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-   -   Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394 (https://www.radiobanter.com/shortwave/148051-tell-me-about-radio-shack-dx-394-a.html)

Too_Many_Tools November 18th 09 06:04 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT

Too_Many_Tools November 19th 09 06:36 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Is there anyone out there that knows about shortwave radios?

Or should I post this elsewhere?

Thanks

TMT

Krypsis[_2_] November 19th 09 08:50 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Is there anyone out there that knows about shortwave radios?

Or should I post this elsewhere?

Thanks

TMT


I prefer Yaesu myself. I have an FRG7700 and an FRG8800, both not having
been used for quite some years now. My daily listener is a Sony
ICF-SW7600, a very nice portable. The only Realistic/Radio Shack unit I
have is a scanner, a 400 Channel Pro2005.

The DX394 is a nice looking beast but it has gained a poor reputation
because of design deficiencies that were, to some extent, addressed in
the DX394b.

The site listed below has a number of modifications that might just
bring the 394 up to speed. If you're a tinkerer, handy with a soldering
iron and up to speed with SMDs, go for it.

http://www.monitor.co.uk/radio-mods/dx-394/dx-394.htm


Some owner opinions are here;

http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/2108

The dx394 even has its own fan club. Expect some biased opinions here.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RADIOSHACKDX394/

As well as a lack of ability to control a tape recorder, other features
missing from this receiver include passband tuning, AM synchronous
modes, bandwidth selection, AGC options, memory scanning and computer
control. The receiver is clearly focused on the broadcast listener. The
meter buttons and the preset band limits for tuning within the
international broadcast bands show the intended purpose of this radio.
Given that a lot of the major broadcasters are giving up on shortwave,
you may want to be scouring the utility and amateur bands so this
receiver might be a bit limited for that purpose.

At the right price, I would buy one as it would suit me for use as a
bedside radio but little beyond that.

Hope this helps

Krypsis







dave November 19th 09 01:13 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Is there anyone out there that knows about shortwave radios?

Or should I post this elsewhere?

Thanks

TMT


That is a cult radio. There are many modifications.

http://www.eham.net/reviews/detail/2108


D. Peter Maus November 19th 09 04:15 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 


On Nov 18, 12:04 am, wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT



DX-394 was an attempt by Radio Shack to toss a bone to the SW
market it had long abandoned during a short rebirth of SW listening
in the late 80's and early 90's. It was a general coverage receiver
built by GRE, and it was not one of their finer efforts.

There are at least two iterations of DX-394. Some say three. And
they can be distinguished by an A, B, or, if actually manufactured,
C on the model/serial number on the back of the chassis.

The differences between these models is small. The A version is
the worst. It's sensitive enough, but overloads with little or no
provocation. Filters are way too wide for the crowded bands of the
late 80's. And audio is passable. There are a nice aggregation of
features, including timer on/off of recording gear, and a decent
number of inputs and outputs. As well, an s-meter, VRIT tuning,
keypad entry, a reasonably effective noise blanker,
clock/programmable timer; scan, sweep, and standby modes; and four
tuning steps for more agile dialing aup and down the dial.

There is a whip antenna for portable use and an SO-239 connector
for more significant external antennae.

The A version would also not hold an alignment if you put a gun
in its mouth. Service access is readily achieved by removing a few
screws, and lifting off the chassis cover, and the alignment
procedure is easy enough, but some examples actually drift back out
of alignment by the time the chassis cover is replaced. Drift
factors include thermal, humidity, and poor inate component stability.

Controls work well, but feel cheap. Tuning is known for it's
backlash. Dial accuracy is fair.

The B iteration is somewhat better. More stable, able to hold to
an alignment better than the A, but still not particularly well.
Somewhat lower noise floor and higher headroom. Not exemplary, but
not as God-awful dreadful as the A.

There is talk of a C. I've not seen one, but that's ok. I've not
seen Lauren Graham naked, either. That's no indication such things
don't exist. The C is supposed to be DX-394 done as it should have
been. Better filters, stable circuit design. Better immunity from
overload.

The whip antenna may be omitted from B and C models.

There are copious websites dedicated to modifications of DX-394.
Like a number of ICOM receivers, modifications can make DX-394 a
nice little radio. Better filters are a must, and such mods are
plentiful. Unmuting during tuning is a good choice. Input mods to
significantly raise headroom are numerous and a very good idea.

