Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Kaito Amplified Active Loop AM & Shortwave Antenna, KA33

One Year Manufacturer's warranty. Do you want to increase the reception of your radio's whip antenna? Looking for a portable indoor AM or SW Antenna with an Easy Connection? ENHANCES PERFORMANCE AND RECEPTION - AM & SW Your Kaito KA-33 AM / Shortwave Antenna has tested among the best indoor world-band antennas. This active loop antenna will significantly improve your AM or SW performance and reception. EASY CONNECTION This portable antenna hangs from a window or a curtain and attaches directly to a 1/8" ANT jack or easily clips to your radio's existing antenna. DESIGNED FOR INDOOR USE ONLY FREQUENCY RANGE Shortwave: SW 3.9 - 22 MHz. Enhances the shortwave reception of any desktop or portable radio. The included ferrite bar antenna coupler can improve regular AM. WHAT'S INCLUDED - KAITO ACTIVE LOOP ANTENNA Ferrite bar antenna coupler for use on AM band Controlling unit, amplifying unit, suction cup, connecting cable, connector, soft antenna loop, clip and ferrite bar antenna coupler Two "AAA" required ( not included ) Dual Outputs Manufacturer's limited 1 year Warranty

Amazon Sales Rank: #22359 in Consumer Electronics Brand: Kaito Model: KA33 Dimensions: 6.00" h x 2.00" w x 9.00" l, .38 pounds Engineered Indoor Antenna - Aids receptions in concrete and metal buildings Portable Loop Antenna - Compact sized, easily hangs from windows, etc. & attaches Enhances AM & SW Performance & Reception - Tested amoung Best indoor world-band antennas Wide Frequency Range - SW 3.9 - 22 MHz & AM 520 - 1710 KHz Easily attaches directly to 1/8" ANT jack or clips to existing antenna

Most helpful customer reviews 32 of 33 people found the following review helpful. I tested the Kaito KA33 antenna using my new Kaito KA1102 radio. By WILLIAM MCLEAN Yes, the antenna did give some improvement in reception for both SW and MW(AM) broadcasts. However, potential buyers new to SW radio should understand that it amplifies interference along with weak radio signals. But on fairly clean weak signals it is really helpful. It should also be noted that my home location is not favorable for DX-ing - either SW or MW(AM) radio. In places like Mexico City however, this little antenna would most certainly excel - even when used with cheap SW or MW radios. My Kaito radio, when used with this antenna, compares unexpectedly well with my 15 pound Grundig Satellit 800 - when using only the Grundig's built-in antenna's - and using headphones on both radios. Lastly, the antenna comes with several small pieces and perhaps should be kept together in the original box. For me this would take up too much room in my suitcase. I'll probably take the radio and leave the antenna at home when going on short trips. 16 of 16 people found the following review helpful. Great portable active antenna for portable radios By Ann E. Revelle This is a great product for what it does and for its cost. It is a totally indoor active antenna system that works for both mw (am) signals from 520-1710 KHz and for sw signals from ~3.9-22 MHz. According to detailed technical reviews it works best above 9 MHz, but I have found very good amplification even as low as 5 MHz as well. Very little amplification is available above 22 MHz so this is not the product you want for CB radio activities for example. Power is supplied by two AAA batteries resulting in very low noise and with very stable and long duration operation. There is an on-off switch on the main control unit with a red LED light that readily indicates the status of your activities (so that you don't forget to turn it off!). There is also an analog switch on the opposite side of the control unit from the power switch that needs adjustment as you change operating frequencies on your radio. It is a bit finicky to operate and a fairly small wheel to slowly turn, but it can be easily adjusted especially if your radio has a signal strength meter to watch while the wheel is turned. The mw amplification works by induction by placing a small (supplied) ferrite rod close to the ferrite rod within your radio using a supplied set of clips (including a grounding clip for appropriately equipped desktop radios). The sw amplification works through a hanging wire attached to an elevated, triangular shaped arrangement with an extended, but collapsible telescopic antenna attached by a set of wires to a suction cup-hook arrangement. Both bands are amplified after first passing through a supplied heart-shaped amplification-junction box with a simple slide switch that can be set to either mw or sw depending on your current region of listening interest. A long cable (~15 feet) is also supplied so that the antenna can be placed at a considerable distance from your radio making it very convenient to set up as needed indoors. However, for traveling, get yourself a small slip case to keep all the small parts in is my one gripe for this system. They do supply a stiff plastic container that the antenna system is shipped in from the factory at least to get you started. 3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Kaito KA33 By Mark Worley Works as advertised for SW, so so on AM(MW). I bought this for SW reception and it is a jewel at pulling in stations that were ever so faint before. It took a little while, trial and error, to find the best place for antenna to hang. Once I found a place for the antenna stations came in much clearer. I was never able to pick up Radio Japan clearly before, now it comes in very clear. The tuning on the antenna is very sensitive and took a little getting used to but I found that once slowly tuned

