Working on optimizing my IC-7300 SSB settings and noticed some unusual ALC behavior. Manual suggests keeping ALC between 30-50% swing in SSB mode, but I'm seeing different patterns with compression enabled versus disabled. With COMP off, steady 40% peaks. With COMP-1, erratic swings from 20-70%. Anyone else notice this with the 7300's DSP chain?

Using SM-30 at gain level 6, no external processing. Signal reports are good but curious about the meter behavior.

That's normal behavior for the 7300's compression algorithm. When processing is engaged, power output increases with more consistent 75W average and 100W peaks. The ALC swings are the compressor doing its job - compressing dynamic range causes more erratic meter movement.

Too much Proc In level creates harsh sound and Darth Vader effect. Set minimal Proc In for sharpness, then adjust Proc Out for proper ALC indication. Try backing off compression and see if meter stabilizes.

I run COMP-2 on my 7300 for contesting and see similar ALC patterns. Some rigs start splattering with even small ALC indication - suspect poor bias voltages on finals. Check your signal on waterfall to verify no splatter despite the meter swing.