The Heathkit GR-54 Deluxe SWL Receiver

In this video we'll look at the Heathkit GR-54 Deluxe Shortwave Listening Receiver. We'll look at the history of the radio, it's features, and take a look at it inside and out. I'll discuss the restoration of this particular unit and demonstrate it being operated.

[@johnwood4322]

I actually have a GR-54 sitting a couple of feet from my computer right now. I built it in the mid 60's when I received it as a Christmas present from my parents. I used it for many years and have quite a few QSL cards from numerous worldwide stations that I picked up on this radio after writing to these stations and requesting listening verification. I was a hobby I had as a teenager.

[@karl0318]

Thank you for this excellent post! I was introduced to the SWL hobby in 1981 and was given this radio to get started by the original owner, who built the radio. I spent countless hours listening with great pleasure! Oh how this brings back memories! 73's

[@paulshaffer9674]

Dad got one in the early 70's. I had many hours fun with it. Still have it. And I'm 61.

[@dougkubash8673]

nice looking unit!

[@tancho100]

Brings back happy memories of building and using it. Thanks.

[@DaveNT9E]

Great video on the GR-54. I bought one as a Novice. I t was my 1st purchased receiver. I bought it used from another local ham for $35USD in 1971. I am sure it went thru many owners before I got it.

[@wa4aos]

Thanks Jeff for another excellent presentation of a Heathkit product. I never owned the GR 54 but from your review, it seems much like the Radio Shack DX 150 or 160 except a tube version. The PC board reminded me of the lay out in the Heathkit HW 16 where decent performance can be had in a minimalist configuration. 73 Glenn WA4AOS !!

[@chrispowell3664]

I just had one of neighbors give me this model radio for free that he built back in the late 60's. it still is in great condition cosmetically and works great electronically. It just needs a good cleaning from being in storage.

[@tubeDude48]

I'm on the search for one!

[@jefftranter]

Yes, the aluminum edge trim is missing. I didn't notice it before, but my GR-64 has it and the GR-54 should be the same.

[@Biffbradford]

That would be a fine receiver for listening to Sweden Calling DXers or your favorite overseas programs of the day and the code practice option would be helpful too! Great video. de k9rzz (ex-WN9UAI)

[@BrokebackBob]

The brushed aluminum edge decoration which goes up the left side of the front panel edge across the top and down the right side, is missing.

[@danvanlandingham3854]

I've got one and I need to find another plastic dial plate for it.Mine is trashed.I also have a GR 64.

[@Kennynva]

Nice video...can you use the band-spread to tune in..or clarify the upper and lower SSB signals...??? I have a change in an auction the buy one of these for around 45$ is it worth this...in a working condition and in very good cosmetic shape..thanks.. The one Im looking at has a chrome trim around the front panel...

[@jefftranter]

Yes, you can. That is a reasonable price.Check whether the plastic around the controls has cracked, that is a common problem.

[@Kennynva]

Will do ..thanks...I see no cracking around each knob...You say most of the front end is already set..or aligned??

[@SDsailor7]

Very entertaining and interesting video. There is one like this one for sale in my area and they say it powers up but no sound comes out and they are selling it for parts and asking $45usd is that reasonable? I am thinking to offer $25 since it might need work and components replaced. Would it be worth it to buy it?

[@danvanlandingham3854]

I've got one in my collection.When the filter goes bad,how do replace it as its a PC mounted can type?This is the first time I've ever seen a radio that used that kind of filter cap.Mine also needs a new front panel as mine is cracked .It looks like someone tried to clean it with lacquer thinner and it dulled the finish on it.I need to find a replacement.

[@jeromegrzelak8236]

lol on finding a replacement

[@hadyjabar2733]

Thank you Enqiner iam in iraq

[@mel6688]

Hi Jeff, It is incredible performance in this device, I would like to know how it does not produce great distortion and noises in the radio frequency when you are tuning, I feel impeccable, when it's using only some semiconductors in a basic arrangement, I think the talent of those old technicians was critical in selecting the correct value of each semiconductor as well as the quality on materials to each part.

[@jefftranter]

Yes, the radios are much simpler than modern designs, and they work incredibly well considering they only used 5 or 6 transistors or vacuum tubes.

[@SDsailor7]

@@jefftranter Can you receive police transmissions with this short wave receiver?

[@jefftranter]

@@SDsailor7 No, since these radios were made police radios have moved to higher VHF/UHF frequencies that this radio cannot receive.

[@SDsailor7]

@@jefftranter Ah. That's to bad. Thank you for responding Jeff

[@chahn27]

Hey Jeff, I have a GR-54 that I built as a kid. It has been in storage for years. I removed it from the box yesterday and find the AF Gain knob is frozen. It will not rotate so it is not possible to power up the unit. Any suggestions?

[@jefftranter]

Spraying some contact cleaner on the control shaft and letting it soak for a while should loosen it up unless it is really rusted in which case you could try something like liquid wrench.

[@djnewfie]

I have the same radio. It works good but has the cracked panel.

[@chesterdougherty1347]

Hallicrafter

[@freak55beat]

great on am , ssb horible