Choosing a signal spectrum analyzer often comes down to a simple question: do you need to put an instrument to work today, or are you shopping for a repair project? The two options here sit at opposite ends of that decision. The TinySA Tiny Spectrum Analyzer Frequency Analyzer is a used unit covering 100kHz to 960MHz for USD 39.98. The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A is a 22GHz unit priced at USD 299.95 and is being sold for parts or not working.
Quick verdict
If your priority is a used analyzer you can start using for everyday signal checks, the TinySA is the practical pick. If you have a specific repair goal and need a high-frequency platform to work from, the Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A is the route to consider.
At a glance
| Product | Price | Price position | Condition | What stands out |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TinySA Tiny Spectrum Analyzer Frequency Analyzer 100kHz to 960MHz MF HF Used | USD 39.98 | Used | Two-input swept analyzer with color display and built-in calibration signal generator | |
| Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A 22Ghz Spectrum Analyzer TRK GEN PARTS ONLY | USD 299.95 | For parts or not working | 22GHz analyzer with tracking generator, powers up and boots but testing fails |
Where the TinySA wins
The TinySA is the approachable option for bench work. It is a used unit without the controller-related failure that puts the Aeroflex in a repair-only category. If you want a spectrum analyzer in front of you without starting from a non-working instrument, this is the side to choose.
Where the Aeroflex wins
The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A is the high-frequency contender. It is the only unit here with the high-frequency span, and it is the parts-only option for a deliberate repair plan. If you need a high-frequency platform to repair or source components from, this is where the choice turns.
TinySA Tiny Spectrum Analyzer
Start with the TinySA if you are looking for a straightforward spectrum analyzer you can use without a repair bench. The unit's two-input design covers the MF/HF/VHF side with a higher-quality input and a separate UHF input, and the color display shows 290 scan points across the scanned range. It also includes a built-in calibration signal generator for automatic self-test and low-input calibration, and it can be used as a signal generator when not in analyzer mode. The limitation is the upper part of the band: the UHF input is the less capable of the two, so the very top of its range is not where this unit is strongest. If you need to work above that range, you would be looking past the TinySA.
Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A
The Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A is a different kind of purchase. The reason to choose it is the platform: the high-frequency span and the tracking generator factory option make it a focused repair project for someone who works on test equipment. The unit powers up and boots with a good display, power supply, and controller, but the configuration EEPROM was not moved when the controller was replaced, so testing fails and it is sold for parts or not working. The limitation is exactly that: you are getting a parts-only instrument, not a ready-to-test analyzer. This makes sense only if you have a specific repair goal or a parts need that the high-frequency platform can fill.
Final choice by use case
Choose the TinySA if you want a used analyzer you can start using without a repair project. Choose the Aeroflex IFR Marconi 2390 / AN930A if you have a specific use for a parts-only unit and are prepared to work around its non-testing condition.
