[R-390] test equipment question

[Tom Frobase]

I have been watching this thread for a while and I thought I would weigh 
in.  I am fortunate to have invested in a fair amount of test equipment 
over the years.  Most by buying it broken and repairing it.  My love of 
test equipment is just as avid as for old radio's.

I use an IFR 1200 service monitor for a signal generator.  Both 
frequency and gain are calibrated, saving time each time I move the 
dial.  I use an HP 3577 to adjust the IF chain.  I can truthfully say I 
have tried doing IF alignment the old way and have always improved my 
work with the analyzer. 

Of the many R-390's and A's I have repaired it is always a thrill, after 
all of the RF coils and mechanical assembly has been removed cleaned 
thoroughly and reinstalled to set the radio on the 7.999 + marks, to 
crank about 100 mV of RF in the antenna and hear a week signal!  The 
radio is responsible for that part!!

The story here is; use what works for each of you.  We all have 
preferences, there is no right or wrong equipment, my 2 cents worth ... 
73, tom, N3LLL