Most advanced VHF ever, just launched

by Ian Lockyer/Sail-World Cruising on 23 Nov 2013 One of the most advanced marine VHF radios ever seen was launched at the METS(Marine Equipment Trade Show) the world's largest trade show of the international marine leisure industry, in Amsterdam this week.

The IC-M506 is packed full of features including integrated AIS receiver, NMEA2000 connectivity, ‘Last Call’ voice recording function, ‘Active Noise Cancelling’ technology plus Icom’s new intuitive menu-driven user interface and large dot matrix display making it really easy to use.

The IC-M506 is the first Icom VHF model to have an integrated AIS receiver, allowing you to bring up vessel traffic information on the display. The AIS target call function allows you to easily set up an individual DSC call.....a very important feature in an emergency. Functions like Plotter, Target list and Danger list can easily be toggled on the display.

Another first for Icom, the IC-M506 features the plug-and-play functionality of NMEA 2000 as well the ability to switch also NMEA 0183 for current equipment.

A ‘last call’ voice recording function which automatically saves the last two minutes of incoming calls mean you can replay the received calls which is very important in clarifying important transmissions that may have been missed.

The IC-M506 also features Icom’s superb ‘Active Noise Cancelling’ technology. Using the digital signal processing (DSP), the built-in bidirectional active noise cancelling improves audio quality both ways, making sure you are heard and you can hear when you really need to, such as when weather conditions are poor or if engines are running.

The new intuitive Icom common user interface, featured on all new Icom marine radios provides easy and fast operation to control the multiple functions. A high definition dot matrix display allows all information such as GPS, AIS, DSC and radio menus to be clearly viewed. The IC-M506EURO also features the most Advanced Waterproofing for a VHF in the market; IPX8. Designed and tested to survive after being submersed in 1m of water for 60 minutes.

As with other Icom fixed units, there is the option of a second station Commandmic. Most functions including DSC and AIS functions can be controlled from the COMMANDMIC. It can also be used as an intercom between the IC-M506 and the COMMANDMIC. The radio also provides 25W Two-Way Hailer capability. When connected to an external hailer horn, you can talk to people on the deck or shore from the radio’s microphone and can hear people’s reply via the hailer speaker. Horn and RX hailer functions are also available.

The IC-M506 is expected to be available in early 2014. No pricing is available yet.


For more information leading up to the availability of the item, contact marketing@icomuk.co.uk