Kenwood TH-D72A
Key Specifications
- Bands
- 2m, 70cm
- Power
- 5W (144/430 MHz)
- Frequency Range
- Rx wideband; Tx 144/430 MHz amateur
- Receiver
- Dual-band superheterodyne
- MSRP (USD)
- Discontinued (used market)
- Type
- ht
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The Kenwood TH-D72A offers APRS, GPS, and Kenwood transmit audio at used-market prices below the current Kenwood TH-D74. Our best Japanese HT roundup positions the TH-D72A as the budget APRS option for rover operators and emcomm volunteers who want position reporting without TH-D74 flagship pricing.
Overview
The TH-D72A delivers dual-band FM with integrated APRS and GPS — packet data and position beacons without laptop tethering for basic workflows. Kenwood audio quality and receiver sensitivity exceed most import HTs at similar used prices.
Compared to the TH-D74, expect older display technology, reduced keypad sophistication, and less refined Bluetooth workflows — acceptable tradeoffs when APRS entry is the goal rather than full field programming luxury.
Pairs naturally with Kenwood TM-D710GA mobile installations for operators standardizing on Kenwood APRS across vehicle and portable layers.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frequency coverage (Tx) | 144 MHz, 430/440 MHz amateur bands |
| Modes | FM, packet/APRS |
| Output power | 5W max |
| GPS | Built-in |
| APRS | Built-in TNC capability |
| Antenna connector | SMA |
| Memory channels | 1000+ |
Operating Notes
Used TH-D72A buyers should test GPS lock, APRS transmit, and battery holders — age-related wear affects daily usability. Upgrade antennas immediately for serious APRS range.
For flagship APRS HT features, step up to TH-D74. For System Fusion, choose Yaesu FT5-DR.
Who It's For
Budget APRS operators, Kenwood mobile users needing portable backup, and rover enthusiasts entering packet position reporting.
Less ideal for D-STAR/C4FM digital primary use and operators wanting latest HT display technology.
Related Reading
- Kenwood TH-D74 — current APRS flagship HT
- Best Japanese HT roundup — HT comparison
- Kenwood brand page — full Kenwood coverage
APRS without flagship cost — the TH-D72A remains Kenwood's used-market gateway to packet position reporting.