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« on: April 02, 2020, 2256 UTC »
So I've been scouring the internet for more info on performance on the MW band.
So far, I've read where the IC R-8600, beats the IC7300 by about 2db.
Is that worth the price difference?
I could wait a bit longer to save up and get the R8600, but, I really don't need the VHF/UHF capabilities, I've got scanners for that.
A new R-8600 currently sells for around $2,250.00. I've seen used ones on eBay (very, very, few ones offered for sale there) between $1,800 to $2,000.
A new IC7300 for $979, a hundred dollars less with rebates, and used prices, a bit lower than that.
The R-8600, does not require me to go out and purchase another Power Supply as I already own a Radio Shack model suitable for the job.
If I were to get the 7300, I've got to factor in another PS, it would still be close to half of what I would need to get the R8600.
On the other hand, while not a hardcore MW DX'er, every now and then at night, I like to tune around and see what I can hear.
I've seen/read others opinions, such as G. Lyell opinion's in YouTube, regarding the R8600 performance and respect that. What I'm not too clear on is the seemingly small difference in sensitivity.
I've recently saw another post somewhere that explained a "workaround" to gap this difference. Can't remember exactly the wording but the gist was that, the 7300, has a pre amp setting on AM that, by default, is off. Turning it on, would help AM reception.
Looking for opinions on this matter...
Thanks.