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

ETON YB300PE AM/FM Shortwave Radio



Amazon Sales Rank: #95258 in Consumer Electronics Brand: Eton Model: Y300PE Dimensions: .0 pounds Precise AM, FM, and shortwave tuning via a digital PLL system Large LCD display shows frequency, time, sleep time, and symbols for the sleep timer and alarm activation DX/local switch lets you switch between short and long range AM broadcasts 24 memories for instant access to saved stations Operates on three "AA" batteries, or via AC power

If you love to hear broadcasts from around the world, here's a tool that makes it fun and easy. The Grundig Yacht Boy 300PE features precise AM, FM, and shortwave tuning via a digital PLL system. Plus, because it weighs in at 13 ounces and measures less than six inches across, this radio is easy to take along wherever your travels take you. Design and Controls The 300PE's integrated speaker offers pleasing sound while a built-in antenna on the top of the device handles FM and shortwave reception. The front of the unit features a large LCD display that shows frequency, time, sleep time, and symbols for the sleep timer and alarm activation. The display can be temporarily illuminated for night viewing. A keypad below the screen allows illustrious shortwave listeners to directly enter their shortwave band of choice, giving instant access to known broadcasts. Other controls on the front panel include band selection, clock settings, push-button up/down tuning, and scanning. Meanwhile, the back of the radio sports a flip-out tilt stand. Tuning and Bands With support for AM (520-1710 kHz) and FM-stereo (via the headphone jack) plus shortwave from 2.3-7.8 and 9.1-26.1 MHz, the 300PE's digital tuner offers exceptional tuning accuracy. AM band tuning is in 9 or 10 kHz steps, which is selectable via a switch inside the battery compartment, while shortwave tuning is in 5 kHz steps. A DX/local switch lets you switch between short and long range AM broadcasts. In addition to the direct frequency entry method, rapid tuning is possible with the quick station scanning function. You can also store up to 24 memories so you can access your favorite stations with ease. Connections and Power The 300PE operates on three "AA" batteries, or via AC power. A 3.5 millimeter headset jack is provided, as is an external antenna jack for enhancing shortwave and FM reception. Extras The radio's built-in 24 hour clock features an adjustable sleep timer that turns the radio off after a set interval. In addition to an AC adapter, the radio ships with a handsome vinyl carrying case, batteries, a pair of stereo earphones, and an external wire antenna. What's in the Box YB300PE radio, 3 AA batteries, AC adapter, portable wire antenna, stereo earphones, carrying pouch, carrying strap, and owner's manual.

Most helpful customer reviews 38 of 38 people found the following review helpful. Decent reception, good price, poor audio quality. By Robert I might have only given this radio three stars, but I think it gets a fourth for the performance it delievers at it price level.AM and FM reception are quite good for a little radio like this. Shortwave reception is mixed. On one hand, you can pick up many stations, not just the big high-powered broadcasters that you get on low priced radios (BBC, CBC, etc.). On the other hand, they come with a lot of noise and fading distortion, and you get nothing but a local/DX switch to try to improve the situation. There's no ability to micro-tune, switchable audio or bandwidth filters, etc. I therefore feel that this is definintely an above-average radio on SW for its price, but that enthusiasts should spend more money and get something that will make distant or weak stations more pleasant to listen to. (Then again, I have come to believe that internet broadcasting is going to render SW obsolete in the U.S. and similarly developed countries, so maybe a mega-buck radio is just an unncessary expense.)Sound quality through the internal speaker is poor. I assume this is because Grundig made a design decision to minimize battery consumption, size and weight, but that comes at the expense of a decent audio section. The sound is adequate for desktop or bedside listening of voice broadcasts. But music is tinny and the radio doesn't have enough juice to play across a mid-sized domestic room without distorting. Headphone listening is significantly better. If you think of it more as a walkman-type radio with a courtesy speaker for when the phones are inconvenient, you'll probably be pretty satisfied.The radio is pretty easy to operate, looks good, and doesn't feel cheap. The sleep timer is a nice convenience. There are a couple things that bugged me though. One is that you have to shift between high and low shortwave bands, and cycle through FM and AM to get from SW2 down to SW1. Annoying and anachronistic. The second is that you lose your presets and clock time when your batteries go dead. I wouldn't have minded some more presets either, since I like to set favorite short-wave braodcasters on several of their frequencies to pick the clearest signal at any given time.The radio is a good value, especially when it is discounted. With the "PE" version, not only do you get an above-average radio for the money, you get the ac adaptor, headphones, wire antenna, cheesy case, and a booklet, too. Some of their competitors make you buy this stuff separately for a good $20 or so.Finally, a word of warning. There is some older stock of this radio floating around that appears identical to current production but has less frequency coverage than the current model (and may lack some other electronic impovements too). I actually got stuck with one of the older ones. 11 of 11 people found the following review helpful. Grundig 300PE By Paul A. Witt This radio has very good sensitvity to FM, MW and Shortwave. Its sensitivity is almost as good as my Grundig 400PE, but some of the other specs aren't quite as good which I would expect for a receiver that is about half the price of the 400 PE. Its power consuption is better than the 400 PE too. It's smaller size (than the 400 PE), very good designed, easy to use controls, good sound quality along with an excellent read out offers a good value. I like this radio's abliliy to quickly get to the frequency I am interested in. This is a fine little radio--- four stars. 14 of 15 people found the following review helpful. terrific fm stereo reception in very difficult location By Stephen H. Orel I wanted a highly portable am/fm stereo radio, with provision for ac adapter and stereo headphone jack, with excellent fm stereo reception. The shortwave is a bonus I'll figure out later. In the meantime, I got everything I wanted. The fm reception is outstanding. As a test, I set it up on my

