑portable, all‑mode HF/VHF/UHF transceivers from the maker of the legendary FT‑817/818 series. Here’s what we know so far—confirmed specs, release timing, rumored pricing, and informed speculation.
Release Timing & Availability
- Official window: Yaesu has stated the FTX‑1F will be available early 2025 Q R P e r.
- April 2025 target: Several dealers (including UK‑based JG Tech) list an April 2025 ship date Groups.io.
- Dayton preview possibility: Community chatter on Reddit suggests Yaesu may formally unveil or demo the FTX‑1F at Dayton Hamvention (May 2025) Reddit.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frequency Coverage | HF (80 m–10 m), 6 m (50 MHz), 2 m (144 MHz), 70 cm (430 MHz) |
| Output Power | 6 W (internal battery); up to 10 W on external DC |
| Receiver Architecture | SDR‑based with dual‑independent receiver circuits |
| Display | 4.3″ full‑color TFT touchscreen with 3DSS spectrum‑stream waterfall |
| Battery | 5,670 mAh Li‑ion; ~9 hr HF SSB / ~8 hr V/UFM (6‑6‑48 duty) |
| Tuner | Optional rear‑mount automatic antenna tuner |
| DSP Features | 32‑bit IF DSP: SHIFT, WIDTH, NOTCH, CONTOUR, APF, DNR, NB |
| Audio | Dual speakers for clear, powerful sound |
| Digital Modes | SSB, CW, AM, FM, C4FM (System Fusion), WiRES‑X compatible |
| Memory & Scan | PMG (5 primary memories), MAG (auto‑grouped memory banks) |
| I/O Ports | USB‑C (CAT, audio I/O, firmware), ACC jack for tuner/fan |
| Size & Weight | (TBD—likely ~1.5–2 lbs portable form‑factor) |
Two Independent Receivers
The FTX‑1F’s standout innovation is true dual‑watch: listen on two bands/modes simultaneously (e.g., HF SSB + V/U digital) Q R P e r.
Price & Regional Listings
- US MSRP: Yaesu USA has not yet published a U.S. price.
- UK dealer listing: JG Tech advertises £1,399.00 ex‑VAT (≈ $1,650 USD) Groups.io.
- US expectation: Based on typical regional pricing, anticipate an MSRP in the $1,500–$1,700 range—similar to other advanced SDR portables.
Feature Deep‑Dive
- SDR Technology & 3DSS
—The internal SDR engine and 3‑Dimensional Spectrum Stream (3DSS) deliver real‑time waterfall and spectrum displays, a leap over legacy analog rigs Q R P e r. - Power Management
—With a high‑capacity 5,670 mAh battery, you’ll see 9 hours on HF SSB and 8 hours on V/U FM at moderate duty cycles, ideal for extended field outings Q R P e r. - Tactical & Amateur Versatility
—Optional tuner and cooling fan modules attach seamlessly at the rear, letting you optimize SWR or manage heat during digital‑mode pileups Q R P e r. - DSP & Filtering
—Yaesu’s 32‑bit IF DSP suite (SHIFT/WIDTH/NOTCH/APF/DNR/NB) promises strong QRM rejection, especially important in crowded HF environments Q R P e r. - Digital Mode Support
—C4FM (System Fusion) and WiRES‑X compatibility extend your reach via Yaesu’s wide‑area network, all from a single handheld form factor Q R P e r.
Informed Speculation
- Weight & Size: Likely 1.5–2 lbs, fitting comfortably in one hand—comparable to the IC‑705’s 2.4 lbs.
- RF Performance: If Yaesu leverages its FTDX‑series front‑end and low‑noise reference oscillator claims, expect receiver performance rivaling mobile rigs—a boon for weak‑signal work.
- User Interface: The capacitive touchscreen plus physical knobs/keys should balance advanced menu navigation with field toughness.
- Accessories Bundled: Anticipate a basic charger and belt‑clip; expect tuner/fan packs sold separately, following FT‑818 precedent.
Conclusion
The Yaesu FTX‑1F is shaping up to be a true successor to the venerable FT‑817/818—packing SDR displays, dual‑watch capability, robust DSP, and all‑mode coverage in a pocket‑portable package. With an early 2025 release, multi‑band flexibility, and high‑capacity battery, it promises to redefine QRP field operation. Keep an eye on official Yaesu USA channels for MSRP and final spec confirmation—and get ready to add this powerhouse to your go‑kit in spring 2025!
Sources:
- QRPer.com “Yaesu FTX‑1F Portable HF Transceiver” Q R P e r
- JG Tech product listing Groups.io
- Reddit r/amateurradio “FTX‑1F is it real or vapor?” Reddit