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« on: February 01, 2012, 2002 UTC »
I agree with Chris about car stereos. If you can find spec sheets on old analog models, you can search around and find one with really good sensitivity and image rejection. And they're cheap.
I hate to open up more possibilities, but I bought my Drake R8 for $400. Really good receiver. Also, in the US, amateur radio transceivers are often less expensive than the matching receiver model. For example (the same one I've been using for a few years, my apologies), the Kenwood R-5000 is often around $500 used, but the Kenwood TS-440 (essentially the same radio, but much heavier and with the ability to transmit 100 watts) is often $350-400.
Also, like Lex, I really like my Sony ICF-2010 (ICF-2001D in Europe). It's a step or two below the R8 & R5000, but I do like it. It also has FM & Aero band.