Yes, and I have narrowed it down to these 2 radios, after doing a ton of research. I've accepted the fact that I will likely have to remove the sticky finish on any E1 I come across. Like you, the one I sold was flawless and had no sticky issues (at the time.)
In terms of portability, the cr1a wins hands down. I'm wondering how it compares though in sensitivity and selectivity with the E1.
I also had a pristine ICF2010 at one time, but sold it, after getting the E1 because [the e1] performed MUCH better IMO.
I had the Sony as well. I think the Sony is so close to the performance of the Eton that today I would probably get a used Sony over the E1. It's just so close.
I got rid of my R75 for the CR-1a if this says anything. The R75 is a wonderful radio but the CR-1a is about equal where it counts. If you like settings and tinkering with them the E1 will be much better, if it is performance before anything the CR-1a will make you very happy.
The sync on either the Sony or the Eton is a great feature but the Cr-1a is very good with ecss so thats about moot.
On a side note, I just a couple moths ago got a Sony 7600GR and the radio is just great all around and the sync is really nice and I have to say I did miss it a bit. And I do a whole lot of MWDX and the Sony is good at it. But I have to say the CR-1a gives me added benefit of using big antennas and that is a huge advantage in any radio.
So given what you want, the CR-1a would be a better choice I believe. It is as good as the R75 as far as where it counts in the receive department. It has more filters then any other radio mentioned which is very nice. PBT is missing however but I have to say I have never missed it. On AM it is decent and might be a bit better them my Sony because I can hook up my QX loop, but I would have to say if AMDX is something you are into (MW), I think the E1 was a little better perhaps and the PBT can help in that area.
We are talking about great radios and any one of the ones mentioned would make anyone happy I would think. The big added advantage of the CR-1a is the possibility of computer interfacing, but this is IF anything ever comes of it. I hope it does but who knows. It just may become the novelty addition that never came to be, but then in may not.