I'm in Michigan and just received an ICF-SW7600GR for Christmas. Most of the
HAM stuff I've picked up was pretty faint unless I used the AN-LP1 loop
antenna, purchased seperately. I did, however, hear some HAM chatter during
some brief scanning this afternoon with only the built-in antenna.

I wouldn't give up quite yet. The ICF-SW7600GR is one of the highest rated
portables out there and, unless you plan on spending alot more cash, I doubt
you'd be happier with something else.