Please don't confuse criticism with hate. It’s great news that the manufacturer listened to the viewers and made changes. Actions like making improvements based on customer feedback will make companies stand out and become more successful. Great review and well done, Choyoung.
I ordered this radio after your “best radio” review. I had to wait several months. I am an RF engineer and have been a ham radio guy for 60 years. I love this radio. I agree with everything you said, especially on this second review. Mine had no birdies that I could detect. Probably was fixed in the firmware. The Blue tooth works exceptionally well. I use it with KIWI SDR from my phone. Wow!! Thank you for both of your videos. You are the reason I bought this radio. No regrets!
The radio has so many problems that it's basically a scam! Might be OK after I get the software updated but that's turning out to be really hard to do.
Thanks so much for the kind words. I am blessed to get the chance to check out all these great things and It means a lot to have people enjoy the content.
I just ordered the LC90. I was sold after watching both of your reviews. I am a longtime shortwave enthusiast. I built my first radio, a Knight Kit Star Roamer when I was 16 y.o. Radio has evolved a lot since then (1966). Keep up the great videos ... I enjoy them a bunch. BTW ... I ordered a stand that is now available for the radio too.
You need to test that SIM card feature for us, that has some potential for being a game changer and I have never seen that in a radio. And the hart button is something I like if it is a one button press to add whatever I am tuned to to a favorites list. And can you add podcasts? Can it provide a menu of podcast episodes to choose from if provided a link? Podcasts are to radio what RUclips is to tv.
I know you can manually add in new stations, but I am not sure about podcasts. I also know that I sent them an e-mail to ask if they would add a station to the list and they did so fairly quick.
Mine just been delivered and it’s already hooked up to the net. The internet side is unbelievably packed with exactly what you said ie: thousands and thousands of stations
Congratulations , I've already had the radio for a month and I'm really enjoying it, because I enjoy listening to FM where ATS has programmed 42 stations in my region and I enjoy listening to internet stations, where here in Brazil alone more than 300 online radio stations have opened. I highlight the audio quality, the sound on FM and the Internet is wonderful, it's a pleasure to listen to. My interest is FM and online radio, where the LC 90 is excellent, innovative.
@@FarpointFarms Thank you, this radio is really cool and deserves to be shared for the innovation and technology and also for Choyong's dedication and excellent service.
I really appreciate your review(s) on this radio. I, too, prefer to listen to the radio on a radio, and you’ve convinced me to purchase this model to accompany my 2 other Tecsun radios.
I had that same Radio Shack mixer back in the 1980's. Mixed many a tape with it. That was when RS was at it's prime with us hobbyists. Really miss those days.
I know nothing about short wave radios but came here just to echo the comment on that radio shack mixer that served me well in my DJing days doing high school dances & wedding receptions. :-)
@@jim27105 I also had a RS equalizer, reverb, cassette tape unit, first SW radio with side band, a Realistic scanner. Radio Shack was somewhat shitty priced at times, but for the electronics hobbyist, you could go there and get what you needed. The good old days.
Best sw receiver I’ve ever had was the Sony ICF SW77. Portable like that one but could pull in stations even larger radios struggled with. Wish I still had it.
A “birdie” is an internally generated frequency within the circuitry that will present itself as you manualy tune or use the search function, by showing up as a strong yet quiet signal at various places along the frequency range, with no data on that frequency. Some radio’s and particularly scanners can have many, a few or none. Try a RUclips search on what is a radio birdie.
Interesting. Either my two units didn't have the issue, or it was so minor that it never bothered me while listening. Whatever the case, apparently they cured the issue with the 4.5 software update. Makes me wonder what other radios I own that have this issue. I am fairly deaf (80% one ear, 60% in the other) so perhaps that is why I don't notice it?
I just got the LC90 and I love it. It definitely is one of the greatest radios made. It keeps the traditional radio feel, with a modern touch. There is absolutely nothing you cant listen to on this radio and it sounds great. Thank you for introducing me to this radio.
But it's mono on the headphone jack! Massive fail. The "greatest radio ever made" would NOT, I repeat NOT reduce a stereo signal to mono on the 3.5mm headphone out.
@@kerosene4751 Everything that comes out of my headphone port is in stereo if the source is in stereo. I can hear stereo on FM stereo radio stations, stereo on internet radio stations, and stereo when playing MP3 tracks from my SD card. I tried with the output going to my Sony studio headphones, and also ran the output directly to my amplifier and speakers. It is indeed stereo all around. Maybe you need to update the firmware, or check to make sure your sources are in stereo. I have firmware 4.5 right now which is currently the latest.
That Radio Shack mixer behind your right side, I had one of those. Had to give it away in my last move. Great review on the Radio as well. Just had a memory trip.
Thanks for your honest reviews If you say an item is below standard (junk ) it mostly likely is, if your review is positive the item is more than likely good. Today's radio you showed looks great! Thanks!
Thank you- there are so many items that I never make into a video because they are just garbage. I think this radio is perfect as it has a little something for everyone.
I bought one. If I have any complaints, it’s not with the radio, it’s the instruction manual. Haven’t downloaded the updates yet. But I’m anxious to get them. Great radio. I love listening to “Old-time Radio” classics.
That is a Very nice radio! I was strongly thinking about one yesterday. My Tecsun 990 and my Sangean WR series radios are Bluetooth capable. I just discovered Radio Garden, and I am testing that out on my radios to see how well it works over the next few weeks. The Radio Garden interface is extremely user friendly, and I love being able to listen to international radio in my car. Having said all that, I think the radio you are demonstrating is really a great product, and has been interesting seeing so many people test it out. Thanks for posting such great content, cheers!
Nifty machine...and the features are innovative for a radio....can it be powered by an external battery if the power goes down, and can it transmit messages via a built in mic through the CB band?
This type of radio is the next generation type of radios called a ‘Software Defined Radio’, or SDR. They’re still legit radio receivers, but instead of demodulating RF signals via analog front ends, it uses software to process them. Because it is run by software, it allows amazing companies like this to easily add additional functionality via software updates. To add functionality to hardware, companies would have to re-release hardware with modifications, whether it’s a wholly new product, or people would have to mail their device in to the manufacturer for modifications. Software is amazing
I just received my lc90 and love it I've got the USC cable for recharging the battery but I can't seem to find a wall outlet power source for powering on the device nor do I see one listed on their website on Amazon any suggestions? Thanks
Just found your channel and found it interesting. I am not a radio enthusiast and need a radio for shtf. What is the issue with AM reception? Is it the radio or your location? I am a veteran of Hurricane Katrina and having evacuated to central Mississippi I relied on AM radio for updates from NewOrleans for the 6 weeks we were away. Why is AM radio difficult to receive during the day vs the night?
It is my location- The closest station is about 25 miles away (very low power) then add in a bunch of mountains and I can hear very little (on a good day). It is a shame because I used to listen to AM all the time before I moved up here.
