IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500

The receiver is marketed in distinct versions. With the initials IC-R2500 includes the equipment-box, power supply, removable antenna, connection cables, software, finally a remote front panel (see asterisk in the upper image) for control as an alternative to the PC. With the initials IC-PCR2500 there are the same components with the exception of the front panel, the only combination is with a computer. The buyer can choose according to usage preferences, the electrical characteristics remain the same.

The IC-R1500 / IC-PCR1500 models are also available with same performance but without double listening, please consult the dedicated page for details.

This ICOM operates in dualwatch, that is, integrates two independent receivers that can be made active at the same time. The main section has a wide tuning range that from only 10 KHz extends beyond the 3 GHz, in addition to the analog modes as an option are also available digital standards as P25 and D-STAR used by amateur radio. The secondary section covers a lower frequency range while the modes are AM, FM and WFM only. The most relevant part of the VHF / UHF and the most used modulations are therefore included. Both resources can be used for diversity reception, this function automatically compares the intensity of the signals coming from the two antenna inputs to select the one that has the greatest amplitude in order to guarantee the quality of listening in presence of fading and variations in the radio path. This mode is active in FM / P25 / D-STAR in the range 50~1300 MHz. The software offers three types of interfaces to choose from. In addition there is a multi-channel-monitor function that allows you to observe together the activity of 25 channels tuned in sequence by the program and updated accordingly on the screen.

Multi-function screen

Simple screen

Component screen

Multi channel monitor screen

Thanks to the software management, the receiver can perform a spectrum analysis showing the representation on the screen. It is possible to use this capacity both in the traditional way, setting a wide range from 25 KHz up to 5 MHz continuously scanned, or retracing the conditions in the past 3~100 minutes so to observe the changes in emissions over time. With active spectrum analysis audio is not present if you are operating in CW / SSB or the scan interval is greater than 500 KHz. The integrated recording function allows to obtain the audio file in WAV format directly through the USB connection. Recording can be stopped / resumed in relation to the presence of a signal, compressing hours of listening to periods of real usefulness.

IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500 other features :

Selectable IF bandwidth filter, IF-shift in CW / SSB to move the filter bandpass with respect to the tuned frequency, noise-blank, VSC to unlock the scan in the presence of an unmodulated carrier, automatic frequency control (AFC) in FM mode, RF attenuator, selectable AGC time constant, squelch, DTMF decoder and CTCSS / DTCS squelch. Multiple search options: between band limits, within memories, on a priority channel, according to the mode, with auto-memory write. High scanning speed of 60 channels per second. Of course the memory is wide, since an unlimited number of files can be managed within the PC.

IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500 performance and practical notes :

The IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500 is basically a scanner with extended coverage. The availability of a front panel separate from the receiver box undoubtedly facilitates installation on vehicles or where space and wiring poses difficulties. This panel, for the IC-R2500 only, allows you to access the radio set with a limited number of well balanced commands to offer an intuitive use of the main functions. For better viewing the LCD display can also be customized by choosing the color of the backlighting between green, amber or yellow.

Both versions, with or without front panel, are widespread among fans not so much for the performance in terms of sensitivity and selectivity - to the real modest if also adequate to the typical listening conditions on VHF / UHF frequencies - but for the possibilities of coordination offered by an equipment developed entirely to have its maximum performance when combined with a PC. The creation of a receiving station accessible via the Internet is one of the modes of use that can be achieved. The high scanning speed, the search options, the double listening, the ability to directly interface the discriminator output to operate in packet or digital modes, makes this model very interesting by expanding the potential of use typical of the most traditional scanners. The weak point is identifiable in the reduced frequency coverage for the CW / SSB modes which prevents not only the possible listening of amateur radio operators on 2.3 GHz but which removes the possibility of adopting special techniques to analyze / recognize certain emissions even if they employ other modulations gender. The optional UT-106 unit adds DSP processing with DNR, digital noise reduction, and auto-notch functions. Its usefulness is mainly aimed at those who perform HF listening, due to the modest dynamics and selectivity the receiver is non-competitive on these frequency bands however.

IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500 price

We have collected for your convenience the ICOM IC-R2500 and IC-PCR2500 sale price (US Dollar) and its trend over time. Useful to guarantee a cheaper purchase of this radio and to put it for sale in the second-hand market. Of course offers, accessories, warranty terms and conditions can lead to different figures.

Price	Date	Condition
USD 665.00 (499GBP)	2021-oct	Second Hand IC-R2500 version
USD 562.00 (480EUR)	2018-oct	Second Hand IC-R2500 version. Excellent condition as new. comes with all original accessories and box