Choosing between two used spectrum analyzers can be tough because the right pick depends on where your bench actually needs to work. If you're outfitting an oscilloscope, signal analyzer, and spectrum analyzer bench, you may be deciding between the vintage Ivie IE-30A Spectrum Analyzer paired with its IE-30B companion and the Agilent N9320B RF Spectrum Analyzer. One is a lower-cost two-piece test set; the other reaches deeper into RF territory. Here's how to choose.
Quick Verdict
The Ivie pair makes sense if you want a spectrum analyzer and a companion test instrument in one lower-cost package and you're comfortable with a vintage unit. The Agilent N9320B is the stronger choice when your work centers on RF signals and you need a specified noise floor.
Price and capabilities
| Product | Price | Price indicator | What you get | Condition notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ivie IE-30A + IE-30B | USD 650.00 | Spectrum analyzer plus noise generator | Tested; runs on AC power | |
| Agilent N9320B | USD 1,200.00 | RF spectrum analyzer, 9 kHz to 3 GHz | Powers on; sold as-is, out of calibration, no accessories/power cable |
Where each product wins
- Ivie IE-30A + IE-30B: wins for upfront price and the convenience of having two instruments in one package.
- Agilent N9320B: wins for RF performance and specified sensitivity.
Product notes
Ivie IE-30A Spectrum Analyzer and IE-30B Noise Generator
The Ivie bundle separates analysis and stimulus tasks: the IE-30A measures the frequency spectrum of signals, while the IE-30B produces noise for controlled testing. That means you can analyze a signal and then inject a known noise source without reaching for a second box. It ran without issues on AC power and was tested. The limitation is its vintage nature: you're relying on older electronics, and the battery warning suggests sticking with AC power unless you're confident about replacement cells. For audio-band or general signal work, this two-piece setup gives you both measurement and test-signal generation in one purchase.
Agilent N9320B RF Spectrum Analyzer
The Agilent N9320B is built for RF work. It covers a broad frequency span, and it specifies a displayed average noise level of -130 dBm along with resolution and video bandwidths from 10 Hz to 1 MHz, giving you a clear measurement baseline for RF testing, troubleshooting, education, and lab use. The unit powers on and functions, but the calibration caveat means you should budget for a calibration service before you rely on its readings. Accessories and a power cable are not included, so you'll need to add those to the package. If your bench regularly sees RF signals and you want a spectrum analyzer with a known noise floor, the N9320B's performance is the reason to step up.
Final choice by use case
- Choose the Ivie IE-30A + IE-30B if your bench is centered on general signal and noise work and you want a lower-cost setup that already includes a companion test source. The $650 price gets you two instruments.
- Choose the Agilent N9320B if RF performance is the priority and you're comfortable adding calibration and accessory costs. The $1,200 price buys the frequency reach and noise-floor specification you won't find in the Ivie pair.
