I like and use Valiant I's. I have 2 of them and they sounds quite nice,
via the ER audio mods. One can have a Valiant for the same price as asked
for a Ranger. Rangers are horribly overrated! The extra 100 watts out of
the Valiant helps, too!! The DX-100 is a nice classic rig, if found in
suitable condition (read: wiring condition and corrosion). The VF-1
design VFO in the DX-100 may be quite problematic, too. But, they do
sound good, don't they?
Receiver wise? Yes, the SX-28 sounds nice but conditions require better
spectrum control. I use either a 75A4 or a National NC-303. Heck, an
SX-100 is quite fine, too. Or how about an HQ-170AC? Not general
coverage.. but can be had for a song and really work fine! But, like
Ford's and Chevy's, what we have here is what you like, personally..
de K3HVG