Hi Andy-

I must tell you that I really enjoy both of these receivers- they are both
enjoyable to use. If I could only have one, I would choose the 535D because it
is ergonomically superior to everything else I have ever tried. With the
variable bandwidth, easy to use controls and built-in computer control
interface I find it to be very flexible.

Some folks have said that the AM audio leaves something to be desired...it's
not as good as my RACAL 6790 in this respect, but the audio on AM is superior
to that of the R71A. For SSB/CW/RTTY it is simply superb.

Since you have the R71 already, the decision to buy an NRD 535D for SW
broadcast DXing really comes down to this: they are both fine receivers and the
edge that you will enjoy with the 535D will really come down to the increased
ease of operation, slightly better audio on AM and more bandwidth options. The
differences are not great, but they are there nonetheless.

One other thing, the NRD is built beautifully. Under the hood, it is all
quality and laid out with ease of servicing in mind. The ICOM is rather cramped
inside and more difficult to service; however ICOM's factory service is, IMHO,
very accessable, reasonably priced and they do fine work.

Bottom line? If you want to sell the R71A to buy the JRC...you will see a small
but perceptable gain in reception and a larger increase in operating enjoyment.
If you want to add a second receiver...I would definitely say that the NRD is
what you want.

Hope this helps,

Ken Maltz
Jericho, NY
NRD-535D, NRD-220 Collins R-388, Racal RA6790/GM,
ICOM R71A, ICOM R-7100(x2), AOR AR-8000
Panasonic RF-2200, Sony ICF-7600GR,
Hoka Code3 Gold-Pro, 60' long wire, MLB balun