Hi folks,
In the thread started by Bill Ryan on amateur radio, I posted some videos about shortwave radios that I think you would like. Just do a search on my name and go to the one on amateur radio. If you haven't already I would recommend doing some reading on that thread.
There is however, a radio to avoid. It is the called the 1103. It is marketed by Kaito, and Degen. The problem with these radios is that they were deliberately programmed to start malfunctioning after a certain amount of time passed. They are all made by..... China. The amateur radio community has chatted about this more than likely deliberately programmed malfunction for a long time and we recommend that if possible you stay away from Chinese made radios. Reason? Because they may be programmed to malfunction when you need them the most.
Yes we have all done the hmmm? thing too.
When buying a radio to listen to make sure the range of listening goes down to at least 3.000 mHz or you will likely not be able to hear night time radio stations you will need to listen to.
Here is the website where you can actually call and talk to someone about their radios. Can even repair or improve some older radios for you.
http://www.radiolabs.com/
If you will pm me I will be gland to help.