I used Phil's AGC code in the VB radio and found it very smooth and restful to listen to, especially over a period of hours. I was able to switch back and forth for comparison with the standard system and Phil's was definitely a winner.
I also used a two detector system back in the 70's, when the Plessey SL600 series of I.C.s were developed for the Army. Short signal bursts did not cause any appreciable 'hole of silence' in reception as the short time constant detector quickly recovered like Phil says. Unfortunately, Plessey's AGC chip sometimes didn't react quick enough, causing the first syllable of a strong signal to be distorted. We've no excuse, though, being able to both look back and forwards in time. So I like the idea - with one 'but' - that any new code didn't cost too much in terms of cpu time. The 'knee / IF gain control' might be best on the front panel. Most of the other controls could be in the setup screen. Regards, Bob G4BBY