Icom
IC-M73 Plus Handheld VHF Marine Radio
Best handheld radio for professionals needing clear communication in harsh conditions.
The Icom M73 PLUS is a professional handheld VHF marine radio built for reliable communication in tough maritime environments. It delivers 6 watts of transmit power and exceptional durability, meeting MIL-STD-810G standards with IPX8 waterproofing. Its advanced audio system features bidirectional Active Noise Cancelling, reducing background noise by up to 90%, and a Bass Boost function for richer sound. The radio also includes a Last Call Voice Recording feature and a powerful 700mW audio output. Designed for ease of use, it incorporates AquaQuake technology and provides access to essential weather channels.
$249.95
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Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 178
Best Marine Radios
Price vs Category Average
-50%
Below average
RF Output Power
631
/ Selectable W/W/W
Who it's for
- Boaters communicating in windy or high-traffic environments
- Offshore sailors needing reliable gear for rough conditions
- Captains needing to verify missed radio instructions
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious boaters seeking a basic communication tool
- Long-distance cruisers requiring extended battery endurance
- Casual users preferring simple, intuitive radio operation
Performance breakdown
Audio Clarity
Active noise cancelling effectively isolates voices in high-wind maritime conditions.
Rugged Durability
MIL-STD-810G certification ensures survival in the harshest saltwater environments.
Battery Endurance
Seventeen hours of operation provides reliable coverage for long days offshore.
Waterproof Integrity
IPX8 rating offers professional-grade protection against deep water submersion.
Transmit Power
Six watts of output delivers strong, consistent signal range for communication.
Operational Utility
Smart features like voice recording and weather alerts enhance situational awareness.
Key Specs
RF Output Power
Selectable 6W/3W/1W
Waterproofing Rating
IPX8 (1.5m for 30 minutes)
Audio Output
700mW (internal speaker)
Noise Reduction
Active Noise Cancelling (up to 90%)
Dimensions
52.5 x 125 x 30 mm without projections
Battery Life
Approximately 17 hours
Certifications
MIL-STD-810G, FCC Part 80
Weight
320g
Features
- Exceptional noise reduction for clear transmissions
- Last minute audio recording
- Enhanced low-frequency audio
- Loud 700mW internal speaker
- Automatic water draining
- Slim, ergonomic design
- High-intensity backlit display
- Instant access to emergency channel
What customers say
Serious boaters highly value the Icom IC M73 Plus for its exceptional reliability and superior audio quality. The Active Noise Cancelling and Loud boost function ensure clear communication despite engine noise or wind. Users consistently praise the impressive battery life, which supports extended trips with confidence. Its rugged construction and IPX8 rating confirm durability in harsh marine settings. Although the initial cost is higher, owners agree the longevity, feature set, and flawless performance deliver outstanding long term value. This radio is widely considered the benchmark for premium handheld marine communication.
Know before you buy
The radio features bidirectional Active Noise Cancelling that reduces background noise by up to 90%. This makes it highly effective for filtering out wind and engine roar, ensuring your voice remains clear to the listener.
No, the M73 Plus does not float. While it carries an IPX8 waterproof rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes, you should use the included wrist strap to prevent it from sinking.
This feature automatically records the last minute of incoming audio. It is particularly useful if you are in a noisy environment or distracted and need to replay a missed instruction or coordinate details from a previous transmission.
Under normal operating conditions, the rechargeable battery provides approximately 17 hours of use. This is based on a standard duty cycle of 5% transmit, 5% receive, and 90% standby.
AquaQuake is a drainage function that emits a vibrating sound to clear water from the speaker grille. This is essential for maintaining clear audio quality after the radio has been exposed to heavy rain or spray.
Yes, the M73 Plus provides dedicated access to NOAA weather channels. It is designed to keep you informed of changing maritime conditions with reliable weather alerts.
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$250