If you want a high end radio, solely for shortwave, consider a Ten-Tec
RX-340, or ask about high-end surplus radios. Be ready to wade through
more "religious" flames, though, since people are very loyal to their
favorites. At least the flames will be on-topic, though...

Thanks Eric - Yes I have noticed all the OT Trolls here. I'll continue
to filter them out. I've bought an ICOM R7100 and a Drake R8. It should
arrive sometime in early May, plenty of time to consider antennas and
computer aided software for them and acquire the RS-232 interface
cables. Comments on these acquisitions would be apreciated as well. g

I've looked at the ERGO 4 software and an ERGO rep said it will work
with these receivers. For the R7100 I'll have to use the generic driver
he said.

The suggestions and opinions offered me have really been quite helpful.
Thank you all.

A final general question (The detailed techo-challenged questions will
follow in May and June g)

What other software is there out there that I might want to consider?

Thanks again.

DavidN