Monday, October 31, 2011

Grundig G6 Aviator Buzz Aldrin Edition Portable AM/FM Aircraft Band Shortwave Radio With SSB, Battery Charger

With the Grundig G6 Aviator at your side, you'll always have great listening options. Tune in to AM, FM, aircraft band or shortwave frequencies easily with direct keypad entry. Use the multiple tuning features to quickly scan or browse stations. This portable radio only weighs about 7 ounces, so you can always have your favorite stations at hand. The international clock and wake-up alarms keep you on schedule, wherever your travels take you. Long-Range, Portable Flexibility. The Grundig G6 Aviator brings you coverage of all medium-wave and shortwave frequencies, as well as FM bands. Specifically, it covers three frequency ranges. The 520kHz to 30MHz frequency range grants access to the entire AM band and shortwave broadcasts with single-sideband tuning. This far-reaching frequency range puts you in touch with news and entertainment from across the world, and also allows reception of ham radio operators, maritime and shortwave aeronautical stations. The 88MHz to 108MHz band covers traditional FM radio, and the G6 Aviator passes its stereo signal through to the convenient headphone jack. Additionally, this radio also receives the 117MHz to 137MHz National Civilian Aeronautical Band, letting you monitor multiple aircraft communication frequencies.--Plus-- Battery charger travel charger with four Batteries

Amazon Sales Rank: #128039 in Consumer Electronics Brand: Grundig Model: G6BZAE/K1 AM (520-1710 KHz), FM (87.5-108 MHz), Aircraft Band (117-137 MHz), LW (150 KHz - 510 KHz) and Shortwave (1711-30000 KHz) Set 9/10 KHz AM tuning; set FM tuning range Single Side Band (SSB) Battery charger travel charger with four Batteries

Most helpful customer reviews 0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. mr. By montarapete I am not really satisfied with the G6 aviator,especially in the AM range, reception does not eliminate static,so only close and powerful stations can be listened to.My regular household radios perform better. FM is flawless. See all 1 customer reviews...

Sunday, October 30, 2011

ETON S350 AM/FM Shortwave Radio

S350 AM/FM/SHORTWAVE RADIO - With the rugged look of a retro field radio and the latest in AM/FM/Shortwave radio technology, the S350 Field Radio features the best of analog and digital. The S350 is the perfect addition to active lifestyles that demand high-performance portable audio capable of receiving news and information from across the globe.

Amazon Sales Rank: #67642 in Consumer Electronics Color: Silver Brand: Eton Model: S350 Number of items: 1 Dimensions: 3.56 pounds Fully modern AM/FM/shortwave radio with retro design and easy-to-read monochrome LCD display Continuous coverage of 14 shortwave bands for listening to radio broadcasts from around the world FM tuner with Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) automatically picks up the strongest signals RCA line-out jacks connect to home amp or stereo; wide and narrow bandwidth filter controls Runs on 4 D batteries; measures 10.5 x 6.5 x 3.5 inches (W x H x D); 1-year warranty

