SANGEAN
ATS-803A
The Sangean ATS-803A was a very popular dual conversion superheterodyne LW/MW/SW/FM portable manufactured between 1989 and 1995. It was marketed under brand names including the DX-440 (Radio Shack/Realistic). This beefy portable measures 6.5"H x 11.5"W x 2.5"D and weighs approximately 5.75 lbs (with installed batteries). A shoulder strap functions as a carrying handle.
Coverage
Is continuous from 150 khz to 29999 khz and from 87.5 MHz - 108 MHz.
The 803A "labels" 150-281 khz as LW, 520-1620 khz as MW, twelve (12) shortwave band segments as SW, 87.5-108 MHz as FM and everything else as AM.
Power
Two AA cells provide power for the clocks and memories. Six D cells power the radio.
The 803A can also be powered from an external 9 volt AC adapter.
Other Features
The 803A has a 24 hour clock and an alarm feature which you can set to turn the radio on to the last frequency you were listening to. There is no "beep" option for the alarm. There is also a sleep timer. This causes the radio to turn itself off after 90 minutes (maximum). The sleep timer can be adjusted to shut itself down after any 10 minute interval between 10 and 90 minutes. Note: the 803A clock can be displayed while the radio is playing, just by pushing the Mode button.
Performance
The 803A is a real rugged workhorse with solid performance. It is an exceptional performer in the MW band.
MW - performs very well with both the internal loopstick antenna and with an external antenna.
SW - overall fine reception. Like most Sangean radios, the 803A is a little on the deaf side with just the whip antenna (I wonder if that is why they provided such a long whip?). An external antenna really brings it to life. Sideband/cw reception is average with the BFO tuning arrangement. One very nice feature of the 803A is that the wide/narrow filter works in sideband - this is not always true in shortwave portables. Stations are easily received all across the SW spectrum with a modest length external wire antenna.
FM - excellent audio. Receives in stereo when headphones are connected. Ability to separate weak stations from adjacent strongboys is average.
Note on Modifications
This radio has proven to be a modifier delight. Components inside are relatively easy to get to and there is ample room inside to move things around, add stuff, etc. Among the mods chronicled on the internet: "Anti-chuff," fine tuning and improved whip sensitivity. The fine tune mod is especially valuable for MW work. The fine tune mod provides +/- 3 kHz from the BFO control, when operating in the BFO Off position.
Differences of the Sangean 803A Vs. RadioShack DX-440 version
The main difference is that the DX-440 did not have a record out jack. Also the DX-440 renamed some of the functions/controls (START/STOP became SCAN. CALL MEMO became RECALL).
Condition
Prefer the great scratch and scuff free MINT condition from the photos.
You will receive exactly what on the pictures! A fully functional World Band Shortwave Radio.
Includes
Selling the radio only! I don't have the shoulder strip so that is not includes.
Shipping
The unit will safely packed for UPS Ground Shipping.
THANKS FOR YOUR INTEREST!
PLEASE CHECK OUT
MY OTHER ITEMS FOR SALE!
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE!