[R-390] R-390 vs R-390A

[Tom Bridgers]

    In my experience most 390's will run circles around your typical 390A
... in other words generally the 390 is more sensitive than a 390A.  And a
390 should be; it has a 2nd RF Amp stage.  I have several Motorola and
Collins 390s that will reach out and grab stations that I can just barely
hear on my 390A's.

    On the other hand, when a ham band gets crowded (and most of the hams
today are running at least a kilowatt!), the 390A, with its mechanical
filters, lets you slice out adjacent stations, and hear the one you want.
Far better than a 390.  But then again, if you listen to foreign broadcast
stations or you're listening to clear frequency SSB, a 390 will give you
better audio over a 390A.

    So I use a 390 or a 390A depending on the frequency and type of station
I'm listening to.  Each shines well in its niche.

     The only 390A's that come close to matching the sensitivity of a 390
are a couple of Collins and Motorola R-390A radios that I have.  The
Imperials and Teledynes are next (for me).  Then EAC's.  Though I'm told
that some of the EAC's and Capeharts refurbished by people on this list (and
those by Rick Mish) are hot as a pistol ... meaning matching that of any
Collins or Motorola.  I've just not personally seen an EAC or Capehart from
those sources.  The S-W's are good receivers, but none I have seem to reach
out and grab stations as well a radios from the other manufacturers.

    The above is my experience;  your mileage may vary.
73's,
-tom