Yeah, I understand what you mean.
Maybe the original designs had the wires from the tuning encoder knob routed differently and it wasn't an issue. Maybe at some point the design was changed and the issue appeared and either ignored or not noticed.
I found it annoying, but I had learned to live with it. I much prefer the radio with the mod, and it was easy to do. I can't remember how I did mine, I think I used some foil tape wrapped around the wires. Would be easy to undo.
I like the fine tune modification, also. That's been handy a few times to try and separate two AM Broadcast stations a bit to help ID them.
I had the DX-440 from the late 80's up until around 2005 or so. For some reason I sold it, probably due to lack of use and being a renter and not being able to put up a good antenna. I regretted it. A few years back a co-worker gave me his old Sangean version of the radio. Had some paint on it from being used in the kitchen and shop. I'd run across a minty HRO-60 receiver and given that to him since he had the space and antennas to let it shine. I was happy with the Sangean he gave me and I promised to never sell it.
There are newer radios out there, but I sure like this one. I have it on a shelf in my garage and often use it to listen to DX AM stations at night, and sometimes some not so DX AM low power stations during the daytime. I have it hooked up to a home brew end fed antenna and an FM antenna. Works well as a fun shop radio.