Good quality HF spectrum analyser

[rch]

I have been reading with interest the thread on getting a first SA.
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/first-spectrum-analyzer-new-rigol-used-hp-on-ebay/

I think I have similar requirements to the poster except that the main project I want it for is working between 2MHz and 30MHz.  I do however need good amplitude accuracy, reasonable frequency accuracy (though I suppose I can check with a Rigol scope I have), a reasonably narrow resolution bandwidth (no experience to be sure how narrow, but certainly below 1kHz) and decent noise performance as one of the jobs I will be doing involves setting up low noise amplifiers for low signal transducers.

Are there any decent second hand machines around with a low maximum frequency or would only very second rate spectrum analysers or very old noisy and unstable analogue ones be available in the sub 100MHz region?   Do I have any reasonable options additional to the options discussed in that thread?  Is the Rigol still a good contender on a low budget for my needs?  I'd rather pay much less!

Many thanks for any comments.

[Tac Eht Xilef]

Tip: old microwave system analysers can sometimes be found for cheap, especially if not paired with their transmitter. They're designed for comissioning/testing microwave links using the 70/140MHz IF, so generally span 100Hz to 300MHz with RBW & VBW from 100Hz to 300kHz, reasonable gain / attenuation / noise figures for HF use, etc.

Downsides: usually 75ohm, no service info available. The first can be worked around; the second is why they're often so cheap

[rch]

Tip: old microwave system analysers can sometimes be found for cheap, especially if not paired with their transmitter. They're designed for comissioning/testing microwave links using the 70/140MHz IF, so generally span 100Hz to 300MHz with RBW & VBW from 100Hz to 300kHz, reasonable gain / attenuation / noise figures for HF use, etc.

Downsides: usually 75ohm, no service info available. The first can be worked around; the second is why they're often so cheap

That's interesting.  Are they made by the big test equipment firms, or are they more specialised or local firms?

[Tac Eht Xilef]

Most of the ones I've seen have been from the more telco/comms focussed manufacturers e.g. Anritsu (now Wiltron, or visa-versa - I forget), Wandel & Goltermann, R&S, etc. I also recall HP made some, and no doubt others as well.

A quick look around doesn't show anything particularly cheap at the moment, though in the recent-ish past I've seen models like the Anritsu ME538L or ME4510B go for <AU$200 fairly regularly.

[cncjerry]

I have an Advantest but love the old HP gear as I have an HP 8568b.  I would look for an HP 3585a if you want maximal performance for the HF only range.  You can find them sometimes on Craigslist and obviously EBay.

[rch]

Thanks for all the suggestions - I'll keep looking for a bargain!