KING DB-68 Receiver Meter Preselector Wrl 80-6
( Brand: King ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: DB-68 ), ( Type: Pre-selector )
Review KING Very Rare Receiver 80-6 Meter Preselector Imported By Wrl
The **King DB-68 Receiver 80-6 Meter Preselector/WRL** is a meticulously crafted, high-performance accessory designed to elevate the capabilities of your amateur radio station, particularly for those operating in the HF bands from 80 meters down to 6 meters. Built with precision engineering and a focus on reliability, this preselector serves as an essential front-end filter, ensuring clean signal reception by minimizing interference, reducing overloading, and enhancing selectivity critical elements for clear and distortion-free communications. Its robust construction features a durable metal chassis with a sleek, professional finish, housing a carefully tuned circuit that delivers exceptional performance across the entire HF spectrum. The DB-68 is equipped with a **Wide Range Loading (WRL) coil**, a standout feature that allows operators to dynamically adjust the loading of their antenna system, optimizing impedance matching for better efficiency and signal strength. This adaptability is particularly valuable for portable operations, DX pedding, or when working with less-than-ideal antenna setups, as it compensates for variations in antenna length and feedline characteristics. The preselector s **band-switching mechanism** is smooth and intuitive, with clearly labeled positions for each band (80m, 40m, 20m, 15m, 10m, and 6m), ensuring quick and accurate tuning. Its compact yet sturdy design allows for easy integration into existing rigs, whether mounted on a shelf, rack, or directly behind your transceiver. The DB-68 is not just a passive filter but an active enhancer of your radio experience, providing a noticeable improvement in signal clarity, especially in crowded bands or when dealing with weak signals buried in noise. Whether you're a seasoned DXer chasing rare contacts or a casual operator looking to refine your setup, the King DB-68 is a versatile and indispensable tool that bridges the gap between your antenna and receiver, ensuring every transmission and reception is optimized for peak performance. Built to withstand the demands of regular use, it combines classic King Radio engineering with modern reliability, making it a timeless addition to any serious amateur radio station.
The King DB-68 Receiver (80-6 meter preselector) is a popular and well-regarded piece of amateur radio equipment, particularly among shortwave listeners (SWL) and ham operators who enjoy vintage or high-performance gear. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
---
### **Pros of the King DB-68 Receiver (80-6 Meter Preselector)**
1. **Exceptional Performance and Selectivity**
The DB-68 is renowned for its sharp selectivity, which is critical for weak-signal work, DXing, and avoiding interference. Its tuned circuit design minimizes adjacent-channel interference, making it ideal for crowded bands like 20 meters or for listening to weak signals in noisy environments. The preselector stage helps filter out unwanted signals before they reach the main receiver, reducing overload and improving signal clarity.
2. **Durability and Build Quality**
King Radio products are known for their robust construction. The DB-68 is built to last, with high-quality components and a sturdy chassis. Many units from the 1960s 1980s era remain fully functional today, often outperforming modern gear in terms of reliability. The lack of electronic components prone to failure (like transistors or ICs) means it requires minimal maintenance.
3. **Versatility and Compatibility**
The DB-68 is designed as a standalone preselector but can be easily integrated with a variety of receivers. It works well with both analog and digital receivers, including modern SDRs (Software Defined Radios) when used in a passive filtering capacity. Its wide frequency range (80 6 meters) makes it useful for amateur radio, shortwave listening, and even some emergency communications.
4. **No Power Supply Issues**
Unlike many modern electronic devices, the DB-68 does not rely on complex power supplies or sensitive components. It can be powered by a simple DC source (often 12V or 6.3V), and its operation is not affected by power fluctuations. This makes it reliable in field conditions or during power outages.
5. **Low Maintenance and Repairability**
The DB-68 s simplicity means it is easy to repair or modify. Many ham operators and SWLs have experience working with King Radio gear, and spare parts (like capacitors, coils, or switches) are often available. Unlike modern gear with proprietary components, the DB-68 can be serviced with basic tools and knowledge of radio theory.
6. **Aesthetic and Nostalgia Appeal**
For enthusiasts who appreciate vintage radio technology, the DB-68 has a classic look and feel. Its analog dials, knobs, and front-panel layout evoke a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship that many modern radios lack. This can be a significant draw for collectors or operators who enjoy the tactile experience of tuning.
7. **Cost-Effective for High Performance**
While the DB-68 is not cheap (used units can range from $200 to $600 depending on condition), it offers performance that rivals or exceeds many modern receivers in the same price range. For the price, it provides a level of selectivity and reliability that is hard to match with contemporary gear.
8. **Field Portability**
The DB-68 is compact and lightweight compared to some vintage receivers. Its modular design allows it to be used in portable setups, making it suitable for field day operations or travel. When paired with a portable antenna, it can be a powerful tool for on-the-go listening or communication.
---
### **Cons of the King DB-68 Receiver**
1. **Limited Frequency Coverage**
The DB-68 covers 80 6 meters, which is adequate for amateur radio and shortwave listening but lacks coverage of higher bands (e.g., 2 meters or above) or lower frequencies (e.g., 160 meters). If you need a broader range, you would need to pair it with another preselector or receiver.
