As a new radio, the ICOM IC-R75 is probably within your priuce range.
Ham radio rigs are a better value then shortwave receivers and
normally cover shortwave frequencies (and often higher ones). You may
want to keep an eye open for the ICOM IC-706 line of radios or the ICOM
IC746. If you get into ham radio, you'll then be set.

BCcubed wrote:

Hello all,

I have been listening for about 9 months now and finally I am starting to feel
comfortable in my knowledge of shortwave and the propagation of international
broadcasts. I use a portable receiver but now want to move to the next level
with a good radio and an active SW antenna. My question is Where can I go to
trade up to a better radio? Are there sites where SWL's have swap type setups?
Can anyone give me advice about getting a used Drake, Kenwood, Yaesu, Icom,
Ten-Tec?? The new radios are nice but 1500$ is a bit too steep at this point.

73,

Neil