The algorithm really threw you out there Erik, 50k + views. I was unsubscribed, but it brought me back to you. Follow you on the Restoration channel but there is only 8k of us there, thought it went quiet, and no meal ideas from Jen either, l' m glad l' m back, and plenty to catch up on. I enjoy your channel during the Autumn/Winter most of all, more time spent in doors, l guess. ( The radio looks like a keeper, too).👍
Welcome back! I now have 3 channels under the Farpoint brand. A new Mower channel just started up a month or two ago. This channel has it's ups and downs. Time is always a issue, but we have made some cooking videos and I have two MRE reviews I need to post. I've scaled back the reviews as I just don't have the time, and I don't need much since Vevor literally gave me everything they make! Radio stuff continues, but I feel like I've made so many on the subject I'm not sure that people need to hear anymore from me on that subject.
@FarpointFarms A BIRDIE is a signal that’s generated inside the radio and mixes with actual frequencies you are trying to listen to - sounds like two stations transmitting on top of each other and makes an annoying whistle blocking the program you are trying to listen to
@@FarpointFarms one other point I left out the radio doesn’t put out this interference on every frequency but just some that aren’t filtered out like current local oscillator mixed with particular intermediate frequencies and that special combination makes the birdie irregular and annoying another example a cheaper scanner will also have this quirk so I suppose depending on use case you may encounter depending on the design of the receiver and the proper shielding characteristics. There maybe a Wikipedia article on birdies and the math used to determine where and when a birdie will show up. I’m glad I could give you a starting point into the quirks of radios designed for our information and entertainment consumption. Have a good day
Odd thing is where I am in PA I don't get any AM on any radio I have unless it's at night on a long wire. Still don't have cell coverage where I am too.
Your like me. No local stations in range. It's sad as I'm sure if you look into it, there once might have been one. Here we lost 1200 as it turned into a music station and lost it's local flair before going away all together.
@FarpointFarms everything is on FM around me now. Lot of local FM stations. I am 3 hours to NYC and can't pull any of the big power Am stations. They only Come in at night on long wire. Some nights Canadian stations come in and they are 6 hours away at 400 miles.
I do not understand most of the terms you use. Is there a book or a website that you recommend for learning the basics of all these different radio frequencies you are talking about? I know I can look up individual terms on the web and I shall but I would like a nice, central, reference book or website. Thank you!
We're heading toward another firmware update in coming weeks, which will be aimed at addressing some of the shortcomings with the Internet section. As for SSB, it remains less than satisfactory because the radio was not built for that feature from the ground up and is firmware implemented.
I still find it incredible that they used software updates to give the radio full coverage and then added SSB as a perk. Makes me wonder what's in there running everything!
@@FarpointFarms It's likely to be SDR based. You should research the RTL2832U DVB-TV dongle to understand the SDR story and whats possible with SDR. It's basically a TV tuner USB dongle that someone realised could be programmed to receive Radio bands. Combined with free open source software, it offers a really cheap way to use your PC to have a very comprehensive communications receiver. It has many advantages (upgrades through software revision being one of them), but some disadvantages too. (The performance is never going to match that of an analogue based RF front end in a receiver). In my experience SDR is great if you have a really good antenna, but does suffer if you don't.
I have seen something about it. I think it has to do something with naming rights and getting it all sorted out. Same company just the name part got weird.
For many years, hams have referred to spurious signals on their radio as “birdies”. Typically tones or chirps, birdies are unwanted signals caused by radio or nearby oscillators.
Okay, I just asked on another one of your videos Eric, but just seen this video. I've put it in my cart on Amazon....seems like you really endorse it. I think I'll be purchasing in the next couple days...
Cool radio, thanks for the video. Have you experimented with the HackRF One much? I'm a few months into using it with a portapack, mostly for cyber security research, but I plan on taking the 3 HAM exams soon and I intend to use the hackrf when the time comes that I transmit with a callsign.
Not that particular one, but a similar SDR based radio that works via a laptop. While it was cool to see sat photos and air traffic, other than those special features, I found it to distracting to actual listening.
I am new to shortwave radio. As I understand from your video this radio covers all the shortwave bands. Does this include the air band and weather bands? Thank you for your informative videos. Also I see there is a "Mini" version of this radio for $50.00 less. Do you know if there much difference between the 2 radios? Thanks again.
@@FarpointFarms Thank you. I contacted ChoYong. They sent me a comparison chart. The mini does not have an external antenna, only has one 2500 mAH battery and it is not replaceable, speaker is not as good and sideband will be available after an update. In my opinion it is worth the extra $50.00 to get the full package radio. Your a good teacher. I am just getting started in shortwave and from what people tell me I am about 20 or 30 years too late to enjoy shortwave when it was in its heyday.
We have a whole new generation that doesn't know what a portable multi-band radio is !! Or boom box ! I had a multi-band radio back in the late 1960's and the faraway stations it could pick up was amazing !
It is a shame what the younger generations just don't know or want to know about. They are in trouble if something big were to happen-- They can't even drive a stick shift
Great review, great about these are the updates, right? I wonder if they manage to add FM Mute (to lock out hiss between & weak stations)? Another feature would be a SCOTZ noise cancelling filter easily made in software. It blends lower L&R (stereo) audio signals to eliminate hiss (Sort of auto Wide/Narrow) system keeping stereo intact. A lot of more expensive FM home tuners (NAD) have it and they clearly work. For the rest it is a beautiful design and with WIFI and a SIM card slot unbeatable.
Erik, you did convince me to get this radio even though I still feel $250 is a lot for any radio. I was able to take advantage of the Black Friday deal for $199 which is technically a steal? LOL. However researching all internet radio offerings definitely continues to bring this one at the top. I am used to dealing with phone apps and connecting to external speakers for fuller enjoyment of the sound; and because of that I can't understand why that is not a built-in option for this radio. It already has bluetooth for the opposite direction use case so in my simple-non-technical mind, it should be a firmware update for that to be allowed but I am probably wrong. I did end up getting a bluetooth transmitter receiver dongle that I can use in the mic out plug and connect to external bluetooth speakers to achieve what I wanted. It works like a charm. The radio is really amazing and so easy to use compared to some other internet radios. Honestly other than FM and Internet radio, the rest of the features are not that important for me, but being able to replace the battery (which I assume is doable by opening that back door compartment) and get firmware updates with new features is a huge feature worth the price to be honest. The owners of this company are also available on their Facebook official group and they are so nice and responsive. A completely different experience to a product support from anything I have ever experienced so far.
This looks awesome. I went and looked at Amazon reviews and it looks like they having quality control issues people getting broken devices delivered to them.
Sorry to be off topic, but as I was watching this video I noticed the Radio Shack mixer on the shelf behind you (to your right). I used to have one of those, and would like to have one again. Granted, I can probably think of a number of features I would like added to match modern signal sources and connections, but for what it's meant for I really liked that one. One feature is portability, it can run on 12 volts from a cigarette lighter in your car, and sometimes it's nice to have analog meters. I may look online to see if someone has one for sale.
