Drake R8, R8A, and R8B - differences: There are 3 versions of the R-8: the original R-8 along with A and B versions. The R-8A introduced better front panel ergonomics (easier switching of mode and bandwidth). The R8B has more memories and has the best sync detector of the group (selectable AM sideband during sync). The original R-8 uses an optical encoder with metal knob for tuning. Later models use mechanical encoders with a plastic knob. A VHF converter (not for broadcast FM) was available for internal installation in all models. Like John I have the straight R-8 and having to step through the filters sequentially is annoying but only a very minor annoyance. The original R-8 uses an optical, rather than mechanical, encoder which is very reliable and it has a heavier metal tuning knob rather than the plastic type used with the mechanical encoder on the more recent receivers. The main advantage IMHO to the R8B is the improved synchronous detector. The R8B has improved IM performance. In the R8B (as in the R8 and R8A), there is no frequency readout compensation for the offset required to resolve data signals. For example, to receive a fax signal on 8080 kHz one must tune in the USB mode to 8078.1kHz. The utility listener will have to apply offset values to tune digital signals. The frequency readout on the green LCD panel displays an audio frequency, not the nominal carrier frequency listed in utility station guides. For RTTY, the difference is the mark tone of 2125 kHz. For CW, 700 or 800 Hz. For fax (tuned in the USB mode), 1.9 kHz. ABOUT THE RL DRAKE R8 COMMUNICATION RECEIVER: First came the Original Drake Model R8: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/r8.html Drake R8 - Specifications: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/r8spec.html Modern Shortwave Receiver Survey Listing for the Drake R8: http://www.dxing.com/rx/r8.htm RigPix DataBase R8: http://www.rigpix.com/drake/r8.htm ABOUT THE RL DRAKE R8A COMMUNICATION RECEIVER: Second came the Drake Model R8A: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/r8a.html Drake R8A - Specifications: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/r8aspec.html Note - Many ergonomic and performance improvements were added including: alphanumeric memories, faster scanning, improved AGC, improved notch, improved display, easier mode and bandwidth selection, tilt-bar, enhanced tone control, detachable line cord & expanded RS-232 command set. Modern Shortwave Receiver Survey Listing for the Drake R8A: http://www.dxing.com/rx/r8.htm The Drake R8E is the European Version of the R8, with coverage down to 150 kHz per German law. ABOUT THE RL DRAKE R8B COMMUNICATION RECEIVER: Third and last came the Drake Model R8B: http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/0082.html http://www.universal-radio.com/used/sold122.html Note - Ergonomic and performance improvements over the R8A include: faster scanning, sideband selectable synchronous AM detection and 1000 alphanumeric memories. Later production units tune from 10 to 30000 kHz. Drake R8B - Specifications http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/0082spec.html Drake R8B - Front Panel http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/0082lrg.gif Drake R8B - Rear Panel http://www.universal-radio.com/catalog/commrxvr/0082rear.html Modern Shortwave Receiver Survey Listing for the Drake R8B: http://www.dxing.com/rx/r8b.htm RigPix DataBase R8B: http://www.rigpix.com/drake/r8b.htm SEARCH GOOGLE FOR DRAKE R8, R8A, R8B INFO: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=drake+%28r8%2Cr8a%2Cr8b%29 http://www.mwcircle.org/mw_rec_draker8.htm http://www.mwcircle.org/mw_rec_draker8a.htm http://www.mwcircle.org/mw_rec_draker8b.htm