On Thursday, January 23, 2014 9:45:31 PM UTC-6, Jerry Stuckle wrote:


It is also an issue on HF, especially with less expensive receivers.

You don't see it on the S-Meter because the meter is set such that the

typical receiver noise doesn't show up. But it is there. And it does

affect weak signal intelligibility.

I didn't say that internal receiver noise would show on the
S meter.
I suppose it's possible receiver noise could effect weak signal
reception on HF, but it's going to have to be a really low
level not to override the internal receiver noise on any modern
radio, unless it's some kind of abnormal birdy or whatever.
I just don't see it being a much of a problem on HF, particularly
20m.
If external noise or signals picked up by the antenna don't
override the internal receiver noise on 20m, something is broke
somewhere.
And if the system is that broke, might as well forget anyone hearing
him, particularly running QRP.
He should do OK with a small loop as long as it's built and working
right.