Amazon.com Review Experienced shortwave radio aficionados rejoice: Now you can pick up a fully modern radio with a design that hearkens back to the early days of your hobby. The Etón S350, which is actually produced by the respected European electronics manufacturer, Grundig, offers a great feature set for listening to radio broadcasts from distant shores. The design is suitably rugged for use in the field, or you can use it at home as a simple, yet powerful AM/FM receiver and alarm clock. Design If you long for a return of the fashions from the film Breakin' and you're a fan of the 80s design aesthetic, the S350 is right up your alley. Everything from the blocky, silver and black case to the over-sized dials and switches will take you back to the "Ghetto Blaster" era. While the design gives the radio a solid look, we were a little disappointed that the E350 -- unlike many radios made 20 years ago -- is completely made of plastic (with the exception of the speaker cover). While the plastic knobs and controls are made to look metallic, they don't quite deliver the solid feel of metal -- something that would be nice in a rugged field radio. This quibble aside, the controls are responsive and well-positioned and the case does feel solid. The prominent tuning knob is designed well with concentric gross and fine dials. These are made all the better by a big, easy-to-read monochrome LCD display that lets you step through frequencies with extreme accuracy. It's a minor detail, but the padded carry handle is a nice touch, too. The S350: Rugged, retro, and ready to tune in the world. See all of the S350's features. Easy-to-use, durable controls. View larger. Connectivity galore. View larger. Features At the heart of the S350 is its robust synthesized digital tuner section, meaning the tuner is analog, but frequencies are displayed on a digital readout. FM tuning offers an AFC (Automatic Frequency Control) mode that automatically picks out the strongest stations -- great if you're someplace with a crowded FM dial. You can also switch the AFC mode off for fine tuning less powerful stations. Although the S350 sports just one speaker, you can listen to FM stations in stereo through a pair of headphones. AM tuning can be switched between narrow and wide sensitivities to control interference. Further tuning refinements are available via the low pass filter switch, as well as a handy RF gain dial. Both of these features can also be used when tuning one of the three shortwave bands. And if you're serious about shortwave, you'll be glad to know that the S350 can accept external antennas that can augment reception from the built-in, telescoping one. There's also an antenna port for enhanced FM reception. In addition to a headphone output, the S350 has stereo RCA line out jacks for connecting the unit to an amplifier or home stereo. The radio supports battery and AC power, but we were in for a surprise when we opened the battery compartment. Not only can the radio run on four "D" batteries, but there is also another, smaller compartment that accepts four "AA" cells -- a nice little bonus if you need temporary power and you only have the smaller cells on hand. Lastly, the S350 offers basic sleep, alarm and snooze functions that were fairly easy to set and use. The LCD has a backlight button, so nighttime viewing is no problem. Tuning In FM tuning is very impressive. Because the radio can tune frequencies down to the hundredth decimal place, you'll easily tune problematic FM stations, or perhaps stations you've never heard before. Meanwhile, testers with very little experience or understanding of shortwave radio were able to quickly tune in stations from as far away as Japan and Russia (Etón includes a handy crash course on shortwave tuning in the user's manual). Our only complaint in the tuning department: It's impossible to keep a station tuned on one band while tuning on other bands. For example, with an FM station locked in, switching to shortwave and tuning there changes the tuning on the FM band when you return. This is understandable on an analog tuning dial, but we didn't expect it from a digital tuner. Pros Exceptionally accurate tuning Advanced filtering and interference control Fun, retro styling Cons Plastic knobs and case Cannot "lock" stations while tuning on other bands What's in the Box S350 AM/FM Shortwave Field Radio, AC adapter, user's manual. Talk about easy listening. The Grundig Etón S350 shortwave radio is brimming with style, portability, and functionality. With the S350, you aren't limited to shortwave signals--you get FM and AM radio, too. Shortwave enables you to hear stations from around the world. Get first-hand news and other programs direct from their sources. Listen to the BBC, CDC, Voice of America, DW Deutsche Welle, Radio Taipei International, and dozens of other broadcasting organizations. The S350 receives continuous coverage from 3 to 28 MHz, including 13 international broadcast bands: 11, 13, 15, 16, 19, 22, 25, 31, 41, 49, 60, 75 and 90 meters. Use the S350's manual gain control to compensate for atmospheric and other conditions. With its excellent sensitivity and selectivity, the S350 can receive stations most radios can't, including weak daytime shortwave signals. Other features include a backlit multifunction LCD, a telescoping FM antenna, antenna jacks for SW, AM, and FM, as well as sleep and wake timers (wake to radio and use the S350 as an alarm clock). The radio features a single speaker designed for clear sound. A .125-inch headphone jack (compatible with stereo or monaural headphones, not included) lets you listen in private, or you can route the unit's stereo analog (left/right) RCA outputs to your home stereo system, a tape deck, powered speakers, or other devices. The S350 runs on 4 D batteries (not included), the supplied AC/DC power adapter, or an optional DC vehicle power adapter (12V to 6V DC). Grundig's design-driven Etón line of portable-audio offers a graceful combination of form and function. Unique product design is the basis for all models, as well as functionality above and beyond other products in the same category. With features that satisfy high-tech, style-conscious listeners, Etón products have an added flare that will attract people seeking distinctive portable audio. What's in the Box Radio, AC power adapter, leather carrying strap, a user's guide, and warranty information.

