Yaesu: FTX-1 Optima

[KF0NYL]

I've seen quite a few videos about how the FTX1 has issues right out the gate. I think Yaesu might have rushed releasing this one.

For those that have a FTX1 field or optima, I hope it's working for you and/or the firmware updates fixes things.

 

[MTS2000des]

I just picked one up. Going to put some use on it this weekend. I will say form factor it blows my 705 away. If it works well, I'll probably be selling the 705. The Optima is a true dual purpose radio: QRP on the go, and QRO at home. Love that design. Don't think their intention is to have a remote mount setup, it's more like a "convert-a-com" design intended to make your QRP rig a full power desktop radio with the head attached.

 

[AK9R]

I just picked one up.

I wish you luck. Based on what early adopters are saying, the radio has some rough edges that Yaesu is still smoothing out. New firmware dropped last Friday. https://www.yaesu.com/Files/BB2B47A...FTX-1 Firmware Update Information 6-27-25.pdf

 

[MTS2000des]

Saw that. Will be updating mine tonight. Just got it in yesterday. I got mine in a trade, and thought I'd give it a try- I am a little biased, I like Yaesu gear, own two FTM-200Ds, an FTM-400XDR, an FT-5D and now the FTX-1 Optima. Being that the FTX-1 is a new radio from the ground up, I expect some glitches- but I am sure they will keep improving it. A lot of R&D goes into building something like this, and Japanese engineering is not cheap!

 

[MTS2000des]

So far so good- yes the radios' menu system is expansive. One should also take the time to play with the tremendously powerful ADSP, but on HF (40 and 80) I am hearing things my 705 can't into the same end fed wire. I also spent a little time on VHF and after adjusting the equalizer settings for FM, the audio coming out of this radio is amazing. I did update the firmware though I have no intention of using this on APRS.