Haven't got my 1103 yet. It's only been 3 days since I ordered it and
got confirmation of shipping date of yesterday, but I did pick up a
package of 4 Energizer NIMH 2200mah AA batterys and 15 minute charger
for $27.00. I feel better about using the batterys than a questionable
110/220 conversion scheme and a more or less manual charger system in
the radio. Also, if you have ever compared battery operation vs
el-cheapo wart plug operation, many times it can be much quieter
depending on your location. Super quiet location, batterys win out.
Been there, done that.

I did see a neat charger battery combo kit for about $25.00 that worked
either on 12VDC or 120VAC, but it had a 220V to 110V converter plug
with it, so I passed on that one.

I find the volume control easy to adjust to. No big deal for me. It is a
small tradeoff for
a well made radio. I mean the thing cost just $65. I did get it from Liypn.
He even emailed me an English version of the manual.
The sensitivity easily rivals more expensive models. It is definitely more
sensitive than the YB 400. I got a wow feeling when using
it. In many ways it is superior to the mini
Sony SW 100s I once had. I am using rechargeable batteries with the radio. I
have
a recharger I use with my digital camera, so
I use this to recharge the batteries. I got an extra set of rechargeables,
so I am able to rely on just battery power all the time.
"David" wrote in message
news:Mprsd.218$pe.2@trndny04...
I just got the Degen 1103 from China. It took about 10 days for delivery.
First off,
the package had over 10 China stamps on it for my son's stamp collection,
so
that was a bonus. My first day impressions are this is a GREAT radio! It
definitely outperforms
past portables I owned including the Grundig YB 400, Radio Shack DX-440,
and
Sony SW 100. It's top strength is excellent sensitivity on all bands.
Actually superior sensitivity. I checked for fringe stations for my area
and
it digged them out with the whip not used. On FM bands it is superb. I
also
got two TV channels on it on the lower FM band. One TV station is 90 miles
away and it gets it. Only my GE SuperRadio III could get that TV channel,
and the Degen does it slightly better. AM band is also just as good. I am
just starting to check the shortwave bands. So this is a great radio thus
far. Though under $100, a radio like this would easily be above $200 five
years ago.