FM Tuners

Another plug for Magnum Dynalab analog tuners, which can be had for <$400 used (FT101/Etude, etc.).  Never was able to own one (they cost some good $$$ when new), so I settled for a couple of digital bits (Yamaha and an Adcom) - but sold them many (many) years back when I headed for hi res and eventually, streaming.

I had auditioned an MD tuner back then for more than a week (dealers that allow you to do that are far and few in-between), and loved the sonics (for FM), PLUS the ability to slightly analog "detune" from the center frequency for the best reception (in CA large cities - this is a definite plus).  As mentioned, and eventually return the MD and took home the Yamaha.

You may be able to get a decent amount of stations with a $2.00 dipole. Rooftop is mandatory for optimum performance.

Likewise, completely!  I couldn't get the better half to agree on mounting a rooftop on our new construction, so I had to compromise between the simple dipole and a rooftop with the ST-2.  I mounted this in our rather large attic, against the rafters.  Not only did it make the MD sing, but the Yamaha and Adcom were very happy to inherit it. 😉

The next best was the Accuphase T-101 which I bought from a guy/company who was getting rid of all of his modded tuners.

Love the look of Accuphase (and Luxman) stuff!  Didn't know about the T-101; it'll be hilarious to see the look on the better half's face when she realizes I'm looking for another tuner, after having sold the last one many moons past.

@yyzsantabarbara 

Thanks!  I would so love to take a listen to that Accuphase, but the explosion fallout I'll experience when I bring it home, haha - let's just say I really don't like sleeping on the couch. 😁

@imaninatural 

I'd hate to keep plugging it, but definitely would still recommend if you can stretch that budget (hey - I could always share some distant company sleeping on the couch, LOL) up to the $400-$450 with an MD.  That would make the search much easier.  However, if budget is a hard constraint, there are plenty of great recommendations on this thread - the problem will be finding one that meets your sensitivity/selectivity and sound quality needs.