Reddit mentions: The best portable shortwave radios

I just remember randomly reading somewhere that 14070hz is pretty much universally PSK31 around the world. I think alot of HAM user's usually use that or RTTY. Plus of course CW or "morse code". I've also seen Hellschreiber used a few times (you know on news channels that show stock prices going across the bottom of the screen? sortof like this It's basically like in the old days, a printer would print out on a thin piece of paper to update stock at remote locations. They use Hellschriber as the transmission method). Though it's been awhile.


Also if you're REALLY lucky you can capture SSTV color images being sent over radio. I haven't caught one yet but i'm probably just not looking around the right frequencies. They have a very specific tone though. You can try it out for fun though if you have the first Portal game. They had an easter egg of some sort using SSTV. Like this


The "closest" i've been able to capture images was just some weather map lol. In black and white but it was something. But! This was off my own radio i got off of Amazon. The Tecsun PL-600 (I wrote a super long but probably boring review on Amazon's page, under the name Mobius there if you want to read it). It was pretty cool though. I saved an image of it.


Imgur


I sometimes need help seeing it too :p

This guy. The plans are annoying but not terribly expensive.

The Explorer isn't worth the upgrade money. The yellow one is a good deal.

It does spot weather forecasts which are alright. But the best part is the texting - have someone who can read gribs well watching for you and texting you once per day. If you don't have someone to do that, I'm more than happy to (though I'll be sailing south as well, may or may not conflict).

The alternative is SSB. This is the one that comes recommended, but I haven't gotten it to work well. I also haven't put in much time because my inreach system works great. If you can do it, you can tune into not only daily voice forecasts but weatherfax (works with computer and phone apps).

Ok. My short-wave enthusiasts that are also Ham operators recommended this radio for receiving morse code:
Tecsun PL880. Note that many of these inexpensive portable SWL radios are not really designed for what you want to do, but there are a few like this one that do the job very well. This one also falls under $200.

The key feature here is that it has fine tuning and narrow bandwidth (selectable actually) so that it can be operated like a traditional CW receiver. The radio includes a portable long wire antenna which you can plug in and extend out the window to the nearest tree.

You will want to tune in to the CW portion of the 40 meter and 20 meter ham bands, which is approximately 7.000 to 7.125 (40M) and on 20 meters, 14.000 to 14.150.

See here for a nice band chart:
[ARRL Band Chart] (http://www.arrl.org/files/file/Regulatory/Band%20Chart/Band%20Chart%20-%2011X17%20Color.pdf)

Again though, work with a local person that can help understand your particular needs. It sounds like you may have made some good contacts in this thread already!

I live out in the middle of absolute nowhere. I look for radios that have what's called a coaxial antenna connector. That way I can hook the big TV antenna that's on my roof to it, or they also work with smaller antennas that screw right on. If you don't have a big TV antenna you can still get decent reception with the right radio.

First of all, are you okay with buying used? I've had a little Tivoli model ONE that I bough used for $70 maybe 3 years ago. I love it. Its the perfect little table radio, and has a coaxial antenna connector. The tuner is really good at grabbing stations even if I have it hooked up to the smaller antenna it comes with. New ones go for close to $150, but here's a few eBay sellers with used ones below $100

[Tivoli 1] (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tivoli-Audio-Model-One-Henry-Kloss-AM-FM-Radio-Walnut-Beige-/142227322689?hash=item211d68b741:g:5mcAAOSwImRYZK9a)

[Tivoli 2] (http://www.ebay.com/itm/tivoli-audio-model-one-/172468966146?hash=item2827f39302:g:QF4AAOSwUKxYabJK)

Those are just the first two I found under $100. Do some shopping around and you might find a better deal. Some go for a lot more since some have bluetooth.

Not wanting to buy used? Thats totally fine! I haven't personally used one, but the Amazon reviews for [this Sangean radio] (https://www.amazon.com/SANGEAN-WR-11-Table-Top-Radio/dp/B001BGGD8A/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1483422727&sr=8-1&keywords=am+fm+table+radios) seem good. It looks like a nice little unit too.

If there's anything else you'd like to know, just ask!

What's your budget?

A "cheap" radio can be tricky, since if you go too cheap, you're going to have a bad time and not get the most out of the hobby. A lot of the super low-budget radios will yield low-budget results by lacking good (or any) DSP, band filters, good sound, precise tuning, no SSB, etc.