Most helpful customer reviews 132 of 134 people found the following review helpful. Grundig shortwave By mahogany09 This radio is of excellent quality and the receive on AM, FM and shortwave is very good. Being a ham radio operator I really appreciate the rotary tuning knob that has a fine tuning adjustment knob built in. I just can't see myself buying an expensive shortwave radio with no tuning knob. Half the fun of radio is being able to play with a VFO! I also own the GE superadio that other reviewers have commented on. The Grundig does not feel and look cheap like the GE superadio but the GE superadio will outperform the Grundig in a side by side comparison. The superadio has two speakers that are designed for better fidelity and louder audio than the smaller Grundigs single speaker can achieve. When listening to weak stations in heavy static on the AM band the superadio did a better job of pulling out the audio. The shortwave reception is the best part of the radio however and this radio is a real jewel for shortwave use! The selectivity is great, no overlapping of stations that is found on cheaper shortwave radios like the Sangean SG 622. The radios sensitivity is excellent also, I could not ask for better performane from a shortwave radio. I know I made the correct decision passing up some of the more expensive Sony and Grundig shortwave radios that look so tempting to buy but lack a knob to tune with. 67 of 71 people found the following review helpful. Great radio! By Jmark2001 I love this radio. I fell in love with it because of the unique retro-military analog design - all of those analog dials! The sound is big and full. Am reception is strong - I could detect no difference between this and the GE Superadio. Shortwave: I only bother with BBC and Voice of America (VOA), and Radio Canada and they all come in great. If you are a shortwave fanatic who tries to get third world countries in, I have no idea how it will do as I have no interest in that. FM is very good. It has a sleep timer, alarm, clock, BIG numeric LCD display and bright back light.. The handle is comfortable. I also have a Yacht Boy from Grundig but that is only because this is too big to slip into my briefcase. If I could, I would take this with me everywhere! My favorite radio! 45 of 46 people found the following review helpful. Best All-Around Premium Radio for the Money By M. JEFFREY MCMAHON As a radio freak with no tolerance for even the slightest glitches in reception, I own three premium radios: a portable Sony ICF-SW35, a Tivoli PAL, and, most recently, the Grundig S350. If I had to choose one, I'd go in a heart beat with the big military style retro Grundig. First, its reception beats the Tivoli PAL (second place) and the Sony (third place). It's tied with the Tivoli for ease of use. But it beats the Tivoli in sound and is thirty to fifty dollars cheaper. I would have saved twenty dollars had I bought the Grundig on Amazon with free shipping and no tax. But I got impatient and bought it at a so-called discount outlet. I learned my lesson. Back to the Grundig. Its owner's manual is the best and easy to understand. The radio produces clear, big sound. I get KGO 810 radio from San Francisco in my Los Angeles home with the Grundig. I get weak stations loud and clear. Try getting the jazz station or an NPR station at the left of the dial any clearer. You won't. The telescopic antenna is huge and says it means serious business. In short, the Grundig radio indulges those who, like me, must have confidence in their reception. Finally, let me tell you I compared the Grundig S350 to smaller, more portable Grundig models and I'm sorry but those models were cheap and tinny compared to the big Grundig S350. In fact, one Grundig model , a tiny piece of tin with inferior sound and reception, cost almost twice as much. No way. For every day use, stick with the Grundig S350. See all 53 customer reviews...

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Degen DE15 Ultra-thin AM,FM, Shortwave DSP Radio

Made by the same manufacturer that makes widely-appraised Kaito shortwave radios, such as KA1101, KA1102 & KA1103, the newly released DE15 is a versatile little radio with lot of functions & features. It is a portable radio that measures only ½ inch thick and weighs less 3 ounces without the batteries. Powered by three AAA batteries, this digital PLL world band receiver with DSP (digital signal processing) will keep you connected to a very comprehensive frequency range including FM, AM, shortwave. There are four options when tuning your radio stations and they are Auto - Scan , manual tuning, digital tuning and ATS (Auto Tuning Storage). You can store up to 245 preset stations using memory tuning feature. If you plan on traveling with a radio, the DE15 is a very good choice. You can either listen to the DE15 via the built-in D50mm speaker or with the included earphones. Beyond the ability to tune into various radio bands, the DE15 also features a built-in automatic battery charger, plugs it into any wall outlet with the included AC plug. Frequency Coverage: FM: 64.0 - 108.0 MHz, MW:520-1710 MHz; SW:2.3-23.0 MHz. Package includes Stereo earphones, AC wall plug, USB cable, carrying pouch, 3 pcs of AAA rechargeable batteries and a copy of user manual.

Amazon Sales Rank: #85008 in Consumer Electronics Color: Black Brand: Degen Model: DE15 Dimensions: 2.75" h x .50" w x 4.50" l, .18 pounds Portable AM/FM/SW radio with DSP (Digital Signal Processing) Technology Ultra-thin design measuring 1/2" think and weighing less than 3 Oz Wide FM frequency coverage from 64-108 MHz 5-90 minutes sleep timer & alarm clock Package includes DE15 radio, earphones, USB cable , 100-250V power adapter(2 prongs US standard), 3x AAA rechargeable batteries & carrying pouch.

