IC-M605EURO fixed marine VHF

The IC-M605EURO fixed marine VHF from Icom is a Class D DSC fixed VHF radio designed for demanding sailors. This flagship model stands out for its system flexibility and advanced performance, offering a complete maritime communication solution for all types of vessels. Priced at €1,100.22, it positions itself as a premium alternative to standard VHF radios, integrating features usually reserved for more complex systems.

Flexibility and Advanced Display

The IC-M605EURO provides maximum operational flexibility with the ability to connect up to three remote controllers: the RC-M600 control head and/or the HM-229B/W COMMANDMIC™ microphones. An intercom function is available between the main unit and the controllers, enabling easy communication onboard. Its 4.3-inch TFT LCD color screen offers a wide 180-degree viewing angle, ensuring optimal readability of characters and icons. A night mode improves visibility in the dark. The intuitive user interface, combining a directional pad and programmable keys, facilitates access to common functions, while the numeric keypad allows quick channel or MMSI number entry.

Integrated Security and Connectivity

For enhanced security, the IC-M605EURO integrates an AIS receiver displaying real-time traffic information. A combined AIS screen allows monitoring of the AIS plotter during basic operations and initiating a direct DSC call to a selected AIS target. Unlike models such as the Icom IC-M330, which do not include AIS, or some competing VHF radios requiring an external AIS transponder, the direct integration of this function in the IC-M605EURO simplifies installation and use. A GNSS receiver (GPS, GLONASS, and SBAS) is also integrated, with a 5-meter UX-241 GNSS antenna provided, ensuring precise positioning without additional equipment.

Audio Performance and Robustness

The IC-M605EURO receiver performance is commercial-grade, with selectivity and intermodulation exceeding 75 dB, enabling clear reception of weak signals even near strong ones. Active noise suppression technology eliminates background noise during transmission and reception, ensuring clear communications. The voice recording function stores up to two minutes of the last call. The unit features an internal watertight speaker with over 15 W audio power and an external 4 Ω speaker for powerful, clear sound. It is compatible with NMEA 2000™ and NMEA 0183/-HS standards for GNSS data exchange, AIS, DSC calls, and frequency information. Its robustness is attested by IPX8 waterproofing (1 meter for 50 minutes) and compliance with US military MIL-STD-810G specifications (shock, vibration, humidity, extreme temperatures, etc.), placing it above standard VHF radios in terms of durability.

Specific Features and Technical Specifications

The IC-M605EURO integrates a 30 W bidirectional deck speaker and a four-pattern automatic fog horn function with optional SP-37 speaker. It supports dual and triple watch functions, the AquaQuake™ drainage function, and an instant access button for channel 16 and calls. The HM-205RB speaker-microphone provided can be connected to the rear panel. It is compatible with Icom’s MarineCommander™ marine navigation system and supports four-digit channels since January 1, 2017. The transmitter operates on a frequency range of 156.025–161.425 MHz (Tx) and 156.025–162.000 MHz (Rx), with an output power of 25 W or 1 W. The required power supply is 13.8 V DC (10.8–15.6 V DC), and its consumption is 6.0 A at 25 W transmission. Its weight is 1,510 g.