The 225E is one of the most under rated receivers of all time.
In the 1994-1995 proceedings publication, Chuck Mitchell made an in depth
review of the 225E

here are some of his findings in field tests against an R-5000, NRD-515 and
R7:

The Lowe was first in audio reproduction
the Lowe beat the R5000 in dynamic range and tied the R7
weak signal performance was close to the 515
adjacent channel selectivity on the 5000 was inferior to the 225 regardless
of filter selection
"I don't believe you will find a more selective and better sounding receiver
in a rugged lightweight package"
the 225 produces some of the sweetest sound you will ever hear from a SW
signal
superior tuning ease in ECSS mode and supurb audio quality when using the
narrow 2.2 filter

the 225E was Jim Thorpes greatest work for Lowe (the 250 was not his work)
(no, the 150 is an inferior radio to the 225 E)
then came the 7030

the 225E beat the NRD-535 in the 1992 EDXC receiver of the year contest

I own an HF-225E (and they are HARD to acquire) and can vouch that it is an
outstanding receiver.