"mike" wrote in message
...
Roger wrote:
I currently own a Radio Shack DX-399 (same model as the Sangean
ATS-606), which is a quite solid, portable LW-MW-SW-FM receiver with
quite good sound quality when delivered to ear buds (FM stereo to
earbuds.)

The Degen/Kaito 1102 and 1103 are quite small and they get decent sound
through earbuds. Both have SSB. I've used both, and feel these would be good
for what you're looking for. There's also the Kaito 1101, which does not
have SSB, but is very small, and it too sounds good when using earbuds.

There are other decent small portables out there, such as the Grundig G4000A
(formerly known as the YB-400PE) and
the Sangean ATS-505P. Both of these have SSB too.

All of the above-mentioned models can be had for under $150.00 US. You can
find many other portables that are much cheaper, but I cannot attest to
their reliability or functioning. Personally, I would pay more and stick
with the better models, as they are performance proven.

You may want to pick up a copy of the Passport to World Band Radio at a
local bookseller or on Amazon. They have a large section of shortwave
receiver reviews that cover everything from cheapie pocket portables to the
bleeding-edge, high-end receivers that are similar to ones used for
monitoring by the NSA.

Jackie