[R-390] What's in the window?
Heinz Breuer DH2FA
dh2fa at darc.de
Fri Nov 19 11:23:29 EST 2010
Very weird. My Firefox version 3.6.12 shows it all
vy 73 Heinz DH2FA, KM5VT
Here it is (copy and paste):
While an overhaul such as this goes far beyond the norm, this receiver
is also far beyond the norm.
Classified Top Secret until 1967, the R-390A is considered by some to
still be the best HF receiver ever designed. Stories are told that
R390A's are still in use by the NSA, where senior operators far prefer
their quietness over modern, mega-dollar receivers from Harris, Racal
and Watkins-Johnson with their noisy synthesizers and digital filters.
New R-390A receivers built in 1968 (the year following this one) were
briefly sold to the public for $1700, which would equal $11,000 today.
Included in the sale are are the ballast tube, all 3 covers, and the
antenna matching toroid. In addition, a compact HiFi speaker is included
to go with the aftermarket 8 ohm audio stage nestled in the space next
to the PTO. (shown in the photos).
Shipping includes professional packing and insurance. Fedex ground
seems to have the best track record, but I'm open to suggestions. Local
pick up is preferred. As with all electronics, no returns. Ships to
USA only.
E-Ham Reviews (Rated 4.8/5 )
"I have owned and or operated about 30 receivers in and out of
government. There is none better than the R390A. Some have come close
but none better. .. I have tried the Hallicrafters, Drake, Harris,
Kenwood, Icom top of the line units. Nothing compares with a good
R-390A ...Sensitivity is superb and those Collins mechanical filters are
awesome." --WB3HUH
"... If you could afford to buy a modern day version of this box with
these specs you would have enough money to put down on a small house.
The magic in this radio... has a lot to do with the tracking RF section
and the Collins filters. That tracking RF section makes this radio what
it is. If you don't have that gear work you don't have this
performance. This radio has the ability to pull stations right out from
under the most powerful ones." --KE1MB.
"With the mechanical filters you can tune a bit past the split frequency
stations and the hets (heterodynes) disappear and the station is still
intelligible. For example you want to hear 1521 Saudi Arabia which is
next to powerhouse WWKB NY and is common here on the East coast, you put
the 2 Kc filter on and tune it a bit beyond 1522 and WWKB drops right
out of the bandpass and the het is gone. It's also very stable on SSB"
--KB1OKL
___________________________________
A group of some of the "heavy hitters" in the SWBC DX community, myself
included, went on a DX'pedition to Cape Hatteras, NC.
Quite an array of receivers had been brought along including a Drake R8
and R8A. A pair of Watkins-Johnson HF-1000's, an R388, R390A and a JRC
NRD-535. It was a particularly good morning with extraordinarily quiet
conditions and a strong opening into the Pacific and Asia. Around 1130
UTC I checked 3304.8 for the Radio Republic Indonesia outlet in Dili.
Although it had not been reliably logged since the late 70's, it was
there that morning weakly, just a heterodyne in the R8A.
Everyone quickly tuned to the frequency, determined not to miss the
opportunity to log such a rare station. However, even the $4,000
Watkins-Johnson receivers could not extract more that a few words of copy.
The R390A and Sherwood SE-3 extracted recordable audio from that signal
when no other receiver we had could. That put the receiver in a whole
new category not only for me but the others in attendance.
Of the R390A's I own, 3 are capable of sensitivity performances in the
.07-.08uv for 10db S/N + N using the 4 kc filter and standard AM
detection. I know of few receivers available today at any price able to
duplicate of that level of performance.
---Charles Rippel
Am 19.11.2010 15:59, schrieb Jerry Stern:
> VERY WEIRD.. When I view this auction on Ebay, the description after:
>
>> While an overhaul such as this goes far beyond the norm, this receiver
>> is also far beyond the norm.
>>
>
> The entire text on Classified Top Secret..... down to the Hi-Fi speaker
> description is missing. In its place is the cut and paste history quote
> from Chuck Ripple.
>
>
> I have watched this auction since it first appeared and I never could
make
> out what the rest of you were talking about.
>
> Is it just me??
>
> 73 Jerry
> K1JOS
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: r-390-bounces at mailman.qth.net
[mailto:r-390-bounces at mailman.qth.net]
> On Behalf Of rbethman
> Sent: Friday, November 19, 2010 9:13 AM
> To: R-390-List
> Subject: Re: [R-390] What's in the window?
>
> *All,
>
> *Here is a "copy of the extensive info": (The area is bounded by ** at
> the beginning and ** at the end.)
