Greg:

At the significant risk of encountering the wrath of a lot of do-gooders and
net police out there, I have a suggestion that hasn't been made yet.

Depending on your budget and ultimate goals, you may wish to investigate the
purchase of a used HAM rig. There are lots of really sensitive, good radios
out there. Given that you are listening only, and not transmitting, you
needn't be concerned about the potential power output. Many of the rigs
currently available on the used market have nice features, good noise
blankers, if shift or passband tuning that make listening more pleasant.
They also handle Single Sideband by default, and typically have very accurate
frequency displays as well. Who knows, after listening for awhile, you might
want to get licensed as a Ham and transmit too!
Note that all ham rigs don't have the capability of "general coverage
receive" but many do, and at attractive prices as well. As a silly example,
an Icom 745 or 751 transceiver can be had for $250 and up, while the IC-71
which is sold as a shortwave receiver is usually considerably more, and
doesn't have any greater capability.... Most Ham rigs are powered by 12
volts and would require a separate power supply, but for receiving it
wouldn't need to be much, as they only draw a couple of amps on receive.

If you're not looking for a miniature or portable, then this may be a
reasonable alternative to some of the over-hyped receivers out there.
Just another option for your consideration....

-_Rick

Greg wrote:

Okay, here is one of those annoying "Gee, what should I buy" questions. I
enjoyed SW radio back in my high school days, but have no idea what is
considered a really good receiver to get today.
I am familiar with the old Grundig, Hallicrafters, Heathkit names, and am
seeing auctions for the Radio Shack 394, modified.
I'd like to reenter the hobby, but could use some direction on a good
receiver to shop for. Please respond to:
if you can. Thanks!!