4 Top Shortwave Radio Receivers

Most modern shortwave receivers do more than shortwave. The top shortwave radio receivers today are portable, multi-powered, multi-banded instruments. They usually have a built-in antenna. Some radios have provisions for an external antenna connection.

The list below consists of shortwave receivers with different prices and functionality. Knowledge of antenna systems, assigned bands, atmospheric phenomenon all play a role with effective shortwave listening. These shortwave radios will get you going on the rewards and pleasure waiting in the world of shortwave radio.

Grundig Satellit 750 Shortwave Receiver

Coverage bands in long wave, medium wave, shortwave, FM, and VHF aeronautical band. Use the keypad or tuner to tune into the frequency of choice. External antenna connection are terminal or BNC. Powered with an included power adapter or 4 D-cell batteries.

This portable Grundig Satellit shortwave receiver can be purchased at Universal Radio, Inc. for $299.95. Until March 31, 2011 Universal Radio offers a free Grundig G6 with a new Satellit 750 purchase.

Sony ICF-SW7600GR Shortwave Radio

Highly portable top shortwave weighing only 1.4 lbs, This Sony shortwave radio has long wave, medium wave, and shortwave receiver also picks up FM in stereo. It has a 2-set alarm, world time clock and memory presets. Priced at $134.99 with free shipping from IT-First Care.

Humminbird - VHF55s Plus Portable Marine Radio

Those that need a hand held unit this is the one. The Humminbird VHF55s has 1 or 5 watt transmitting capability at 156.025 - 157.425 mHz. The radio receives at 156.050 - 163.275 mHz. The Humminbirrd has 10 weather channels including NOAA weather alert and can receive all U.S., International and Canadian Channels.

Powered by a NiMH battery and includes an AC/DC adapter. An alkaline battery compartment for back-up power is part of the package. Low price at $120.53 from Night Vision Planet.

Eton FR500 Wind Up & Solar Shortwave

If survival is the word then the Eton FR500 is the radio. Powered by a windup generator charger and can be charged with solar power. Seven channels NOAA weather with alert. AM, FM, Shortwave receiving. Built in cell phone charger, siren, flashlight, and a digital clock.

The Eton FR500 is much more to survival than the radio alone considering all the features. Priced at only $79.95 from The Shortwave Store, it would be hard to afford to be without one of these, just in case.

Conclusion

Shortwave receivers have changed beyond recognition since the old days of the tube powered Hallicrafters. These old style shortwave radios still work good and have great sensitivity.

The tube design has one very large advantage over the modern receivers. Tubes, and the components used during the tube era, are not damaged when subjected to an EMP (Electromagnetic Pulse) attack. If an EMP attack is encountered the newer shortwave radios will become useless.

Sources: Personal experience