Whether simplex or repeater mode, I have always gotten great signal reports using this radio. I have only used this rig a few times as a simplex mode rig, but the results were predictably excellent performance. It is much easier to do this task with the program disk and cable set up.
YAESU FT 2800 SERVICE MANUAL MANUAL
I do not recommend manual programming for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the ease of miskeying the information using the mic keypad. This radio also has everything you need to communicate with local repeaters and can be programmed for individual repeater characteristics using software and cable packages available online. The four function buttons under the key pad are user programmable. The keypad mic works well for on the fly frequency changes. This radio has been replaced by the FT 2980r which is identical except for a 5 watt bump in power up to 80 watts. The power level is adjustable down to 5 watts, in keeping with the best practice of using the lowest power transmission possible. No overheating problems, just rock solid performance. It is noiseless in that there is no fan - the entire case is a heatsink and at events where you are on the road all day long it simply keeps its cool. 75 watts and a 5/8 wave antenna will give you the best signal transmission capability in a mobile rig. Since I have not had anything else to compare it to, I began with a clean slate and no preferences ahead of time. Admittedly, the menu settings are much easier when you have the manual available, but after using it for the past two years plus, I can say without reservation that if you are a Yaesu fan you will like this radio, if not, then if you give it a fair try I think you will grow accustomed to it. Initially I had a few problems with this radio, but that was mostly due to my own inexperience.