[TenTec] What makes 238 etc. good?

[Ed]

Rob Atkinson, K5UJ wrote:
> I bought a 238A   2 or 3 years ago for $450.  Now they are almost $600.

Correct me if I am wrong (and probably am) but is the 238 not the same 
electrically as the 229 ???

I bought a 229 for less than $150 and it works just fine. Is there any 
difference between the 2 ? Other than the dial cord ??? They look 
identical except for the color and the 238 no longer uses the dial for 
inductor tracking. Just asking.

Ed W3NR