[R-390] R-388 Info

[Ray, W2EC]

I have both an R388/51J-3 and an SP-600. Both I consider to be aligned
and running about as good as can be. Check: "http://www.w2ec.com/W2EC.html"

In terms of sensitivity and selectivity I consider both radios about
equal. The R388 may, I repeat "may", be a little better on the
sensitivity but that is very subjective and just my opinion. They are so
close as to be pretty much indistinguishable.

The R388 is of course the winner in terms of frequency accuracy. If you
are into locating stations and wanting to accurately record their
frequency, the R388 is your choice. Likewise, if you don't do much band
hopping, the R388 is a good choice.

The SP-600 does not have the ability to accurately depict frequency like
the R388 but it is far better for general band cruising. The bandspread
dial is a dream to spin. Don't get me wrong, frequency accuracy is fine
and you can get real close with what is provided, you just don't get the
"1kc or better" accuracy you can get with the R388.

Audio wise the two are close but I prefer the SP-600.

Having both, which do I use the most? And which one would I keep if I
could only have one? The choice is the SP-600. I find I use that far
more than the R388.

But it is strictly personal, both are great radios, you can't go wrong
with either one. Note however you will usually pay more for an R388 vs
an SP-600, both being in equal electrical, mechanical and cosmetic
condition. Just seems there are far more SP-600's around than the R388,
so scarcity influences the price.

Parts wise, electrically, except for a few special purpose (size/shape)
capacitors, and transformers of course, the remaining tubes, resistors
and capacitors are pretty much standard for both radios. Mechanical and
cosmetic parts are of course unique and there seem to be more SP-600's
around to donate parts if needed than R388s. But if you have a good
condition (mechanically/cosmetically) radio to start with and take care
of it, you shouldn't need to worry about those hard to get items. So
other electrical parts shouldn't be much of a concern.

73, Ray  W2EC


     > ----- Original Message -----
     > From: "Bud K5IUO" <K5IUO@sbcglobal.net>
     > To: "R-390" <R-390@mailman.qth.net>
     > Sent: Thursday, February 05, 2004 5:08 PM
     > Subject: [R-390] R-388 Info
     >
     >
     >
     >>I am new to this list and I am in hope that some of  you can offer me
some
     >>advice.
     >>
     >>I have an opportunity to obtain either a R-388 or an SP-600. Both
are in
     >>very good condition.
     >>
     >>But my concern is to which one I should chose. My concern about
both is
     >>really availability of parts etc for any problems that might occur
in the
     >>future.
     >>
     >>I would appreciate all the help I can get and please contact me
direct.
     >>
     >>Bud McClure K5IUO
     >>Phoenix AZ
     >>