Tag Archives: Shortwave Radio

XHDATA D-219: A Classic Budget Shortwave Receiver in Fresh New Colors

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor Paul Jamet, who shares the following article: 

The XHDATA D-219 Receiver Gets a New Look

by Paul Jamet

Two and a half years ago, I shared my enthusiasm for an XHDATA receiver, the D-219, first launched at the end of 2022:

Read: Paul explores the incredible affordability of the XHDATA D-219

The XHDATA D-219 stands out for its low price and impressive performance. It combines nostalgic analog charm—with its needle dial—with the power of modern DSP technology, delivering excellent multiband performance for its class and cost. Whether you’re an enthusiast, a traveler, or simply discovering shortwave for the first time, the D-219 is a wonderful gateway into the vast world of radio.

More than 25 readers have commented on or contributed to discussions about this little receiver. The D-219 is very easy to use, has a vintage look, a classic needle dial, and runs on two AA batteries. Sources confirm that it is based on a Si4825-A10 architecture, with analog tuning (via potentiometer and voltage), mono audio output, and reception across the following bands:

  • FM1: 87–108 MHz (International band)
  • FM2: 64–87 MHz (East Asia)
  • AM (MW): 520–1710 kHz (10 kHz spacing) or 522–1620 kHz (9 kHz spacing, depending on version)
  • SW: 9 shortwave bands covering 4.75–22 MHz

Switching between bands is simple—just turn the side-mounted dial.

Recent events have also renewed interest in battery-powered radios and resilient technologies like AM radio, particularly during massive power outages such as:

In such emergency situations, the D-219 becomes even more appealing: it’s lightweight (150 g without batteries), very intuitive to use, and powered by standard AA cells. On top of that, its performance is excellent.

Until recently, XHDATA offered the D-219 in just two classic colors: gray and silver-gray.

But in the past few days, XHDATA has introduced two new finishes on its website: malachite green and grayish white—still under €9 (excluding shipping). Stocks appear to be limited.

Personally, I was immediately drawn to the Malachite Green version.

Its matte finish looks elegant and really highlights the receiver’s craftsmanship. Honestly, I think it’s beautiful! The green gives it a distinctive character and elevates the quality of the finish.

Elegance, performance, and price all come together to make the D-219 an excellent way to discover—or rediscover—shortwave across its nine bands.

With the D-219 ‘Malachite Green,’ radio isn’t just something you hear—it’s something that catches your eye.

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of CGTN (August 13, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of a recent CGTN broadcast and radiofax imagery.

Carlos notes:

China raises Typhoon Podul emergency response levels, CGTN Radio, 11770 kHz

Click here to view on YouTube.

Typhoon Podul hitting China: Himawari satellite image via Japan Meteorological Agency radiofax, received in Porto Alegre, August 13, 19h10 UTC, frequency of 7795 kHz USB.

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of Radio Taiwan International (August 12, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of a recent Radio Taiwan International broadcast, plus bonus radiofax decodes.

Carlos notes:

Taiwan Prime Minister Apologizes for Poor Response to Typhoon Dana, Typhoon Podul Approaches Taiwan, Radio Taiwan International, 9740 kHz+radiofax

Click here to view on YouTube.

Radiofax (Typhoon Podul): satelitte image + typhoon warning via Japan Meteorological Agency, 7795 kHz, received this afternoon in Porto Alegre.

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of Radio Taiwan International (August 11, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of a recent Radio Taiwan International broadcast and radiofax imagery.

Carlos notes:

Typhoon Podul approaching Taiwan, Radio Taiwan International (via WRMI), 5800 kHz + radiofax

“…El tifón Podul, actualmente de categoría ligera, se aproxima a Taiwán con una trayectoria que se ha desplazado hacia el sur, aumentando la probabilidad de que toque tierra en Hualien o Taitung. La Oficina Central de Meteorología prevé emitir una alerta marítima en la madrugada del 12 de agosto y una alerta terrestre más tarde ese mismo día. Se espera que el tifón alcance intensidad moderada antes de impactar, con vientos más fuertes y un radio de influencia ampliado…”

(Typhoon Podul, currently a light typhoon, is approaching Taiwan on a southward-moving track, increasing the likelihood of landfall in Hualien or Taitung. The Central Meteorological Bureau plans to issue a maritime warning in the early hours of August 12 and a land warning later that day. The typhoon is expected to reach moderate intensity before making landfall, with stronger winds and an expanded radius of influence.)

Click here to view on YouTube.

Radiofax imagery

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of Nikkei Radio 1 and NHK (August 9, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of recent Nikkei Radio 1 and NHK broadcasts.

Carlos notes:

80 years since the Nagasaki bombing, Nikkei Radio 1 (6055kHz) and NHK (11815kHz)

Click here to view on YouTube.

Translated report:

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of RFI (August 6, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of a recent RFI broadcast via Voz Missionaria.

Carlos notes:

Heat wave in Japan and Iran, heavy rains in China. RFI News via Radio Voz Missionária, 5940 kHz

Click here to view on YouTube.

Carlos’ Illustrated Radio Listening Report and Recording of the Voice of Turkey (August 6, 2025)

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Many thanks to SWLing Post contributor and noted political cartoonist, Carlos Latuff, who shares the following illustrated radio listening report of a recent Voice of Turkey broadcast.

Carlos notes:

Brazil’s Lula vows to defy US tariffs, Voice of Turkey, 9870 kHz

“…Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has declared that his government will not back down in defending the country’s economic interests and will resort to international channels against new US tariffs. Lula stated at an event in Brasilia: ‘In 2025, we will use all possible measures to defend our interests, starting with the World Trade Organization’…”

Click here to view on YouTube.