ICOM IC-706MKIIG the final word!

Despite deniers in the USA, it has been confirmed that Wednesday 9 December is the last day that the ICOM plant in Wakayama Japan will produce the IC-706 MKIIG transceiver.

ICOM Australia said it has checked with Japan and been reassured that the earlier advice received that the popular transceiver has been discontinued is correct.

The reason is that some components used in the IC-706MKIIG are no longer available and the model had to cease production.

ICOM Australia’s authorised agents were told in writing last month that only back orders received before 30 November would be supplied before production stopped. Also now out of production are the IC-T90A, IC-2720H, IC-910H and a few receivers.

The only source of denials is the USA, which includes ICOM America stating that the transceiver will remain on its product line. That could simply be due to it holding sufficient stock.

Perhaps there may be model run-out pricing for the discontinued transceiver in the new year?

In Australia the biggest seller of amateur radio equipment and ICOM agent, Strictly Ham said it has a back order and with stock on hand fewer than 20 were left to sell.

News from Australia via authorised ICOM agents that the production of the IC-706MKIIg transceiver is ending has attracted counter claims by ICOM America.

Clearly the news is unpalatable. However after four days of inquiry, and in the absence deniers in Europe, Asia or elsewhere, the only conclusion is that arguably the most popular rig in modern times has stopped being made.

The compact mobile transceiver that is equally at its best when used as a base station and widely featured in numerous DXpeditions, first appeared just as the IC-706 in 1995.

That first model was HF, 6m and 10w on 2m. Then followed the IC-706MKII in
1997 with the 2m power output lifted to 20w.

In 1999 the MKIIG arrived with 50w on 2m plus 70cm with 20w, making it a very sought after transceiver. It’s long-life is testament to its utility.

- Jim Linton VK3PC.