[ICOM] IC-765 query

[Billy Cox]

>I have an opportunity to purchase an IC-765 at a very good price. I have 
>had a few positive comments about the rig on another reflector and have 
>seen largely excellent reviews on web sites. Anyone on this reflector 
>have thoughts about the rig? I will be using the rig primarily for 
>contest and DX'ing operation. It does have the stock filter on SSB and 
>CW plus a 200Hz CW filter in the 455kHz IF.
>
>Any input would be appreciated.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Jack, W6NF

Jack, 

I used a IC765 for several years and was very pleased
with the rig ... I especially liked the wide layout of
the display and controls ... very easy to learn and use.

Things I did to mine to tweak it for my needs:

Added the LTA <K3LR> PIN diodes ... that seemd to help
the noise blanker a bit on the low bands.

Added the INRAD QSK mod ... simple and made the QSK very
smooth with my AL1200/QSK.

Added the N6MZ Trackable Sidetone mod ... I believe there
is an easier mod today for this.

Added the PBT mod ... really improves your QRM fighting
tools to have this.

Made sure my grounding was proper, especially on any I/O
lines, including Beverages feedlines for RFI control.

Things I would do today if I still had it:

Swap out the stock SSB filters for the FL44A/FL80 or
INRADs ... the other units have much better skirts.

Add the INRAD roofing filter ... I have heard nothing but
good reports on this addition.

Honestly, it's a good performer without any of the above
and with the above should run neck and neck with most of
the current production gear ... for much less investment.

Why don't I have it today? Lost the station to lightning
in 1995 and could not find a replacement at that time.

Here's a link that may also be worth reviewing:

http://www.ab4oj.com/dl/765_108.pdf

Hope this helps!

73 de Billy AA4NU