No worries. I've been watching your videos sometime now. Don't listen to any of the negative reviews. You are excellent at what you do. I watch your videos more than any other site.
@@FarpointFarms the choyong RUclips channel. On the video about the update of ssb, they put a disclaimer that you cannot download this update for the mini, and that it has its own personal update coming in the near future for it
For what it's worth, I just got the onkyo 8260 stereo receiver. It also includes internet stations, FM, AM, BLUETOOTH, but no shortwave. Sounds good with the right speakers
So is the new radio that you bought physically different from the first one in any way or is it just updated with new software/firmware? If just a software/firmware update, why did you buy a second one? Can't you just update the first one yourself?
Farpoint Farms: I’m a member of a Facebook group for shortwave radio and a few of use are getting “network error” message pop up..any idea what it means apart from the obvious as like i said a few of us have it pop up
I have not heard of any issues that I know of. The company reads these comments so maybe they can chime in to see if that can give advice. I wish I had a better answer for you
@@FarpointFarms mine no longer has that problem,it’s as if it needed time to warm up. Last night i fell asleep with an ambient noise channel and woke up feeling so refreshed. I couldn’t say enough good things about it because like you have stated it’s the worlds best radio and i completely one hundred percent agree
I do have one issue with playing certain internet stations. Some stations load quick and show no loading time, and begin to play, and every 10 seconds it buffers. It seems to be with certain stations. One station that does it is WAXQ 104.3 in New York. I wonder if it’s doing that with anyone else’s. I appreciate any input. I did update to the latest 4.5 firmware.
As someone who broadcasts on ShoutCast. I can tell you that issue is from the source. The stations that have longer load times and buffering are usually suffering from one of two things. 1st is too high a bit rate. If they try to send out CD quality sound to many listeners it bogs down the connection. 2nd. Too low of a internet connection. The faster the connection speed they have, the faster they can get a station sent to your device. For my tiny station the solution was to lower the bit rate to a very low setting and I changed it to mono. Now? No more buffering and almost instant connection. You can reach out to the stations that are buffering and see if they are aware of the issue.
How do you set up a station to be a favorite and then how do you re-call a favorite? I push the red heart on a station, but then I don't know if it's really saved or how to call it up.
It's a little tricky. You have to be in the mode you want to listen too (SW,AM,IR) then press the heart button and it will give you the option of looking at those stations.
With v4.5 of the firmware on this radio, SSB appears to be a bit of a shitshow. If it didn't support SSB from the get-go, I'll bet it may never do a great job of it by simply tweaking the software. SDR radios use general purpose digital signal processors and it's generally not enough just to enable a function in software. There are auxiliary RF components needed to make a certain band and mode to work well. I hope they can fix SSB, but I'm dubious that they can.
The long antenna isn't for the wavelength, it's simply to increase signal strength. A lot of these stations are from many 1000s of miles away. The longer the antenna, the better the reception.
@@FarpointFarms I thought that antennas are sized to match the wavelength of the frequency? IE Would a full wave length literally be an 11 meter long antenna on CB? IE Even 1/2 wave length and 5/8th on CB 11 meters are huge compared to UHF typically used by Police. Shorter antennas. But shortwave radios tend to receive HF, I’d think it would be Long Wave, where wavelengths are long, on HF frequently but they call it “short”. A resonant antenna on HF is long, not short. A resonant antenna on freq’s above HF are short. “Shortwave” Short waves are microwave, UHF, VHF
Great video- Looks like a really cool radio. Can you record from the radio to the TF card? I see Radioddity has a mini version of this radio. Have you tried that one yet? Does FM have RDS so you can see station and song info?
@@FarpointFarmsI’ll assume it’s best and economical to use a data sim. My iPhone is all eSIM. Thanks for the original vid. I placed the radio on my explore list. =Peace=
I have a wifi "extender"- I bought 2 identical routers and linked them together. It has really increased the range, I did not expect it to work, but it did.
Can you please tell me what floating charge setting to use on a 12v LiFeP04 battery with that OAE MPPT charge controller like you have? Is it 13.50 or 13.80 or 14.60 or what? I chose the lithium ion as battery type, 12v. Now what? I`ve been trying to figure this out since 2022!
Hi Eric I am interested in buying this radio. I have one question , do you think I would like this radio better than my Tecsun PL-880 which i really enjoy. Short Wave guy Nick.
For the integrated Internet radio alone, yes. While I miss sensitive AM reception as I do like to listen to the clear channels at night, the ability to listen to smaller mom and pop AM stations from every state in the union more than makes up for it.
The Tecsun will give better reception, but the LC90 will give you more bang for the buck. The internet radio station list will keep you busy for the next 20 years.
Sadly Amazon in Canada does not stock this radio or it seems anything made by them, nor can I order it from the USA amazon site as it says " does not ship to your country which is strange.
If you want the airband check out the Sihuadon R-108 or D 808. They cover 150 khz to 29999khz plus FM 64-108 MHz & 118-137Mhz AM aircraft band. I put a longer collapsible external antenna on mine. A good antenna is 90% of good reception of weak signals on any radio. It is small enough for carrying around when TSHF. I get decent reception on all of the bands.
@@WildWillieWiccan I have the D-808 (XHDATA), and it's a belting little radio, very sensitive, even just using it's own whip antenna. The Airband reception is excellent and SW and MW/LW/FM reception is also great. The LC90 _looks_ OK and I can see the attraction of having internet radio on it for some people, but I've heard bad things about it's SW and MW reception, and that's offputting. You buy a portable radio for it's RF reception, not how well it uses the internet, (my PC can do that way better ), so if it's not a good _radio_ receiver to begin with, it's of no real interest to me. Now if someone could come up with a radio that has the RF performance of the D-808, _and_ digital radio, _and_ internet radio via 4G /5G & wifi, my ears *would* probably perk up.
If they're updating the firmware and adding features, then I guess it's a software defined radio inside, which is pretty great in that form factor! It seems they don't/can't sell it in Canada though. Still a cool radio!
I had the first one and I liked it, but felt it was a little complicated and instructions were poor. Also their website needed a lot of work and it was a pain to request different podcasts to add. Sent it back. Dont know if the upgrade addressed these issues. Thanks.
The updates did address some of the complaints- They are still working on more updates as needed. The company is really listening to what people were asking about
I clicked on this to see what you'd say about the quality of the receiver, and was disappointed when you discussed the lack of AM reception. I have been unable to find a table radio with a decent receiver for like the last 30-40 years. For some reason the reception on modern radios just seems to suck. I've got a Jensen radio in a car that is just absolutely atrocious. It can't even begin to pick up half the close-by local stations. I don't need, or really want any of the many fancy goo-gaws and features on this radio; I just want a simple, old-fashioned AM/FM radio that will pick up radio signals! Do you know of any such animal out there?