Truthfully, though, most mods are a waste of effort on the A model.

Like a 57 Chevy Bel Air, you can pick up DX-394 for little cash,
and mod it to death, ending up with a pretty snappy toy that will
hold its own in performance, and play with the big boys in DXing
competitions, Field Days and Hamfests.

Mike Maghakian modded a DX-394 and used it as his primary
receiver...with claims of outperforming some R75's. I don't doubt him.

Whether all the work is worth it to you is for you to decide.
There is considerable fun in bringing a project to completion. There
is considerable fun in making an inadequate project rock.

But as it sits on the table, DX-394 is largely a waste of good
plastic. There are much better radios out there for the same money.

Sangean's ATS-803, and ATS-909 come to mind. And, if cost is an
issue, they can be had for around a hundred bucks.

For a little more, ICOM's R75 is decent. But may require some
mods to make it more user friendly.

There are a lot of proponents of (Tecsun) Grundig SAT-800. QC is
spotty. And there are, contrary to the claims of some creative
internet (eBay) sellers, only two versions of SAT-800. One WITH a
tuning shaft bearing, and one WITHOUT. There is only one generation
of the circuitry. Service availability is through Drake. Parts
availability is limited, and through Eton. Documentation is largely
not available, so self service is possible, pursuant to your own
technical skill.

A better choice would be a used Drake SW-8, upon which SAT-800's
IF strip is based. SW-8 is portable, works VERY well in a fixed
installation, great audio and very good performance with an external
antenna. There are two versions of SW-8. With sideband selectable
sync and without. An input mod is available that will better match
the built in whip with the input circuitry for better performance as
a portable. Service through Drake. This will be pricey, but a good
value.

Two excellent choices would be Ten-Tec's RX-350, and Drake's R8.
Both excellent performers, highly configurable to existing listening
conditions, feature rich, and very good audio. Not cheap. Worth
every penny. RX-350 comes in two iterations, RX-350, and RX-350D.
The difference is the D has an IF output for use with a PC in
demodulating DRM and some utes. Ten-Tec's support is non pareil.

Drake's R8 comes in three flavors: R8, R8A, and R8B. Any one
will get you where you want to go. Excellent performers, decent
ergonomics. Excellent audio. R8 was the first, and is most basic.
R8A has about the same performance, but with 440 memories. R8B adds
sideband selectable sync. Drake's support is exceptional.

There are also the Lowe's: HF-150, 225, 250 and 350. AOR's cut
apart--AR-7030 and 7030 Plus. Any of these are excellent receivers.
Prices will take you to 4 figures.

And, there are the Eton/Grundigs available today. You'll have to
do your research on those.

If you're seriously looking to save money and still want a
decent receiver, there are some decent tube sets by National,
Hallicrafters, and Heatkit out there that offer decent listening,
nearl bulletproof construction and serve as very good learning
platforms as you delve into Shortwave listening.

Enjoy.





Too_Many_Tools November 20th 09 07:08 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.

I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.

My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.

True or false?

TMT

Krypsis[_2_] November 20th 09 07:53 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.

I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.

My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.

True or false?

TMT


It's possible but, in my experience, "original versions (ie. 1.0 or A)
are usually never marked as such. It's only the revisions that are
thusly marked. I take this to indicate a degree of (misplaced) optimism
on the part of the manufacturer and the release of revisions is a crash
to earth or a reality check.
This is true in the case of my netgear devices. Original versions are
unmarked whereas revisions are v2, v3, v4, etc. I suspect that, if a
product does well in the marketplace, they bring out a "new & improved"
version with appropriate markings to indicate this. If it bombs, then
the product line is dumped with no revisions.
It really depends on what you expect from your radio. From what I
gather, the revised versions still didn't make the DX394 into a great
radio, just one that was a little better suited to the market spectrum
for which it was intended. If the DX394 fits your needs. then go for it.
A good starter radio if nothing else.

Krypsis


Editor RadioTalkingPoints November 20th 09 03:06 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver. Is it worth
getting? What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one should
look at?
SELF REPLY:
"I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.
My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and the B
version was a remake of the main board incorporating those mods....with
essentially the same performance as the A version.
JESUS MAN, IF YOU KNOW ALL THIS WHY THE HELL ARE YOU BOTHERING PEOPLE WITH
YOUR UNWARANTED QUESTIONS?
FIND A LONELY HEARTS GROUP AND SUCK UP TO THEM.