If you can afford around $100 USD, I recommend the Kaito KA1103. This is the radio I started with, and it's a fair price for a great radio, coming with everything you need to get up and listening. I believe there's even a long wire in the box that can string up wherever, but I find the telescopic whip to be pretty decent for what it is. Sound quality is good, with a digital display and keypad, plus a mechanical band display and tuning knob, so you can take your pick about how you want to surf the waves.

Its compact size makes it excellent for travel, but it's weighty enough to be a desk station (I personally like to sit on my balcony with it on a small table next to me), and the external antenna jack allows you to pop in a different antenna if you're not having any luck with the telescopic whip.

It also features SSB, which is always a fun plus, allowing you to hear CW (Morse) and some data transmissions, although you will need to decode them on a different device such as your smart phone. The radio has a line out jack, although I have not really used it, but presumably one could pull off a recording with the right gear.

This radio comes with rechargeable batteries, so it can run off those, normal batteries, or the 120v AC adaptor (which also conveniently charges the batteries). Battery life on the rechargeable batteries is still about 6 - 8 hours of listening time, even after owning the radio for a few years, now.

Video review by todderbert

Have you taken a look at WebSDR? Take a look at that link, you can listen to a lot. I'm not so much about WeFax as it's a DX station, but you could definitely check! There are many WebSDR's in the US as well, but the one I linked is very wide band. Google for "WebSDR' and you'll find a ton.

You could also scour second hand shops for a shortwave radio. Or save up $19 for one of these little pocket shortwave radios on Amazon - not the best radio to listen to morse code on given they receive AM mode only, but you could get WeFax and many shortwave broadcast.

The $20 RTL-SDR would be a good option as well, there are some mods to get it to receive HF, otherwise you can purchase an HF upconverter (or build one).

Best of luck!

The numbers stations you can pick up depend a lot on your location. I love my little Sony ICF-SW7600GR, and have listened to numbers stations on it. The numbers stations I hear are Cuban ones. A shortwave will let you listen in on pretty much anything. I've heard aircraft navigation beacons, conversations between hams, Morse code chatter, world band international programming, and Coast Guard contacts with distressed boaters. If you do get a shortwave before getting licensed, the book Passport to World Band Radio is well worth getting. It contains guide charts to international broadcasts you can tune in, and includes reviews of various shortwave radios you might consider purchasing.

You do know that in a properly executed numbers station, the code they use is uncrackable? Not uncrackable as in really difficult, but as in mathematically impossible. Don't let that detract from your desire, though. Listening in is still fun, and I think the uncrackable nature makes the code that much more mysterious. It is fun to spend an evening listening to the code, and let your imagination run wild as to what message, if anything, the spies in the field are getting. I've done it.

Have you heard of the Conet Project? It's a 4 CD recording of categorized numbers stations! The publisher has made it freely available for download, and encourages P2P distribution, so you can grab it from The Pirate Bay, or directly from the publisher's site. If you download from the publisher's site, don't forget to grab the PDF booklet, too.

Look at the used list from the universal-radio.com site. Try to ignore 1990's-era design--this is a good site that sells enthusiast and professional-grade radios. Go down and explore your options for radios within your price range.

The Grundig G8 Traveler is good, as well are many other older, tried-and-true Grundig models.

Almost anything from Crane is good. I bought one of these as a gift (actually got a lightly-used one through universal-radio.com), and it has reception like you wouldn't believe. FM was perfect, and the AM reception was so good, you wouldn't mind listening to AM music.

Sangean also makes some famous pocketable models.

Oh, and always try and read reviews on radio enthusiast blogs. Check out the comments here for some very useful commentary on pocketable radios.

edit: Here's a nice review of the Sangean DT-400W. I'd go either with it or the DT-200VX if you're looking for something that's pocketable.

TxSurfer,

I would recommend something like a Tecsun PL-660 if you don't want to spend too much money. Check http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004H9C4JK/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B004H9C4JK&linkCode=as2&tag=swlcom01-20

The Sony ICF-SW7600GR is also nice. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00006IS4X/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00006IS4X&linkCode=as2&tag=swlcom01-20

If you can spend money like in the $300 - $500 range look for a used Kenwood R5000 or Icom IC-71A or Icom R-75. Those are all really good recievers as well and many times you can find them for a bargain under $500. It all depends on your budget. I would recommend reading about them a bit first before you decide so that you can get the features that you want. But those radios are my general recommendation.

