Re: VR-5000?????

I got one on ebay 6 months ago for about $420, inc. shipping, no box or manual, otherwise pristine.  Got the DSP card on a buy-it-now for $45.  Similar one on ebay now (from Greece) with box, current bid is $500.  If you can wait it out you should be able to get one for between 400-500, I've seen others go for upward of $600, usually w/ box and options.  Can't help yo with the AOR comparison; this is my first wide-band reciever.  So far I really like it -- almost too versatile, operation is not terribly intuitive, and front end overloads on local services if I use my attic ground plane.  Shortware with attic dipole is quite good. Check the reviews on eham and radioreference.  Happy hunting!

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