You got a point. 95& of SWL are not into SSB. But - those are not the ones who enjoy watching RUclips videos on SDR radios. Probably 80% of your viewers are Ham Radio /SWL - which explains the type of feedback you get.
That is the Sony AX53 4K camcorder. Not cheap, but I made the call to upgrade to a 4K setup a few years back to be somewhat future proof. So far so good!
I don't know what 'weird dialect' you have. It is a bit more southern than mine in Chicago but totally understandable. Some voice recognition software couldn't understand Lawrence Olivier performing Hamlet. LOL
@@deldia I think so, I'd like to play the audio output of this radio through my Micca powered bookshelf speakers and I guess a standard 3.5mm jack would be the only way in lieu of any other ports like RCAs. Is that right?
@@anthonycruciani939 yes you need headphone out which would be sufficient. A dedicated audio out like an optical would be ideal but headphone connection would be more than suitable. Just Google for the manual and look if it has headphone out
There is probably a school of radio enthusiasts who just love traditional radio and really don't consider internet radio to be real radio. I recently bought a radio and decided to go with the Tecsun PL-880. It's a terrific radio with very few shortcomings and does just what I want it to do. I did consider the LC90 in this decision, but I just didn't feel that the LC90 is a solid performer on the traditional radio end for my needs. Not having a radio stand and a logical location for the radio jacks is also a deal killer. I wanted a radio that would be very useful during times of emergency by being independent of the internet and cell towers. Though SSB is popular with ham operators, there is more on SSB than just hams. You can also pull in aircraft and air traffic control (ATC), ships at sea, military, spy network, clandestine, and pirate transmissions. Occasionally some shortwave broadcast stations use SSB as well. The LC90 is a nice beginning for an integrated radio. It can only get better and may someday be a radio I want to own. I would also like to see a base station radio in the future. For now it may be better to own two radios, a solid internet radio and a solid traditional radio until a better integrated radio is made.
They are really missing the boat on Internet Radio. It's the RUclips of radio. Anyone can broadcast for free and reach a worldwide audience. I've been "On the Air" since late 1999 and still enjoy it to this day. So many channels out there and those don't include all the smaller mom and pop AM stations scattered around the USA that I would never be able to hear over the air. It's what sold me on this radio and it's why I continue to feel it's the best radio I've reviewed.
Apparently it doesn't output stereo from the headphone jack. This is an oversight and deal-breaker for me. Both FM and internet radio are stereo signals, and for this "modern" radio to reduce that to mono on the headphone jack is unforgivable.
Please don't confuse criticism with hate. It’s great news that the manufacturer listened to the viewers and made changes. Actions like making improvements based on customer feedback will make companies stand out and become more successful. Great review and well done, Choyoung.
Thank you for this- I truly feel like they do care about what the consumer is looking for and listened to what people had to say
I ordered this radio after your “best radio” review. I had to wait several months. I am an RF engineer and have been a ham radio guy for 60 years. I love this radio. I agree with everything you said, especially on this second review. Mine had no birdies that I could detect. Probably was fixed in the firmware. The Blue tooth works exceptionally well. I use it with KIWI SDR from my phone. Wow!! Thank you for both of your videos. You are the reason I bought this radio. No regrets!
I am glad to hear that you like your so much. I think it is a great radio and it has a bit of everything. Take care my friend
The radio has so many problems that it's basically a scam! Might be OK after I get the software updated but that's turning out to be really hard to do.
It works a bit better after the latest firmware update and doesn't crash or get network errors quite as often.
Scotty?
@@stevec5000completely agree. The fact that the MW/AM & SW reception is so poor, even with an outside antenna, is a true deal breaker.
You just don't know how many cool devices you've turned me on to. Please keep doing these reviews.
Thanks so much for the kind words. I am blessed to get the chance to check out all these great things and It means a lot to have people enjoy the content.
I just ordered the LC90. I was sold after watching both of your reviews. I am a longtime shortwave enthusiast. I built my first radio, a Knight Kit Star Roamer when I was 16 y.o. Radio has evolved a lot since then (1966). Keep up the great videos ... I enjoy them a bunch. BTW ... I ordered a stand that is now available for the radio too.
Thank you for your support of the channel. I am glad that you have had a long time love affair of radio. It is a great hobby
Just ordered one thanks. Glad to hear you had minimal damage from the storm. What a tragic mess. Our prayers are with you and your community.
Thank you- We feel blessed that out damage was minimal compared to most.
They did update the firmware so that says a lot about the company, thanks for making a follow up video
You need to test that SIM card feature for us, that has some potential for being a game changer and I have never seen that in a radio. And the hart button is something I like if it is a one button press to add whatever I am tuned to to a favorites list. And can you add podcasts? Can it provide a menu of podcast episodes to choose from if provided a link? Podcasts are to radio what RUclips is to tv.
Thank you! I wanted to make one months ago, but everytime I started, and other update came with even more features.
I know you can manually add in new stations, but I am not sure about podcasts. I also know that I sent them an e-mail to ask if they would add a station to the list and they did so fairly quick.
Mine just been delivered and it’s already hooked up to the net. The internet side is unbelievably packed with exactly what you said ie: thousands and thousands of stations
I hope you love it as much as I do mine, I was listening to an old 1940's station and loved every minute of it
@@FarpointFarms Defs. Two weeks into it. It, being the LC90.
Congratulations , I've already had the radio for a month and I'm really enjoying it, because I enjoy listening to FM where ATS has programmed 42 stations in my region and I enjoy listening to internet stations, where here in Brazil alone more than 300 online radio stations have opened. I highlight the audio quality, the sound on FM and the Internet is wonderful, it's a pleasure to listen to. My interest is FM and online radio, where the LC 90 is excellent, innovative.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. It is nice to hear positive comments compared to some of the negative ones.
@@FarpointFarms Thank you, this radio is really cool and deserves to be shared for the innovation and technology and also for Choyong's dedication and excellent service.
I really appreciate your review(s) on this radio. I, too, prefer to listen to the radio on a radio, and you’ve convinced me to purchase this model to accompany my 2 other Tecsun radios.
It’s the little things that make these radios so good.
I had that same Radio Shack mixer back in the 1980's. Mixed many a tape with it. That was when RS was at it's prime with us hobbyists. Really miss those days.
I think we all miss the days of RS, you could find anything in that store. I still have a RC truck from there.
I know nothing about short wave radios but came here just to echo the comment on that radio shack mixer that served me well in my DJing days doing high school dances & wedding receptions. :-)
@@jim27105 I also had a RS equalizer, reverb, cassette tape unit, first SW radio with side band, a Realistic scanner. Radio Shack was somewhat shitty priced at times, but for the electronics hobbyist, you could go there and get what you needed. The good old days.
I spotted it on the shelf too, I still have one. It's built like a tank and will definitely outlast me.😄
The designer of that old RS audio gear is still active on electronic music forums! 😌
Fantastic !