Hope that helps! 73! de Nick N9SJA

Great question! I have not used the Field Kit but really want to try it out. In terms of sheer shortwave reception, I think the Field Kit is a filtered receiver, so you'll get a different kind of noise cancellation than with the RF Nomad and maybe less sounds of drifting. The RF Nomad has a really narrow band reception, which is its own drawback, so maybe the Field Kit has a higher range and less noise. I'm not sure what the difference between 'Search' and 'Tune' are for on the Field Kit (Maybe that's tune and fine tune)

If you're not interested in CV tuning and just want a great noise source, the Tecsun portable shortwave radios are fantastic. I have a few of them and really recommend them for the price: https://www.amazon.com/Tecsun-R-9012-Bands-Shortwave-Receiver/dp/B001HX4D84

Curious about any users of the Field Kit, too.

I used to in a reasonably packed area of San Fransisco, and most nights I was able to receive Radio Havana Cuba(6100khz),CHU on 7850KHz, WWV/WWVH(5MHz&10MHz), Radio New Zealand International, and Radio China International with the indoor longwire antenna with a $30 homemade set. More recently I bought the Tesun PL 600 from amazon(~75USD) and I think its a capable receiver. The active antenna of the PL600 allows me to pick up quite a bit of Broadcast Shortwave. In addition the PL600 has SSB(single side band) which allows me to listen to ham traffic(My favorite bands are 40Meters and 80Meters) as well as CW(Morse code). In addition once and a while you can find traffic on HF ATC frequencies which is cool. Outdoor antennas do help a lot, but just going to the park with a portable receiver should reduce any interference. These bands are useable globally and the mountains should not be an issue. Since you are not transmitting, a long strand of wire, or the dipole included on the portable radio itself should be enough! If you have any questions feel free to ask!

if you like computers and software, you should look into wideband SDR, which is like this but using your own equipment and antennas. Its fairly simple to get started nowadays, with a PC/ RTL SDR / HF Upconverter.

This is the Radio I bought, the Tesun PL 600, there are probably better out there but for SSB at the time it was the cheapest.

this is very similar to the circuit I constructed for my first shortwave receiver if you are into DIY.

That one is twice the price in Canada! How about this one?


How is this compared to the CC Skywave aside from price?

The Tecson shortwave is the best price and has the best specs to boot with it. It is even better than the old Sony's.


Is that true?

Also I'm in Newfoundland Canada, will that impact the range and fun that can be had with this type of radio? I'm thinking of this as a possible gift for my father. Does this one also do HAM?

read this dude's site to see what he has to say about anything you're considering.

https://radiojayallen.com/

C Crane's are universally well reviewed. I have several of them.. tabletop and pocket. Build quality is very good.

I thought it was some random brand from China, but they're founded and based in California (stuff made in China, though). There's a lot of interference where I live (especially on AM) and no radio I've ever used could deal with it as well as CCrane's. they use extra long ferrite bar antennas. Sound is really good too.

This one has nice big buttons on the top for band selection and memory presets, so your dad should be able to navigate around easily. It's got heft (especially with 4 DCells in it.. comes with plug too). I even got the carry case for it (mostly because it lacks a handle)

https://radiojayallen.com/c-crane-cc-radio-2e-enhanced/

https://www.amazon.com/CCRadio-2E-Enhanced-Weather-Titanium-CC2TE/dp/B00ET7PG5E/

This one is awesome too, but it's pocket sized (and maybe too many buttons for dad)

https://www.amazon.com/Skywave-Shortwave-Weather-Airband-Portable/dp/B00QMTI6YK/

https://radiojayallen.com/c-crane-cc-skywave-radio/

...ever considered Google Home or an Echo.. your dad could just "ask" but I don't know about shortwave streaming services, but if he's a sports guy, he can listen to any MLB or NBA radio broadcast (all season long) with the appropriate apps.

have you introduced him to podcasts yet?

I'm assuming you will be at this camp for a limited amount of time. Consider buying enough batteries to power the radio for the stay.

I recommend the Tecsun PL-310 or the RADIWOW R-108 for people new to shortwave who want to hear shortwave broadcast stations without spending $200 on better portables. I have given the 310 to family and friends who liked hearing shortwave from my radios. The newer RADIWOW looks just as good. The small reel-up antennas work well with these radios.

I am experienced with shortwave listening and would take one of my best portable radios on this trip because they can make use of random wire / long wire antennas of any length without overloading. First choice would be the Sangean ATS-909X. Performance, sound quality and reliability are the qualities of this radio. If I wanted a smaller and lighter radio I'd sacrifice the built-in speaker sound of the 909X and take the Eton Grundig Edition Satellit. Here is the current version of this Satellit. I'd use my 300 foot spooled random wire / long wire antenna with either of these radios.

hey, that might have been me, RS 2, Row B. I just got a new radio for these last games, i generally would bring another one, but it's now held together by duct tape and has been relegated to camping radio.

