Category Archives: Radios

Update: ELAD FDM-S1 shipping March 26

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The ELAD FDM-S1 Software Defined Receiver

I just received an update from WoodBoxRadio stating that the new ELAD FDM-S1 software defined radio will begin shipping Monday, March 26, 2012 to those who have pre-ordered the unit.

WoodBoxRadio also noted that the FDM-S1 is still available at a “special” price of 399 Euro.  This pricing is only valid until March 31, 2012, at which time, I assume, the price will increase.

If you have purchased the ELAD FDM-S1, we would love your thoughts on this receiver. Please comment!

Could the DR111 DRM Radio be the portable we’ve been waiting for?

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The DR111 DRM Radio (Photo: Chengdu NewStar Electronics)

One of the reasons DRM (Digital Radio Mondial) has struggled to gain global popularity is that there has yet to be a portable radio solution with universal appeal.

Perhaps the future Chengdu NewStar Electronics DR111 DRM Radio will change that? According to their website, the company is certainly setting out to make an affordable receiver that is simple to operate. Hopefully, CDNSE has learned from this radio’s predecessor; ergonomics, affordability and overall ability to receive and decode DRM signals are the keys to its success.

We have added the DR111 to our Shortwave Radio Index. Check back as we will post updates.

Degen DE1128: More photos and features released

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This blog has published more details about the DE1128. For those of us not fluent in Chinese, Google translate seems to do a fair job of translating details.

We have updated the SWRI entry for the Degen DE1128 with our interpretation of the translated features.

It appears it has many of the features we had assumed and is strikingly similar to the Grundig G2 Reporter.

Thanks to the Herculodge for the tip!

UPDATE: eBay seller Tao Qu has informed us that the Degen DE1128 will have AM (Mediumwave) steps locked in at 9kHz, meaning this portable would not be ideal for the MW DXer  in the US.

The Grundig G2 Reporter – a new shortwave radio from Eton Corporation

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(Photo source: Eton Corporation)

It looks like a new Grundig shortwave radio is in the works, with availability as early as 2nd quarter.

I was just sent the following press release which was published prior to the 2012 CES:

(Source: Eton Press Release)

(Palo Alto, CA – January 9, 2012) – Etón Corporation, a leading creator of high-performance, green-powered consumer products, announces the Grundig G2 Reporter. The Grundig G2 is a portable travel radio that features multi-language capabilities and five tuning methods, providing a convenient way to listen to your favorite content wherever you go, from anywhere in the world.

The G2 Reporter is another reliable radio and information source added to the Grundig series. Use the five tuning methods – jog, manual, auto, memory, or ATS (Auto Tuning Storage) – to quickly scan or browse stations from anywhere in the world – hearing broadcasts in each country’s native language. The G2 furthers its international appeal with multiple language capability, allowing users to choose from a variety of languages to be shown on the LCD display.

Additional features of the G2 Reporter include:
AM/FM/WB frequencies
Dual stereo speakers with digital volume control
Signal strength indicator
Sleep timer and alarm clock functions
Multiple language selection
Ports: 3.5mm headphone output, line-in, MIC,
MINI-USB 2.0 jack (high speed)
Rechargeable lithium battery (1250mAh), charge through USB

“Etón has partnered with Grundig for the past three decades and we are proud to continue the brand’s long-standing quality tradition with the introduction of the G2,” said Esmail Amid-Hozour, CEO of Etón Corporation. “Grundig enthusiasts remain loyal and we know they won’t be disappointed with the innovative products in our 2012 line.”

Weighing only 9.6 oz. (272 g), The Grundig G2 Reporter is the ideal product for global travelers. Available in Q2 2011, the Grundig G2 Reporter will retail for $150 USD. For more information on Etón Corporation and its products, visit www.etoncorp.com.

Though very similar in appearance and features to the Tecsun PL-398MP or, better yet, the future Degen DE1128, I imagine that Grundig has put their own spin on this small rig. I have found that quality control tends to be much better via Grundig than Degen. With these specifications, it would indeed be a great portable SW radio for travel.

Update 1/11/12: Universal Radio has now listed the Grundig G2 in their catalog.

A new Degen portable in the works–the Degen DE1128

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Preliminary drawings of the Degen DE1128

It appears that Degen is working on a new dual speaker portable shortwave radio–the Degen DE1128.

It looks like the DE1128 will have MP3 recording features, including a built-in microphone. The footprint and layout seem strikingly similar to the new Tecsun PL-398MP.

We will post more information on this radio as it becomes available.