Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor, Rob G, who shares a link to this rare Galaxy R-530 receiver and speaker on eBay:
The R-530 is certainly a handsome receiver. FYI: the last time we posted one of these from eBay, the final price was $470 shipped, but this particular listing also includes the SC-530 matching speaker.
Earlier this year, when an R-530 appeared on eBay, our resident rare receiver guru, Dan Robinson, chimed in with the following:
Some observations on this. The R-530, and military version R-1530, were considered fairly top of the line when they were made. They’re still among the rarer radios on the used market, though not the rarest. The R-1530 is not seen often.
On performance, these receivers were not on the same level as National HRO-500s, 51Js, and R-390s. This was made by Hy-Gain after all, which was not top of the heap in receiving design.
However, the R-530/1530s are great looking pieces. Anyone considering these should make absolutely sure that the PLL circuit functions on all bands. Poor cosmetic condition is a tipoff that the radio had a hard life.
Are there any Post readers own and use an R-530 of R-1530? Please comment!
Finding the radio itself is an accomplishment. Finding the matching speaker is really nuts.
Incredible!
That is absolutely amazing!!! Not only would be difficult to even find 3, but the cost would likely be immense. Incidentally, I managed to get mine for $1 (I found a great deal on an item for $1 and traded for the radio).
If Marilyn Monroe was a radio, she would look like that hi hi. Beautiful piece of radio gear.
I redid the spec pages in Fred Osterman’s new book Shortwave Receivers Past and Present for both the R-530 and R-1530 and own several of each.
Rick
Hi Rick-
You own several of each RADIO?!? If so, that’s incredible! I have a 1530, but just one! 😀
Rob
Rob,
I have tree R-1530 units, a SC-1530 speaker and three R-530 units and three SC-530 speakers. Good stuff!
Rick