That problem occurs with all Ht's I have owned, especially if I am a
considerable distance from the repeater I am trying to work. Chances are,
you are picket fencing when transmitting as well.
To make the receive better, maybe try to let the squelch out a bit. It's
the "5" key. Press it, and adjust squelch with tuning knob. Then, push the
PTT the save your new setting.
Hope that helps a little.
Best 73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