[Hallicrafters] SX115 variations in serial numbers

[Todd, KA1KAQ]

On 10/4/05, Joseph Trombino Jr <w2kj at bellsouth.net> wrote:
> Have been pondering purchasing an SX115 receiver and am wondering if there
> are any major qualitative differences in this series of receiver based on
> serial number, i.e., between a low serial number like 002 or 003 and the
> higher serial numbers up to the last one produced.
>
> Also wonder how this receiver stacks up against a Collins 75A4?

Hi Joe -

Can't really help you with the S/N questions because I've just never
seen very many, only two others up close. I can give you my opinion as
to how well it stacks up against the A-4, though. I'd say as well or
maybe a bit better, which makes sense when you consider the 115 had
access to newer tube technology. I tried to post about this a few days
back when someone mentioned the knob issue, but it bounced back to me.

For SSB, it's fab. For AM....eh.....sounds reasonably decent, but
definitely restricted. I think the widest position is 5khz. It also
restricts you to either sideband, not both. And it lacks 160. So my
feeling is, anything it gains over the A-4 in newer components it
gives up by lack of features.

Of course, both of these receivers were really designed for SSB first,
the rest as more of an afterthought. But most folks consider the 115
to be the best effort by Hallicrafters, even over the SX-88.

Good news is that they seem to have corrected in price, varying
between $800-$1500 in the last year from what I've seen. This is down
from the high of $6K plus on ebay a couple of years back. So, more in
line IMHO.

de Todd/'Boomer'  KA1KAQ