Rambler schrieb:

Another alternative, is the Yaesu VR-120D.
Ham Radio Outlet had this radio for $120
last time I looked, a lot cheaper than
the Yaesu VR-500.

OK, I went by this establishment today to look at the VRs. I explained
what I was looking for and the sales person pushed me towards a
Grundig eTraveler. I told him that you all had suggested the Yaesus
and he said "Those are no good for shortwave, they are receivers." I
asked him to explain the difference and he said "You want a radio that
you can listen to. Those receivers are for enthusiasts."
Can you explain the difference here to me?

Very simple. Scanners just don't feel at home on shortwave. These things
are built for higher frequencies with high sensitivity and the
respective modes (narrow/wide FM, AM). On shortwave, usual scanners are
either rather deaf or overloaded very easily, or both. (If you want to
see a rather inexpensive rig (hi) that combines both worlds, look at the
Icom IC-R8500 or AOR AR5000.) If you aren't entirely spoiled by digital
stuff, get a decent dual conversion analog set like a Sony ICF-SW22 or
its predecessor ICF-SW20. These measure just 11.5 x 7.3 x 2.8 cm^3 and
weigh ~210 grams. No 22 meters though. Other mini radios? The ATS-606A
you mentioned is quite decent AFAIK. No idea 'bout the Grundig, not sold
here. The Sony ICF-SW30 is quite usable reception wise, but the
operation...

Stephan
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