I used both the Collins and the SP-600 in the military. I've owned the Hammarlund and currently own the Satellite 800. This is a nice comparison. The Satellit, in general, compares fairly well with my Elecraft KX3 on some of the bands but not always. Now I see it's not an accident. the Satellit is better than I thought. Good job on this.
Hi John, I've been thinking about doing more comparison videos and your comment has encouraged me. I'll try the ham bands and we'll see how well the S800 performs. Stay tuned. Jim.
Your intro on the S800 was the clearest and most concise I've ever seen on YT. The comparison methodology you used was well thought out. There aren't nearly enough videos on the S800. For a person like myself who doesn't have one and wants to know more about it, something like this is outstanding. I do wonder how narrow it's narrowest filter is on the ham bands. We beg of you to do a video on this unit and dig out some weak signals on the ham bands. Comparison was fun and educational. Thanks!
JIm, at 20:36 into this video, you started manually tuning the 800 radio. Does the signal frequency meter needle indicate if you are tuning into a strong signal if the needle points to a higher number form left to right on that meter dial? I'm new to this.
Jim you have some great looking Radios ! I miss the Radios where one button does one job. I have several new portables that I can tune around on but I still don't know how to use all the functions . I also have a Yeasu FRG 7 and know all it functions well and a Heathkit Mohican with the same story. I wish I could work on my own equipment Jim I would have a lot more older Rigs. Thanks for the video Jim.
Maybe it's the difference between tubes and transistors. I've heard lot's about the 'warm' sound of tubes attributed to their characteristic curve as compared to solid state devices.
You just can't beat the tube audio especially in the high end audio equipment. Listen to some of the receivers that are made by Collins and compare the audio you will find that the audio is better than even the current solid state equipment.
Jim: Here's a thought with the HUM on the Satellite 800 receiver. You may be getting "hum modulation" from the signal mixing with your AC power supply. If it goes away using batteries then this is likely the case. "Hum modulation" can also take place when the signal mixes with power lines in the nearby area. One possible cure is using the snap on ferrite chokes available from radio shack or other sources. Put them on the ac line to the power supply and the cable that plugs into the radio. If the hum is coming externally try moving the radio around or changing antenna locations if using an external antenna. Great video...Nice radios. I have over 200 vacuum tube radios for both SWLing and Ham Radio. 73 and good luck.
TheRudydog1 200! Yikes! You could easily be right about the source of the hum but my shop and house is haunted by 'spurious' signals throughout the AM broadcast band and well up into the shortwave bands. For some radios with poor front ends, that's all they pickup. I did some investigating into the source of some of these very strong signals and found a few little wallwart switching supplies belting out signals and my desk computer in my office especially when in sleep mode. Here's one of the videos where I track down one culprit: ruclips.net/video/KwkAfkAAY_A/видео.html The radio I just finished had hum modulation when I grounded the chassis. You might enjoy this series - here's the first one: ruclips.net/video/yXqgtLi_NKA/видео.html If you have 200 radios you must have a Hammarlund SP600 and a Collins R390A. Those are my two prized possessions of about 20 radios. Thanks for the comment.
Jim Lindenas Yes.....Here's a few of my Ham Radios: KWM-2A, KWM-1, KWS-1, 75A-4, 32V-3, 75S-3A, 75S3-B, 75S3C, 75S-1, 32S-3C, 32S-3, 32S-1, 30L-1, Vik Ranger 1, Vik Ranger 2, Vik 1, Vik 2, Vk500, VK Valiant, all the Kenwood Hybrids including the TS-830S, Collins WW2 ART-13, BC-348, BC-342, RBM Navy RX, Drake A, B and C lines, Drake 2B, Many Heathkits including the SB-102, SB-104, SB300, SB400, SB200, SB220, Aoache, Maurder, Mohawk, Central Electronics 200V, Hallicrafters HT-32, HT-37, Swan 350, 400, Cygnet, Globe Champ 300A, Several Ten Tec rigs, HQ-170A, HQ-129X, etc. I also collect vintage tube HI-FI gear like the McIntosh 275 stereo amp, two Mac 75 mono-block amps, Two Mac 60 mono-block amps and several other tube amps and tube AM-FM receivers. I just can't help myself it's an addiction. I'm happy to share this with somebody like you who understands and appreciates this great vintage equipment. I don't want to give my Ham Call out over RUclips...but I wish you to see my pictures on QRZ.COM.
