[HBR] Rookie here

[N2EY at aol.com]

In a message dated 1/8/06 10:19:45 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
StephenTetorka at cs.com writes:


> like to homebrew one heck of a good receiver...and would appreciate your 
> generous help in the matter.

First question: what defines "one heck of a good receiver"?  

What one person considers important may be not worth anything to another 
person. 

> 
> I like to listen to Short-wave radio stations when I'm not operating on the 
> Ham bands - AM, SSB and CW.
> 

So - are we talking about a SWBC rx, or one that can "do it all"?

> At this time, I'd like to sharpen up my "Q" about receiver circuits, 
> technology etc. to help me better understand just why I should do something 
> one 
> way...as opposed to another...basically learn more about receivers than 
> explained in 
> the ARRL Handbook.
> 

The Handbook is a good start, of course, but there's lots more. One fact to 
remember is that *all* designs are compromises - there's no ultimate, perfect
answer.

> Sooo...would you kindly suggest some reading material, web sites etc...to 
> help me get smarter on the subject?
> 

The RSGB Handbook is a very good investment. For tube techniques, the
3rd or 4th edition (IIRC) are the best. The ones from the '60s, anyway.

The HBR website is essential, both for info and for references.

QST and other ham mags from the early '50s to the late '60s or so.

73 de Jim, N2EY