Esp the fact you can install a sim card and connect it to a cell tower - just amazing
They really thought of everything with this radio!
🤣 You might want to try a MicroSD card with MP3 instead and see what happens @@FarpointFarms
Best sw receiver I’ve ever had was the Sony ICF SW77. Portable like that one but could pull in stations even larger radios struggled with. Wish I still had it.
I've heard nice things about that one.
From your 2 reviews of this radio. I ordered one today. I can't wait until Wed. when it arrives.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I spend hours just listening to all the different channels.
@@jim_ward can you please give me the link to order one, I don't see any here in india.
Thanks.
A “birdie” is an internally generated frequency within the circuitry that will present itself as you manualy tune or use the search function, by showing up as a strong yet quiet signal at various places along the frequency range, with no data on that frequency. Some radio’s and particularly scanners can have many, a few or none. Try a RUclips search on what is a radio birdie.
Interesting. Either my two units didn't have the issue, or it was so minor that it never bothered me while listening. Whatever the case, apparently they cured the issue with the 4.5 software update. Makes me wonder what other radios I own that have this issue.
I am fairly deaf (80% one ear, 60% in the other) so perhaps that is why I don't notice it?
I just got the LC90 and I love it. It definitely is one of the greatest radios made. It keeps the traditional radio feel, with a modern touch. There is absolutely nothing you cant listen to on this radio and it sounds great. Thank you for introducing me to this radio.
Glad I could show it off to you! I agree that it's a game changer.
But it's mono on the headphone jack! Massive fail. The "greatest radio ever made" would NOT, I repeat NOT reduce a stereo signal to mono on the 3.5mm headphone out.
@@kerosene4751 Everything that comes out of my headphone port is in stereo if the source is in stereo. I can hear stereo on FM stereo radio stations, stereo on internet radio stations, and stereo when playing MP3 tracks from my SD card. I tried with the output going to my Sony studio headphones, and also ran the output directly to my amplifier and speakers. It is indeed stereo all around. Maybe you need to update the firmware, or check to make sure your sources are in stereo. I have firmware 4.5 right now which is currently the latest.
That Radio Shack mixer behind your right side, I had one of those. Had to give it away in my last move. Great review on the Radio as well. Just had a memory trip.
I am glad I could bring back some memories
Thanks for your honest reviews
If you say an item is below standard (junk ) it mostly likely is, if your review is positive the item is more than likely good. Today's radio you showed looks great! Thanks!
Thank you- there are so many items that I never make into a video because they are just garbage. I think this radio is perfect as it has a little something for everyone.
I bought one. If I have any complaints, it’s not with the radio, it’s the instruction manual. Haven’t downloaded the updates yet. But I’m anxious to get them. Great radio. I love listening to “Old-time Radio” classics.
I am a fan of 40s music (big band) there is a station out of england that is in the list that plays it 24/7 with some great DJs as well.
That is a Very nice radio! I was strongly thinking about one yesterday. My Tecsun 990 and my Sangean WR series radios are Bluetooth capable. I just discovered Radio Garden, and I am testing that out on my radios to see how well it works over the next few weeks. The Radio Garden interface is extremely user friendly, and I love being able to listen to international radio in my car.
Having said all that, I think the radio you are demonstrating is really a great product, and has been interesting seeing so many people test it out.
Thanks for posting such great content, cheers!
Thank you for your support. I really do love this radio as it has everything that I want all in one.
Radio Garden is my fav
Thanks for sharing about Radio Garden, I love it.
Nifty machine...and the features are innovative for a radio....can it be powered by an external battery if the power goes down, and can it transmit messages via a built in mic through the CB band?
I am not sure about the transmit function or the battery- Sorry
This type of radio is the next generation type of radios called a ‘Software Defined Radio’, or SDR. They’re still legit radio receivers, but instead of demodulating RF signals via analog front ends, it uses software to process them.
Because it is run by software, it allows amazing companies like this to easily add additional functionality via software updates.
To add functionality to hardware, companies would have to re-release hardware with modifications, whether it’s a wholly new product, or people would have to mail their device in to the manufacturer for modifications.
Software is amazing
Thanks for sharing that, it is some good information
Watching from the PHILIPPINES where my choices are quite different. Thanks.
It would be even more different in Australia.
No doubt!
@@tomfoley1265What are your choices down there?
What are your choices down there?
I just received my lc90 and love it I've got the USC cable for recharging the battery but I can't seem to find a wall outlet power source for powering on the device nor do I see one listed on their website on Amazon any suggestions? Thanks
I was hoping that someone would chime in with one- If you find one, please let me know.
Thank you for the review! I’m seriously considering buying one myself.
Glad I could help!
Very admirable that they listened to you and made improvements.
They did not listen to me, they listened to everyone that made the comments on what they wanted.
Just found your channel and found it interesting. I am not a radio enthusiast and need a radio for shtf. What is the issue with AM reception? Is it the radio or your location? I am a veteran of Hurricane Katrina and having evacuated to central Mississippi I relied on AM radio for updates from NewOrleans for the 6 weeks we were away. Why is AM radio difficult to receive during the day vs the night?
It is my location- The closest station is about 25 miles away (very low power) then add in a bunch of mountains and I can hear very little (on a good day). It is a shame because I used to listen to AM all the time before I moved up here.
The algorithm really threw you out there Erik, 50k + views.
I was unsubscribed, but it brought me back to you.
Follow you on the Restoration channel but there is only 8k of us there, thought it went quiet, and no meal ideas from Jen either, l' m glad l' m back, and plenty to catch up on. I enjoy your channel during the Autumn/Winter most of all, more time spent in doors, l guess.
( The radio looks like a keeper, too).👍
Welcome back! I now have 3 channels under the Farpoint brand. A new Mower channel just started up a month or two ago. This channel has it's ups and downs. Time is always a issue, but we have made some cooking videos and I have two MRE reviews I need to post. I've scaled back the reviews as I just don't have the time, and I don't need much since Vevor literally gave me everything they make!
Radio stuff continues, but I feel like I've made so many on the subject I'm not sure that people need to hear anymore from me on that subject.
@@FarpointFarms l enjoy your projects around the home. Which can mean everything.👍
Nice little radio that does about everything.
Yes it does! A little something for everyone
@FarpointFarms
A BIRDIE is a signal that’s generated inside the radio and mixes with actual frequencies you are trying to listen to - sounds like two stations transmitting on top of each other and makes an annoying whistle blocking the program you are trying to listen to
Thanks for the info!
@@FarpointFarms one other point I left out the radio doesn’t put out this interference on every frequency but just some that aren’t filtered out like current local oscillator mixed with particular intermediate frequencies and that special combination makes the birdie irregular and annoying another example a cheaper scanner will also have this quirk so I suppose depending on use case you may encounter depending on the design of the receiver and the proper shielding characteristics. There maybe a Wikipedia article on birdies and the math used to determine where and when a birdie will show up. I’m glad I could give you a starting point into the quirks of radios designed for our information and entertainment consumption. Have a good day
Odd thing is where I am in PA I don't get any AM on any radio I have unless it's at night on a long wire. Still don't have cell coverage where I am too.
