When you're shopping for signal and spectrum analyzers, the first question isn't just which specs look better-it's whether the instrument can actually be used for measurements today. This head-to-head throws two very different listings into the same category: a parts-only unit and a functional analyzer. The decision between them comes down to your goal: do you need a working measurement tool, or are you looking for a repair project and spare parts source?
Quick verdict
If you need to make measurements right away, the Agilent Keysight E5052B is the clear pick-it's listed as used and is the only ready-to-measure option of the two. The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390, listed as for parts or not working, powers up and boots with a good display, power supply, and controller, but fails testing because of a configuration EEPROM error. It's a parts unit, not a ready-to-use analyzer. Choose the Aeroflex only if you have a repair path or need donor components.
Comparison table
| Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A | Agilent Keysight E5052B | |
|---|---|---|
| Listed Price | $299.95 | $36,500.00 |
| Condition | For parts or not working | Used |
| Stated Function | 22 GHz spectrum analyzer with tracking generator | 10 MHz to 7 GHz signal source/phase noise analyzer |
| Model / MPN | Model 2390 / MPN AN930A | MPN E5052B |
Where each product wins
- Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 wins on price and physical completeness, making it a potential donor for an existing Marconi 2390 or AN930A.
- Agilent Keysight E5052B wins on readiness and measurement capability-it's the functional instrument of the two.
Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A
The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A is a 22 GHz spectrum analyzer with a tracking generator, listed at $299.95. The unit is physically complete: it powers up and boots with a good display, power supply, and controller. The limitation is that the configuration EEPROM wasn't moved when the controller was replaced, so testing fails. That makes it a donor for the working display, PSU, or controller, or a repair project if you can source and install the correct EEPROM. For someone with an existing Marconi 2390 or AN930A, this unit can serve as a spare-parts source; it is not a turnkey analyzer.
Agilent Keysight E5052B
The Agilent Keysight E5052B covers 10 MHz to 7 GHz and is priced at $36,500. It's designed for characterizing VCOs, oscillators, and clock jitter in high-speed data communication systems, with applications ranging from RF/uW/mmW oscillators to system reference clocks and LAN modules. The unit can be extended to 26.5 GHz with the E5053A and beyond to 110 GHz with additional mixers. The main limitation is the price, which is far above the other unit's price. If you need a functional analyzer for measurements now, this is the one to consider.
Final choice by use case
The Agilent Keysight E5052B is the final choice for any lab that needs a functional analyzer today. The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 is the final choice for a repair shop that wants a donor unit, or for someone restoring a 2390/AN930A.
