Many thanks to SWLing Post friend “Karen” who writes:

My husband reads your website every day and is a dedicated radio geek. I’ve decided I’d like to get him an extra last minute stocking stuffer for Christmas.  Any suggestions? We buy a lot from Amazon and are Prime members but any retailer that could get something delivered by Friday would work fine. Since this is a stocking stuffer, I don’t really want to pay more than about $70-90.

Thanks for your inquiry! Readers, “Karen” has kindly allowed me to post her message publicly and no that’s not her real name–!

Karen, you didn’t mention what radios he currently has, so you may double check before committing. I’ve listed a few options with links below. This list is by no means comprehensive–I just did a quick scan of a few retailers based on what’s currently a good deal and can be shipped ASAP.

Since you like Amazon and  get free two day shipping via Prime, I’ll list several options there. I’d also encourage you to check with radio retailers like Universal Radio, Ham Radio Outlet and C. Crane–they, too, can ship via two or one day service, but it might be at a premium.

Just note to check the delivery date very carefully as we are down to the wire! Note that prices, especially those at Amazon, can change without notice.

Last minute stocking stuffers for the radio enthusiast

• TIVDIO V-115 ($19.99): The V-115 is the least expensive radio in this list. It’s unique in that it performs quite well for the price and can even record broadcasts and playback MP3 files. Click here to check out past posts. Click here to view on Amazon.com (affiliate link).
• Tecsun PL-310ET ($42.00): The venerable PL-310ET is a classic little ultralight radio and performs quite well for the price. Click here to check out past posts. The PL-310ET is also available on eBay, but I don’t think you’ll get it delivered before Christmas if you purchase from a China retailer. Click here to view on Amazon.com (affiliate link).
• Tecsun PL-380 ($48.00): Very similar in size and function to the PL-310ET, the PL-380 is also a great value. Click here to view on Amazon.com (affiliate link).
• C.Crane CC Skywave ($89.99): I think the original CC Skywave–not to be confused with the recently released CC Skywave SSB–is a brilliant little radio. Click here to read our review. Universal Radio has the lowest price ($79.95) but shipping is extra. Amazon’s price is $89.99 (affiliate link)
• SDRplay RSP1A ($119.95): I know this software defined radio is over your $90 budget, but it’s a fantastic value regardless. Click here to read our review. Ham Radio Outlet is the only US retailer I know of who could deliver this before Christmas–click here to view on their site. If you lived in the UK, I would send you directly to SDRplay ($99) to purchase.
• Tecsun AN-200 Loop Antenna ($27.90): This isn’t a radio, it’s a portable loop antenna that helps with AM broadcast band performance–not shortwave. Still, I list this because if your husband doesn’t have an AN-200 antenna, he’ll enjoy using it as it enhances mediumwave reception on almost any portable radio. Universal Radio sells the Grundig branded version of this antenna for $29.95 plus shipping.  Click here to view on Amazon.com (affiliate link).
• The Worldwide Listening Guide ($29.95): I recently reviewed this unique and useful program guide. It’s also available at Universal Radio for $27.95 plus shipping.  Click here to view on Amazon.com (affiliate link).
• Shortwave Receivers Past and Present ($39.95): This book is sure to please any radio geek that is interested in vintage radios.  Click here to read my review. It is in stock at Universal Radio but I’m guessing you’ll need to budget for two day shipping since this book is very heavy! Still…I think it’s worth it and will surely surprise the radio enthusiast in your life if they don’t already have a copy.  Click here to view at Universal Radio. Note: I would urge you to call Universal Radio to make sure Shortwave Receivers Past and Present can be delivered prior to Christmas.
• Buy a subscription to The Spectrum Monitor Magazine ($24.00): This digital radio magazine is a fantastic value and a gift that will give all year long. Click here to read our review and click here to purchase a one year subscription.

Thank you for your question, Karen, and for allowing me to post your message, thus my suggestions, publicly. Since you asked specifically about Amazon, and since you get free two day shipping, I focused on Amazon offerings here. Note that my links are affiliate links and if you chose to purchase using one of these links, the SWLing Post will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

With that said, please consider purchasing from one of the radio retailers I mention above. The total price may exceed Amazon’s, but you can actually call these retailers to place orders and ask questions.

Post Readers who live outside of the US will have to check with radio retailers in their country regarding pricing and shipping on the items above. I wish I had time to list links to international options. Perhaps readers can comment with links and other suggestions?

Good luck and Happy Holidays!