* Original Area: SHORTWAVE
* Original From: John Smullen (1:167/90)
* Original To  : Marty Lane (1:167/116)
Welcome to the echo and the hobby!!
I too have a Zenith which dates back to about 1949 or so.  I do believe 
it is possible to build a bfo to decode ssb, but you might find the 
going a little rough with band spread tuning and no selectable filters. 
 It gets a little crowded when listening to ssb signals and it really 
helps to be able to narrow the window of signals you are listening to.
I would enjoy the Zenith for what it is - a nice collectible radio that 
will get you great audio with the major broadcasters both shortwave and 
domestic AM.  You may want to look for a receiver with selectable 
filters and ssb capability using product detectors (usb and lsb 
buttons).  A digitally tuned receiver with two or more filters and 
product detectors makes listening a breeze comparatively speaking.
 
Reeivers like the Grundig YB400, Sony 2010 are lots of fun - especially 
the Sony.  Yaesu makes a real nice tabletop for about $550 or so.  Price 
and features are pretty much related although not linearly especially at 
the upper reaches.  The Passport to World Band Radio and World Radio TV 
Handbook are good sources for equipment reviews.  Of course this echo is 
also a very good source of comments on equipment.  Have fun!!
--- Maximus/2 2.01wb
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