Automatic gain control (AGC) methods and apparatus that implement a dynamically variable AGC setpoint. The variable AGC setpoint can be determined based in part on the type of modulation used to convey information to the receiver. The AGC setpoint can be set higher than a nominal setpoint for higher order modulation types and can be lower than the nominal setpoint for low order modulation types. The manner in which gain is adjusted can also depend on the modulation type. The gains can be increased according to a front to back priority. The gains can be decreased in a priority that is based on the modulation type. For lower order modulation types, the gain controller can decrease gain according to a back to front priority. For higher order modulation types, the gain controller can maintain linearity of front end amplifiers prior to decreasing gain according to a back to front priority.