Picked mine up from amazon, a $25 sony AM/FM. My dad would always bring one to the game to listen and he's been going since the dodgers were playing at the coliseum (he was at roy campanella night), so I try to carry on the tradition. I'm hoping they play Vinny for all 9 all weekend, and I hope everyone has their radios out like they used to.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0081IKTN6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Did you consider a solar powered one? I can't tell you if they're any good or not but Roberts are a good manufacturer.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Roberts-DAB-Digital-Solar-Radio/dp/B003GM62PQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1499553705&sr=8-2

Might be worth trawling through the reviews to see if it'd do the job when you were camping, I guess it depends on how long you can sit it out in the sun for.

A quick look suggests you might need to install better batteries so it can hold a better charge.

I already have a nice camping shortwave and another small multiband receiver, but I wanted another, so I picked this up.

http://www.amazon.com/Kaito-KA321-Pocket-size-Shortwave-Processing/dp/B008MPKAPK

I misspoke. It only has SW 1-8.

It is a cheapy radio, but I have found that some of the cheap chinese radios work nicely for just fun listening

Unlike a lot of people, I'm not that big into the idea that communications will break down and the only news will be shortwave and ham. Ham radio has it's place, and if I can find a nice receiver I might buy it, but I don't go that much into it.

http://www.99w.com/
Tips for the Newberg drive in:

Gates open at 6:30pm.

There is always a double feature. They give you time to leave between the first and second movie. You can also move your car between shows (lots of people bolt after the first show..it gets really late..2nd movie starts around midnight).

Bring a portable am/fm radio. Don't tempt your car battery going dry. I purchased this Panasonic Am/FM radio from amazon and it does the trick. They broadcast on 96.5 FM

Sundays are the best nights to go due to everyone working next morning. I can't vouch for Thursdays. If you go Friday or Saturday, the following applies:

Get. There. Early. There will be a line around the corner of HWY 99 and Debroah Rd going so far as along Hayes St. You WILL say "holy shit look at this line..." . If you want a semi-decent spot once you're in, be in line NLT 5pm. If you think I'm blowing smoke, I guarantee if you show up at 6:30 you won't get in.

The concession line can be a test of patience. I highly suggest you bring your own. On the sold out weekend nights, we've watched people leave for popcorn and never come back. Just kidding...but still, 40 min waits in line? Not ok.

If you're coming in a hatchback (SUV, wagon, or the like) and plan on parking backwards to lay down in the cargo area, you will need to bring tie-down ropes or bungie cords to ensure your hatch doesn't raise past the roof of your vehicle. The people who are parked in the row behind you don't want to see your hatch. Be courteous.


Hope you have fun!

Get one of those portable radios and listen to the game while enjoying some beer at beer fest. Beer Festivals are a lot of fun, I've gone to the Winter Beer Fest in Michigan and have a ton of fun.

It's 36$ CAD so I figured it's not that low quality, but $11... wow

What do you think about these, they're a bit more expensive with good reviews.

1. https://www.amazon.ca/TIVDIO-V-115-Portable-Shortwave-Rechargeable/dp/B071NMCVM5/ref=sr_1_9?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540328848&sr=1-9&keywords=shortwave+radio
   
   
2. https://www.amazon.ca/TIVDIO-HR-11S-Emergency-Shortwave-Dynamo-Wind/dp/B074J6ZVKQ/ref=sr_1_12?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540328848&sr=1-12&keywords=shortwave+radio
   
   
3. https://www.amazon.ca/TECSUN-stereo-Receiver-Display-Function/dp/B004H912FC/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540328848&sr=1-5&keywords=shortwave+radio&dpID=41VC%252BCAzdTL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

I just got a high end Bluetooth speaker called the Demerbox DB2. It's basically a super rigged indestructible Bluetooth speaker in the form of a real Pelican box. You can use it with Bluetooth or via an aux cable. The Demerbox support suggested that if I wanted to use a radio with it, I should get this small portable Sony radio. The Sony ICF-P26.

I don't know anything about radios. The one issue I think I might have is that I work inside a very large building. I think I might have trouble getting a radio signal inside there.