Your like me. No local stations in range. It's sad as I'm sure if you look into it, there once might have been one. Here we lost 1200 as it turned into a music station and lost it's local flair before going away all together.
@FarpointFarms everything is on FM around me now. Lot of local FM stations. I am 3 hours to NYC and can't pull any of the big power Am stations. They only Come in at night on long wire. Some nights Canadian stations come in and they are 6 hours away at 400 miles.
I do not understand most of the terms you use. Is there a book or a website that you recommend for learning the basics of all these different radio frequencies you are talking about? I know I can look up individual terms on the web and I shall but I would like a nice, central, reference book or website. Thank you!
Hmmm. I am not sure. I do have some videos on beginners guides to CB, and Shortwave.
@@FarpointFarms Oh, I will check those out. Thanks.
Shortwave For Dummies
🇺🇲 Connecticut here. Still undecided on my final choice so i appreciate your opinions on this radio
Glad I could help. I spent some time in CT as well
Just to let you know, this Thursday's meeting of the time travelers club has been postponed until last Tuesday. 😁
We're heading toward another firmware update in coming weeks, which will be aimed at addressing some of the shortcomings with the Internet section. As for SSB, it remains less than satisfactory because the radio was not built for that feature from the ground up and is firmware implemented.
I still find it incredible that they used software updates to give the radio full coverage and then added SSB as a perk. Makes me wonder what's in there running everything!
@@FarpointFarms It's likely to be SDR based. You should research the RTL2832U DVB-TV dongle to understand the SDR story and whats possible with SDR. It's basically a TV tuner USB dongle that someone realised could be programmed to receive Radio bands. Combined with free open source software, it offers a really cheap way to use your PC to have a very comprehensive communications receiver. It has many advantages (upgrades through software revision being one of them), but some disadvantages too. (The performance is never going to match that of an analogue based RF front end in a receiver). In my experience SDR is great if you have a really good antenna, but does suffer if you don't.
Cool set, do you consider it as a proper “prepper radio” for emergencies or its just too fancy and dependent on the internet?
I'd say for pure prepping, a less featured radio would be fine. If you really want to have some listening options, then go with this one.
On the internet I see devices that look the same but are called Chaoyuan LC90 not Chonyong LC90. Are they the same thing?
I have seen something about it. I think it has to do something with naming rights and getting it all sorted out. Same company just the name part got weird.
@@FarpointFarms Thank you for this information.
I wish this radio had a programmable MP3 recorder. Is the sound stereo through the headphone jack? Good review.
That would be a pretty cool feature to add on.
Apparently it's mono through the headphone jack . A deal-breaker for many.
For many years, hams have referred to spurious signals on their radio as “birdies”. Typically tones or chirps, birdies are unwanted signals caused by radio or nearby oscillators.
Farpoint Farms (Erik): How do you know you are getting the newer and improved model instead of the old one?
I have a metal roof, is that an issue for reception? What do i need? I have the mla-30 and the Kaito T-1.
If the Antenna is outside, you are good to go, if not, yes, you will need to place it outside to help reception.
At 6:06 you mention the MLR-30 antenna. I see MLA-30 antenna on Amazon, but no MLR-30. Do you have a link handy?
I just misspoke it is a MLA-30
@@FarpointFarms Thank you--and thanks for the video. Very interesting radio and helpful review.
Okay, I just asked on another one of your videos Eric, but just seen this video. I've put it in my cart on Amazon....seems like you really endorse it. I think I'll be purchasing in the next couple days...
I do really like this radio, for me it has everything that I want in a radio.
Cool radio, thanks for the video. Have you experimented with the HackRF One much? I'm a few months into using it with a portapack, mostly for cyber security research, but I plan on taking the 3 HAM exams soon and I intend to use the hackrf when the time comes that I transmit with a callsign.
Not that particular one, but a similar SDR based radio that works via a laptop. While it was cool to see sat photos and air traffic, other than those special features, I found it to distracting to actual listening.
Going to buy one! How does the firmware get updated? USB? BlueTooth?
Great info - Thank you!
You connect the radio via usb to a laptop to update it.
Thank you for the update! I just placed my order based on your review. 73
You are going to really love it!
I am new to shortwave radio. As I understand from your video this radio covers all the shortwave bands. Does this include the air band and weather bands? Thank you for your informative videos. Also I see there is a "Mini" version of this radio for $50.00 less. Do you know if there much difference between the 2 radios? Thanks again.
I haven't tried the Mini version so I can't comment on that, but this radio does not include the weather band.
@@FarpointFarms Thank you. I contacted ChoYong. They sent me a comparison chart. The mini does not have an external antenna, only has one 2500 mAH battery and it is not replaceable, speaker is not as good and sideband will be available after an update. In my opinion it is worth the extra $50.00 to get the full package radio. Your a good teacher. I am just getting started in shortwave and from what people tell me I am about 20 or 30 years too late to enjoy shortwave when it was in its heyday.
We have a whole new generation that doesn't know what a portable multi-band radio is !! Or boom box ! I had a multi-band radio back in the late 1960's and the faraway stations it could pick up was amazing !
It is a shame what the younger generations just don't know or want to know about. They are in trouble if something big were to happen-- They can't even drive a stick shift
@@FarpointFarms Much less read cursive.
Serious question, I used to have Drake R8 and many channels started going online. Isn't shortwave "dead" compared to 20 years ago and more?
I would not call it dead, there are less channels compared to 20 years ago.
Great review, great about these are the updates, right? I wonder if they manage to add FM Mute (to lock out hiss between & weak stations)? Another feature would be a SCOTZ noise cancelling filter easily made in software. It blends lower L&R (stereo) audio signals to eliminate hiss (Sort of auto Wide/Narrow) system keeping stereo intact. A lot of more expensive FM home tuners (NAD) have it and they clearly work. For the rest it is a beautiful design and with WIFI and a SIM card slot unbeatable.
I know that the creator of this fine radio visits the channel. Perhaps they will consider it for the next update.
Does it have auto scan (scan an play for 5 sec and scan next automatically) and auto program (scan and save to presets automatically)
Auto scan yes, You can bookmark a station but I don't think it is auto program.
Erik, you did convince me to get this radio even though I still feel $250 is a lot for any radio. I was able to take advantage of the Black Friday deal for $199 which is technically a steal? LOL. However researching all internet radio offerings definitely continues to bring this one at the top. I am used to dealing with phone apps and connecting to external speakers for fuller enjoyment of the sound; and because of that I can't understand why that is not a built-in option for this radio. It already has bluetooth for the opposite direction use case so in my simple-non-technical mind, it should be a firmware update for that to be allowed but I am probably wrong. I did end up getting a bluetooth transmitter receiver dongle that I can use in the mic out plug and connect to external bluetooth speakers to achieve what I wanted. It works like a charm. The radio is really amazing and so easy to use compared to some other internet radios. Honestly other than FM and Internet radio, the rest of the features are not that important for me, but being able to replace the battery (which I assume is doable by opening that back door compartment) and get firmware updates with new features is a huge feature worth the price to be honest. The owners of this company are also available on their Facebook official group and they are so nice and responsive. A completely different experience to a product support from anything I have ever experienced so far.
