On my Yaesu FTdx3000, I often need to knock down the signal levels on my 80 and 160m antennas. Actually often on 40 as well. On 160, it's a must. And I'm in a really quiet RF environment. It's the signal levels.. they're up there with my antennas. So, I'd MUCH rather hit the atten button for 20db of attenuation if need be than lower the RF gain control and make the S meter sit on S 31/2 or higher, depending on RF gain control setting. Take care all