Most helpful customer reviews 11 of 11 people found the following review helpful. A true digital radio! By Sonny Le Smallest pocket FM/AM/SW/FML DSP radio packed with all you need for a radio: Digital tuning PLL, non-volatile memories, ATS (auto scan and store stations), digital volume control, clock/sleep/alarm functions, mute function, backlighting when any button pressed for night time user. Another nice feature is the USB batteries recharge function that you can plug into a computer and/or a wall adapter (3 rechargeble AAA batteries provided). Easy to use and master all controls of the radio. Sensitivity and selectivity are excellent due to the DSP chip, I have tried to auto scan stations on FM band, and this unit scanned all available stations including the weakest ones. AM DXing listening is good too, I can hear 860 AM from Toronto, Canada (broadcasting in French), 570 AM from New York, 670 AM from Chicago - which are 400-500 miles away from where I live. SW is ok, you can't expect too much on this little unit with a short 10" non-swivel antenna, but you can still get lots of strong stations. The only draw back are the audio fidelity (it's not an iPod!) for music listening (even though FM stereo separation is good) and the digital noise at low volume. If you interest in latest digital radio with DSP, Talk/news on FM/AM or travelling with a sleep/alarm features, this unit is the right one to get at an affordable price. With a ~$50.00 you might be able to get a Sangean DT-210/400W for music listening with DBB but without an alarm clock, a SW band, non-volatile memories and built-in auto recharge batteries. You decide. 4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Almost there but not quite... By VS I am using Degen DE-15 for a couple of months and here are pros and cons: Pros: 1. Great sensitivity and selectivity on all bands - AM/FM/SW. FM definitely shines with this one (as with another DSP radio I reviewed - Grundig G8), AM sensitivity is just a tiny bit less that Sangean DT-200VX but DE-15 makes up for it in selectivity (I can listen to AM 550 stations at night, next to the powerhouse AM 560, which couldn't be achieved by several other portables I own). SW is much better than G8's, no pumping up and down, great sensitivity, clear sound. 2. Form factor Absolutely love it now, although the initial impression was that of discomfort because the unit is wider than similar radios. The flatness of the case makes it a perfect shirt pocket companion. 3. Build quality Rock solid feeling, no shortcuts here. Cons: 1. My unit loses all settings (time and frequencies) when batteries are replaced, even within few seconds. This is really irritating as I got used to Sangean DT-200VX keeping them in similar circumstances. 2. Unfortunately, the low volume levels are completely unusable as there's a lot of noise (kind of digital circuitry white noise). The useful volume settings start with at least 11-12 and that means it's too loud for the headphones in quiet environments. I solved this problem by buying a volume-regulated headphones. 3. Battery life is definitely not the greatest, especially with FM listening. I'm getting approximately 20 hours on regular AAA batteries. Conclusion: I am pretty happy with DE-15 as I'm mostly concerned with having portable radio that allows me to get the weaker AM/FM stations in my area, which is a feat by itself. I use Grundig G8 at home but DE-15 is my preferred traveling companion (with an extra set of 3 AAA batteries, of course.) The additional investment of 6 dollars for the volume-regulated headphones is a small price for the convenience. As for the lost settings - well, what can I do? Is there a better portable DSP radio on the market? If you know one, please let me know. :) 0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Nice little radio By Kevin Davidson This ultra-thin radio with memory preset tuning is great for convenient casual listening. The controls are solid and the radio overall

Friday, October 28, 2011

Kaito Electronics Inc. KA1101 Digital AM/FM/SW World Receiver

The Kaito KA1101 is a dual conversion portable radio covering AM/FM and Short Wave. The special designed PLL circuit has a very high sensitivity and low noise levels. Thanks to the dual conversion technology, the KA1101 has a super sensitive radio bands. AM coverage is from 522 - 1710 kHz. The AM reception is impressive. It is able to pick up weak signals very well. The FM band covers 70.0 - 108 MHz (including the Japanese FM band and Russian FM band, if traveling in these areas). The FM reception is overall quite good. The SW frequency covers from 3000 to 26100 kHz in two bands, SW1 and SW2. However, the short wave is what makes the KA1101 shines. The SW reception is exceptional due to the dual conversion circuitry. It is able to pick up weak signals with just the built-in antenna. Overall, you get an excellent world receiver and the price is right. Alarm / Sleep Functions Manual Tuning / Scan / Preset / Direct Entry Clock / Sleep / Lock Two Alarm Modes - Beeper and Radio Mono / Stereo Selectable Tone Select - Music and News Battery Power Indicator Battery Charge Auto Backlight Screen Local / DX Switch Line Out Jack External Antenna Jack Cases , External Antenna, Earphone Size - 5.4 x 3.3 x 1.0 inches (137 X 85 X 25 mm)