So I'm wondering if I need some kind of more powerful radio that can pick up radio signals better? Ideally, it would still be small enough to fit inside the Demerbox itself.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012F0DGYE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

If have a fairly niche solution that, depending on what you are doing, might help. I have a TV at the gym that is always playing a movie or TV show or something. Because the number of people who want to listen to the movie can vary dramatically, and because the exercise equipment can be loud (rowing machines), and because not everyone wants to listen to what the TV has on, I have come up with this solution that works pretty well.

My TV has a 3.5mm audio out port that you can plug headphones into. I hook up an FM broadcasting antenna to that port and mute the TV's speakers. Everyone who wants to listen to the audio from the TV tunes their portable radio/mp3 player/cell phone to the FM station that the TV audio is being broadcast over.

This gives a variable amount of people individual control of volume, muting, etc. without other people's experience being disturbed.

Antenna: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D826PU6/
MP3 player I use: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B002MAPT7U/


It's a fairly unique situation that this solves, but it might help you get on the right track.

Also note that most gaming systems have a wireless headphones option and Many TVs support bluetooth audio.

If you want to sniff around the entire frequency range the SDR is capable of receiving you will want something outdoors and as high as you can get it. Just stick a long wire in the center hole of the SMA connector and run it up a tree. Attaching a 15-20 foot wire to the outside of the SMA connector as a counterpoise might lower the noise floor a little.

When you're ready for a better setup, you'll still want it outdoors and high but you will also want to do a better job of matching the impedance of the SDR; something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0141X3B5W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T1_z8DEzbKNJ7ZMH

No, no, no! There's no debate for BIFL portable shortwave radios: the Sony ICF-7600

In production for 35 years. I've had mine for 15 years and it still works great. Regardless of what you think of Sony's current electronics lineup, Sony's original product was a shortwave radio and there's still a soft spot at the company for them.

Here are a bunch of reviews.

And a fan page.

Edit: Here's a great Amazon review of the radio. Be careful, it'll be hard not to 1-Click it after reading this.

You can definitely get into some good arguments over the best desktop (i.e., non-portable) radios, however.

I bought a [Sony ICF-SW7600GR AM/FM Shortwave World Band Receiver with Single Side Band Reception] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IS4X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xDGtybHCDKRG7) about 3 years ago and have been very happy with it. It's probably not the most current model, but I see it's still being sold on Amazon.

C Crane is also a pretty well regarded brand, but I don't have much personal experience with them.

https://www.amazon.com/Tecsun-PL-660-Portable-Shortwave-Single/dp/B004H9C4JK

Why you ask?

Tecsun produces some of the best general coverage portables on the market. If you like FM?--excellent FM reception. You like AM?--unmatched AM and SW reception. Want to learn more about shortwave? There are features in this radio that make the mind start churning and visualizing how it all works, (like repairing a SW signal with synchronous detection.)

​

--Frigid from hfzone.org

I just picked up the Sony ICF-SW7600GR a couple of weeks ago based on the good reviews, and I've been pretty pleased with it. The Grundig G3 looks to be decent as well.

I have a Grundig G3 Globe Traveler that I like a lot. It's a very simple but versatile multiband receiver. Covers the popular HF frequencies as well as shortwave, am and fm. AND it can rx ssb. Catching a few qsos and psk rag chews with this little guy got me back into radio.

edited to add: Looks like the G3 isn't in production anymore, but this little sony number seems to be about the same: http://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-SW7600GR-Shortwave-Receiver-Reception/dp/B00006IS4X/ref=pd_cp_e_0

What radio are you using? I have this one and the reception is amazing I can pull stations from Upper PA/NJ here in VA with this lil thing. The batteries last forever too in this thing. It's the best cheapest gadget I've ever bought.

>Do you understand the functional difference in a broadcast antenna and a receiving antenna?

Yes, one transmits, and one can only receive. You do need ot use different materials for transmitting antennas, because, well, you're pushing a lot more current through it.
.

Do you seriously think that dedicated radios such as this transmit as well as receive?


In any event, this is about adding/activating a chip in a phone, not building an additional antenna.

I got one like this off Amazon and it works great! Has about a 2 block radius from my apt :)

I'm in NB and have a Tecsun PL-310ET with an external AN-03L antenna.

Reception has always been great when I take it out camping or on hikes. It's also very easy to ground it to further increase reception (see quoted text below). If you're looking for something with SSB so you can also hear ham, the Tecsun PL-660 is quite well regarded, though might be harder to come by now.

