IC-705 and Bluetooth speaker mic

[W6VVM]

Has anyone used a Bluetooth RSM with the IC-705? There are a few models out there but I can’t find any testimonials relating specifically to the IC-705.

I’m looking closely at two Pryme models: the BTH-550 and the BTH-600

The BTH-550 is attractive because of the drop in charger and rotary volume control, assuming it works with the radio.

 

[W6VVM]

For anyone interested, I purchased the Pryme BTH-550 and I’ll definitely hang onto it. It works directly with the IC-705, sounds great, pairs quickly, and works with the PTT. The rotary volume on top is very convenient, and while it doesn’t control the actual radio volume, the radio does a great job of remembering its volume setting for Bluetooth vs no Bluetooth, so I can set-and-forget the volume on the radio and just use the volume knob on the mic. I find it to be a great alternative to using the 2.5mm mic plug which will hopefully minimize wear and tear on the radio over time.

The only issue I have is with range being terrible but I’ve determined that the problem lies with the IC-705. I was hoping I’d be able to get 20-30 feet around the house but the audio becomes choppy within the first 10 feet.

I tried pairing the mic with a generic Bluetooth transmitter for receive only and the range is substantially better. I also paired the mic with an XPR7550e and the range is much closer to 30 feet (it can’t PTT the XPR though). I might buy the Pryme Bluetooth adapter for Icom to try for better range and PTT. But range issues aside, say for in the car or sitting close to the radio, it works well.

Anyway, for anyone in the future searching for a review on the BTH-550, hopefully this helps.

 

[vagrant]

I will need to see how well this also works with various handhelds like FT3 and D74A. I am also curious if the 705 BT antenna can be improved. I figure the BT and WiFi are on the same chip.