mc wrote:

Sony makes a car stereo system that includes shortwave radio. How well does
it perform? Would I actually be able to hear at least the major
international outlets (BBC, RCI, etc.) while driving across town?
snip
This got me looking for alternatives; a quick web search produced references
to the Becker Europa radio, (presumably DIN form factor) which includes
shortwave in various models covering at least 40 years.

Here is a photo of a vintage version:
http://www.mbzponton.org/images/mb_r...a_TR_190SL.jpg

Here is an eBay listing of a more current version (quite inexpensive):

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Becke...spagenameZWDVW

Also quite popular were converters; one of the most visually attractive
was made by Reims and had pushbutton selection of various band segments.
www.mbzponton.org/valueadded/other/radios.htm (scan down the page)

There certainly were aftermarket converters for continuous SW coverage with features
to be found in communication receivers; but the Reims unit seems to be one
of the few stock options available for a car.

Anyone know of other brands or options for various automobile makes?

Regards,

Michael