[Boatanchors] First radio

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On Fri, Aug 10, 2012 at 10:34 PM, Preston Clark <kf5evv73 at gmail.com> wrote:

> i am currently looking at getting my first boatanchor radio i am
> tossed between the collins 390 or the hammarlund  SP-600 i plan on
> using it it for general listening  and i need to know the antenna
> specifications for these and if one better than the other
>

For casual listening, the 600 is the choice. Mainly due to its ease of
tuning and smoother audio ala LC vs. mechanical filtering if you go with
the more numerous R-390A model.

Performance-wise, the R-390* is clearly the better set. Better sensitivity,
selectivity, accuracy, and as mentioned - stability. For casual SW
listening you wouldn't likely notice the difference, on CW/SSB you will
definitely notice the stability difference. This can be improved
dramatically on the SP-600 by changing the tap on the power transformer
from the 117v tap many sets are found set to, to the 130v tape, then
leaving it on for a while to stabilize. Their reputation of being drifty
isn't really deserved.

Of course, the original R-390 would be a great choice with only ease of
tuning being an issue. They are a bit harder to find and tend to cost a bit
more when you locate one.

For a first rig, I'd vote strongly for the SP-600 as others have mentioned.
Performance is very good and it's certainly more user-friendly than any of
the 390 variants. If you find you really enjoy it and want to go further,
you can always pick one up later to supplement the 600. I've got both, and
can't imagine being without either.

Keep in mind that performing the necessary maintenance to caps, resistors,
and so on will be required in any old set to provide the best performance.

~ Todd,  KA1KAQ/4