# Hamvention 2023: Amateur Radio Enthusiasts Unveil Plans at the Renowned Ham Radio Event

By Alexandra Simon · Published 2023-07-28 · Updated 2026-06-09 · Professional AV on MarketScale
Canonical: https://www.marketscale.com/industries/pro-av/hamvention-2023-amateur-radio-enthusiasts-unveil-plans
Creator hub: Icom

> A pandemic-driven surge in hobbyists is reshaping the amateur radio landscape with fresh innovations and renewed enthusiasm

## Key points

- The COVID-19 pandemic drove a significant increase in new amateur radio operators, reinvigorating the hobby.
- Featured operators showcased interest in Icom products including the IC-7300, ID-52 Alpha, and IC-705, as well as digital modes like DMR, System Fusion, and D-Star.
- Hamvention 2023 served as a hub for community connection, project sharing, and exploration of emerging radio technologies.

Block Field

The world of amateur radio is one that never ceases to evolve and inspire and [Hamvention](https://hamvention.org/) 2023, a renowned international event for radio amateurs, brought together some of the most passionate and innovative minds in the field. At the event, amateur radio enthusiasts discussed the significant surge in the popularity of home radio operations during the recent lockdowns. Since the start of the pandemic thousands of new operators joining the ranks.

What are the latest trends, technologies, and projects that amateur radio enthusiasts are excited about? This question forms the heartbeat of our latest [Icom](https://marketscale.com/shows/icom/) episode, sparking insightful conversations and encouraging innovation in the amateur radio field.

For a special episode of [Icom](https://marketscale.com/shows/icom/), a series of amateur radio enthusiasts who attended [Hamvention 2023](https://marketscale.com/industries/podcast-network/icom/community-generated-content-icom/making-light-of-amateur-radio-at-the-2023-dayton-hamvention/) were interviewed by YouTuber [Tank Radio](https://www.youtube.com/@TankRadio/featured), including **Gunny** ([KE8RTS](https://www.qrz.com/db/KE8RTS)), **Steve** ([KD8ICQ](https://www.qrz.com/db/KD8ICQ)), **Robert** ([KO4ZIK](https://www.qrz.com/db/KO4ZIK)), and **James** ([W8CEN](https://www.qrz.com/db/W8CEN)), as they share their experiences, projects, and perspectives. The episode touches on several aspects of amateur radio, from equipment preferences to project plans and the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Several main things each individual discusses were:

- Gunny's new project, involving Free Time Averaging (FTA) and his choice of **Icom 7300 radio** for its user-friendly nature.
- Steve's exploration into digital modes like DMR and System Fusion, and his appreciation for Icom products.
- Robert's experience with the **Icom ID 52 Alpha** and his fondness for D-Star mode.

Additionally, amateur radio enthusiast James has plans to get his general license and try photophone operations using the **Icom 705**.

The guests, each of whom is a recognized amateur radio enthusiast, shared their experiences and passion for the hobby. **Gunny** (KE8RTS) has an innovative approach to radio projects. **Steve** (KD8ICQ) brings a wealth of experience in digital radio operations. **Robert** (KO4ZIK) has a keen interest in D-Star mode. Lastly, **James** (W8CEN) has been an amateur radio operator since 1994 and continues to explore new facets of the hobby.

Tags: amateur radio, Amateur Radio Enthusiasts, Dayton Hamvention, ham radio, hamvention 2023, ICOM, Pro AV, tank radio

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