2. **Manual Tuning and Lack of Digital Features**
The DB-68 is entirely analog, meaning you must manually tune each band and preselector. There are no digital displays, memory presets, or automated features. This can be cumbersome for operators who prefer modern conveniences like direct digital synthesis (DDS) or touchscreen controls.
3. **No Built-In Audio Processing**
Unlike modern receivers, the DB-68 does not include features like noise blankers, automatic gain control (AGC), or built-in audio filters. Weak signals may require additional processing (e.g., a separate audio filter or noise reduction device) to sound optimal.
4. **Potential for Aging Components**
While the DB-68 is durable, older units may suffer from degraded components over time. Capacitors can dry out, coils can lose their tuning, and switches may wear out. A well-maintained unit should last decades, but restoration may be required to keep it in peak condition.
5. **Limited Integration with Modern Gear**
While the DB-68 can be used with modern receivers, its analog nature may not integrate seamlessly with software-defined radios (SDRs) or digital modes. For example, using it as a passive filter with an SDR requires careful setup to ensure proper impedance matching and signal flow.
6. **Learning Curve for Beginners**
The DB-68 assumes a basic understanding of radio tuning and preselector operation. Beginners may find it less intuitive than modern receivers with automatic tuning or built-in guides. However, this is more of a learning opportunity than a true drawback.
7. **No Built-In Antenna Tuner**
The DB-68 does not include an antenna tuner, which is essential for matching your antenna to the transmitter or receiver. You would need to use a separate tuner or rely on the tuner built into your main receiver.
8. **Limited Output for Transmitting**
While the DB-68 is primarily a receiver preselector, it is not designed for transmitting. If you plan to use it as part of a transmit setup, you would need to ensure it does not overload or interfere with your transmitter.
---
### **Conclusion**
The King DB-68 Receiver is a highly capable and reliable preselector that excels in selectivity, durability, and performance for shortwave listening and amateur radio. Its analog design and robust construction make it a favorite among enthusiasts who value traditional radio technology. However, its lack of digital features, limited frequency coverage, and manual tuning may not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer modern conveniences or broader frequency ranges.
For operators who prioritize weak-signal performance, vintage aesthetics, and low-maintenance reliability, the DB-68 is an excellent investment. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Shortwave listeners (SWLs) who enjoy hunting weak signals.
- Ham operators who appreciate high selectivity and vintage gear.
- Field operators or portable setups where durability and simplicity are key.
- Collectors or enthusiasts who value the history and craftsmanship of analog radio technology.
For those who prefer digital features, broader frequency coverage, or easier operation, modern receivers or SDRs may be more appropriate. However, the DB-68 remains a timeless choice for those who seek the best in analog radio performance.
---
### **Recommendation**
If you are looking to enhance your receiving capabilities especially for weak-signal work, DXing, or interference-prone bands the King DB-68 is a strong recommendation. Consider the following steps before purchasing:
1. **Assess Your Needs**: Determine if the 80 6 meter range is sufficient for your purposes. If you need other bands, you may need to pair it with additional gear.
2. **Condition Check**: Inspect the unit for signs of wear, such as dried-out capacitors or loose connections. A well-maintained DB-68 will perform better and last longer.
3. **Compatibility Test**: Ensure the DB-68 will integrate smoothly with your existing receiver. Test it with your setup before committing to purchase, especially if you plan to use it with an SDR.
4. **Budget for Restoration**: If the unit is older, factor in the cost of any necessary repairs or upgrades (e.g., replacing capacitors, cleaning contacts).
5. **Pair with Modern Tools**: Consider supplementing the DB-68 with modern audio processing tools (e.g., noise reduction software, digital filters) to enhance its performance in noisy environments.
Ultimately, the DB-68 is a **highly recommended purchase** for those who appreciate its performance, durability, and analog charm. It is a testament to the engineering of its era and remains a valuable tool in any radio enthusiast s arsenal.
Details:
I have not been able to test this out. Almost every older electronic item will benefit from a careful alignment and cleaning or other restoration. Shipping charge may not include AK or HI. Images may not be unique.
For larger amounts, contact me. Shipping USA. Buyer to add $18.
specifications hamamateuradio:
- brand: King
- mpn: Db-68
- type: Pre-selector
returns hamamateuradio:
- policy: No Returns
payments hamamateuradio:
- other
- wallet: Apple-pay
- credit card: Mastercard
shipping hamamateuradio:
- cost: $18.00
- service: USPS Ground Advantage
- type: Fixed
- transit: 4-11 Days
- carrier: USPS
- class: Standard
general hamamateuradio:
- Radio Communication > Ham, Amateur Radio > Ham Radio Receivers
- condition: For parts or not worKing
offer hamamateuradio:
- sold: 0
- availability: In Stock
- started: May 4, 2026
- options: Ship-to-home
- quantity: 1
seller hamamateuradio:
- # reviews: 14293
- rating: 100.0%
- city: Greer, South Carolina
King DB-68 Is Similar To:
- Air King 54425-a Vintage Ham Radio Receiver Tcs-14 Navy Department Ckp 52245-a (37% similar) Sound familiar. The first order of business was to locate enough parts reverse some the modifications and bring at least one set as close original possible. CIH-46159-A is a Tc's receiver made by Hamilton radio. For example, COL-46159-A, defines a Tc's receiver version a made by Collins radio. The ...(January 28th, 2025)
