Though I have a lot of shortwave portables, the Sony ICF-SW7600GR is still one of my favorites. Why? Despite its ergonomic shortcomings, it’s a solid performer with a robust sync detector and stable AGC. Check out how it compared with other benchmark portables in our Mega Review.
I understand that Sony no longer manufactures the ‘7600GR–perhaps this is why the price of new units has increased in recent months. Still, I occasionally stumble upon reasonable deals online. Once new stock is depleted, though, I forecast prices will increase accordingly.
Here’s where I’ve found reasonable deals on new units:
eBay
Though eBay claims the trending price is close to $180, there are a few sellers who have new units with a BuyItNow price of $140-145, shipping included.
Click here to search eBay.
I would even feel pretty confident purchasing a used ‘7600GR from an eBay seller with good ratings. Be careful, though: some used units might have problems with the telescopic whip antenna or corrosion in the battery compartment (for example). Make sure you read the item description carefully prior to bidding/purchasing.
Blinq.com
Though less frequently than in the past, Bling.com occasionally acquires new, used and open box ‘7600GRs.
Indeed, at time of posting, they actually have one in stock (!!!)--the first I’ve seen in a few months.
I buy from Blinq with confidence because their return policy is so flexible. Blinq pays return shipping and takes the product back with no questions asked, should you find a problem or if it’s not as described.
Helpful hint: If you’ve never visited Blinq.com, or if you open their website in a private/incognito window, Blinq will typically pop up a window offering 10% off for new shoppers as long as you subscribe to their newsletter. You then receive a coupon code via email you can use with the first order.
Click here to search Blinq.com for the Sony ICF-SW7600GR.
Amazon.com
At time of posting, Amazon does have a few sellers offering new and used ‘7600GRs.
Click here to search Amazon.
Keep in mind, though, that these are being sold by third parties, not directly by Amazon. Sometimes additional shipping charges apply and sometimes the return policy may not be as forgiving as Amazon’s own. Still: there are a number of new units available.
Universal Radio
While Universal Radio no longer stocks new Sony ICF-SW7600GRs, they do occasionally receive used ones on trade. This is how I purchased my ‘7600GR many years ago: from Universal’s used stock. You can buy from them with confidence because Universal even gives a warranty on most of their used items.
Click here to check Universal Radio’s used radio index.
Know of any other reliable online sources for the ICF-SW7600GR? Please comment!
SWLing Post readers know that I’m a big fan of the, now discontinued, Sony ICF-SW7600GR shortwave portable. I try to post ‘7600GR deals when I find them and they’re beginning to become more scarce as retailer inventory depletes.
