Hi Mitch, the radio I bought has the (older) manual tuner (like the models 1 and 2) and it has remarkable reception. Late at night I get stations that are even More distant. I "later" bought the expensive ($600 retail) model stereo Digital-Tuning
radio with BOTH L+R speakers and subwoofer built in. It also sounds good, but I had to get a dedicated outdoor FM-antenna installed (about $100 plus installation) because the reception was admittedly dreadful with the included T-antenna. AFTER That it almost reached the same performance as the "basic" models. The #3 is the one with the clock, a ST/Mono switch, a sub-out jack and ST- speaker output. You can also hook up your computer for many more stations. I use a Y-cable so I have TWO subs on either night-stand plus of course the other stereo speaker. It sounds very natural, although Beethoven #5 is a little too challenging (a bit muddled) for a 3.5in. full-range driver and a 5in. subwoofer. But pop, rock, and especially jazz all work well. Also I can't comment on their current models being better or worse. The older models are still available, but I would try to get an unused (NOS) piece.