• Noise reduction - DSP converts all analog audio components to digital components, then separates them into voice and noise at the digital stage. In this way, voice components can be singled out and demodulated back to analog signals so that weak signals that would normally be drowned out by noise are audible. The reduction level can be adjusted to obtain the most desired audio characteristics.
• PSN modulation - PSN method (Phase Shift Network) generates SSB signals directly without DSB signals or SSB filters. Therefore even audio characteristics, over the entire range from low to high audio components, can be obtained, as well as high quality audio without filter group delays.
• Automatic notch filter - automatically suppresses the highest level beat signals in the audio frequency.
• Twin PBT - One of the more highly praised functions of the IC-781 - twin PBT narrows the IF-pass band in two stages to efficiently eliminate interfering signals. This function is especially useful during crowded band conditions such as pileups, contests, or for nets, etc.
• IF Notch - The IC-775's notch filter functions at the IF stage, therefore, sharp and deep filter characteristics are obtained as with the IC-781.
• Automatic Notch (DSP-type only) - An automatic frequency adjusting notch filter ia available at the AF stage separate from the IF notch. This automatic notch reduces the maximum beat level with no manual adjustment necessary.
• APF (Audio Peak Filter) - Allows a particular frequency to pass through at the AF stages. This function is convenient for CW operation. In addition, CW pitch is also related changed with APF.
• Dual Watch Functions
  Dual watch monitors 2 frequencies on the same band simultaneously. Ideal for contests, traffic handling, DX chasing and net control work. To operate the dual watch, the IC-775 has two PLLs, two RF circuits and a balance control to balance signal strength.
• Twin Tuning Knobs
  For convenient dual watch operation, the transceiver has two tuning knobs. The large main knob has good tension and response; the small, independent sub small knob can be used to watch a sub frequency.
• Newly designed PLL
  A new design is employed in the PLL circuit using ICOM's DDS technology and removing mixer circuits, resulting in higher quality C/N characteristics and superior spurious rejection.
• Power MOS FET's for clean signal.
  Superior 3rd, 5th, 7th IMD characteristics are blamed by power MOS FET's with high voltage. The IC-775 employs power MOS FETs in the pre-driver, driver and final amplifier stages, providing a clean 200 W of output over all bands.

GREAT FUNCTIONS FOR CW OPERATIONS
 

• Memory Keyer - This function is convenient for contest, etc. an often-used word or phrase can be programmed, such as a callsign, "CQCQ", etc
• Electronic Keyer - Newly designed electronic Keyer. Weight control can be adjusted using set mode.
• CW Pitch Control - Adjusts the audio pitch of any CW signal without changing the operation frequency.
• CW Reverse - CW carrier point can be selected on USB and LSB bandwidth while receiving CW to reduce interference.
• Two key jacks - The transceiver has a total of two key jacks on the front and rear panels. The front panel key jack accepts a paddle and a straight key (selectable using set mode) and the rear panel jack accepts a straight key or an external memory Keyer.
• Full break-in (QSK) capability
• Variety of filters selectable 3 selectable filters are available to achieve a desired bandwidth:
   

    Mode         Wide          Middle          Narrow
    CW           2,4kHz        500Hz           250Hz (option)
    SSB          6,0kHz        2,4kHz          1,8kHz (optional)
  

• OTHER FEATURES
  1 crystal control for high frequency stability
  
  Large heat sink and cooling fan
  
  Selectable tone/shift frequency from set mode for instant data (AFSK) operation.
  
  2 selectable preamplifier gain (18-28MHz only)
  
  CFL (Cold cathode Fluorescent Lamp) back light for large LCD display.
  
  Two antenna connectors with automatic selector.
  
  High speed automatic antenna tuner.
  
  Level/width variable noise blanker.
  
  Gain selectable preamplifier (2 positions)
  
  SWR/Po/ALC/COMP/Id/Vd selectable large analog meter
  
  Improved quick split function
  
  Convenient memo pad function
  
  VOX function
  
  Transmit signal monitor
  
  Double band stacking register
  
  Built-in heavy duty power supply
  
  RF speech compressor

By removing the attenuators three resistors and lead the diode current thru a inductor instead, the increased sensitivity is achieved. But important is to limit the current by changing the value on R119.

To do the mod:

1. R116 is exchanged with an inductor of 1mH.
   
    
2. R117 removed and shorted.
   
    
3. R118 is removed.
   
    
4. R119 is exchanged with 150 Ohm resistor.

All resistors are surface mount.

The result is that the sensitivity is increased in the 0.5 to 1.6 MHz range is changed from -103dBm to -112dBm at 12 dB SINAD, 70% AM.

My personal findings are that this do MW listening much more interesting and enjoyable and I have no problems with to strong signal distortion what so ever.

SM4RNA Anders