Hello DeWayne,

The price for the Degen DE1103 is certainly right but the radio does
not have selectable synchronous sideband. For me, that would preclude
it from my "short list." As we are heading into the end of the current
sunspot cycle, that circuit, which minimizes selectable fading
distortion, is almost essential.

I feel that, for a first-time purchaser, the Sony ICF-SW7600GR (along
with, if finances permit, the Sony AN-LP1 Active Loop Antenna) is an
almost ideal combination. Reception quality is excellent and parts and
build quality, things which are very important, are superb. The
features offered for the price make it well worth its cost. Frankly, I
feel it is a bargain. (I own three [3] '7600GRs and two [2] '7600Gs. I
also own three [3] AN-LP1s. In the over six years since I purchased my
first 'G model, I have never had any problem with these radios or
antennas.)

As I have stated in many other posts, I would not even consider
purchasing a SW radio which does not have a (good, fully functioning)
synchronous selectable sideband circuit. The improvement in reception
and listening enjoyment is just too great to do without it. It is, in
my opinion, as great an advance as digital tuning.

Thanks for the info about Grove no longer stocking Sony. (I wonder
why?)

Best,

Joe

P.S. Not having had any experience with the Sangean ATS-909, the
"Super 909," or the Degen DE1103 radios, I am not qualified to make
comments but, from what I've read, the Degen would seem to perform
almost as well as the "Super 909" at about one-fifth the price. I can
say that, having had some experience with other Sangean radios
(ATS-808A and ATS-606AP, both made in Taiwan), their build quality is
somewhat lacking. In other words, the radios don't "hold up," at least
in my experience. Very disappointing. I don't know about the quality
of Degen radios.

"DeWayne" wrote in message ...

Again, for a first time radio I recommend checking out the new Degen 1103
for $65 shipped.

DeWayne