Tag Archives: Tecsun PL-880 Hidden Features

Hidden feature: Changing the line-out level on the Tecsun PL-880

Many thanks to SWLing Post reader, Joost, for discovering and sharing yet another hidden feature of the Tecsun PL-880.

How to change the FM line-out level

1.) Turn on the PL-880 and select the FM radio band.

photo (6)

2.) Press and hold the number 7 for three seconds, the current line-out level will begin flashing.

3.) Use either tuning control to change the line-out level.

Unfortunately, it seems that the line-out level only works on the FM band (at least, on my firmware version). That’s a shame, too, as my shortwave and AM line-out levels default to a value that is much too high for a recording device, rendering the port useless. I value line-out for making reliable digital recordings while monitoring activity via the radio’s built-in speaker.

I hope this will be fixed in the future as I’m sure it can be addressed with a firmware update.

On a side note, I’ve been getting a lot of inquiries about a full PL-880 review. I’m nearing completion of it now–about 75% complete. It’s a rather long review and (I hope) will be useful. The ‘880 has so many features (both documented and hidden) that writing a review is a daunting task! Check back soon!

You can follow all Tecsun PL-880 updates by bookmarking/checking this link.

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Tecsun PL-880: How to display firmware version

Thanks to SWLing Post reader, Owl, we know how to display the firmware version of your Tecsun PL-880:

1.) With the radio turned off, simply press and hold the “AM BW” button and the full display panel will turn on.

Tecsun-PL-800-Firmware-20

2.) Then press and hold the “AM BW” again and your 880’s firmware version will display (a four digit number).

Tecsun-PL-800-Firmware-10

I would love to know if the firmware is user upgradable. I’ll try to find out from Tecsun.

You can follow all Tecsun PL-880 updates by bookmarking/checking this link.

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Hidden feature: Adding seconds to the Tecsun PL-880 clock

A very simple hidden feature: by turning off your Tecsun PL-880, then pressing and holding the number 8 on the keypad, you can turn on the PL-880 clock seconds display. Use the same process to toggle between settings.

Tecsun PL-880 clock display showing seconds

Be warned that this free feature will not buy you extra time. (Sorry, couldn’t resist.)

You can follow all Tecsun PL-880 updates by bookmarking/checking this link.

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