Hey Rob:

The DT400W is the sensitivity champ, although it is unable to tune in 1
khz increments and the stock selectivity is rather broad, especially for
TA work. There is a filter mod posted at DXer.ca, but it sounds like you
may not be in a position to do that (I know I wouldn't even think about
it...). As for the ability to tune away from the standard 9/10 khz
channels, I personally would want that capability for serious DXing, even
domestic, although the judicious use of a passive loop antenna can really
help.

If you're ready to step up, given that you have wielded a soldering iron,
a suggestion is to get an Eton e100 (within the correct serial number
range) and put the slider antenna on it. I have VERY modest soldering
skills, and I managed to do the mod fairly quickly. The stock filter in
the e100 is already top-of-the-class for Ultralights, and so you could see
how it goes before deciding whether or not to put a narrower filter in. I
see e100's on eBay quite a bit, and making sure what the serial number is
before buying would make sure you're getting what you need.

The stock-filtered e100 is an absolute terror on the domestic MW band, and
in Buffalo you should be able to hear a fair number of TA's.

$.02 from Kevin S. Bainbridge Island, WA