Note
Popular Electronics, Jul 1977, p. 16.
Popular Electronics, Jun 1978, p. 93. (DR-22C)
The McKay Dymek DR-22 is a vintage general coverage HF receiver manufactured in the USA between 1977 and 1980. It's known for its distinctive "home stereo" aesthetic, which set it apart from typical communications receivers of its era.
Here's a breakdown of its key features and characteristics:
Key Features & Specifications:
* Frequency Range: 0.05 - 29.700 MHz (50 kHz to 29.7 MHz) continuous coverage.
* Modes: AM, Upper Sideband (USB), Lower Sideband (LSB), CW (Continuous Wave), and RTTY (with an external converter).
* Tuning: Features a unique digital synthesis tuning system with separate rotary knobs for each digit of the frequency display, allowing for precise tuning in 5, 10, 100 kHz, 1 MHz, and 10 MHz steps. A fine-tuning knob handles the last digit (0 or 5 kHz). This approach was designed for accuracy but could be less efficient for rapid band scanning.
* Receiver System: Triple conversion superheterodyne.
* Selectivity: Selectable 4 kHz and 8 kHz bandwidths.
* Audio Quality: Praised for its superb AM audio quality, often outperforming the AM sections of many other tuners and receivers. It includes a 5000 Hz audio heterodyne notch filter.
* Display: 5-digit red LED frequency readout.
* Power: 110-120 / 220-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, switch-selectable, consuming a maximum of 30 watts.
* Physical: Dimensions are approximately 445x130x381 mm (17.5x5.1x15 inches) and it weighs around 9 kg (20 lbs).
* Circuitry: Employs 43 Integrated Circuits, 16 FETs, 18 Transistors, and 54 Diodes.
* Variants: The DR-22C is a similar model that includes an added noise limiter (NL). The earlier DR-22 does not have this feature.
* Accessories: Compatible with optional accessories such as the DS111 Speaker, 19RM22 Rack Mounting Kit, DA5 Medium Wave Loop Antenna, DA100 Active Antenna, and DP40 External RF Preselector.
Reputation and Use:
* Audio Fidelity: One of its standout features is its excellent audio fidelity, particularly for AM broadcasts, leading to a "home stereo" feel.
* Precise Tuning: The digital tuning system offers high accuracy, which was beneficial for fixed operation in environments like government installations (including the FAA) and military use (some were sold to the Navy of Thailand).
* Design: Its clean, uncluttered design made it "wife-friendly" and suitable for various home decors.
* Scarcity: Both the DR-22 and DR-22C are considered quite scarce today.
Common Aspects/Considerations:
* Tuning Method: While accurate, the digit-by-digit tuning might be less convenient for those accustomed to traditional VFO-style tuning for sweeping across bands.
* Lack of Advanced Features: Compared to some modern or even contemporary receivers, it lacks certain "tweeker knobs" like movable notch filters, bandpass tuning, or adjustable AGC timing. However, many users found its fixed settings to be well-executed for its intended modes.
* Age-Related Issues: As a vintage receiver, units may experience issues common to electronics of that age, such as aging components or wear on controls.
The McKay Dymek DR-22 remains a notable piece of shortwave radio history, appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its unique design and strong audio performance.