This converter uses a low-pass filter instead of the usual tuned circuit so the only tuning required is with the receiver. The dual-gate MOSFET and FET used in the mixer and oscillator aren`t critical. Any crystal having a frequency compatible with the receiver tuning range may be used.
For example, with a 3500 kHz crystal, 3500 kHz on the receiver dial corresponds to zero kHz; 3600 to 100 kHz; 3700 to 200 kHz, etc (At 3500 khz on the receiver all one can hear is the converter oscillator, and VLF signals start to come in about 20 kHz higher).
VLF Converter Circuit Diagram