I agree with Frank...buying an "as is" tube receiver, usually requires
replacing the paper capacitors, especially the filter capacitor. I got lucky
and picked up a mint condition Hammarlund HQ-180 on e-Bay two years ago. The
$500 price was a little steep, but worth it considering I bought it from the
original owner, who included the receipt. Even though it sits next to my JRC
NRD-535D, I have to admit that I use it more than the 535D. Ask a lot of
questions about the radio to the seller, and hopefully you'll ge a winner.
You're right, there's nothing quite like the sound from a good working vintage
tube receiver. Good DX'ing to you.