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Radio Shack DX398 - received dud?

C

crainbebo

I needed to replace my G5 with another FM DX powerhouse, as my DX402's antenna is starting to wobble. And my old G5's antenna has broke off, it's worn out in general (except for that AM band!!) I purchased a used DX402 Radio Shack off eBay from a Wisconsin seller. It said it was perfect except for no battery cover (which I wouldn't have minded anyways).

When I turned on the radio I was greeted with noise on FM. Electronic component noise, actually. From 88.1-93.9, and 98.3-107.9, the band is fine. But not 94.1-98.1! Every signal is blotted out by horrible radio-produced 'noise' that blocks out even 100KW KATS 94.5. AM, SW is fine. Not FM.

Would like to know if there is a fix...or if this is a dud that needs to go back ASAP to WI. Disappointing if so. Thanks everyone!
 
I'd take the batteries out. Let it sit for 10 min or so. Put them back in. Try it again (unless you've done this already).

Sounds like some sort of RFI, or perhaps something awry with the PLL?

I have a DX-398 (RS's Sangean 909), and it works well on FM. I have the RS 200-629 World Receiver (basically a RS badged, updated ATS505, similar to the DX-402 that you have just said you purchased). It also works well on FM with no glitches. I've never encountered a partially blanked out FM band before, on any radio.

PS, why don't you tighten the antenna on your original DX-402? Is the adjustment screw worn out or something?

Good luck, either way man. If you can't get the new 402 to work, I'd get it back to the seller, as I know FM is a big deal for you in DXing.
 
I returned it a few days ago and got a full refund from the seller...kudos to her. The adjustment screw is quite worn out on the old reliable 402.
I'll try to get another G5 or DX398 when I have the time to do so.
 
Is the problem with the screw on the whip's elbow joint, or the screw securing the antenna itself to the PCB? If it's the latter -- the screw that holds the antenna to the PCB, perhaps a small bit of super glue will help secure it.
 
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