[R-390] Racal RA17 - off topic answer.

Sat, 8 Mar 2003 14:36:28 -0800 (PST)

Randy,

I have a RA-17 and a R-390 and a R-390a. My impression is that it is a shot at reproducing the
performance of the R-388/51J2 receivers. (I also have a 51J2 and a R-388)

It is amazingly stable, and easy to use BUT needs a competent operator, as it has a manual
preselector, and you have to 'trim' the MHz knob for maximum signal. It is definitely a repair in
place receiver, even though some sub components are removable. The cast aluminium chassis provides
goods isolation between stages, but is a nightmare to work in.
Heat, and under rated components, and some really second class soldering are the worst problems. I
suppose if it were to be mainly operated in the cold northern hemisphere it would be OK, but I am
in Australia.

Another 'crazy' about the design, it has 100mw audio output, believe it or not it actually works,
with an efficient speaker, the BW filters are superb with the 100kHz IF, and SSB is a dawdle even
without a product detector.

Regards,
Rodney
VK2KTZ

--- [email protected] wrote:
> Good day all:
> 
> Would like to hear from anyone in the group who has experience with the RA17 
> line of receivers. My 1st impressions are that it is a mix of interesting 
> engineering and frustrating execution at times. Does not lend itself to easy 
> service like the R-390X series. Sorry for the off topic post, but this radio 
> def. is a kissing cousin to the R-390 radios, at least as far as its mission 
> in life!
> 
> Randy
> 
> 
> 
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