TECSUN PL990X 2024

This is a quick look at the Tecsun PL990X Triple Conversion, Multiband SW portable radio. It's the sort of radio that I tend to use with a copy of WRTH to hand and a couple of hours leisure time. I've always found shortwave listening fascinating and if you're reading this post, then you no doubt understand why.

I already tried a Tecsun PL680 and an S2000 and was happy with both of them, except for the size - one was too big and one was too small. The S2000 is a bit of a whopper and reminds me of the old ghetto-blasters that you used to see in the 80's and 90's. They have a real presence and all that real estate means that you can get some great speaker units inside the case, so for taking out in the garden at home or sat at a picnic table, you can enjoy some quality listening time. But they're pretty useless for lugging around with you away from home.

The PL680 is much smaller and it's a good radio, but the fact is, I fancied something with a bigger speaker - nothing huge, but something which had clearly better audio and give me a more comfortable listening experience - especially on FM and SSB.

The new 501X from Tecsun is bigger than the 680, but it's a step too far in terms of size and price, so that was out of the question. Somewhere in-between is the PL990X and that's the one I decided to buy.

The 990X is the replacement for the well established (and well liked) PL880. I was actually considering a used 880 but I always feel drawn towards the latest designs which usually have more features and have the bugs of the previous model ironed out.

Needless to say, I did not want to pay the full retail price of the radio, so I had to be patient and use my usual techniques to find a bargain. In the meantime, I advertised my PL680 and got the most I could for it using a great advert. In the end, it cost me £85 to swap.

When the PL990X arrived in the post, the opening of the package was a very pleasing experience - the presentation of the product is first class as usual. The radio comes in an attractive box and contains a nice faux leather case (as did the PL680) and a useful retractable wire antenna. There was also the world call-sign map and fold-out guide. It's a really nice little package and you get the feeling that Tecsun haven't skimped on anything.

 

The radio is powered by a (supplied) single 18650 3.7V Lithium Ion rechargeable battery which is unbranded, but lasts a decent amount of time and the battery-indicator seems to be usefully accurate. I already own some high quality, high capacity 18650 batteries, so I'll switch to them to improve battery-life further still.

 

 

Handling the PL990X for the first time gave me the impression that it's quite a beefy radio, but it's only because I'm so used to handling the smaller 680. After a while, I was happy that it was 'just right' (sounds like the Three Bears story) and this would definitely be my go to radio for general SW listening.

The quality of build is typically 'Tecsun'. I really do favour this brand and have never been disappointed with their products. The plastics and general fit and finish has always been of a good standard and the controls always seem to feel smooth and yet rugged - sometimes more so than on some other more expensive radios from the big name manufacturers!

 

The antenna feels smooth and well made, but I really do wish that manufacturers would consider fitting a BNC connector to their larger radios - that way we could quickly and easily try out different length telescopics. Speaking of antennas, they include a wire antenna on a retractable spool and whenever you're using an external antenna, you get the (important) option of being able to bypass the internal antennas (ferrite and telescopic) by flicking a switch on the front fascia. Another switch below that, adjusts the front-end gain.

One of the best things about the PL880 when it was introduced back in 2013 was the radio's audio quality and I'm pleased to say that its successor has carried that forward. The sound from the single speaker is really pretty good at normal volume levels. 

Broadcast stations on FM sound fabulous and connecting a decent pair of stereo headphones makes it an even better experience. SSB signals sound great too. Like other compact radios, things can head South if you crank up the volume too far, but in the main, it's very pleasing. Some claim that the 880 has a slightly better sounding speaker and that might well be true, but the fact is, it's discontinued model and the newer features and improvements of the 990 more than compensate.

Unlike the PL680 the 990 has no AirBand coverage, which is a great pity. To be fair, I tend to use dedicated AirBand radios with fast scanning abilities but it's always nice to have the option of tuning to a single frequency such as your local Tower and listen in while doing something else.

