For some time I have been interested in getting a beginner receiver for tuning in to broadcasts around the world. This shortwave listening "hobby" seems to require some technical understanding but also is a fun way to discover interesting stuff that one can find over the air. Apparently there is an art as well as a science, to knowing how to rig the antenna, what time of day is best for listening to things, what bands and how to tune, etc. I would like to learn more about it.
My interest was renewed recently after stumbling across some budget AM/FM/Shortware radios on eBay and Amazon. Two of which I have seen some reviews for are Tecsun PL-310ET (digital) for $45, and Tecsun R-909 (analog tuner) for under $20. There are a pile of models from Tecsun and I have no idea which are good or bad. I'm sure there are other budget brands out there.... too many names to mention (Eton, Retekess, Skywave, etc)... all in the $20-50 range. Grundig and Sony are the big names but too expensive for my budget. I don't want to spend much and I don't know where to start. Last time I checked a few years ago I remember radios costing $150+ and so seeing these cheaper devices renewed my interest in getting into the hobby.
Can anyone recommend a reliable brand with reasonably good reception (or at least with options to improve the antenna if needed) and something not too simple so it will keep things interesting? I am leaning towards digital tuner vs. analog only because I think it will be easier to lock on to a frequency. What is your practical experience? Is it worth the extra money? Reviews of the R-909 seem to say it is great value, but it is analog dial only and seems very simple. On the other hand, something like the PL-310ET seems to allow very fine control for tuning and memory functions and has lots of features. I haven't looked into other brands, but I am sure there are other comparable models.
I'm in Toronto, so does anyone have experience as to what signals you would be expected to pick up with one of these cheaper models? Does it get airline, emergency vehicle or trucker communications? Would you be able to pick up signals from Europe or Asia? ISS? Is the idea to just scan around and find stuff and make a log? Sorry for all the noob questions.
**NOTE: I don't know if this topic belongs here in General or the RF, HAM Radio section. I apologise if I posted to wrong section of the forum. The RF, HAM Radio section seems to be more technical based not for a very basic general question like this posting.