Public Comms SHTF

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LAC, a half decent SSB receiver will come in at over 100 quid. But you dont need SSB for broadcast reception, just AM.

SSB will primarily be for reception of Amateur radio traffic. The Malachite type SDR radios look to be a good solution with the digital screen you desire.

I've had a play with SDR dongles for lap tops. The low cost ( 30 quid or so) units are very poor compared to a dedicated receiver.

Another alternative for around 170quiid would be the Xiegu G1M. These are self contained SDRs that receive wel on all broadcast bands between 0.6 to 30mhz. They also receive all the Ham bands in that range, and transmit 5 -8 w SSB on 80m 40m 20m and 15m. In addition to the radio, a power supply and antenna will be be required.

A good radio prep resource is Radioprepper who has many useful videos on Youtube.