Thanks for uploading this. I always love to see the old radios. Totally agree with the comfort and ease of use with single function analogue switches / selectors / pot's, instead of today's standard of tiny buttons, with such little response, you need a motor with an off-centre weight to let you know "Bzzz... yes.... you pressed it"...lol. The joys of Hepatic feedback. ;) 73's 2M1VFO
Very true. I still think valve amps are so much better for radio, quick whistle into to the mic to wake them up, nice and toasty...lol. I used to use an old Zetagi 500watt linear on SSB, just one glowing valve. Not expensive, but audio was so much cleaner than solid state amps i ever used. The mobile phone and internet killed radio. Here in the UK, 2m / 70cm is dying out sadly. I'm surprised half of the repeaters here are kept running.
Nice job! I've been looking at the Grundig 750, perhaps just a repackaged 800? Your comparison was very well done. BTW, I also have a TS-430 and wonder if you've compared the performance of the 800 with the 430? The receiver features seem comparable. The audio response on the SP-600 is just easier for my old ears to understand. The 800 sounds a bit muddy. You get a similar effect on the TS-430 switching to narrower passband filter or tuning the IF shift more toward the center (clipping the higher frequency audio). Thanks much!
Hi WWAC. I haven't tried comparing the 800 to the TS-430 but I'd guess the TS-430 wins hands down on amateur bands. I haven't tried the TS-430 on much shortwave listening. The fact is I find myself so busy these days I can't find time to listen to my radios! Perhaps I can find some time to do a comparison although they are very different radios. Have you seen my PSK31 video? And I do prefer the SP-600 for many reasons except for the imprecise tuning dial. Thanks for watching, Jim.
Jim Lindenas Jim, this is the first of your videos that I've encountered! Just poking around on YT looking for Grundig reviews. Subscribing now and looking forward to other videos. 73, Dave (WA9DKL)
I have to think back - I have moved to a new location since making this video. I had a cable fed dipole cut for the 20 meter band and a 50 foot long wire so it must have been one of those. Check out this more recent video: ruclips.net/video/hoZnOwblu74/видео.html
Hi GenRev, Telescoping antennas are usually easy to access and fix. The most common problem is loose screws. Extending and collapsing the antenna can work the screws loose including the screw that connects the antenna lead wire. I'm not sure how you'd get a replacement but unless you've snapped off the antenna, you probably won't need one. If you are up to it, remove the back of the radio and check things out. My 800 is working 100% so I've never had the back off it so I can't speak from experience. Good luck. Jim.
I have heard hum modulation before as well. It seems worse on strong signals. I first heard it on a five tube AM radio my uncle dug out. I was only 8 or so. I think when we moved it around, it changed greatly. I agree, something with a mix with 60 cycle fields around your home. curing it, will require lots of experimenting with antennas and grounds.
I believe that size issue is also because, at least in serious military/scientific applications, a 19 inch rack format was a standard and therefore there was no real benefit in reducing the width. I suspect the Grundig also had 19 inch mount options
Very good job! For me the Hammarlund SP-600 sound better in general. The Sattelit 800 may have more bass but also has a some distortion (not to mention the humming noise). I also have a Hammarlund receiver, an HQ-140-x though it works, it needs some service. My best Shortwave receiver is a SONY ICF-2010, but my favorite one for listening to programs and music is my old Realistic DX-440 because of its excellent audio. Thanks for making and posting this video.
I think the SP-600 has a better audio. Now- have you done the audio mods to the Hammarlund that do improve the base? Thanks for the videos. I hope some day to find a very good solid state receiver to = the SP-600 audio. I think the Grundig has better sens and sure better calibration.
The only thing I've done to improve the base response is run the output through the basic equalizer on my audio amp. You can use the output from the detector as there is a diode output provision on the back but I think I'm using the full audio amp in the SP-600. I should check since it's been a while. No modifications.
I guess you are missing the point SW radios are also emergency radios: So you cant carry a tube radio and run it with batteries, solar/crank/cig lighter power etc. About the sound quality, unlike Hammerlund, Grundig 800 is not an high-end SW receiver, its just an expensive consumer grade radio.
+fhurvhur Agreed: If you are an ambulance chaser this isn't the radio for you. Disagree: I've hiked this radio to all-night mountaintop DX-peditions and find it has the best combination of performance and portability.
