Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor, Jack Dully, who notes that the Tecsun PL-990X is back in stock at Anon-Co. Click here to check out their ordering page.
In addition, Tecsun Radios Australia is offering free shipping today (Friday 13, 2020).
If you’ve been considering purchasing the PL-990 or PL-990x, I’d encourage you to check out the following posts and reviews:
At the same price, you can find a nice R-600 or R-1000 or a trusty FRG-7/7000/7700. Or a SONY ICF7600 portable. Far better.
Problems regarding SSB/CW reception with the PL-990x :
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The PL-990x has a very high RF-sensitivity.
At first I was thinking the PL-990x would have a faulth in the construction , because
many demodulated SSB/CW signals have showing FM-effects … Thats why I made an reset ,
but it gaves no solution of the problem .
My test result is :
On large – e.g. real amateur radio – antennas the PL-990x causes problems because of the strong signals (original voltage from the antenna) when demodulating SSB/CW strong FM effects happen because the PLL is simply “blown out” by high levels , the PLL starts working unstable !!!!
The PL-990x is NOT designed for large antennas with very high signal levels in terms of dBµV !!! The more the signal level drops below 40 dBµV, the higher the S/N ratio and the demodulation is correct and clean without FM effects!
For example, when using a G5RV antenna, I have e.g.achieved a
3 dB attenuator in front of the PL-990x antenna input and the antenna switch of the PL-990x is NEVER in the “DX” position … but mostly in the “Norm” or even “Local” position. You could also open the PL-990x and put in an attenuator potentiometer.
(1 k? to ground). On this occasion – when you have the unit open – you can also install a sensible and better antenna socket, e.g. an SMA socket.
Then everything is wonderfully in order and the reception is excellent, for the most part even better than with my IC-7300 !!!!
Ragards , Jens / HB9JOI
The PL-990 is way overpriced for a SW portable that is essentially a warmed over PL-880.
I will probably go with the ATS-909X2 instead as I’ve had enough of being burned by poorly designed Chinese crap.
The ATS-909X2 is listed around $400 right now. o.0 At least through the Sangean Euro store.
Unless you really want a traditional portable radio, the Airspy HF+ Discovery SDR can be sourced for well under $200 shipped. Add a basic $200 notebook if needed. Build a longwire antenna for a few dollars.
And the 990 might come to Universal Radio at the end of next month – fingers crossed.