Yaesu FT2DR Ham Radio Review. Is it better the second time around?

“Welcome to my review of the Yaesu FT2/DR. A dual band analog fusion APRS transceiver. The first time I used this radio it was a train wreck. Let’s see if it cuts it the second time around.”

Radio Features:
– System Fusion Compatible
– C4FM Digital V/D Mode, Voice FR Mode, Data FR Mode and Conventional FM
– FM friendly digital operation with AMS (Automatic Mode Select)
– Easy Operation with 1.7″ x 1.7″ Large Touch Panel Display
– 700 mW of Crystal Clear Audio
– Snapshot Function with Image Data Display on LCD
– Built-in High Sensitivity 66ch GPS with antenna
– Smart Navigation Function
– Snapshot Function and Transmitting Image Data
– Digital Group Monitor (GM)
– 1200 bps / 9600 bps APRS® Built-in
– V/V, U/U, V/U Dual Watch and C4FM Digital/C4FM Digital Dual Monitor
– Wide Band Receive Capability 0.5 – 999 MHz (A Band),180-580 MHz (B Band) (USA Cellular blocked)
– AF DUAL Monitor Capability
– Equipped with microSD Card Slot
– GPS Logging/recording to SD Card

Supplied Accessories:
Antenna (YHA-72 )
7.2 V 2200 mAh Lithium Ion Battery Pack (SBR-14LI)
USB Cable (for firmware upgrades only)
Belt Clip
Operating Manual
Warranty Card
Battery Charger (SAD-14B)

Specifications:
Frequency Ranges:
Main Band RX :
0.5 – 1.8 MHz (AM Broadcast)
1.8 – 30 MHz (SW Band) 30 – 76 MHz (50 MHz HAM)
76 – 108 MHz (FM Broadcast) 108 – 137 MHz (Air Band)
137 – 174 MHz (144 MHz HAM) 174 – 222 MHz (VHF Band)
222 – 420 MHz (GEN1) 420 – 470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)
470 – 774 MHz (UHF Band) 774 – 999.90 MHz (GEN2)
Sub Band RX: 108 – 137 MHz (Air Band)
137 – 174 MHz (144 MHz HAM)
174 – 222 MHz (VHF Band)
222 – 420 MHz (GEN1)
420 – 470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)
470 – 580 MHz (UHF Band)
TX: 144 – 148 MHz, 430 – 450 MHz

Circuit Type: NFM/ AM:Double-Conversion Superheterodyne

FM /AM Radio: Direct-Conversion

Modulation Type: F1D, F2D, F3E, F7W

RF Power Output: 5 W (@ 7.4 V or EXT DC)

Channels: 1245

Waterproof Rating: IPX5

Case Size(W x H x D):
62 x 110 x 32.5 mm (w/ SBR-14LI, w/o Knob and Antenna)
62 x 110 x 27 mm (w/o SBR-14LI, Knob and Antenna)

Weight: 310 g With SBR-14LI and Antenna