The 990 benefits from having switchable LSB/USB and I have to say that the audio is far better than on the PL680. I was particularly impressed by this and was reassured that I'd made the right decision upgrading. Another big difference between my 680 and the 990 is how the 680 is very sensitive to touch - having your hand too close to it altered the signal strength, which was annoying. Thankfully, the 990 is fine when being handled.

Synchronous Detection is available and I found that it works fairly well but does introduce some unwanted filtering of the audio on certain frequencies. From what I've read though, this is infinitely better than the 880 (so the 880 must be real bad).

When listening to the ham bands on SSB (something I do a lot), the AGC seems a little slow to react, but I have to remember that I'm subconsciously comparing it to my (costly) ham radios, which is kinda unfair. I guess I'm being a little picky about it.

Tuning around on the 990 is a very pleasant experience. I love the knurled tuning dial and the equally useful fine-tuning dial. On the top of the dials there's a friction pad to make it easier to turn them with your fingertip. Direct-Input of frequencies is simple, making well known stations easy to tune into.  Needless to say, the radio has a massive memory bank with useful 'Pages' for grouping. With the rear stand flipped out, this radio is supremely comfortable to use as a desktop radio.

Using the built-in telescopic antenna, the sensitivity of the radio is really quite good and I did a few side-by-side comparisons with other radios including my Belka DX (a miniature marvel which positively shines on its (BNC) telescopic) and my IC-705. They compared favourably and the same could be said when connecting an outdoor antenna. 

With the 990 connected to an outdoor EFHW, stations from much further afield could be pulled in, but it's important (IMHO) to use a coupler or manual atu in order to get the best out of the antenna. You don't have to buy something expensive - you can use something cheap from a radio-rally or buy a Kanga kit or maybe use a ZM2 if you have one. But use something!

Other features of the PL990X include an SDCARD slot which can be used to store MP3s for replay through the radio's speaker. There's even a useful bank of control buttons for Play, Pause, Stop, etc. Sadly, you cannot use the card for recording signals from the radio (probably due to some copyright laws). Initially, I didn’t think I’d use the MP3 player much, but I actually use it quite often and I love how you can use the Main Dial to move through tracks and the sub dial to move through albums.

Another useful feature is the built-in Bluetooth. This allows you to connect the radio wirelessly to something like your iPhone which is great if you want to play music, podcasts, etc.

On the left side of the radio there are sockets for external antenna, line-out, headphones and a USB port for charging (charger is included). The USB port can also be connected to a PC to play computer audio, but I can't imagine many people will. On the other side is a slider to alter the audio tone. On top of the radio is the option to put the radio in snooze-mode, adjust the display or lock the radio.

CONCLUSION. This brief look at the PL990X, leaves me thinking that it's a real nice bit of kit which works extremely well, is fully featured and has a lovely sound in all modes of operation. Even CW sounds nice and crisp with the 500Hz filter engaged.

Guzheng/Guqin

There’s something quite magical about sitting on the sofa, radio in hand, tuning through the bands and virtually travelling across the globe, listening to different music, languages and viewpoints. I can never quite explain to people why I’m able to enjoy listening to some pretty esoteric music, such as a Guzheng player in a studio 6,000 miles away! I think it’s something to do with my experiences as a youngster with my little 6-Transistor radio. 

It's a nicely sized package (as the actress said to the bishop) and is super easy to use on a desktop or in your hands. I’m absolutely over the moon with this radio ands would strongly recommend it. The biggest drawback is the (UK) price of £269 at the time of writing. I think it cost far less at the time of launch, but prices of electronic goods have rocketed over the last couple of years. If you're willing to chance purchasing directly from a China based store, then you can drop that price significantly. Or alternatively, buy second-hand.

