In a data communication system, a transmitter of an ADSL modem uses a PRBS generator to generate a plurality of ADSL signals. The transmitter computes the Peak to Average (e.g., root-mean-square) (“PAR”) ratio of each of the ADSL signals generated. The ADSL signal having the lowest PAR is determined, and the corresponding state of the PRBS generator is noted. The signal having the lowest PAR, or at least the corresponding state of the PRBS generator, is then used to generate a Q-mode signal.