> Run a wire from the negative battery terminal to a ground like a cold water pipe or a rod nailed into the ground. It's easy to just crimp it in the spring on the negative terminal. Instant ~20 dB improvement in reception, about 40 dB improvement total with a longwire attached. Just be careful if you come across a very hot signal. I'm in New Brunswick, Canada, relatively inland and at sea level, and with the longwire and grounding I was picking up NHK broadcasting from Issoudun, France at 99 dB and it was overloading and distorting. Detached the longwire and was getting around 80 dB with the whip antenna. This was in my apartment with the longwire half-assedly looped around a curtain rod. Pretty wild signal for a 5000 km shot but it's apparently a 500 kW transmitter so it kind of makes sense.

Haha thanks since everyone seems to like the stuff on my desk here's a link to the radio......



https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001BGGD8A/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501094933&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=wr-11&dpPl=1&dpID=51HFr3byQcL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

I mentioned what I would recommend, i was just vague with 2 of them.

it's more expensive, but it actually works, and can be used for other things.
(i have an all-in-one unit like you listed, its better with a lithium battery, but useless for anything but a low powered radio).

https://www.amazon.com/SOKOO-Portable-Efficiency-Reinforced-Waterproof/dp/B01HJKJVG2/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1505954608&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=solar+charger+usb&psc=1

this charges anything usb....

its better to charge a battery so you're not tethered to it.
any powerbank will work; https://www.amazon.com/Bonai-Portable-External-Flashlight-Smartphones/dp/B06Y58CXFZ/ref=sr_1_9?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505954885&sr=1-9&keywords=usb+battery

This is the only one I specifically recommend, the rest "any" will do.
https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-Solutions-T480-Rechargeable-Preparedness/dp/B00W75BLTU/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505954944&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=moto+480+talkabout

this is a bit pricey.. buts its a 2 way radio, plus FM, weatherband, flashlight, water-resistant. lacks AM though.

but these are very nice, and can use rechargable batteries,, which could be charged with a USB AA battery charger. https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1505955010&sr=1-3&keywords=sony+am%2Ffm+radio

if you want to argue price... actually charge your phone with that Eton product, and then if you still want to depend upon it, ill concede.

I rock out to Vermont Public Radio, however I've never heard of Ask Me Another or Snap Judgement. I highly recommend this radio if you are listening on your phone. Takes up almost no space, looks wicked nice, and is very loud for being so small.

(its expensive for a radio, but I like nice things. Except my liquor, give me that plastic bottle, I'm just chugging anyway)

I have a bunch of them, but my favorite by far is the Sony SW7600GR.

Last time I looked they were amazingly cheap on Amazon.

Failing that, any of the Tecsun or similar are very good, but make sure it has a BFO so it can receive SSB.

Check out the GE Superadio III. Good sound, excellent reception.

GE SuperadioIII

I tried with the At Bat app, but the significant lag was maddening. I went to PC Richards and picked up a portable Sony AM/FM tuner for $20, specifically to bring to solo Citi Field outings.

Edit: This one

It's also available at Amazon for 2 dollars cheaper, but I'd rather try to give some of my money to a local company. Plus, I was buying it the day of a game, and wanted it right then and there, rather than waiting for it to ship.

You can find other options as well, if you just search for portable radio, but I figured the Sony would have a better chance of holding up and performing, over the long term, than some no-name version that I saved $5 on

It's a bit special, but uses an 18650 and could be made to run on any 18650 pretty easily.

http://midlandusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/ER310-Battery-Installation-Instructions.pdf

https://www.amazon.com/Midland-Consumer-ER310-Emergency-Digital/dp/B015QIC1PW

This guy says he's 18650 but I haven't heard of the company before (they sell them at Sears though): http://kaitoradio.com/ka500lyellow.html

For a full-featured radio, the Tecsun shortwave runs on 1x18650, no NOAA specifically, but it'll do am/fm.

https://www.amazon.com/Tecsun-PL880-Conversion-Shortwave-Reception/dp/B00GJ51NVA/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_469_tr_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=A7EMVJ2CJB5E3FR452D0

I’ve had this C Crane radio in an Amazon wishlist for years… I used to listen to one just like it with a now ex-boyfriend. I still want the radio though. The radio I have now just isn’t as good (cheaper though).

This is really similar. It's a little expensive, but I didn't pay for mine. An ex-girlfriend left it at my house after dumping me. Best thing I got outta the relationship. DOUBLE PLAY!!!!

Not ham, just a regular FM radio like this. You can pocket-sized portable ones for use with headphones or larger ones for at home. Then the broadcast is free!

It really depends on your budget. If you only have $50 to spend, Tecsun PL380is tough to beat.

​

\> Please don’t reply with Web SDRs.