>
> Quite clearly---> ** aftermarket 8 ohm audio stagenestled in the space
> next to the PTO**
>
>
<http://cgi.ebay.com/Late-model-EAC-Collins-R-390A-R390A-R-390-/280589662946
> ?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4154727ae2>
>
> I find all the totally off the wall "answers" ludicrous. YMMV
>
> Bob - N0DGN
>
>> Thisreceiver, EAC Serial #2844, is apparentlyone of the latest ones,
>> as shown by the October 1967 date stamp in the photos. It has the
>> latest updates, including the IF module filter trimmers and the
>> desirable Cosmos PTO with a wide end point adjustment.
>>
>> It is typical mil-spec, usingmodular construction, coil forms
>> impregnated with Araldit, and teflon wire insulation. As shown in the
>> photos, the engraved front panel and original knobs and meters appear
>> practically new. The gearing is tight, yet free, showing little, if
>> any wear. All controls are smooth and effective, and all filters and
>> bands function as they should. This late model receiver is a hot
>> performer, perhaps owing to the extra care taken in its overhaul.
>>
>> For example, not only were weak tubes replaced, but also low noise JAN
>> tubes were installed in the RF, mixer, and first IF. Alignment was
>> done a second timeafter a month's burn-in.
>>
>> In addition to the usual cleaning, lubing, and shaft alignment, tuning
>> lightness and smoothness were further enhanced by deburring and mesh
>> adjustmentof right angle display drive gear teeth, and resetting the
>> typically over-stiff anti-backlash spring tension in the KC shaft
>> drive gear. Meters were disassembled to adjust movement bearings often
>> overtightened at the factory. Noise was reduced and signal input
>> increased by using a toroidal balunto get proper antenna balance and
>> correct match to the receiver's balanced 150 ohms, instead of the
>> typical practice of feeding one side with 50 ohms through a nice
>> looking adapter.
>>
>> For longer tube life, two CL 80 thermistors were added to control
>> filament stressing inrush. A 44 ohm resistor ballast was installed to
>> save unnecessary wear on the3TF7 ballast tube, (which is also
>> included). After cleaning and mechanical alignment the controls, gears
>> and slug racks were lubricated with Bel Ray synthetic aviation oil
>> (some single malt Scotches cost less)
>>
>> While an overhaul such as this goes far beyond the norm, this receiver
>> is also far beyond the norm.
>>
>> Classified Top Secret until 1967, the R-390A is considered by some to
>> still be the best HF receiver ever designed. Stories are told that
>> R390A's are still in use by the NSA, where senior operators far prefer
>> their quietness over modern, mega-dollar receivers from Harris, Racal
>> and Watkins-Johnsonwith their noisy synthesizers and digital filters.
>>
>> New R-390A receivers built in 1968 (the year following this one) were
>> briefly sold to the public for $1700, which would equal $11,000 today.
>>
>> <Included in the sale are are the ballast tube, all 3 covers, and the
>> antenna matching toroid.In addition, a compact HiFi speaker is
>> included to go with the ** aftermarket 8 ohm audio stagenestled in the
>> space next to the PTO**. (shown in the photos).>
>>
>> Shipping includes professional packing and insurance. Fedex ground
>> seems to have the best track record, but I'm open to suggestions.
>> Local pick up is preferred. As with all electronics, no returns.
>> Ships to USA only.
>>
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> R-390 mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/r-390
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:R-390 at mailman.qth.net
>
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> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> R-390 mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/r-390
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:R-390 at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
>
Am 19.11.2010 17:09, schrieb Cecil Acuff:
> Mine only shows the Rippel drivel as well...
>
> What I see is what's there...Never had a problem before...
>
> Cecil
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Jerry Stern"<jsternmd at att.net>
> To: "'rbethman'"<rbethman at comcast.net>; "'R-390-List'"
> <R-390 at mailman.qth.net>
> Sent: Friday, November 19, 2010 8:59 AM
> Subject: Re: [R-390] What's in the window?
>
>
>> VERY WEIRD.. When I view this auction on Ebay, the description after:
>>
>>> While an overhaul such as this goes far beyond the norm, this receiver
>>> is also far beyond the norm.
>>>
>>
>> The entire text on Classified Top Secret..... down to the Hi-Fi speaker
>> description is missing. In its place is the cut and paste history quote
>> from Chuck Ripple.
>>
>>
>> I have watched this auction since it first appeared and I never could make
>> out what the rest of you were talking about.
>>
>> Is it just me??