Amazon Sales Rank: #31752 in Consumer Electronics Color: silver and black Brand: Kaito Model: KA1101 Dimensions: 1.00" h x 3.25" w x 5.25" l, .63 pounds Dual Conversion Technology FM - 70.0 - 108.0 MHz ( Low FM Frequency ) MW - 522 - 1710 MHz ( AM Narrow/Wide ) SW - 3.00 - 26.10 MHz ( 9/10 KHz Step ) 50 Memory Presets ( 10 on each band)

Most helpful customer reviews 81 of 83 people found the following review helpful. A Lot of Radio for the Size By M. JEFFREY MCMAHON The Kaito 1101, since "replaced" by the Kaito 1102 and, even more recently, the Kaito 1103, differs only in small ways. The volume control is a spin dial, no buttons, but beyond that it's the same radio. In fact here in LA I can get the weak 103.1 FM on my Kaito 1101 but I can't get it in very well on my Kaito 1102, leading me to believe that quality control tends to bring variability. I've also heard from friends in the radio industry that the 1103, which gets stuck in certain frequency zones, is a pain in the [...] to use. So for a small PLL synthesized dual-conversion radio, you're getting top quality for half the price in the Kaito 1101. If size isn't a factor and you don't need presets, you'll get even greater reception with the Tecsun BLC 2000, which is a superior version of its more expensive, bug-plagued clone, the Grundig S350. But for portability and presets, the Kaito 1101 is the best of its kind, better, for example, than the more expensive Sangean 505 and 606, and just as good as the more expensive Sony 7600. Post Script: I subsequently purchased the Kaito 1103, which has even more outstanding FM sensitivity than the very impressive 1101. However, the 1103 costs about 40 dollars more and is more difficult to operate. 24 of 24 people found the following review helpful. Great radio (but only if you don't mind reading through manual once) By Derek Hofmann I purchased this radio so I could get a hard-to-pull in FM station that I like to listen to. With the included FM/shortwave antenna, the reception was better than I had hoped (it's noticably better than with the telescoping antenna). The digital PLL tuning is nice because I don't have to fiddle with the tuning knob. I can just punch in the frequency I want, and then not worry about drift or tuning backlash or any of the other problems that plague analog tuners. For power, this radio comes with an AC adapter (which adds no noise to the reception, unlike the GE Superadio III which has a built-in power supply) and rechargable NiMH batteries, and a built-in charging circuit. Or you can use regular AA batteries. Also included are a carry strap, FM/shortwave wire radio, earbud headphones, and a leather-like carrying case. Unfortunately, the case only has room for the radio and not any of the included accessories. The radio covers the AM band (520-1710 kHz), shortwave (3-26 MHz, but some frequencies are blocked), and FM and lower FM (70-108 MHz). Unfortunately, this means it only receives TV channels 5 and 6, but that's two more channels than this radio is advertised to receive. There's a Local/DX switch and a Music/Talk tone switch. In FM you can switch between Stereo and Mono, and in AM between Narrow and Wideband reception. Unfortunately, you have to read the instruction booklet to figure out how to turn off the sleep timer, set memories, set the frequency using the number pad, and check the time when the radio is on. In other words, it isn't as intuitive as it could be. The manual is easy enough to read, but the point is you shouldn't have to. Another issue is the constant amplifier hiss through the headphone jack due to the cheap built-in headphone amplifier. It's most noticeable when you have the volume turned down. However, the audio through the line out jack is fine. I've read that the amplifier in the Sony 7600GR is better, but that radio isn't cheap. Am I glad I bought this radio? Absolutely! The quality is above average and it has the features I was looking for, at a very good price. It isn't iPod or TiVo perfect, but you can't do better for a radio under $100. 21 of 21 people found the following review helpful. Finally: Something Worth Reviewing! By John Sugimoto The Kaito KA1101 is worth taking time to recommend. I was specifically in the market for the smallest available AM/FM/SW receiver with quality performance especially in

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Sangean ATS-909 All Band Digital Shortwave World Band Receiver

Sangean AM/FM/SW Radio

Amazon Sales Rank: #45353 in Consumer Electronics Brand: Sangean Model: ATS-909 Format: CD Number of items: 1 Dimensions: 5.25" h x 1.50" w x 8.50" l, 1.13 pounds AM/FM stereo with continuous coverage 261 short-wave frequencies ATS auto-tune system 9 kHz/10 kHz switch for overseas reception 5 tuning methods for accurate frequency input

