IC-R75

The ICOM IC-R75 is a receiver with a peculiar history. With this model, the manufacturer has covered the gap left by the old R71, a valuable device in its period, due to the fact that the direct successor in time line, ie the R72, lacked functionality that became standard in other receivers. Although technologically outdated with regard to some circuit solutions, the IC-R75 is offered [2012, US market] in conjunction with the DSP module UT-106 dedicated to digital noise reduction (DNR). This module originally was an option.

The receiver has a limited number of commands on the front panel, so it is easy to operate, while integrating several functions. Among these the synchronous AM, the IF pass-band-tuning (PBT) with lower and upper cutoff frequencies independent adjustment, noise-blanker, automatic notch filter, DNR, AGC time constant selectable between two values or also off, continuous gain regulation in the IF stage, squelch, two RF preamplifiers, RF attenuator, internal clock and on / off timer. Tuning set by means of a rotary control, with direct input from the keypad, or even remote from a PC. The display is alphanumeric LCD, to facilitate the recognition of individual memory locations it is possible to associate a label up to 8 characters long, S-meter bar with good resolution to appreciate variations in the signal strength of 3dB up to S9. Standard search options: between band limits, within memories, on priority channel.

IC-R75 filters :

There are two positions for the installation of optional filters, one for the 2nd conversion IF and one for the 3rd conversion. Several the compatible models giving the user a considerable flexibility for the choice, the components are in the following table.

IC-R75 performance and practical notes :

In general terms the behavior in SSB and AM mode is adequate for the needs encountered in practical use, but not when extreme conditions exist. The dynamic-range on interfering signals placed at a great offset in frequency is in fact on good level, the contrary for few KHz separations where the effect of degradation becomes appreciable. This is due both to the excessive oscillator phase noise and to the mediocre ultimate attenuation guaranteed by the supplied IF quartz filters. The same filters, also having a bandwidth that satisfies most of the listening needs, are characterized by a mediocre form factor. This last point is perhaps the most critical element of the receiver. Directly a selectivity with insufficient slope in the response curve poses problems in handling amateur radio or utility traffic in crowded bands, indirectly this flaw is then emphasized with the use of the PBT that can not take full advantage of its potential. The possibility of installing one or two optional IF filters, with an optimal 6/60 dB ratio, significantly improves the performance. Some distributors to meet these requirements place on the market already receiver with an IF filter characterized by a better form factor. Pay attention to this aspect when evaluating a purchase. It should be noted that the receiver does not have a notch filter at the IF, the effective selectivity can not therefore be altered beyond the action of the pass-band tuning.

As with many other HF devices, the sensitivity is automatically reduced for frequencies below 1.8 MHz. Receiving test using the digital noise reduction function, obtained with the UT-106 module, has highlighted the usefulness of this processing without reaching high levels of sound improvement - this is probably due to a design not updated in the algorithms compared to the recent solutions.

IC-R75 price

We have collected for your convenience the ICOM IC-R75 sale price (US Dollar) and its trend over time. Useful to guarantee a cheaper purchase of this radio and to put it for sale in the second-hand market. Of course offers, accessories, warranty terms and conditions can lead to different figures.

Price	Date	Condition
USD 348.00 (305EUR)	2021-oct	Second Hand The radio still looks very good and works flawlessly. Original power supply is included
USD 537.00 (400GBP)	2018-oct	Second Hand Good condition overall and perfect working, has the optional DSP UT-106 fitted. Also supplied a 13.8V / 5A high quality regulated power supply unit. Original box. This is completely stock and has not been hacked about with any modifications at all