"Too_Many_Tools" wrote in message
...
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.

I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.

My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.

True or false?

TMT



Too_Many_Tools November 22nd 09 06:42 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 20, 9:06*am, "Editor RadioTalkingPoints"
wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver. * Is it worth
getting? *What mods are available?


*Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one should
look at?
SELF REPLY:
"I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.
My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and the B
version was a remake of the main board incorporating those mods....with
essentially the same performance as the A version.
JESUS MAN, IF YOU KNOW ALL THIS WHY THE HELL ARE YOU BOTHERING PEOPLE WITH
YOUR UNWARANTED QUESTIONS?
FIND A LONELY HEARTS GROUP AND SUCK UP TO THEM.

"Too_Many_Tools" wrote in message

...
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:

I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.

I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.

My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.

True or false?

TMT


LOL...there's one in every group.

You don't have to be ashamed to admit that you don't know.

You might try to work on your manners too...crabby dumb losers don't
get laid. ;)

TMT

TMT

Too_Many_Tools November 22nd 09 06:42 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 20, 1:53*am, Krypsis wrote:
Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:04 am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


It's possible but, in my experience, "original versions (ie. 1.0 or A)
are usually never marked as such. It's only the revisions that are
thusly marked. I take this to indicate a degree of (misplaced) optimism
on the part of the manufacturer and the release of revisions is a crash
to earth or a reality check.
This is true in the case of my netgear devices. Original versions are
unmarked whereas revisions are v2, v3, v4, etc. I suspect that, if a
product does well in the marketplace, they bring out a "new & improved"
version with appropriate markings to indicate this. If it bombs, then
the product line is dumped with no revisions.
It really depends on what you expect from your radio. From what I
gather, the revised versions still didn't make the DX394 into a great
radio, just one that was a little better suited to the market spectrum
for which it was intended. If the DX394 fits your needs. then go for it.
A good starter radio if nothing else.

Krypsis- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the info.

TMT

Gregg November 22nd 09 07:31 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:

I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.

I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.

My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.

True or false?

TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704

The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.

The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.

The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the modded DX394 couldn't hear.

I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - the DX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.


Too_Many_Tools November 22nd 09 05:20 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:
On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:





On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704

The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.

The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.

The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the modded DX394 couldn't hear.

I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - the DX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.

I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?

My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.

The "A" also is shown on the manual.

TMT


Gregg November 23rd 09 11:36 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 22, 9:20*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:





On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704


The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.


The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.


The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the modded DX394 couldn't hear.


I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - the DX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.

I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?

My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.

The "A" also is shown on the manual.

TMT- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


Ha, I would like to take the credit for it. But I can't. ;-)
Some people install their toggles in the back, I asume out of fear of
messing up the front panel.
But it was done beautifully, looks like it came that way from the
factory. The knobs tuning marks were painted
with a real high gloss white, really stands out especially in contrast
with the black grained contact
paper on the top and sides. The idea of adding lead to the tuning knob
was brilliant, I really didn't
like the feel of the dial, absolutely no weight whatsoever - problem
solved.


Too_Many_Tools November 23rd 09 04:27 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 23, 5:36*am, Gregg wrote:
On Nov 22, 9:20*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:





On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:


On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704


The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.


The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.


The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the modded DX394 couldn't hear.


I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering..
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - the DX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.


I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?


My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.


The "A" also is shown on the manual.


TMT- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Ha, I would like to take the credit for it. But I can't. ;-)
Some people install their toggles in the back, I asume out of fear of
messing up the front panel.
But it was done beautifully, looks like it came that way from the
factory. The knobs tuning marks were painted
with a real high gloss white, really stands out especially in contrast
with the black grained contact
paper on the top and sides. The idea of adding lead to the tuning knob
was brilliant, I really didn't
like the feel of the dial, absolutely no weight whatsoever - problem
solved.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


Lead...tuning knob...good idea.

Is there a link to photos of these mods?

Thanks

TMT

Tom November 23rd 09 06:54 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 23, 11:27*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 23, 5:36*am, Gregg wrote:





On Nov 22, 9:20*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:


On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio ShackDX-394receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginalDX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704


The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.


The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.


The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the moddedDX394couldn't hear.