Amazon.com Review Easy to use, quick to get started, but complex enough for the shortwave radio aficionado, the compact Sangean ATS-909 is a terrific travel radio adaptable for use anywhere in the world, receiving FM/MW, long-wave, and shortwave signals. You can set radio frequencies using five methods, including automatically or manually through a keypad or rotary dialing. The digital clock can be fixed to local and world times and provides both an alarm and a sleep timer. You can set the radio so you can fall asleep to music and later be awakened with news, music, or the buzzing alarm. You can also set three different wake-up times, each to a different frequency. This substantial and attractively designed unit also includes a long, retractable antenna for FM/SW and an internal antenna for good reception on medium- and long-wave bands. Tuning can be accomplished in a variety of ways; auto-tune, which scans all radio frequencies and presets your stations to the strongest signals; simple direct tuning to the desired frequency; or manual tuning with the rotary knob. The rotary tuning is quick, direct, and to us, the most effective method for finding and refining reception. An impressive internal memory holds up to 306 radio frequencies, saving you time searching. The LCD displays the current station, frequency, local time, memory location, and the status of the alarms and all other functions. The illuminated display window can also be switched on for viewing in the dark. A small stand on the back opens to permit the radio to sit on a tabletop at the perfect angle for operation, and Sangean has included a handy list of the best times for good reception on various frequencies around the world. The carrying pouch with Velcro closures neatly fits the ATS-909 and the slim shortwave handbook, though unfortunately not the included earphones, portable shortwave reel antenna, or AC adapter. Powered by four AA batteries or the multivoltage AC adapter, the unit comes with a one-year parts-and-labor warranty. --David Greenberger Pros: Multiple tuning methods Internal memory of 306 presets Includes AC adapter and external SW antenna Cons: All the gear doesn't fit in the case Weighs nearly 2 pounds An intimidating number of functions for the novice The Sangean ATS-909 All Band Digital Short Wave Receiver features 306-station memory with continuous coverage of AM/FM stations. You can auto scan, manual scan, or use memory recall and rotary tuning for the best frequency reception. The selectable manual tuner allows for tuning from 100 kHz down to 40 kHz. The Sangean ATS-909 features full RDS reception and displays call letters and correct time for any station transmitting an RDS signal. You can recall your favorite station from anywhere by pushing one button, and the wide/narrow filter reduces adjacent station interference.

Most helpful customer reviews 67 of 69 people found the following review helpful. Probably the best under $300 radio you'll find. By James Tedford If you are really interested in what shortwave radio has to offer, this is the radio to get. There are better models, but for this price, it's second to none. Good sensitivity, adequate selectivity (ability to separate signals from one another) and lots of bells and whistles. Covers all the shortwave specturm. Numerous ways to tune stations, the best of which is the keypad input. Digital readout eliminates guesswork as to what frequency you're on. FM tends to overload in urban areas with lots of FM signals. The only real downside to this radio is it can be pretty complicated to operate. Plan on spending some time going through the manual and figuring out all the features.If you live outside of Europe or the east coast of North American, you'll likely need to use an external antenna. 30 feet of wire with alligator clips on each end should do the trick. 55 of 56 people found the following review helpful. The best portable on the market!!! By A Customer The ATS 909 is the best portable receiver available. Unlike its Grundig and Sony competitors, the ATS 909 has a wealth of features, good audio, awsome selectivity, and an advanced memory system. The negative reviews received by this product both on the internet and in publications are wrong. There's nothing wrong with the whip sensitivity and the supplied roll out antenna makes the sensitivity even better! I was able to pick up broadcasts from Bulgaria, N.Korea, Canada, Taiwan, and the VOA program broadcast to Russia. On the Grundig YB 400 PE that I had, I had trouble picking up even the stronger stations such as BBC and Radio Netherlands. If you like shortwave, get the ATS 909 but get the deluxe version from the [online store]. The deluxe version eliminates muting while tuning manually (something you can only do with Sangean, since neither the Sony 7600GR nor the Grundig have tuning knobs), this allows you to adjust the reception more precisely and to catch the weaker stations. 143 of 156 people found the following review helpful. Poor SW sensitivity with supplied whip antenna. By Marco De Vivo I am kind of collector of short-wave portable radios. When I read about the 909, it seemed to me like the definitive portable (I don't like the 'other definitive, Sony 2100). So, I bought it from Amazon (good price and reliable store) and as soon as it was delivered to me I benchmarked it against the first radio I got on hand: a modest fifteen years old Phillips COMPASS. Well, to my surprise, the Phillips showed twice as sensitive as the Sangean. Even with the sangean's whip full extended, and the Phillips' one totally folded, the Phillips clearly outperformed the 909. When switched to an external antenna, the Sangean improved 100%, but the point is, what a portable means? why such a good radio performs so poor with such a long whip antenna? If you need the receiver to carry it around while travelling, then check the Sony 7600g or grundig YB400PE (both with superior performance as portable). Otherwise, with an ext. antenna, the radio is an excellent all-kind-of-features receiver. The FM capture is superb, as well as the SSB legibility. The sound is quite good, even if not as good as the grundig's. See all 58 customer reviews...