See, I saved you money--Lol. I am glad to hear that you like it. I might have to look at the BT option
When you say across the world, are Haiti and Dominican republic included?
Depending on conditions, yes!
This looks awesome. I went and looked at Amazon reviews and it looks like they having quality control issues people getting broken devices delivered to them.
That is unfortunate, I had good luck with mine.
I own one but, I don't know how to update it can you tell or do a video on how to do. Please
Both of these are updated to 4.5 but as soon as a new version of firmware comes out, I'll do it!
Return it and buy something you will enjoy, like the Crane CC Wifi3 internet radio! The Choyong LC90 is a $250 paperweight.
@@davidmays1115why don’t you like this one?
Did you get some sort of package deal with the accessories? When I look at the Amazon link it says the box contains only the radio.
No. My box came with all those items included.
This is a nice option in my opinion.... Choyong A8W WIFI&4G Portable Internet Radio with FM,Micro-SD Card,All World Radios,Digital Radio,choyoung
I can't wait to play with the A8W, it seems also like a solid radio
I still haven’t found a modern portable SW radio as good as my old Sony ICF 2010. Maybe an SDR is out there somewhere that compares?
All the SDR dongles I've tried suck.
Those types of radios are quality. I had one handed down to me and passed it on to my son.
😂
Cool!
Sorry to be off topic, but as I was watching this video I noticed the Radio Shack mixer on the shelf behind you (to your right). I used to have one of those, and would like to have one again. Granted, I can probably think of a number of features I would like added to match modern signal sources and connections, but for what it's meant for I really liked that one. One feature is portability, it can run on 12 volts from a cigarette lighter in your car, and sometimes it's nice to have analog meters. I may look online to see if someone has one for sale.
Cool to hear it! I used this one for my tiny "Pirate" radio station for years and years and have just recently retired it for a more modern solution.
eBay often has RadioShack products for sale.
Your reviews are excellent and very educational. Thank you. James from ontario canada
Glad you like them! Reading comments like this makes it worth while
No worries. I've been watching your videos sometime now. Don't listen to any of the negative reviews. You are excellent at what you do. I watch your videos more than any other site.
I own the LC90 Mini, been waiting for these updates to come out for it!
Does it have different software?
@@FarpointFarms the choyong RUclips channel. On the video about the update of ssb, they put a disclaimer that you cannot download this update for the mini, and that it has its own personal update coming in the near future for it
@@jackofalltrades28 As of late November my mini is updated including ssb. Great unit.
For what it's worth, I just got the onkyo 8260 stereo receiver. It also includes internet stations, FM, AM, BLUETOOTH, but no shortwave. Sounds good with the right speakers
Cool-- thanks for sharing
So is the new radio that you bought physically different from the first one in any way or is it just updated with new software/firmware? If just a software/firmware update, why did you buy a second one? Can't you just update the first one yourself?
No they are the same. One had newer firmware, but now both have been updated to the latest software.
Farpoint Farms: I’m a member of a Facebook group for shortwave radio and a few of use are getting “network error” message pop up..any idea what it means apart from the obvious as like i said a few of us have it pop up
I have not heard of any issues that I know of. The company reads these comments so maybe they can chime in to see if that can give advice. I wish I had a better answer for you
@@FarpointFarms mine no longer has that problem,it’s as if it needed time to warm up. Last night i fell asleep with an ambient noise channel and woke up feeling so refreshed. I couldn’t say enough good things about it because like you have stated it’s the worlds best radio and i completely one hundred percent agree
I do have one issue with playing certain internet stations. Some stations load quick and show no loading time, and begin to play, and every 10 seconds it buffers. It seems to be with certain stations. One station that does it is WAXQ 104.3 in New York. I wonder if it’s doing that with anyone else’s. I appreciate any input. I did update to the latest 4.5 firmware.
As someone who broadcasts on ShoutCast. I can tell you that issue is from the source. The stations that have longer load times and buffering are usually suffering from one of two things.
1st is too high a bit rate. If they try to send out CD quality sound to many listeners it bogs down the connection.
2nd. Too low of a internet connection. The faster the connection speed they have, the faster they can get a station sent to your device.
For my tiny station the solution was to lower the bit rate to a very low setting and I changed it to mono. Now? No more buffering and almost instant connection. You can reach out to the stations that are buffering and see if they are aware of the issue.
How do you set up a station to be a favorite and then how do you re-call a favorite? I push the red heart on a station, but then I don't know if it's really saved or how to call it up.
It's a little tricky. You have to be in the mode you want to listen too (SW,AM,IR) then press the heart button and it will give you the option of looking at those stations.
With v4.5 of the firmware on this radio, SSB appears to be a bit of a shitshow. If it didn't support SSB from the get-go, I'll bet it may never do a great job of it by simply tweaking the software. SDR radios use general purpose digital signal processors and it's generally not enough just to enable a function in software. There are auxiliary RF components needed to make a certain band and mode to work well. I hope they can fix SSB, but I'm dubious that they can.
I haven't had any issues with SSB on mine, but I don't use that mode as much as AM-SSB or the internet radio portion of the rig.
What do you think of the LC90 Mini? It lacks the external antenna and the middle fine tuning button, but everything else seems the same.
I haven't had the chance to play with one yet, but I really like this one for sure.
Why is it called “short wave”.
A full wave length antenna is much longer compared to VHF/UHF
The long antenna isn't for the wavelength, it's simply to increase signal strength. A lot of these stations are from many 1000s of miles away. The longer the antenna, the better the reception.
@@FarpointFarms I thought that antennas are sized to match the wavelength of the frequency? IE Would a full wave length literally be an 11 meter long antenna on CB?
IE Even 1/2 wave length and 5/8th on CB 11 meters are huge compared to UHF typically used by Police. Shorter antennas.
But shortwave radios tend to receive HF, I’d think it would be Long Wave, where wavelengths are long, on HF frequently but they call it “short”.
A resonant antenna on HF is long, not short. A resonant antenna on freq’s above HF are short. “Shortwave”
Short waves are microwave, UHF, VHF
Great video- Looks like a really cool radio. Can you record from the radio to the TF card? I see Radioddity has a mini version of this radio. Have you tried that one yet? Does FM have RDS so you can see station and song info?
No on the RDS, and yes on the recording to SD card right from the radio.
I bought the mini, it's a great unit with all the same features just more compact, excellent sound as well,,,,,
I have heard that from a few people, they like it.
