Re(2): [Antennas] Wideband Receive preamp for Screwdriver.

[DavidE Benedict]

bill at wjschmidt.com writes:
>I've been mobile with a 706, several different antennas, and a legal
>limit 
>amplifier for many years now.  The problem has always been receiving weak 
>signals with the 706.  Even barefoot, many stations could hear me but I 
>could not hear them due to the high noise floor of the 706.  It actually
>has 
>a pretty pathetic receiver, and the internal preamp will just make things 
>worse (specially if the Harley sitting next to you in traffic is 
>"Transmitting").  I'm of the mind that you won't get very far with a
>preamp.
>
>Sincerely,
>
>Dr. William J. Schmidt, II  K9HZ
>Trustee of the North American QRO - Central Division Club - K9ZC


Thanks, OM, for sharing the personal experience. I have used the 706 & the
706G and a Screwdriver since 96-97, and, like you, have deplored the weak
signal performance. I use the DSP, the Noise Blanker, restrict the IF
Bandwidth, and diddle the RF Gain, but mostly to my disappointment for
weak signal operation...but, I really do like that 706G for practically
every other use, and that screwdriver antenna is better than anything else
I have ever tried for mobile, including a looong whip and an AH-4 tuner
all on top of the vehicle!

I could do it, but so far I have refused to put a $5000 desktop rig in my
vehicle.

Maybe I am looking for "magic", but I am maintaining hope for a helpful
solution or two to come along. 

(perhaps Icom is listening...and will come out with a 706H, "H" for "HOT"
receiver,...I'd be first in line) hmmmm...maybe there are soms mods to
help its hotness in receive...forgot to look for those until now...but
after some sleep...it's about midnight here.

David B.
W7DBH
Mobile-Only ...in NW Oregon