I'm glad you watched the video. The IC-R8500's RF gain control has only three selections, -10/-20/-30db, with only -20db available for frequencies below 500kHz. There was a time when this was a topic of discussion in Japan, but I believe it was due to the manufacturer's design philosophy. The functions and operation feel are similar to those of a stationary receiver, but when using the actual device it feels like a handheld device with enhanced scanning functions. Here in Japan where I live, it is popular among those who enjoy aviation radio and as an introductory model for SWL, and even though it has been discontinued, it still fetches high prices on the second-hand market.

@@May_happiness_come_to_you_777 Yes, they definitely command high prices on the used market. Interestingly I've read many complaints about the three position RF gain selector/control of the Bearcat DX-1000, which is much older. Yet no one complains about the lack of a RF gain potentiometer on the front of the IC-R8500. The AOR 5000/5000A/5001D all seem to only have AF gain and squelch controls on the front. Yet no one complains about there being no RF gain control, BFO, and other "knob" toys one would find on something like a Hammarlund HQ-180A. Maybe the desire for such "control knobs" as died away over the years?