On a tip from my good friend Dave Cripe (NM0S), I just purchased this cute crystal receiver kit from a UK-based seller on eBay.
The price is 8 GPB plus 3.50 GPB for shipping. After PayPal currency conversion, I paid $17.63 US shipped from the UK–a very fair price. The kit is supplied with 5 meters of antenna wire, a high impedence earphone fitted with crocodile clips, and two double crocodile clip leads. Each unit is also tested prior to shipping. The seller also has a 100% positive rating on eBay.
I’ll certainly make a post about the radio once I receive and build it. While there aren’t as many blowtorch broadcast stations to hear these days via a crystal set, with an ample length of antenna wire, you may be surprised what you will hear. Certainly a fun and lightweight item to take camping or place in your bug out bag. No batteries required!
Update: Since making this post, it appears the item number has changed since the seller had to list a new lot of kits. Below, I’ve made two links that search eBay based on the description, not item number:
- Search via eBay US (best if you’re in the USA, but scroll to bottom of screen to see this item under “International Sellers”)
- Search via eBay UK (best if in UK or EU)
Can someone send me a clear picture of both sides of this device?
Have you looked at the other kits from the same seller? I’m thinking of trying out the multiband receiver. Looks interesting.
Yes I have. In fact, I’m mighty tempted to buy another kit as the seller will combine shipping to make it less expensive.
Indeed cool and nostalgic … but IMHO there is a lot more “fun factor” involved with one of those NooElec USB stick receivers at the same price point.
This eBay item has been relisted. New link:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Crystal-radio-credit-card-receiver-power-free-with-aerial-and-earpiece-/301570200364
I may be in for more too LOL, this seller has a number of interesting kits.
Geez, that’s 2 radios in one week that I’ve HAD to buy LOL. Gotta stop the madness 😉
Ken
Thanks for spending more of my money!!
Looks like a lot of fun, and for roughly the price of a pizza, why not. Less calories, that’s for sure!
Ha! It’s actually Dave (NM0S) you should blame! 🙂 I simply can’t resist a well-designed kit.
Yeah, you are just the enabler!!
As I tell my good Canadian buddy, David (K2WNW): “J’enable donc je suis.”