Just saw this and I'm a bit intrigued... msrp is $1.400.
Thoughts? Lab599 TX-500MP
- Thread starter GlobalNorth
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On the HRO website:
bolo928
Newbie
There are a few things that I don't like. The odd connectors it uses can be a hassle. Comes with a pre-made cable for CAT control (computer rig control) but I don't think it comes with a pre-made cable for digi modes. You will have to make your own from the supplied GX12 type, 7 pin connector.
Looks like it uses an N connector for the antenna. Unless you make your own coax cables you will have to buy an adapter for a PL-259 that most people use for HF coax cables. Not a big deal but just another out of the ordinary connector for an HF radio.
The biggest issue I have is the price. The price of the radio is $1400. That is competitive with other good QRP HF radios. However the battery is not included. You have to buy that separately. The price of the battery is $400!! BP-550 Smart Battery Pack
Looks like it uses an N connector for the antenna. Unless you make your own coax cables you will have to buy an adapter for a PL-259 that most people use for HF coax cables. Not a big deal but just another out of the ordinary connector for an HF radio.
The biggest issue I have is the price. The price of the radio is $1400. That is competitive with other good QRP HF radios. However the battery is not included. You have to buy that separately. The price of the battery is $400!! BP-550 Smart Battery Pack
prcguy
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You must be thinking of the original TX-500, the MP version includes the battery holder and you supply the lithium cells. There is an aftermarket adapter for rig control and digi modes. I think the price is reasonable for what you get and the original TX-500 has a good reputation.
prcguy
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Here is a video of the new TX500MP and what you can do with it. Its a very unique and rugged radio and I'm considering one.
bolo928
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Thanks. Is see that the battery holder is included. You buy your own batteries.
I placed an order for one as soon as I saw it available to order on HRO... The youtube reviews you can find for are pretty impressive for a prepper style hf radio. Built in antenna tuner, and you can plug a solar panel directly into the battery to charge.
prcguy
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What did they charge and what it the lead time?
It's $1399 on their website... told me a couple of weeks. I trust HRO to get my money back if they don't get them.. better than ordering from somewhere else.
I got Samsung cells for $30 shipped.
This was teased on instragram 2 or 3 years ago. I've been waiting for it to actually become physical. It would be a great option to have a reasonable EDC radio that can do HF+6m without hauling around a bunch of other things. I'm still waiting to see more information on the battery pack (not yet listed on their website) and the portable whip antenna shown in the manual (not yet listed on their website).
The battery pack is the same one used for the Tx-500. The antenna is a Gabil GRA‑7350T. Search on youtube and facebook. People have the radios and there are in-depth reviews. There are youtube reviews of the battery pack
does anyone know if you can use flattop 21700 batteries in the tx-500MP pack?
Looks like a sweet boondocks radio. Make a good SHTF radio. If it ever becomes in stock.
just emailed HRO to see if they have more coming in.
Are they ordering more or do you have to order it, pay for it, then wait for it to come in?
just emailed HRO to see if they have more coming in.
got a email back stating end of december or early january.