I'm puzzled as to why ur S meter doesn't register very high. But at least u liked the 800. I had one for 20 yrs hooked up to a 10-80m dipole outside, & the S meter killed. That's the true measuring stick. Somebody on here said the radio sucked but only used the telescope. Telescopes never do s**t w/ SW. Great for VHF & FM broadcast, but not SW. U need to get a dipole up there. If u hv to hire someone to do it, fine. Any SWL worth his salt uses an external antenna, either a dipole outside or a Welbrook loop (if u don''t hv the room for a dipole), of which I'm VERY partial to a 10-80m trap dipole. I use an Alpha Delta DXcc dipole that I also use in the shack. Really a trip to C that old Hammerlund, lol! "Arthur's Hallicrafter's Kitchen & Radio Lab" here on YT said the radio sucked on SW, yet it appears all he's using is the telescope, & when I told him that he fired bk w/ both guns & got very defensive. But u like the radio & I think it's becz u know more about operating it properly. I notice u're using an ext ant. W/o an ext ant (dipole preferred) all u'll hear is dead air on SW. At least here in LA.
My experiance when I put a National NC 303 against a grundig sorry to say but the national NC 303 WINS the day. Grundig is good but the old National 303 won for sound and intelligence in audio . i been ham for 44 year so i know a little bit.
I used both the Collins and the SP-600 in the military. I've owned the Hammarlund and currently own the Satellite 800. This is a nice comparison. The Satellit, in general, compares fairly well with my Elecraft KX3 on some of the bands but not always. Now I see it's not an accident. the Satellit is better than I thought. Good job on this.
Hi John, I've been thinking about doing more comparison videos and your comment has encouraged me. I'll try the ham bands and we'll see how well the S800 performs. Stay tuned. Jim.
Your intro on the S800 was the clearest and most concise I've ever seen on YT. The comparison methodology you used was well thought out.
There aren't nearly enough videos on the S800. For a person like myself who doesn't have one and wants to know more about it, something like this is outstanding. I do wonder how narrow it's narrowest filter is on the ham bands. We beg of you to do a video on this unit and dig out some weak signals on the ham bands.
Comparison was fun and educational. Thanks!
JIm, at 20:36 into this video, you started manually tuning the 800 radio. Does the signal frequency meter needle indicate if you are tuning into a strong signal if the needle points to a higher number form left to right on that meter dial? I'm new to this.
Excellent comparison video. Thanks!
Jim you have some great looking Radios ! I miss the Radios where one button does one job. I have several new portables that I can tune around on but I still don't know how to use all the functions . I also have a Yeasu FRG 7 and know all it functions well and a Heathkit Mohican with the same story. I wish I could work on my own equipment Jim I would have a lot more older Rigs. Thanks for the video Jim.
Maybe it's the difference between tubes and transistors. I've heard lot's about the 'warm' sound of tubes attributed to their characteristic curve as compared to solid state devices.
You just can't beat the tube audio especially in the high end audio equipment. Listen to some of the receivers that are made by Collins and compare the audio
you will find that the audio is better than even the current solid state equipment.
I'll Always Love you Hayden Panettiere
Jim: Here's a thought with the HUM on the Satellite 800 receiver. You may be getting "hum modulation" from the signal mixing with your AC power supply. If it goes away using batteries then this is likely the case. "Hum modulation" can also take place when the signal mixes with power lines in the nearby area. One possible cure is using the snap on ferrite chokes available from radio shack or other sources. Put them on the ac line to the power supply and the cable that plugs into the radio. If the hum is coming externally try moving the radio around or changing antenna locations if using an external antenna. Great video...Nice radios. I have over 200 vacuum tube radios for both SWLing and Ham Radio. 73 and good luck.
TheRudydog1 200! Yikes! You could easily be right about the source of the hum but my shop and house is haunted by 'spurious' signals throughout the AM broadcast band and well up into the shortwave bands. For some radios with poor front ends, that's all they pickup. I did some investigating into the source of some of these very strong signals and found a few little wallwart switching supplies belting out signals and my desk computer in my office especially when in sleep mode. Here's one of the videos where I track down one culprit: ruclips.net/video/KwkAfkAAY_A/видео.html
The radio I just finished had hum modulation when I grounded the chassis. You might enjoy this series - here's the first one: ruclips.net/video/yXqgtLi_NKA/видео.html
If you have 200 radios you must have a Hammarlund SP600 and a Collins R390A. Those are my two prized possessions of about 20 radios. Thanks for the comment.