​

May I politely ask why? Some of the Web SDR's (like KPH) have amazing antenna farms.

​

​

Instead of the R820T, I suggest the R820T2 which has improved sensitivity and noise characteristics.

For DXing (long distance), you can get a shortwave receiver with SSB for under $100 (example). If you want to transmit back to those stations you would require a HF transceiver and a ham license (in the US, General-class is recommended). You can get a 1980s-vintage model used for $250-350. Or a new one like the FT-450 for $650-700. Also required for a transceiver would be a power supply or 12V battery, an antenna, and possibly an antenna tuner.

A good portable shortwave radio might be good for news/Emergency broadcasts.

For the flashlights I would go with ones that take 18650 lithium batteries (rechargeable) rather than the AA/AAA kind.

This radio also takes 18650 batteries:

Tecsun PL880 Portable Digital PLL Dual Conversion AM/FM, Longwave & Shortwave Radio with SSB (Single Side Band) Reception https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GJ51NVA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MxQZAb08BPM52

Tis is a great deal! Ordered one myself.

https://www.amazon.com/Eton-Executive-Aircraft-Shortwave-Leather/dp/B000NOSCN0/ref=sr_1_1?crid=26VE4B562TW7R&keywords=eton+elite+executive+am%2Ffm%2Faircraft+band%2Fssb%2Fshortwave+radio&qid=1574952931&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sprefix=eton+e%2Caps%2C169&sr=8-1

Cheap, good sound quality and loud, sensitive, AA powered: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BH6RPTY/

Make a wire 20ft long to throw over a tree branch for an extra antenna length.

I've tried several of the popular hand crank ones, underwhelmed, fiddlely.

My current one is a bit over the top: https://www.amazon.com/Skywave-Shortwave-Weather-Airband-Portable/dp/B00QMTI6YK/

Its overkill, but light and two AA batteries last forever.

Something like that?

There are also micro-system that exists and sound pretty good. Yamaha makes one but they are more expensive. Also, you'll need a phono preamp if your turntable doesn't have one, but that's fairly small.

Maybe just pick up a cheap radio? Do they still sell those?

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_7?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491591981&sr=1-7

But I think the audio-only MLB at-bat is pretty cheap. $20?

I would skip the pairing with a blue tooth and buy a standalone AM/FM radio instead. Radios like this come to mind, depending on sound you need/ price.

[Radio 1] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FK0AEG0/ref=sxbs_sxwds-rbp3?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2898770402&pd_rd_wg=JY2Jq&pf_rd_r=DDAS85NN2EA5HEXTQTNW&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-bottom-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B00FK0AEG0&pd_rd_w=1QDtl&pf_rd_i=sony+am+fm+radio&pd_rd_r=ZMRGZZP3NDZRRKF9CBM0&ie=UTF8&qid=1491362907&sr=3)
[Radio 2] (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-F10-Portable-Battery-Transistor/dp/B0081IKTN6/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-6&keywords=am+fm)
[Radio 3] (https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_4?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-4&keywords=am+fm)
[Radio 3] (https://www.amazon.com/RadioShack-AM-FM-Pocket-Radio/dp/B005MUXNPM/ref=sr_1_21?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1491368308&sr=1-21&keywords=am+fm)

I would go that route rather than having to haul a radio, a transmitter and Bluetooth speaker. Just my thoughts Though.

You will have more luck with a portable shortwave receiver than any typical walkie-talkie type amateur transceiver.

Such as: Tecsun PL-600 AM/FM/LW SSB Shortwave Radio, Black Tecsun https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ESUOMFW/

This and this are both good options to start with.

My parents gave me a Sony ICF-SW7600GR. I'm looking into external antennas as reception can be pretty spotty where I live.

Ahh, thanks for the info! I don't think its a transmitter. Its am/fm/sw. Here's the exact radio: http://www.amazon.com/Eton-Shortwave-Variable-Full-Range-Controllers/dp/B000Q5APCC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425177143&sr=8-1&keywords=grundig+s350

Try a SuperRadio, they are very good at picking up distant signals.

I've got the Sony SW7600GR and am very pleased with it. You'd need an AC adapter to use it on house current.

> Tivoli

While searching Amazon I came across this, it's not a Tivoli but seems to be a quality radio. Thoughts?

Sangean WR-11 AM/FM Table Top Radio

You could get something like this

Thank you, I'll try the app. I just ended up buying this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012F0DGYE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yeah, the first one, but not portable, more like this. Oh well.

