3. Double Conversion with SAM
SAM (Synchronous-AM) detection enhances audio by inserting a carrier that maintains
phase with the incoming carrier. SAM reduces the distortion caused by selective fading.
Radio Rating Cost Size Mem SSB BW Knob AC-Bat
SW7600GR GOOD $146 45 100 YES 1 NO NO-NO
E1 GREAT $500 244 1700 10 Hz 3+* YES YES-NO
Sat800 GREAT $500 1641 70 50 Hz 3 YES YES-NO
The E1 phasing-PBT allows the analog simulation of multiple filters.
The discontinued
Sat800 is a great performer but too large and heavy (15 lbs.) for easy
portability. The radio uses six “D” type batteries. Reconditioned units are available for $420.
The
SW7600GR is a classic: inexpensive SAM in a small package and great SSB due to its
audio phasing. The downside: audio is
tinny and batteries and AC adapter are not included. Note:
a generic charge unit with batteries will cost about $18 while AC adapters run about $20.
The
E1 is the highest performance portable available with: audio phasing, PBT, and 10 Hz
tuning steps. The E1 has a Drake engineered SAM, informative display, and great band scanning
capabilities. The downside: no MW ferrite rod,
no carry handle, and no 5-kHz knob tuning step.
Distinction Portable Cost
INEXPENSIVE SAM Sony SW7600GR $146
TOP PERFORMANCE Eton E1 $500
4. Discussion
Of the numerous portables I recommend four: the DE1102, DE1103, SW7600GR, and E1.
These will suit most listeners. The DE1102 is good for casual SWL and the DE1103 is good for
casual DX. Both come with rechargeable batteries for convenient portable usage. The SW7600GR
features good sensitivity, excellent SSB, and SAM mode for pleasant broadcast listening. The E1
portable has near tabletop level performance.
WARNING: E1 units serial numbered 3067 to 5462
were recalled for safety; there is a possibility of battery rupture (chemical burn and fire hazard).
Honorable mention goes to the DE108. This $44 single-conversion PLL-synthesized radio
suffers from images, adjacent interference, no keypad, and poor FM but is shirt-pocket portable at
4.6 ounces and
6.7 cubic inches. The DE108 has 10 SW memories, scan tuning, a MW ferrite rod,
1.44 inch speaker, and runs ~81 hours on two “AA” type batteries. In-the-clear powerhouses (
S5)
from 49M to 19M can be heard. Available through
Tao Qu (tquchina on eBay) the DE108 includes:
earphones, manual, wrist strap, carry pouch, AC adapter, and 220V to 110V converter.
Distinction Portable Cost
GOOD VALUE SWL Degen DE1102 $64
GOOD VALUE DX Degen DE1103 $64
INEXPENSIVE SAM Sony SW7600GR $146
TOP PERFORMANCE Eton E1 $500
(6 pages)
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