>>
>> 73 Jerry
>> K1JOS
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: r-390-bounces at mailman.qth.net [mailto:r-390-bounces at mailman.qth.net]
>> On Behalf Of rbethman
>> Sent: Friday, November 19, 2010 9:13 AM
>> To: R-390-List
>> Subject: Re: [R-390] What's in the window?
>>
>> *All,
>>
>> *Here is a "copy of the extensive info": (The area is bounded by ** at
>> the beginning and ** at the end.)
>>
>> Quite clearly---> ** aftermarket 8 ohm audio stagenestled in the space
>> next to the PTO**
>>
>> <http://cgi.ebay.com/Late-model-EAC-Collins-R-390A-R390A-R-390-/280589662946
>> ?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4154727ae2>
>>
>> I find all the totally off the wall "answers" ludicrous. YMMV
>>
>> Bob - N0DGN
>>
>>> Thisreceiver, EAC Serial #2844, is apparentlyone of the latest ones,
>>> as shown by the October 1967 date stamp in the photos. It has the
>>> latest updates, including the IF module filter trimmers and the
>>> desirable Cosmos PTO with a wide end point adjustment.
>>>
>>> It is typical mil-spec, usingmodular construction, coil forms
>>> impregnated with Araldit, and teflon wire insulation. As shown in the
>>> photos, the engraved front panel and original knobs and meters appear
>>> practically new. The gearing is tight, yet free, showing little, if
>>> any wear. All controls are smooth and effective, and all filters and
>>> bands function as they should. This late model receiver is a hot
>>> performer, perhaps owing to the extra care taken in its overhaul.
>>>
>>> For example, not only were weak tubes replaced, but also low noise JAN
>>> tubes were installed in the RF, mixer, and first IF. Alignment was
>>> done a second timeafter a month's burn-in.
>>>
>>> In addition to the usual cleaning, lubing, and shaft alignment, tuning
>>> lightness and smoothness were further enhanced by deburring and mesh
>>> adjustmentof right angle display drive gear teeth, and resetting the
>>> typically over-stiff anti-backlash spring tension in the KC shaft
>>> drive gear. Meters were disassembled to adjust movement bearings often
>>> overtightened at the factory. Noise was reduced and signal input
>>> increased by using a toroidal balunto get proper antenna balance and
>>> correct match to the receiver's balanced 150 ohms, instead of the
>>> typical practice of feeding one side with 50 ohms through a nice
>>> looking adapter.
>>>
>>> For longer tube life, two CL 80 thermistors were added to control
>>> filament stressing inrush. A 44 ohm resistor ballast was installed to
>>> save unnecessary wear on the3TF7 ballast tube, (which is also
>>> included). After cleaning and mechanical alignment the controls, gears
>>> and slug racks were lubricated with Bel Ray synthetic aviation oil
>>> (some single malt Scotches cost less)
>>>
>>> While an overhaul such as this goes far beyond the norm, this receiver
>>> is also far beyond the norm.
>>>
>>> Classified Top Secret until 1967, the R-390A is considered by some to
>>> still be the best HF receiver ever designed. Stories are told that
>>> R390A's are still in use by the NSA, where senior operators far prefer
>>> their quietness over modern, mega-dollar receivers from Harris, Racal
>>> and Watkins-Johnsonwith their noisy synthesizers and digital filters.
>>>
>>> New R-390A receivers built in 1968 (the year following this one) were
>>> briefly sold to the public for $1700, which would equal $11,000 today.
>>>
>>> <Included in the sale are are the ballast tube, all 3 covers, and the
>>> antenna matching toroid.In addition, a compact HiFi speaker is
>>> included to go with the ** aftermarket 8 ohm audio stagenestled in the
>>> space next to the PTO**. (shown in the photos).>
>>>
>>> Shipping includes professional packing and insurance. Fedex ground
>>> seems to have the best track record, but I'm open to suggestions.
>>> Local pick up is preferred. As with all electronics, no returns.
>>> Ships to USA only.
>>>
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> R-390 mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/r-390
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:R-390 at mailman.qth.net
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>>
>> ______________________________________________________________
>> R-390 mailing list
>> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/r-390
>> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
>> Post: mailto:R-390 at mailman.qth.net
>>
>> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
>> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
> ______________________________________________________________
> R-390 mailing list
> Home: http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/r-390
> Help: http://mailman.qth.net/mmfaq.htm
> Post: mailto:R-390 at mailman.qth.net
>
> This list hosted by: http://www.qsl.net
> Please help support this email list: http://www.qsl.net/donate.html
>
>
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