You could get one of these. It just has a terminal clip that holds onto the wire.


https://www.amazon.com/NooElec-Balun-One-Nine-Applications/dp/B00R09WHT6

Technically it’s meant to have a second wire to use as a counterpoise but it will still work fine for receiving.

Alternately you could give this a try.

https://www.amazon.com/Portable-shortwave-antenna-receiver-stations/dp/B0141X3B5W/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=long+wire+antenna&qid=1569688854&sr=8-4

The Sangean WR-11 is another option, but I haven't personally listened to this one. SANGEAN WR-11 AM/FM Table Top Radio https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001BGGD8A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_Fv.DwbNT00NPX

Old analog dial radios explained it. This new retro radio does as well: https://www.amazon.com/Sangean-WR-11-Cabinet-Table-Analog/dp/B001BGGD8A

Honestly, this is something I really wouldn't reinvent the wheel on.

Chromecast just isn't a good solution for this.

Just buy a simple portable FM radio:

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-AM-Radio/dp/B012F0DGYE/

You can plug it into the 3.5mm jack on any speakers.

Or just a larger one that has a decent sized speaker:

https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-RF-2400D-AM-Radio-Silver/dp/B00007KDX6/

Frozen caveman mailman here; I use this, and while I'm limited to just radio broadcasts, it's got a speaker. I keep it in my chest pocket, and just shut it off or turn down the volume when I interact with a customer. I (personally) just don't think earbuds are a good optic out on the street.

I keep this in my trunk in case of emergency or extremely boredom. Pretty cool listening to Cuban radio and on summer nights I lay on the roof of my office out in the county and just listen to random international stations for hours. Probably one of my favourite things to do in the summer.

I spotify on the go without my phone using this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QMTI6YK

It's a portable, frequency-adjustable, electromagnetic radiation pulse to mechanical pressure wave converter. It operates several hours a day for months without needing to recharge. It's pretty cutting edge stuff you guys probably don't know about it.

I haven't gotten much of a chance to game test it yet, but I bought one of these.

40-60mb per hour. I would get a real fm radio if you want to listen for a while. The circuitry in that won't pull in many stations. https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-Radio-Black/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=dp_ob_title_ce or https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01L79UFR0?psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICF-SW7600GR-Shortwave-Receiver-Reception/dp/B00006IS4X/

http://www.amazon.com/Grundig-S350-Deluxe-Shortwave-Radio/dp/B000Q5APCC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319768245&sr=8-1

Tecsun PL880

There's always https://www.amazon.com/Sony-ICFP26-Portable-AM-Radio/dp/B012F0DGYE/ref=sr_1_5?crid=G708NHV1YHEK&keywords=transistor+radio&qid=1566595403&s=gateway&sprefix=transistor%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-5

https://www.amazon.com/Kaito-KA1103-Worldband-Radio-Silver/dp/B0006OCEFY

http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/coverage/station_listing.html

Not GPS, but still transmitted.

Something from Tecsun, for example:

https://www.amazon.ca/Tecsun-R-9012-Bands-Shortwave-Receiver/dp/B001HX4D84/ref=sr_1_18_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1537447785&sr=8-18-spons&keywords=tecsun&psc=1

Here's an example of what I'd consider to be a "real" component tuner from Yamaha.

There are probably a few other models from different manufacturers available - but AM/FM tuners are kind of a dying breed these days.

Edit: You might also consider a table radio; this one has a headphone output which (probably) will bypass the built-in speaker and send the audio to your amp.

https://www.amazon.com/Kaito-KA321-Pocket-size-Shortwave-Processing/dp/B008MPKAPK

I have (and am currently listening to) this one and it takes 2 D cells.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QMTI6YK/

i think this is the winner

Specs for the Tecsun are here

Sorry, that is the discontinued model. Here is the new version

Lately I've really been wanting to submerge myself into the hobby of shortwave radio listening. It's very appealing to me because it seems like in resent years it's become sort of a lost art that goes underappreciated in the west except by a tight-knit following. I like the idea of being able to listen to radio signals from around the world. Unfortunately it's a rather expensive hobby to get started on if you want a radio that's worth a damn.

I have this radio on my wishlist that's generally considered to be a good buy and falls under your price requirement. Gimme some Tech Daddi!!

Having many options is the key. First I would watch the local news till that died, then check internet, and then would move to radio (here is the one I have ) then CB, HAM, Police Scanner and land line telephones. Also I would recommend everyone check out /r/darknetplan to keep the flow of information going on the internet in the event that your ISP shuts down.