[1000mp] Monitor roughness

[tbeltran]

> Instead, you should adjust the IF gain to opitimze receiver performance.
> The IF gain setting will affect the "hiss" level you hear, and it will
> also affect dynamic range.  You want to get the lowest noise level and
> the best dynamic range, both of which are a lot more important than
> having the S-meter set to some particular value.

Tom I agree with you 100%.  At least for me, the interest in the S-meter
reading, is just to properly set the Inrad front-end mod, not for the sake
of an accurate S-Meter.  I have Drake, Collins and other receivers here, and
each one has different S-meter characteristics - I use the S-meter just as a
relative reading for the signals on that particular band and that radio.
Perhaps, though, others in this thread have an interest in an accurate
reading - just not me.

So, the $ 64,000.00 question (adjusted for inflation, of course), is how do
I adjust the IF gain to opitimze receiver performance?

I think there should have been a front panel knob, so that it could be
easily varied, as conditions change, or a quick menu entry, like the NB or
notch filter.  [I noticed that even on my 75A-4, that there is an IF gain
pot inside.]

I think the "official" method involves the S-meter, where a very low signal
is injected, and the IF gain is adjusted, so that there is a one segment
S-meter reading. At least for me, this is why I have focused on the S-meter.
I have the Elecraft XG-1, that puts out a 1 and 50 microvolt signal on
7.040, but neither are the signal specified by Yaesu.  My 606A just is not
accurate enough.  So it appears that you are suggesting then, that there is
a method of adjusting the IF gain, that is independent of the S-meter.  Can
you elaborate?  Tom W6EIJ
.