RE: Testing Receiver
You're right about AM being usable and legal and just plain fine. I don't use it because all, (both), of my computer radios are FM/PCM only I still have an analog AM tx that works fine, (got it in college for my Gentle Lady, RIP). I just think that someone who is beginning the hobby would be better-off going with something that can be used with newer, more common radio equipment.
Darrin,
This information would have been more useful in your first response:
"it's FM says it right on the label, I just looked at it. I've tried it numerous times. I guess it's just bad. "
Good Luck!!