For solid state and digital tuning, if you look around you will be able to find a mid 1980's Onkyo Integra Tuner models T4015 & T4017. These two have unbelieveably good reception and sound. They can be had for $50 usually. More money, but with excellent sound is the late 80s model T4087 (around $100 to $150 depending on cosmetics). The T4087 is the one with the Rosewood sides. It is the closest thing to the T9090-II which is the best thing they evey made around $350 to $400 used. May not sound much better than the T4087, but has excellent reception. Of the more modern 1990's vintage Onkyo Integra Tuner (are R1 remote capable), the only one I thought sounded good was the T4500 and T4700. Did not care for the most recent T4711. What can be said about the Onkyo Integra's is excellent reliability.
Best Tuner under 500?
I'm in the market for a tuner and have been looking at the Rotel RT-955 ($499). I live in a tiny town 20 miles outside of New Olreans, and listen mainly to out of town AM talk shows while the wife enjoys top 40 FM radio (when I'm nowhere to be found!). Any thoughts on the Rotel? Are there better tuners for about the same price or cheaper? Will I need an external antenna or possibly one I can mount in my sizeable attic for extended AM access? (Homeowner's association restrictions on external extrusions). If it matters, other components include Acurus ACT-3 pre-pro, Adcom GFA-6000 amp (soon to be upgraded), B&W DM-640i mains, and Paradigm PS-1200 powered sub. I recently upgraded from a 1994 model Yamaha Pro Logic receiver which had terrible AM reception. My vehicles' cheap factory head units reception out performed the receiver's FM and AM by a long shot. What's the deal here?