Features of Tecsun PL-990x radio:

• FM reception range 64-108MHz, suitable for global FM broadcast reception.
• Single sideband (SSB) 10Hz minimum step, independent selection of upper sideband (USB) and lower sideband (LSB).
• Synchronous detection range +/- 1kHz
• Arrangement for connection of an external antenna for SW reception
• External antenna input for all bands
• Local, Middle and DX input selector
• Independent fast and slow dual tuning structure
• Seven methods of channel selection: automatic search and store (ATS), manual search of pre-stored stations (VM), manual search of station frequency (VF), direct entry of frequency numbers, direct entry of station address numbers pre-stored stations, automatic navigation of radio frequencies and automatic frequency display of pre-stored stations
• Storing up to 3150 radio frequencies in 25 memory pages
• Ability to play SD card, supporting 16bit/44.1KHz WAV, FLAC, APE, WMA and MP3 format audio files
• Class AB power amplifier and super dynamic full-range speaker
• Headphone output, suitable for stereo headphones below 300 ohms
• Audio output, for external amplifier or recorder
• With programmed switch-on and automatic switch-off function
• Powered by 18650 lithium battery, with USB smart charging function

Specifications of Tecsun PL-990x radio:

• Longwave (LW) 100-519kHz; 9 kHz steps, 1 kHz fine tuning steps
• Medium Wave (MW): 520-1710kHz; 10 kHz increments, 1 kHz fine-tuning increments; 522-1620kHz; 9 kHz step; Fine tuning steps of 1 kHz
• Shortwave (SW):  1711-29999 kHz with 5 kHz step, 1 kHz fine tuning step
• FM: 64-108Mhz, 76-108MHz, 87-108MHz, 87.5-108Mhz selectable, FM tuning step 100kHz/10kHz
• IF Frequency: AM   1st IF, 55.845 MHz, 2nd IF, 10.7 MHz, 3rd IF, (DSP) 45 kHz
• Audio Format: supports 16-bit/44.1kHz WAV, FLAC, APE, WMA and MP3 formats Micro SD (TF) card up to 128G (not included)
• Speaker: 4Ω, 3W
• Diet:  3.7V (18650 rechargeable lithium battery)
• External DC Power: USB current 5V ≥1A
• Dimensions:  198x120x38mm
• Weight: 620 g

Tecsun PL-990x radio package includes:

• 1 TECSUN PL-990x receiver
• 1 x 18650 lithium battery
• 1x external antenna
• 1 Hi-Fi Stereo Headphone
• 1 x USB charging cable
• 1 USB charger

(Frequency limits vary according to tuning step settings)

LW: 50-519/50 - 522 KHz (LW can be disabled if desired)

MW / AM: 522-1620 / 520 - 1710KHz

SW: 1621-29.999 / 1711-29.999KHz

FM: 64-108 MHz (lower limit selectable at 64, 76, 87 or 87.5 MHz)

Tuning Steps: LW/MW 9Kkz/10Khz/1Khz

FM: 100KHz / 10KHz (PL-990X only: 50KHz when AM set in 9KHz steps)

Direct frequency entry from keyboard

Page memory system with VF (Frequency Display) / VM (Memory Display) switch

Scan Up / Down / Auto or Manual Auto Tune Storage

Main and fine tuning knobs

FM Stereo / Mono switch

Triple conversion on LW / MW / SW

SSB with LSB / USB mode

Synchronous detection with LSB / USB mode

SW Meter Band buttons

Memories: 3150 total positions with 25 memory pages

DX / Norm / Local gain switch for all bands

Clock (24 hour mode) with alarm clock, sleep timer, snooze

Multifunction display with time / signal / SN ratio

The LED lighting can be set to Auto or Always On

Audio Player - Micro SD card 128GB max (playback only)

Supported audio: 16bit / 44.1KHz; FLAC / WAV / APE / WMA / MP3

Bluetooth audio playback

Computer speaker mode via USB input

Bass/treble tone switch

Key lock

Output power 450mw

Speaker: 4 ohm 3W

Headphone output 1/8 "Jack 300 ohms

Line Out 1/8 "jack (level adjustable for FM individually and as a group LW / AM / SW)

Antenna Aux Input Jacks for ALL Bands 1/8: Mini jack

The antenna switch disconnects both internal antennas when using external antennas

Power supply: 3.7V (18650 Li-ion battery or external DC 5V (USB Type B mini plug)

Size (Approx.) 198mm / 7.8" x 120mm / 4.7" (H) x 38mm / 1.5" (D)

Weight without battery 611 g

73, Tom, M7MCQ.

