Dennis:

My Space Magnet is the later SM-2 with the "alt-azimuth" feature. Over the years I have made a couple of modifications.

First, I made end covers from card stock to prevent excess dust accumulation on circuit.

Second, I replaced the stubby metal switches with longer switch covered ones. This eliminated the slight buzzing sometimes noticed when I touched the original switches.

Third, I installed an LED in the power circuit in order to see whether it was switched on or not. I had a bad habit of leaving the power on, subsequently discharging the battery.

More recently I discovered the original cloth-covered lead cable was disintegrating. I totally disassembled the antennas and replaced it. While doing so I blew 30 years of dust away for the components.

I've also had to rebuild the aluminum "alt-azimuth" base after the antenna fell to the floor and twisted the metal. Therefore, it's not as pretty as when new!

I've never fully understood some of the criticism about the Space Magnet. It has always worked for me. I'll admit it's not perfect, but I've yet to find a better portable antenna for medium wave DX.

Good DXing.

Richard.

Richard Allen
36°22'51"N / 97°26'35"W
(near Perry OK USA)