Shortwave radios have been a favorite for radio enthusiasts and explorers alike. They allow you to tune into broadcasts from around the world, providing a window into distant cultures and news. PLL, or Phase-Locked Loop technology, enhances this experience by offering clearer signals and stable tuning, making your listening session more enjoyable.
When selecting a PLL shortwave radio, consider the frequency range and reception clarity, as these will impact what you can listen to. Portability is also important if you plan to use the radio on the go. Battery life and build quality should match your usage needs to ensure durability and reliability.
Best PLL Shortwave Radios
Explore our selection of the best PLL shortwave radios that offer reliable performance and great features. You’ll find a variety of options to suit your listening needs, whether you’re tuning in at home or on the go. Consider your preferences and enjoy quality audio with these top picks.
Tecsun PL880 Radio
A great option for radio enthusiasts who want a portable device with excellent sound quality and multiple features.
Pros
- Outstanding sound quality that enriches your listening experience
- Broad frequency range including AM, FM, and SSB which ensures you catch a lot of stations
- Useful features like a sleep timer and alarm for added convenience
Cons
- Could be a bit overwhelming for beginners due to its many options
- Higher price point compared to basic models
- Slightly bulky, making it less travel-friendly
This Tecsun PL880 radio lets you explore a huge range of frequencies, making it a perfect choice if you love listening to all kinds of broadcasts across different bands. It stands out for its rich and powerful sound, which sets it apart from many other radios in its class. You might find its advanced features and tuning options particularly appealing if you’re experienced with radios.
On the other hand, if you’re just starting out or prefer a simpler setup, you might find this radio a bit too advanced at first. It’s packed with features that take some time to get used to. Additionally, the build is sturdy but might feel a little heavy in hand, especially if you plan to carry it around often.
Tecsun PL880 Radio
The Tecsun PL880 offers strong performance with its wide range of features, which makes it a great buy for radio enthusiasts.
Pros
- Tuned for many bands, giving lots of listening options
- Easy-to-use digital controls increase accuracy
- Quality sound from a powerful speaker
Cons
- Interface might be confusing for beginners
- Somewhat bulky, making it less travel-friendly
- Higher cost compared to similar products
Tecsun PL880 offers full range band coverage, which lets you listen to a wide variety of broadcasts. It lets you access AM, FM, Longwave, and Shortwave frequencies, including Single Side Band reception. This flexibility is a key feature if you love exploring different radio stations around the world.
Its digital PLL synthesized dual conversion receiver provides excellent sensitivity and selectivity. This means you’ll enjoy clearer signals and sharper reception. The radio’s sound output is impressive too, thanks to its well-designed speaker.
Despite its many features, the interface may take some time to learn, especially for first-time users. Additionally, while it has rich functionality, the unit is a bit larger than some other portable radios. This might make it less ideal for someone always on the move. Keep in mind the price is on the higher end as well, but many find it worth the investment.
Tecsun PL-360 Digital Shortwave Radio
This radio is a good fit for those who want a portable device with easy station access and enhanced AM reception.
Pros
- Compact and easy to carry
- Offers a unique way to tune quickly
- Great sound clarity with DSP
Cons
- Requires AA batteries, not included
- May be confusing for first-time users
- Limited to local stations without extra effort
This Tecsun PL-360 radio stands out for its portability and ease of use. It’s small enough to go with you anywhere, making it ideal for travel. You’ll find the patented ETM tuning system quite handy because it scans for stations without taking up memory space.
One standout feature is its external AM antenna, which significantly boosts AM reception. This lets you grab those distant or weak signals with better clarity. Plus, the radio provides excellent sound quality using digital processing.
It’s powered by regular AA batteries, so it’s easy to keep going. However, be prepared to have your own batteries on hand. While the learning curve might be steep for newbies, once you get the hang of it, tuning into your favorite frequencies becomes a breeze.
Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio
This versatile shortwave radio is a solid choice for both outdoor adventures and emergency readiness due to its useful features and reliable performance.
Pros
- Supports multiple radio bands, including NOAA alerts
- Offers Bluetooth connectivity and USB drive support
- Comes with three charging options, including solar and hand crank
Cons
- Interface can be a little tricky to master
- Flashlight brightness might not meet all needs
- Not ideal for those who prefer super compact designs
The Emgykit Portable Shortwave Radio delivers more than just basic listening. Its broad station reception lets you enjoy AM, FM, SW, and weather band channels with ease. The weather alert function ensures you stay informed about severe weather updates. Additionally, its flexibility with manual and digital tuning gives you control over listening.
Additional features like Bluetooth, USB support, and a TF card slot enhance its usefulness. This allows you to listen to your favorite files on the go. It also comes with seven natural sounds to help you relax and fall asleep easily—ideal for long camping trips.
Rugged and reliable, this radio is designed with emergency preparedness in mind. You’ll find peace of mind with its flashlight and SOS alarm. With a variety of charging options, including a hand crank and solar power, you’re prepared for unexpected situations where standard power sources may not be available.
TECSUN PL-380 DSP Radio
This radio is a solid choice for anyone looking to explore various shortwave bands with ease and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent tuning capabilities make it easy to find stations.
- Compact design adds to its portability.
- ETM function helps find weak signals effectively.
Cons
- Speaker quality could be better for clearer sound.
- Handling multiple functions might take some getting used to.
- Uses batteries, which means frequent replacements for heavy users.
The TECSUN PL-380 DSP Radio is built for those who enjoy exploring different radio bands with ease. It’s equipped with advanced tuning modes, making it simple to find new stations. ETM stands out as a feature, especially useful for picking up weaker stations you might miss otherwise.
Its compact size makes it convenient for travel, allowing you to take it along wherever you go. The lightweight design also makes it an ideal companion for outdoor activities. Despite its small size, this radio packs in advanced technology that improves listening experiences.
Some areas might leave you wanting more, like the speaker quality, which isn’t the best for high-volume listening. Additionally, the battery power means you might need to carry extra batteries on longer trips. Despite these points, this radio offers a great balance between features and portability, especially for hobbyists and travelers.
Buying Guide
Finding the right PLL shortwave radio can be easy if you know what to look for. Here are some key features to consider:
Frequency Coverage
Make sure the radio covers the range of frequencies you are interested in. Some radios can pick up more bands than others, which might be important depending on where you live.
Display Type
Consider if you want an analog or digital display. A digital display can show more information like frequency and time but might use more battery power.
Tuning Methods
Look for different tuning methods such as manual, automatic, or direct keypad entry. Automatic tuning can be quicker, while manual tuning gives more control.
Portability
If you plan to travel, you might want a radio with a compact size and lightweight design. Check if it has a carrying handle or comes with a carrying case.
Power Source
Different radios use various power options. Some have built-in rechargeable batteries, while others use replaceable batteries or both. Consider what will be most convenient for you.
Sound Quality
A radio with good sound quality enhances the listening experience. Features like a large speaker or audio output for external speakers can make a difference.
Durability
Look for materials that can withstand wear and tear. Water resistance might also be a feature to look for if you plan to use the radio outdoors.
Additional Features
Consider extra features like alarms, sleep timers, or a backlit display. These can provide added convenience and functionality.