HF Monitoring

[guadmaster]

I'm considering adding another scanner to my collection, I'm considering either the “ALINCO” DJ-X30T or the “ICOM” R506 to listen to HF frequencies (HAM transmissions in the 160 thru 12 meters ). But I'm not sure which would work better. That's where you guys come in, I'd like some input from those that have either of these radios or have experience with them.

 

[ka3jjz]

I've never heard about this 'R506' - however, generally speaking, these wideband handhelds aren't nearly as good as using seperate rxs for the different bands. Manufacturers don't put a lot of thought into a good front end on HF on these radios, and it shows up as things like being prone to overloading, not being able to receive SSB, having poor selectivity (that is to say being able to seperate 2 stations that are close together in frequency) or other issues.
Save your money and get seperate radios for HF and scanner. You'll be far better off 73s Mike

[edit] By the way hams can be heard on 10 meters too (28.0-29.7 mhz) using a variety of modes (everything from FM repeaters, satellites, digital, ect). It's not used nearly as much now because propagation plainly sucks, but when the spots return, this band is a lot of fun.

 

[elk2370bruce]

I have found these hf radios disappointing as far as their sensitivity and seletivity. The more you try to pack into one little package, the more "compromises" you will have to be willing to accept for the price you are willing to shell out. Spend a little more time and money and get an hf rig that will be worth your attention and hard-earned money. There are often some decent receivers on sleazebay and used (but not abused) general coverage receivers may also be available through nearby amateur radio club members.

 

[ka3jjz]

And just to round this out, since I suspect the question will be asked - we have an article on our wiki that lists numerous places where receiver reviews can be found. It's in the 'Scanners Receivers and Professional Radios' section which is on the very first page you see when you bring up the wiki.

73s Mike

 

[loumaag]

And I am moving this to the HF Forum. You will probably get a bit more HF oriented information here.

 

[gcgrotz]

I have an AOR 8200 which gets HF. It is ok for listening to sw broadcasts with a short wire connected to the jack, if you know what you're looking for like BBC or something. I also have used it as a portable AM broadcast receiver for local stations. It is not real great for searching out DX, and does suffer some from overload. I have heard (but not tried) that it works ok with a discone vhf/uhf antenna because it doesn't pick up enough signal on HF to overload. A pre-selector like the MFJ-956 will help if you have strong local AM stations but doesn't do much if they are "in-band".

 

[jay427]

Nothing wrong in getting a transciver, they will work to. If you get the HAM bug you will be one step closer.

I think you could find something like a Yaesu FT-920 or similar radio that would be great for ya.

Jay

 

[k9rzz]

My take is that with a small handheld HF receiver like that, you'll hear the loudest stations, but not much else. The more interesting (weaker) stuff will never be heard. Adding a bigger antenna will just make things worse because it overloads the receiver. Handhelds are great for UHF, but not HF. Take a look around at the desktop radios on ebay and if you see one that looks promising, check the reviews written on it located at eham.net (http://www.eham.net/reviews/products/8).

I think you'll do much better for the money with a table top for HF.

For example take a look at the old Kenwood R1000 (http://www.rigpix.com/kenwood/r1000.htm)

It doesn't look like much, and it's old, but this is a HOT LITTLE RADIO! A 10 ft piece of wire laying on the living room floor picks up a world of signals and this thing amazes me. It's just as good on longwave as it is on 10 meters.I've compared it to my FT767gx ($$$$) on 10 meters and it is just as sensitive. Latest prices on eBay have been around $200.

If something catches your eye, run it by us. We'll tell 'ya what we think.

:^]

 

[guadmaster]

Thanks everyone for all the input...I'm still looking around, trying to make up my mind on what to get. I'm leaning towards a handheld due to limited space, plus I like the mobility, I travel a lot and carry a scanner with me at all times. I've got plenty of outside space for an outside antenna, so that wouldn't be a problem...just gotta find the scanner. As soon as I find something else I will post it and let you guys at it.