Jim Lindenas Thanks Jim..Here are a few of my favorite radio receivers; R-390, R-390A, R-392, R-388, SP-400, SP600, HQ-180,, SX-28, SX-88, SX-42, SX-115, GPR-90, GPR-92, RCA AR-88, Collins 75A-4, 75A-3, 75A-2, 75A-1, 51J-3, 51J-4, 51S-1, NC-183D, NC-303, HRO-50, HRO-60, HRO-500
TheRudydog1 You own all those??
Jim Lindenas Yes.....Here's a few of my Ham Radios: KWM-2A, KWM-1, KWS-1, 75A-4, 32V-3, 75S-3A, 75S3-B, 75S3C, 75S-1, 32S-3C, 32S-3, 32S-1, 30L-1, Vik Ranger 1, Vik Ranger 2, Vik 1, Vik 2, Vk500, VK Valiant, all the Kenwood Hybrids including the TS-830S, Collins WW2 ART-13, BC-348, BC-342, RBM Navy RX, Drake A, B and C lines, Drake 2B, Many Heathkits including the SB-102, SB-104, SB300, SB400, SB200, SB220, Aoache, Maurder, Mohawk, Central Electronics 200V, Hallicrafters HT-32, HT-37, Swan 350, 400, Cygnet, Globe Champ 300A, Several Ten Tec rigs, HQ-170A, HQ-129X, etc. I also collect vintage tube HI-FI gear like the McIntosh 275 stereo amp, two Mac 75 mono-block amps, Two Mac 60 mono-block amps and several other tube amps and tube AM-FM receivers. I just can't help myself it's an addiction. I'm happy to share this with somebody like you who understands and appreciates this great vintage equipment. I don't want to give my Ham Call out over RUclips...but I wish you to see my pictures on QRZ.COM.
Thanks for uploading this. I always love to see the old radios. Totally agree with the comfort and ease of use with single function analogue switches / selectors / pot's, instead of today's standard of tiny buttons, with such little response, you need a motor with an off-centre weight to let you know "Bzzz... yes.... you pressed it"...lol. The joys of Hepatic feedback. ;)
73's
2M1VFO
We evolved to use analog electronics. Digital is from another planet.
Very true. I still think valve amps are so much better for radio, quick whistle into to the mic to wake them up, nice and toasty...lol. I used to use an old Zetagi 500watt linear on SSB, just one glowing valve. Not expensive, but audio was so much cleaner than solid state amps i ever used.
The mobile phone and internet killed radio. Here in the UK, 2m / 70cm is dying out sadly. I'm surprised half of the repeaters here are kept running.
Very interesting. Enjoyed the comparison.
Nice job! I've been looking at the Grundig 750, perhaps just a repackaged 800? Your comparison was very well done. BTW, I also have a TS-430 and wonder if you've compared the performance of the 800 with the 430? The receiver features seem comparable. The audio response on the SP-600 is just easier for my old ears to understand. The 800 sounds a bit muddy. You get a similar effect on the TS-430 switching to narrower passband filter or tuning the IF shift more toward the center (clipping the higher frequency audio). Thanks much!
Hi WWAC. I haven't tried comparing the 800 to the TS-430 but I'd guess the TS-430 wins hands down on amateur bands. I haven't tried the TS-430 on much shortwave listening. The fact is I find myself so busy these days I can't find time to listen to my radios! Perhaps I can find some time to do a comparison although they are very different radios. Have you seen my PSK31 video? And I do prefer the SP-600 for many reasons except for the imprecise tuning dial. Thanks for watching, Jim.
Jim Lindenas Jim, this is the first of your videos that I've encountered! Just poking around on YT looking for Grundig reviews. Subscribing now and looking forward to other videos. 73, Dave (WA9DKL)
really nice work !! What sort of antenna did you use ?
