It is a fun hobby. And yes, you meet nice people.
I find the Kaito 1103 http://www.radiolabs.com/products/radio/Kaito/kaito-1103.php along with a Pars end fedz antenna(link posted up thread) to be an excellent little rig.
I run the audio into the compter and use some 15 dollar altec lansing speakers.
I very impressive set up with SSB for less that 200 bucks
I like that. What is the little flip up looking thing on the back? Is that a loop antenna or just a door to a compartment of some sort?