Reviews Summary for Yaesu FT-2900R

Reviews Summary for Yaesu FT-2900R

I have (2) of the FT-2900R transceivers for 2m FM operation. One is being used in my truck as a mobile station and one is being used at my home QTH as a base 2m radio. In my truck, the radio is paired with a 1/4 wave Tram dual-band magnet mount antenna. At my base station, the radio is connected via an antenna switch to a j-pole under the roof of my attic and a 5-element Elk log-periodic beam antenna (also under roof). I am able to hit repeaters within a 50 to 60 mile radius with my base station setup.

I highly recommend this radio with a 4.5 rating to anyone. My operational experience with the FT-2900R is as follows:

First, everything about the build quality of the radio says "rugged". The one piece body only has the face / display screwed on. The rest of the body is a large heat sink. The radio is moderate in size...not as small as some other brands of 2m radios, but it doesn't strike you as too large for mobile use. The radio is fairly heavy and just feels rugged. Also, the radio comes with two screw-on feet for base station use to elevate the front of the radio. I just installed these on both of my units; they do not interfere with the mobile mounting bracket.

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Second, the display and controls / menus are straightforward to learn, especially if you are already a Yaesu user. All of the menus and programming functions may be performed from the hand mic (which may me illuminated for night use)...a very nice feature. The display is large and easily readable.

Third, the receive audio quality is very good. I especially enjoy porting the audio through my truck audio system via an aux cable!

Fourth, the transmit power options at settings of 5W, 10W, 30W, or 75W are versatile and the 75W setting is one of the best offered among the 2m radios that are out there on the market. The hand mic is paired well with the radio and I consistently receive very positive comments on the audio quality.

The only negative issue that I have had was that on my mobile radio, one of the digits on the display went out. This was fixed under warranty with no issues.

The transceiver is analog only and does not support digital modes (it can be connected through a Wires-X repeater using the internet link feature though). However, I don't think the digital mode capability is a huge necessity...if this is a feature you want, look at the FT-3200DR. The radio does not support 2m SSB operation.

All in all, the FT-2900R is a superb 2m FM transceiver that will perform with smooth functionality and reliability for a very reasonable price.

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