ICOM 756 PROII

ICOM 756 PROII

Dimensions: 13.4 (W), 4.4 (H), 11.2 (D), 12lb, 2 oz
HF + 6 Meter
100 Watts
32 Bit IF-DSP
101 Total Memory Channels
Independently Selectable Tuning Shapes for CW & SSB
Variable Level noise Blanker
Auto & Manual Notch Filter
Twin Passband Tuning
CW Memory Keyer
VOX
Auto Antenna Tuner
SSB/CW Synchronous Tuning
External Control for voice Memory & Memory Keyer
Adjustable RIT Clear
1/4 Tuning Steps in Digital Mode

the pro2 is improved over the pro in these aspects:
Improved third order intercept point
Improved sensitivity without a preamp
Selectable IF filter shape
Improved noise reduction
Adjustable level noise blanker
Improved bandscope noise floor
Improved audio fidelity
Enhanced backlighting - better for dark rooms
Enhanced 5" TFT color display

Ive got the 756 Pro2 up and running and Im impressed. I was somewhat concerned that Icom might have made some changes in the transmit audio since I recd nothing but excellent reports on the earlier Pro--but not to worry--this sounds better I believe. The noise reduction appears to be improved and is more effective. The noise blanker can now be adjusted so that should be a plus. The soft/hard filter settings do make a difference and are easily changed even while operating. Since I dont do a lot of cw I cant comment on that aspect as yet. The display now has more screens you can choose from 7or 8. Havent experimented with the fonts as yet. Are there things that could be better--yes a few. First it would have been nice to have what you recorded to play back on the air especially in view of the new record button. Second it would be nice to have more keys backlit. But all together this is a great radio very user friendly. More later. John WB0SQZ

Dan--Dont know if I mentioned this in the previous review on the Pro2 but

the recieve seems to be improved over that on the original Pro. Due probably

to the improved 3rd order point. John

and from N9AZZ:
The first thing you notice is a different paint job on the II, the front looks better I think. The Meter is a different set of colors, which makes looking at the front better for tired eyes.
They have moved the CW speed dial over where you can get a hold of it.
The display has 8 different schemes I think. including a cityscape scene and windows clouds. After a couple of days with clouds I went back to the one I used before.
The NR is improved, if that is possible. And the PBT seems more robust. I haven't seen anyone mention that, but it sure seems like I can get rid of QRM better than I could with the pro.
The ability to shape the DSP from sharp to soft works well, and makes a difference at least to my ears on SSB. I don't see a big difference on CW yet, however I haven't heard it with crowded band conditions yet.
The 250 hz CW filter setting is usable now where it wasn't on the pro.
The voice keyer works at the touch of a button to record or play. Still no replaying received audio. Plus it works in any mode now
Sensitivity seems higher without the preamps on. I now rarely have the preamp on at all.
No word on the magic band, havent heard a peep
They have smoothed the voulme control out a bit, and pumped up the monitor level, as well as the head phone output
They have enabled 1/4 tuning on SSB for the digital modes like PSK 31
The volume knob isn't as touchy as the pro.

Hi Dan: Great rig! Works as advertised by ICOM. I really like the soft/sharp filter feature. Getting same great audio reports I got with my original PRO. Don't need pre-amp except on 10 and 12 meters. I did need #1 pre-amp on original pro. Used it on all bands. New display options are nice but after a little use have gone back to same screen I used on my old PRO. NR has been improved and so has overall receiver sensitivity. Headsets now have enough audio level without increasing audio level when going from external speaker to headsets.N4QT