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Don't focus too much on the Icom radio's as there's always better and to be honest, I think the 802 and 710 are decent kit but I'm not overly impressed with them either. The Icom VHF (I have the 602) is disappointing even.
If I were in your shoes I would certainly look for as much NMEA2000 gear as possible and that includes the SSB. But you will need an NMAE0183 network too so if the radio you really want only has that, go for it.
Why the manufacturers are slow to upgrade? well, they are lazy and you're pulling out the wallet anyway and they will squeeze it dry happily for you ;-)
ciao!
Nick.
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