[ICOM] Re: Opinions wanted

[Frank N. Haas]

If I were considering a choice between the IC-718 and the IC-706MkIIG, I 
would choose to buy the IC-756ProII instead.

The ProII can be had these days for $1200-$1400 in excellent condition from 
various classified lists. I own 2 of them. Both run circles around the 718 
and 706 in many ways. Of principal interest is the Spectrum Scope. Far and 
away the most useful and interesting feature for the "band-scanning" 
operator, the spectrum scope roped me in and has held me ever since I first 
saw it.

Of course, the twin passband tuning, the many degrees of personalization 
and versatility of this gem far exceeds that available in either of the 
lesser choices.

My only caution would be in connection with full break-in CW. When set to 
run Full Break-in CW, the ProII chops off the first milliseconds of every 
code element. To work around this design flaw, one must use a keyer with 
compensation like the LogiKey series of electronic keyers. If one likes to 
use a straight key or bug, then one must listen to one's output on a second 
independent receiver to insure that one's sending is indeed clean and correct.

Semi-Breakin chops off only the first elements sent when the radio 
transitions to transmit. This is less noticeable but a purist would not 
want to force an unsuspecting receiving operator to have to deal with such 
code.

In all other respects, the ProII is an excellent performer. On SSB I have 
gotten outstanding reports on my audio quality. The radio is rock stable 
and is a steady and reliable performer. No issues with the display or 
anything else. In fact, the only problem I have ever had was a small issue 
with the screws where the DC power connects to the internals of the rig. A 
simple fix and the problem has never returned.

So, if I were looking for a base rig and had only $1200 or so to spend and 
I wanted an Icom rig, I would choose a 2nd hand IC-756ProII.

Good luck in making your choice.

73 & Happy New Year,

Frank KB4T
Florida