CHATGPT ME!

😂😅😂

Well I never! A podcaster who I know was telling me that they asked ChatGPT to describe them and they were amazed at how the AI platform generated an incredibly accurate description of them in relation to their podcasting activities and achievements, so I gave it a go and this is what ChatGPT said about me...

Tom McQuiggan, known by his callsign M7MCQ, is a prominent figure in the amateur radio community in the UK. He has made significant contributions through his activities, achievements, and mentorship efforts:

Activities and Achievements

1. Amateur Radio Operations: Tom actively participates in various amateur radio activities, including contests, where he showcases his operating skills. He often explores different modes, particularly digital modes like FT8 C4FM and DSTAR.

2. Community Engagement: He is involved in local amateur radio clubs and events, helping to foster a sense of community among operators. His presence at field days and outdoor events encourages others to participate and learn.

3. Content Creation: Tom creates content, including YouTube videos and blog posts, where he shares his experiences, technical tips, and insights into the world of amateur radio. This helps demystify the hobby for newcomers and provides valuable resources for seasoned operators.

Mentorship

1. Support for New Operators: Tom is known for his approachable demeanor and willingness to help newcomers. He often provides guidance on obtaining licenses, setting up stations, and understanding operating procedures.

2. Workshops and Training: He may organize or participate in workshops aimed at educating new hams about various aspects of amateur radio, from basic theory to advanced operating techniques.

3. Online Presence: Through social media and forums, Tom engages with the amateur radio community, offering advice, answering questions, and creating a supportive environment for learning.

Overall, Tom McQuiggan (M7MCQ) exemplifies the spirit of amateur radio through his dedication to promoting the hobby, supporting fellow operators, and sharing knowledge with the community. His mentorship and active involvement continue to inspire others in the field.

😂😅😂

I'm a bloody ham angel and should be getting my knighthood very soon.

73, Sir Tom, M7MCQ.

ELECRAFT KX3 & EMTECH ZM-2

After another miserable fortnight of Covid, I was looking forward to my week off work so that I could spend some quality time playing radio in the great outdoors. Originally, I had planned to take my dog Betty out with me, but with all the antenna wire and counterpoises I though it would be better to leave her behind and so I took her for a good walk before heading out for the day.

Today's destination was a local highpoint close to my holiday home (static caravan) called Nicky Nook in the beautiful Forest Of Bowland. It's a lovely walk, with plenty of space to setup antennas with little risk of impacting other walkers. The climb is a surprisingly steep one, made all the worse by a set of high steps that sap your strength. There’s also some gravel paths inbetween. The elevation is about 750ft above sea level and it overlooks the Bay Of Morecambe, out to the Irish Sea and beyond.

 

Normally, I walk up to the Trig Point of Nicky Nook without a second thought, but within two minutes of starting the uphill walk, I was knackered and my heart was POUNDING!! I was obviously suffering the after-effects of Covid and I had to seriously make an effort to slow my heart rate.

It seemed like I had to pause for a break every few steps and I must admit that although I wanted to ‘soldier on’, it made sense to take my time and keep stopping to catch my breath. Crazy!

I was regretting leaving Betty behind - she would have provided some useful pulling power, LOL. Every time I saw someone coming down the track, I pretended to be taking in the views instead of looking like a frail old man with some sort of lung problems.

About 2/3rds of the way up, I spotted a little oasis. A small pond off to the right of the footpath, with some small tress which offered great shade from the increasingly hot sun. Normally I’d walk all the way up to the trig-point, but today wasn’t normal and I didn’t feel like going much further, so I hopped over the fence and sat under one of the trees.