I have to think back - I have moved to a new location since making this video. I had a cable fed dipole cut for the 20 meter band and a 50 foot long wire so it must have been one of those. Check out this more recent video: ruclips.net/video/hoZnOwblu74/видео.html
Hi GenRev, Telescoping antennas are usually easy to access and fix. The most common problem is loose screws. Extending and collapsing the antenna can work the screws loose including the screw that connects the antenna lead wire. I'm not sure how you'd get a replacement but unless you've snapped off the antenna, you probably won't need one. If you are up to it, remove the back of the radio and check things out. My 800 is working 100% so I've never had the back off it so I can't speak from experience. Good luck. Jim.
I have heard hum modulation before as well. It seems worse on strong signals. I first heard it on a five tube AM radio my uncle dug out. I was only 8 or so. I think when we moved it around, it changed greatly. I agree, something with a mix with 60 cycle fields around your home. curing it, will require lots of experimenting with antennas and grounds.
I believe that size issue is also because, at least in serious military/scientific applications, a 19 inch rack format was a standard and therefore there was no real benefit in reducing the width. I suspect the Grundig also had 19 inch mount options
Hello dear could you please assist me on choosing shortwave radio between tecsun pl660 and sengean ats 909x
Very good job! For me the Hammarlund SP-600 sound better in general. The Sattelit 800 may have more bass but also has a some distortion (not to mention the humming noise). I also have a Hammarlund receiver, an HQ-140-x though it works, it needs some service. My best Shortwave receiver is a SONY ICF-2010, but my favorite one for listening to programs and music is my old Realistic DX-440 because of its excellent audio. Thanks for making and posting this video.
I hear nothing on my Satellite 800. So I think the difference is antenna. The standard whip antenna is nearly worthless. Would you agree? K6AGE
Hi. What kind of audio switch box are you using in the video (with the sliders)? Great video by the way...Thanks!
I'm using a Realistic (Radio Shack) four channel stereo mixer (set on mono) so it can handle four inputs. Glad you enjoyed the video.
It's surreal seeing anything on a table dwarf a Grundig Satellit 800 in size
I think the SP-600 has a better audio. Now- have you done the audio mods to the Hammarlund that do improve the base? Thanks for the videos.
I hope some day to find a very good solid state receiver to = the SP-600 audio.
I think the Grundig has better sens and sure better calibration.
The only thing I've done to improve the base response is run the output through the basic equalizer on my audio amp. You can use the output from the detector as there is a diode output provision on the back but I think I'm using the full audio amp in the SP-600. I should check since it's been a while. No modifications.
Either you were speaking too softly or your audio recording level was recorded onto youtube too low. You are difficult to hear.
That noise sounds like a heterodyne with an adjacent frequency signal.
I guess you are missing the point SW radios are also emergency radios: So you cant carry a tube radio and run it with batteries, solar/crank/cig lighter power etc.
About the sound quality, unlike Hammerlund, Grundig 800 is not an high-end SW receiver, its just an expensive consumer grade radio.
+fhurvhur Agreed: If you are an ambulance chaser this isn't the radio for you. Disagree: I've hiked this radio to all-night mountaintop DX-peditions and find it has the best combination of performance and portability.
I'm puzzled as to why ur S meter doesn't register very high. But at least u liked the 800. I had one for 20 yrs hooked up to a 10-80m dipole outside, & the S meter killed. That's the true measuring stick. Somebody on here said the radio sucked but only used the telescope. Telescopes never do s**t w/ SW. Great for VHF & FM broadcast, but not SW. U need to get a dipole up there. If u hv to hire someone to do it, fine. Any SWL worth his salt uses an external antenna, either a dipole outside or a Welbrook loop (if u don''t hv the room for a dipole), of which I'm VERY partial to a 10-80m trap dipole. I use an Alpha Delta DXcc dipole that I also use in the shack. Really a trip to C that old Hammerlund, lol! "Arthur's Hallicrafter's Kitchen & Radio Lab" here on YT said the radio sucked on SW, yet it appears all he's using is the telescope, & when I told him that he fired bk w/ both guns & got very defensive. But u like the radio & I think it's becz u know more about operating it properly. I notice u're using an ext ant. W/o an ext ant (dipole preferred) all u'll hear is dead air on SW. At least here in LA.
The hum seems to pulse.
I am sorry, but for me it was not enough understanding.
My experiance when I put a National NC 303 against a grundig sorry to say but the national NC 303 WINS the day. Grundig is good but the old National 303 won for sound and intelligence in audio . i been ham for 44 year so i know a little bit.