7 Tube SW Receiver
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This is a 7 tube dual conversion superheterodyne Shortwave receiver. It covers the Shortwave bands from 5.7 to 18.5 MHz, and demodulates AM (amplitude modulation) signals only. The front end uses an RF (radio frequency) amplifier (also known as preselector) for good performance with a short wire antenna. The receiver features independent preselector tuning for perfect tracking, a crystal controlled second converter for high stability, dual conversion for excellent image rejection, and 2 IF (intermediate frequency) amps. with ceramic filter for high selectivity. Performance is excellent and the sound is smooth and clear. The receiver runs on 110 volts AC.
This receiver was one of many items chosen to go on the Antique Electronic Supply 20th Anniversary Edition catalog. Click
here to have a look!
Controls from left: Antenna gain, RF (preselector) tuning, main tuning, and volume. A 9:1 vernier drive makes tuning smooth and accurate. On-off switch and power-on light are on far right. Ventilation holes on top and sides of cover keep the set relatively cool. The receiver can be monitored with an external speaker and low impedance phones.
The IF gain control, which is not adjusted frequently, was mounted on the back. Compression terminal blocks are used to connect the power cord (left) and antenna & ground (right). Modification to the circuitry called for a filament transformer, which had to be mounted on the back.
The circuit was assembled on 2 superimposed PC (printed copper) boards. The components & tube sockets were surface mounted on the upper board. The lower board was used for ground connections and shielding. This made testing and experimenting a cinch. Positioning the tubes in a straight line made the layout look real nice!
I sent AES several pictures of my homemade tube receivers, hoping one will go on their 2003 catalog. The receiver on this page was the lucky star!
A short history | My radio background | Homemade radios | Tube radios
Transistor radios | World band radios | Kit radios | Reel tape recorders
My other interests | Pictures of Lebanon | Radio links
Home | Showcase | About this site
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