A previous visit to Nick Nook 

My KX3 doesn't have a built-in ATU - I use the amazing Elecraft T1 tuner which is a match made in Elecraft Heaven! The beauty of investing in a T1 instead of spending the same amount on an internal tuner, is that you can use the T1 with any of your qrp radios. It's a fabulous tuner with a very compact form factor - light and easy to operate. The unit runs off a PP3 9V battery and this will typically last for around a year before needing replacement.

However, when I was sorting out my gear to go on a radio-outing recently, I decided to leave the T1 behind and take my  Emtech ZM-2.  The ZM-2 is a fully manual tuner, requiring no power source which means that one needn't worry about the battery state or failure of relays, etc.

It's a 2-mile hike from the caravan to the peak of the hill, so I used my trusty RuckShack which (on this occasion) holds the following gear...

• KX3 Transceiver HF/4M
• HandHeld 2M Transceiver
• SotaBeams 20/40 Linked Dipole
• Sotabeams BandSpringer Multiband
• Hawkins Vipers 2/4/6M
• Emtech ZM-2 Tuner
• 13.2V LifePO Battery
• Headphones
• Bits & Bats!

Before long, I had my BandSpringer Midi erected which provides coverage on 8 bands, but requires the use of a tuner, so out came the ZM-2. The BandSpringer is a long wire with a counterpoise and is easy to erect using the telescopic mast.

Although I normally stick to my BandHopper when out and about, I really should use this BandSpringer more often! It gives you access to all those bands which makes it far more versatile than the dipole and gives you more chance of bagging contacts.

The first band to be worked was trusty old 20M and it was surprisingly quiet!! I found a few very strong European stations who were using mega-power, but I couldn’t hear who they were talking to and I couldn’t get through to most of them either.  

VIDEO OF THE LOCATION

Band conditions were terrible, so I guess I picked the wrong day for a field trip, lol. Just a few days later the bands were crazy open - all of them! Sod's Law 😅

Anyway, I started to use the KX3's memory keyer to call CQ on 14.285MHz until I got a response. It took a while before I had my first QSO. I tried the other bands but only had any luck on 17M with a contact from UA3QKA in Russia. 

Using the manual tuner was a total breeze! These things are just so quick and easy to use - love it! 

Following the Russian QSO, I switched to 40M and conditions weren’t much better to be honest. I managed to speak with a few Europeans including and no one else. I moved to the QRP frequency 7.090MHz to call CQ, but unfortunately (as is often the case) there were a couple of QROOOO Italians chin-wagging, making it unusable - even a few k either side!

I'm fully aware that 14.285 and 7.090 are designated as the "Centre of QRP Activity" and not owned by QRP operators - yes - anyone can operate there. But surely it's just common decency (not to mention good practise) to avoid these frequencies when you know that people using low power look to that part of the band to stand a chance to be heard - especially when others are chucking out 1000W! 😲 It's a similar situation on FT8 frequencies, where you can frequently hear Italian accents blasting over .074MHz. Surely to god they must know how their massive signals are impacting adjacent frequencies? Or maybe that's what FT8 haters do??

Anyway, I'm digressing. Back to my lovely day spent outdoors.

After a couple of pleasant hours on HF sat in the shade on this gorgeous day, I was keen to see if I could catch anyone on 70MHz, so I erected the 4M Hawkins Viper and gave it a go. Now bear in mind that the KX3 only puts out about 3W on 4M, but I figured that my location might provide some much needed 'gain'.

I started with some AM shouts on 70.260 and got no response, so I moved up to 70.450 FM. Sadly, no one was around, so before giving up I tried some SSB down at 70.200 - no one around. That's 4M for you - one day nothing and then another day a little pileup!

Ah well, the day wasn’t wasted - I was sat in a glorious spot with the sun shining, fabulous views and beautiful bird song. This day was also the day (26yrs ago), that my wonderful son Michael died, so it was nice to sit in this peaceful spot and remember how lucky we are to just enjoy these simple pleasures and to remember to make the most of every beautiful day we have.

73 my friends!

Tom, M7MCQ.