RX signal comparison: 710 vs. 6a

[Need2Know]

I think the big difference between the two radios is the antennas. If you could swap those antennas I think the results would be jsut the opposite of what you are seeing/hearing. There's just quite a difference in those two antennas, the 'duck' being the disadvantaged one in all cases unless it happens to be VERY near the transmitter. If I'm understanding you correctly, that's a fairly typical performance by a 'duck'. Most 'S' meters in an HT are not exactly the most reliable for measuring strength, they are all relative at best.
- 'Doc

"S" meter strength relative or not, the noise being picked up by the HT overpowered the squelch turned all the way up. And the noise did not touch the 710.

 

[Overmodulated]

Can you try both on an external speaker? I think you may just have to accept that the 6a is a wideband, but compromise, receiver. It does a lot for a small package. The 710a probably (not sure-look at the specs) has a tighter front end; the price difference alone would justify the better selectivity. I would just accept the fact that the 6a may be noisier, and you probably wouldn't notice portable/outside, where the 6a is in its element.

 

[Need2Know]

Can you try both on an external speaker? I think you may just have to accept that the 6a is a wideband, but compromise, receiver. It does a lot for a small package. The 710a probably (not sure-look at the specs) has a tighter front end; the price difference alone would justify the better selectivity. I would just accept the fact that the 6a may be noisier, and you probably wouldn't notice portable/outside, where the 6a is in its element.

I agree. I think this is just a case of getting to know the limiatations and optimum uses of your equipment. Image rejection is probably a weakness of most HTs. As someone on another thread said, HT's are also more susceptible to being overdriven by a strong signal than the typical mobile or base unit. But I like the HT a lot. It works great in the car (away from all the electrical interference of the house's ciruits) and in some parts of the house. And I love its wideband feature. Can't wait to get my longwire installed. Took it to an outdoor public service event and it worked great with the event's signals.