Shortwave is only a range of frequencies 3 to 30 MHz
SSB or Single Sideband is a modulation type such as AM,FM, SSB
For How AM and SSB works see URL:
http://www.williamson-labs.com/480_mod.htm
As far as cost -- there is a very wide range:
Shortwave receiver reviews at URL:
http://www2.rnw.nl/rnw/en/features/m...s/rx_curr.html
AND
http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/8
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Caveat Lector
"Rico" wrote in message
...
I'm interested from a boating perspective. What's the best option with the
lowest initial cost?