I have a 996, a 396 and a Pro96. Which one is better is debatable. I still think the digital receive is better in the Pro-96,, and I love the virtual scanner folders in the pro96. BUt thats it for that scanner. Its horrible to drive, and why they have put some of the buttons on the front where they did is beyond me.
The 396 could have better receive in some parts of the UHF band, especially the Australian Police band. But its a great little unit, nice size to, I like how compact it is. With the right antenna it is a nice small unit to carry around.
The 996, well I love the 996 at the moment. MIne has been installed in the family car along with access to the serial port so I can hook up a GPS to it. Its great for monitoring the GRN when mobile. The 996 has a few programming restrictions I don't like, such as only 250 talk groups per system, but other then that its a great scanner. I won't be parting with mine for a while.
Another great scanner I have had a while now, and have owned a couple is the 780xlt. Though getting older now, its still a good unit.
You will find all scanners have their bugbears and htings thta people don't like about them. Best thing when buying one is to listen to lots of opinions on various models, as well as get to test a few out yourself if possible.