Many thanks to SWLing Post reader “RCXB” who comments:
“Another radio deal, if you don’t mind the writing in Chinese, you can get a Tecsun R-911 for just $15.80… A couple dollars cheaper than its already-cheap re-branded Kaito WRX911 namesake that everyone raves about.”
As of this morning, there are still Tecsun R-911s in stock at this price.
While the “911” series of analog shortwave receivers (i.e. Tecsun R-911, Kaito WRX911) isn’t going to win any awards for outstanding performance, they are capable little radios for the price.
I have a Kaito WRX911 (above) and often use it as a low-end benchmark for inexpensive portables like the DE321. The WRX911 is a decent little mediumwave receiver as well; I especially love the fact that it does a decent job nulling unwanted signals as you turn the radio body.
Perhaps the best thing about the ‘911 series is that they’re dead simple to use. No manual needed. Just turn it on and tune around!
If you’re looking for a great shortwave receiver, skip this deal. If you’re looking for an inexpensive radio to keep in your car’s glove compartment, home emergency kit, or camping pack, click here to check out the Tecsun R-911 on Amazon.
I’ve had one of these since 2009, and the Kaito model since 2006. Both are adequate AM receivers for the price. Either one needs Tecsun’s AN100/200 loop to be anything decent DX-wise. I have routinely received R. Australia (9580kHz) and RNZI (11720kHz) with both. SW tuning is not aligned well at this price but tinkering with the coils helps on SW bands, no need on AM, unless you want the Tecsun to RX the X-band fully. I have and continue reporting about the l-o-n-g battery life of either… usually 400+ hours continuous ops (thats 17-19 days on my units, so 430 hours seems OK to say). I would guess 8 to 10 ma current.
My advice, keep one around in case of the Zombue Apocolypse.
Regards
Paul S. in CT