I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - theDX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.


I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?


My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.


The "A" also is shown on the manual.


TMT- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Ha, I would like to take the credit for it. But I can't. ;-)
Some people install their toggles in the back, I asume out of fear of
messing up the front panel.
But it was done beautifully, looks like it came that way from the
factory. The knobs tuning marks were painted
with a real high gloss white, really stands out especially in contrast
with the black grained contact
paper on the top and sides. The idea of adding lead to the tuning knob
was brilliant, I really didn't
like the feel of the dial, absolutely no weight whatsoever - problem
solved.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Lead...tuning knob...good idea.

Is there a link to photos of these mods?

Thanks

TMT- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


TMT, all of these modifications to the DX-394, with the exception of
the addition of the contact paper on the top and sides, are fully
described and illustrated on the website of the RADIOSHACKDX394 forum
of which you are already a member. On subscribing, you should have
automatically received the Master Index of Mods (around 100 listed)
with a summary of the benefits, scope of work involved and links for
each to the files, messages, photos, external websites where they are
fully described.

Some earlier response slagged the DX-394 as being unstable and unable
to hold its alignment. That is not the common experience. I have three
and they have all held alignment well over several years. The radio
has excellent stability over the short and long term with the
exception of slight pulling as the RF gain varies due to manual or AGC
action, corrected in the B version. There are only three versions, as
I have informed you elsewhere, and as you have described he the
original, the "A" with the same pc board but with kluged on revisions
to the BFO and to the AGC, and the "B" with a redesigned main pcb
incorporating the "A" revisions plus the addition of the buffer amp
between the 2nd LO and the 2nd Mixer.

To correct another piece of misinformation, there is no tuning
backlash that I am aware of unless somebody loaded up the tuning knob
with eccentrically placed weights. "Controls feel cheap"? They still
work as new on my three, which is more than can be said for my much
younger and less used Kaito 1103 main tuning shaft encoder. And I've
always thought that weighting down the 394's main tuning knob was ill-
advised - the DX-394 has better ways of jumping to a far frequency
than by fly-wheeling this knob and putting extra wear and tear on the
encoder because of the added weight.

pltrgyst November 23rd 09 07:52 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:42:22 -0800 (PST), Too_Many_Tools
wrote:


...crabby dumb losers don't get laid. ;)


We do too.

-- Larry

Too_Many_Tools November 24th 09 02:44 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 23, 1:52*pm, pltrgyst wrote:
On Sat, 21 Nov 2009 22:42:22 -0800 (PST), Too_Many_Tools

wrote:
...crabby dumb losers don't get laid. *;)


We do too.

-- Larry


They say there is someone for everyone. ;)

TMT

Gregg November 24th 09 09:53 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 23, 8:27*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
On Nov 23, 5:36*am, Gregg wrote:





On Nov 22, 9:20*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:


On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginal DX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704


The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.


The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.


The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the modded DX394 couldn't hear.


I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - the DX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.


I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?


My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.


The "A" also is shown on the manual.


TMT- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Ha, I would like to take the credit for it. But I can't. ;-)
Some people install their toggles in the back, I asume out of fear of
messing up the front panel.
But it was done beautifully, looks like it came that way from the
factory. The knobs tuning marks were painted
with a real high gloss white, really stands out especially in contrast
with the black grained contact
paper on the top and sides. The idea of adding lead to the tuning knob
was brilliant, I really didn't
like the feel of the dial, absolutely no weight whatsoever - problem
solved.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Lead...tuning knob...good idea.

Is there a link to photos of these mods?

Thanks

TMT- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


They are all over the internet. There is a Yahoo group just for the
DX-394 that I joined back in the day.
But yeah, just type in "DX-394 Mods" and you're off.


Gregg November 24th 09 10:01 AM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 23, 10:54*am, Tom wrote:
On Nov 23, 11:27*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:





On Nov 23, 5:36*am, Gregg wrote:


On Nov 22, 9:20*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 22, 1:31*am, Gregg wrote:


On Nov 19, 11:08*pm, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:


I just came across an used Radio ShackDX-394receiver.


Is it worth getting?


What mods are available?


Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?


Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the info so far.


I thought there was an unmarked orginalDX394, an A version, a B
version...three versions but no C version.


My understanding is that the A version has a small board with mods and
the B version was a remake of the main board incorporating those
mods....with essentially the same performance as the A version.


