Frank wrote in message ...
I'm strictly a beginner / hobbyist, wondering which purchase you pros
would recommend:
.................................................. .................................
I would suggest the YB 400 PE would be the best choice for three main
reasons:
1. It is a dual-conversion (IF 85mhz + 455khz)
2. It uses digital tuning.
3. It has cw/ssb

* The dual-conversion gets rid of annoying images that are found in
the cheaper models.
* The digital tuning is quick and convenient as are the memories.
* The cw/ssb feature permits listening to the amateur radio stations,
and the cw
mode can be used to listen to weak and fading shortwave stations.
Adding the cw carrier and zero-beating will remove selective fading
and several types of distortion. Very useful in these times of
ionospheric disturbances. Useful even on medium wave.
The shortcomings of the cheaper sets will become quite obvious with
a little practice and leave you lusting for something better. You can
skip the first stage and avoid the aggravation.