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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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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. |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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. |
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 |
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. |
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 |
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. |
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 |
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 |
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. |
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? |
Tell me about the Radio Shack DX-394
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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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