True or false?


TMT


The serial number of mine is C003704


The radio without mods isn't that good, just like the DX398, I have
both those pieces modded out and at least at my QTH....there is no
comparison - - the 394 smokes the 398.


The last mod that needs to be done ( if I want to include my computer)
- is the interfacing with the computer. I doubt I will even mess with
that though.


The part that is great/bad about each of those radios (394/398) is
that with the mods - those radios are really fine performers. They
should have been done that way from the factory IMO. There was NOTHING
that my friends R75 could hear in the same room with different
antennas - - that the moddedDX394couldn't hear.


I have two small toggles right underneath the LSB/USB/AM/CW lettering.
The one on the left is for selectivity. Flip it up for the 4KHz filter
or down for the 6KHz. *The one on the right is for the AGC - middle
position is off/ up is for slow AGC/ down for fast AGC. In all if I
remember right is 12 different mods. Black grained contact paper was
added to the radio, really looks nice. Both radios with all the mods
-- be it taken on a DXpedition or in the house - - theDX394
outperforms the 398 - even in UTES which surprised me.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Thanks for the response.


I really like your approach of keeping the mods attractive....mind if
I copy the approach?


My SN# is C005813 with a "A" added at the end.


The "A" also is shown on the manual.


TMT- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Ha, I would like to take the credit for it. But I can't. ;-)
Some people install their toggles in the back, I asume out of fear of
messing up the front panel.
But it was done beautifully, looks like it came that way from the
factory. The knobs tuning marks were painted
with a real high gloss white, really stands out especially in contrast
with the black grained contact
paper on the top and sides. The idea of adding lead to the tuning knob
was brilliant, I really didn't
like the feel of the dial, absolutely no weight whatsoever - problem
solved.- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


Lead...tuning knob...good idea.


Is there a link to photos of these mods?


Thanks


TMT- Hide quoted text -


- Show quoted text -


TMT, all of these modifications to the DX-394, with the exception of
the addition of the contact paper on the top and sides, are fully
described and illustrated on the website of the RADIOSHACKDX394 forum
of which you are already a member. On subscribing, you should have
automatically received the Master Index of Mods (around 100 listed)
with a summary of the benefits, scope of work involved and links for
each to the files, messages, photos, external websites where they are
fully described.

Some earlier response slagged the DX-394 as being unstable and unable
to hold its alignment. That is not the common experience. I have three
and they have all held alignment well over several years. The radio
has excellent stability over the short and long term with the
exception of slight pulling as the RF gain varies due to manual or AGC
action, corrected in the B version. There are only three versions, as
I have informed you elsewhere, and as you have described he the
original, the "A" with the same pc board but with kluged on revisions
to the BFO and to the AGC, and the "B" with a redesigned main pcb
incorporating the "A" revisions plus the addition of the buffer amp
between the 2nd LO and the 2nd Mixer.

To correct another piece of misinformation, there is no tuning
backlash that I am aware of unless somebody loaded up the tuning knob
with eccentrically placed weights. "Controls feel cheap"? They still
work as new on my three, which is more than can be said for my much
younger and less used Kaito 1103 main tuning shaft encoder. And I've
always thought that weighting down the 394's main tuning knob was ill-
advised - the DX-394 has better ways of jumping to a far frequency
than by fly-wheeling this knob and putting extra wear and tear on the
encoder because of the added weight.- Hide quoted text -

- Show quoted text -


Hey Tom :-) Yeah, on the tuning knob, there was just enough put in to
give it a tad of weight, not too much.
I didn't want the extra weight to go spinning around, I just change
the 'step' and problem solved there.

Is there another forum that has been added somewhere on this piece?
I'll check it out. Is this T.Holden by chance?


[email protected] November 24th 09 01:58 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
www.rigpix.com
Radio Shack/Realistic DX-394

A photo and some info there.
cuhulin


Too_Many_Tools November 24th 09 11:28 PM

Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
 
On Nov 18, 12:04*am, Too_Many_Tools wrote:
I just came across an used Radio Shack DX-394 receiver.

Is it worth getting?

What mods are available?

Is there a better (newer) receiver in the same price range that one
should look at?

Thanks
TMT


Thanks for the responses so far...they are appreciated.

What are the mods that you would recommend that an owner should do
first?

TMT


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