On Wed, 13 Jul 2005 21:13:56 GMT, D Peter Maus
wrote:

snip
Yes, it's more than simply pushing a button. It's been a number
of years since I've used one, but as I recall, there were some gain
adjustments, and filter selections. Once dialed in, sync worked fine.

What I've found that helps is to reduce the RF gain and to set the
AGC to fast and often going to the wider filters helps.

There are some specific parameters that need to be addressed when
using sync on RX-350, too. But if you're attentive to the details,
it, too, works as promised. The best sync I've used to date is on
AR-7030+. Dials itself in and stays locked through the deepest
fades. Second is sync on HF-150.

I have a Drake. SW-2. Sync is fine, but more prone to losing lock
than the AOR.

For the record, I'm not as passionate about synchronous detection
as some here. It's a tool, nothing more. It doesn't cure cancer,
ingrown toenails, or receding hairlines. And it's not worth starting
a religion over. It's a tool for reception of radio signals. AM
Stereo uses it, too. In fact, that's where the Drake sync detector
came from.
Well I beg to differ, since acquiring a Sony 7600 and later the R75 -
both with sync detection - I've not had a single ingrown toenail !!
Unfortunately I bought them after the hairline receded.

I use it rarely. Mostly I rely on a good set of filters, a
comprehensive ground, and an antenna that can suck the pubic hairs
from between your teeth.

Nothing replaces good basics.
Agreed! I seldom use synch either - perhaps if I had a radio with
the famed Sherwood synch detector or a Drake I would find it more
useful. In any case, yes it is just another tool. It reminds me of
the saying "if your only tool is a hammer - all of your problems look
like nails." There are more tools than synch and it pays to gain
familiarity with what they do and when to apply them.

As to R-75 status - I think they're still around due to the existing
stock supply not because of Icom deciding to continue production.
That opinion, and $2.00 US will get you a cup of coffee at Starbucks.

Howard