Hello Sam,

You might elaborate on what you mean by local SSB
broadcasts.

The Sony type portables that claim SSB actually do
work ok. Clumsy, perhaps, but usablel. Sangean
portables have a good reputation also. You might
even consider purchase of a used ham transceiver
for ~$200. You will find it to be far better than
a portable, even with a makeshift antenna, and it
can also provide weatherfax and other useful
features. In a true emergency, you can operate it
without a license, and you may one day want to
explore ham radio.

The portables usually have a whip that is
surprisingly useful, even in the cabin of a
sailboat. You can clip a wire to a shroud or
backstay if you need more. Experiment! Have fun!

Good luck!

Chuck



Sam wrote:
Can anybody recommend a small radio that would allow me to listen (no
transmit) to local SSB broadcasts without having to install a full fledged
SSB radio/tuner/stay antenna? This would be for a sailing boat. Any
suggestion on making a simple antenna? Some of the Sony World Radios claim
to be able to receive SSB. How well does it work? I am planning to use it in
Mexico to tune in to the local weather nets.

Thanks,

Sam