Look at the Sangean shortwave radios. They make radios for Radio Shack, C Crane and others as well as their own brand name. I have a Radio Shack DX-402 and it gets pretty good reception. Its rated pretty high in online reviews. The digital model is great for me as I am lazy and scanning is an easy way to see whats out there. Found it on ebay for $25.00 Tecsun is another off brand that is pretty good and affordable too.
punch