Which non-mainstream rigs hold your interest?
'Mainstream' could be defined as anything which uses the following criteria:
160-10M 100w-output all-mode; general-coverage receiver optional but usually included. Almost always offered by the Big Three.
There are quite a few pieces of gear which deviate from that ideal; most of which incorporate some unique features/selling points.
One of mine - the TS-660:
6-10-12-15M; AM/FM/USB/CW. 10w out; synthesized...dual VFOs. IF Shift; 5 scannable memories...provisions for an AM and CW filter. Very hot receiver.
When I first got into the eBay game, I got one of these rigs (which was advertised as "non working") for the princely sum of $180. $150 worth of filters and a couple of cold solder joints later, it's back on the air 100%. I've seen them in similar condition go for north of $500. I keep thinking about selling the thing but for some reason it remains in the shack.