My recommendation for FM is to buy a TEF, they are pretty much the best FM dxing radio available, and are only 100-150 AUD brand new. The best TEF model to get is the Deepelec DP-666. For AM/SW, get something like an Xhdata D808, it’s only 100 AUD and offers some very good AM performance.
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The XHDATA isn’t a terrible radio for FM either, but agree it doesn’t hold a candle to the TEF. It’s a good entry on both bands though.
I have to admit, I’ve still had some of the best fun I’ve had DXing just in the car too.
I’d recommend the desktop TEF models if you want a home tuner. I may end up buying that Deepelec version for portable work I think.
I just found this model - Thoughts:
Checked the tapes and was able to get RDS on SIBC 96.3. It’s from SIBC Gizo rather than Honiara. It’s located about 400k NW of Honiara.
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One big question will be; can I update the firmware & if so how?
Leaping in too fast without time to research can lead to disappointment.
I haven’t seen that make/model before.
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this is a good guide to follow since all of the receivers on here have been tested and all faults are noted - TEF Guide - Receivers - FMDX.org - the Open FM DX Hub!. The one you sent i’ve never seen before so probably best to stay away.
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That makes sense; Gizo would have a clear path to Australia I think. So definitely one to look out for. Honiara has only been received once or twice.
Gizo is 2190 km from Toad City so it’s well within single hop range, a similar distance as here to Auckland. I wonder what power they are running; it would be a relatively short 2Es path to here.
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NBC on 90.7 back for short time just now with 11:00 am time call. Good signal but not strong enough for the other frequencies to overcome closer stations.
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98.5 2OOO FM off air! No signal here which I thought unusual and just confirmed via the TVCL node. Might be a rare chance to try for Lismore via Tr/As
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Sunshine Coast ABCs in Melbourne now
Also heard Hit 89.1 and Wide Bay ABCs, very erratic bursts of Es though
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90.3 Bendigo into Ipswich. Yes, I am in SEQ at the moment.
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My condolences 
Nothing here at Tweed Heads just now
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Cairns FM into Williamsdale ACT on the car radio just now.
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Today’s Es opening also made it to Mildura, I received Rebel 97.1 Stanthorpe and also 94.3 Radio TAB from Dalby or Roma on the new setup.
Speaking of the new setup, I have since noticed that Adelaide national FMs (both ABC and SBS) are semi permanent in the current setup with the horizontally polarised yagi (aimed west, same as my first DX setup), with MIX 102.3, Triple M 104.7 and SAFM 107.1 fading in and out frequently. Tropo will bring all of these in strong enough to decode some level of RDS along with the other commericials, but at the very least slight enhancement does make them listenable.
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