A Q before I explore this radio on Amazon. The SIM one would buy/install is a data plan SIM? Thank You in Advance
I am not sure on that one- I thought someone would just use one from the phone if needed. But I guess you could get a separate on for it
@@FarpointFarmsI’ll assume it’s best and economical to use a data sim. My iPhone is all eSIM. Thanks for the original vid. I placed the radio on my explore list. =Peace=
Does it work if the grid including cell towers are down?
The portions that are not related to cell will- If we are in a full grid down situation, there is a chance that ever radio will not be working
If it’s a radio, shouldn’t it be analogue…as in no software upgrades?
No maker of radios is currently making analog radios. Even the pocket radios with manual dials are tuning a digital receiver.
You mentioned you are getting internet access 400' from your house. Details?
I have a wifi "extender"- I bought 2 identical routers and linked them together. It has really increased the range, I did not expect it to work, but it did.
Is it AC/DC? Bluetooth for ear buds?
No BT for ear buds, usb power
Can you please tell me what floating charge setting to use on a 12v LiFeP04 battery with that OAE MPPT charge controller like you have? Is it 13.50 or 13.80 or 14.60 or what? I chose the lithium ion as battery type, 12v. Now what? I`ve been trying to figure this out since 2022!
I sent you an email!
Does anyone use this in a shop full of LED lights? My radio listening days disappeared when I Installed LED lights.
I was hoping that someone would chime in, LED light do add a bunch of interference
Hi Eric I am interested in buying this radio. I have one question , do you think I would like this radio better than my Tecsun PL-880 which i really enjoy. Short Wave guy Nick.
For the integrated Internet radio alone, yes. While I miss sensitive AM reception as I do like to listen to the clear channels at night, the ability to listen to smaller mom and pop AM stations from every state in the union more than makes up for it.
@@FarpointFarms Sounds good to me. Thanks
So what the heck is the birdie? You don’t know what it is but you said it’s been cleared up.
Yup, No idea so it clearly wasn't much of an issue, but apparently they patched the issue with a firmware update.
I’m brand new, how is this vs Tecsun PL990? I’ve finally saved enough for the Tecsun.
The Tecsun will give better reception, but the LC90 will give you more bang for the buck. The internet radio station list will keep you busy for the next 20 years.
Sadly Amazon in Canada does not stock this radio or it seems anything made by them, nor can I order it from the USA amazon site as it says " does not ship to your country which is strange.
Look at Raddiodity and see if you can order it from them. That is weird that they wont ship to Canada
@@FarpointFarms Will check it out, thanks.
Congrats on getting us the SSB. Please push for the Air Band. Let’s make this The Perfect Radio.
I'll reach out!
Yep. With Air Band I'd buy this tomorrow.
If you want the airband check out the Sihuadon R-108 or D 808. They cover 150 khz to 29999khz plus FM 64-108 MHz & 118-137Mhz AM aircraft band. I put a longer collapsible external antenna on mine. A good antenna is 90% of good reception of weak signals on any radio. It is small enough for carrying around when TSHF. I get decent reception on all of the bands.
@@WildWillieWiccan I have the D-808 (XHDATA), and it's a belting little radio, very sensitive, even just using it's own whip antenna. The Airband reception is excellent and SW and MW/LW/FM reception is also great. The LC90 _looks_ OK and I can see the attraction of having internet radio on it for some people, but I've heard bad things about it's SW and MW reception, and that's offputting. You buy a portable radio for it's RF reception, not how well it uses the internet, (my PC can do that way better ), so if it's not a good _radio_ receiver to begin with, it's of no real interest to me.
Now if someone could come up with a radio that has the RF performance of the D-808, _and_ digital radio, _and_ internet radio via 4G /5G & wifi, my ears *would* probably perk up.
If they're updating the firmware and adding features, then I guess it's a software defined radio inside, which is pretty great in that form factor! It seems they don't/can't sell it in Canada though. Still a cool radio!
What a shame that you can't get it in Canada. I have heard that about a few radios
I had the first one and I liked it, but felt it was a little complicated and instructions were poor. Also their website needed a lot of work and it was a pain to request different podcasts to add. Sent it back. Dont know if the upgrade addressed these issues. Thanks.
The updates did address some of the complaints- They are still working on more updates as needed. The company is really listening to what people were asking about
@FarpointFarms But I agree with you that as a all in one radio, it's hard to beat.
I clicked on this to see what you'd say about the quality of the receiver, and was disappointed when you discussed the lack of AM reception.
I have been unable to find a table radio with a decent receiver for like the last 30-40 years. For some reason the reception on modern radios just seems to suck. I've got a Jensen radio in a car that is just absolutely atrocious. It can't even begin to pick up half the close-by local stations.
I don't need, or really want any of the many fancy goo-gaws and features on this radio; I just want a simple, old-fashioned AM/FM radio that will pick up radio signals! Do you know of any such animal out there?
I have a more recent video that I put out on a DX286 radio that has VERY good AM reception.
@@FarpointFarms Thanks, I'll look that up.
OMG!!! I have that book (How to keep your volkswagon alive) and I learned how to fix my car using that book a few decades ago....
It is a great book that I still reference to this day
Have you tried to connect a long wire to it to see if it receives better?
It's not the radio but our location- we never really pick up any stations
You got a point. 95& of SWL are not into SSB. But - those are not the ones who enjoy watching RUclips videos on SDR radios. Probably 80% of your viewers are Ham Radio /SWL - which explains the type of feedback you get.
Yeah, I think that makes sense. Thanks!
What camcorder are you using? Good image quality on the tabletop. I want to upgrade mine. :-)
That is the Sony AX53 4K camcorder. Not cheap, but I made the call to upgrade to a 4K setup a few years back to be somewhat future proof. So far so good!
I don't know what 'weird dialect' you have. It is a bit more southern than mine in Chicago but totally understandable. Some voice recognition software couldn't understand Lawrence Olivier performing Hamlet. LOL
I think that is because I have lived all over the US, until NC, I never lived in one place for more than a few years
Now almost has it all for me but no RDS with FM I think ?
Not on this one
I read that the 4.7 update will add RDS to FM
If your up to taking out a few screws, I would love to see a video on the insides and speaker.
Hmm. I'm not sure I want to mess with it. It wasn't cheap!
Cool radio. I don't suppose u can output it to powered bookshelf speakers?
I'm not sure, sorry I can't answer
You're asking if it has a headphone output socket, right?
@@deldia I think so, I'd like to play the audio output of this radio through my Micca powered bookshelf speakers and I guess a standard 3.5mm jack would be the only way in lieu of any other ports like RCAs. Is that right?
@@anthonycruciani939 yes you need headphone out which would be sufficient. A dedicated audio out like an optical would be ideal but headphone connection would be more than suitable. Just Google for the manual and look if it has headphone out
I just bought a used like new off Amazon for $62 dollars less than current asking price. Fingers crossed it's in good condition!
I will cross fingers for you, I have had decent luck going used
No AM? Where do you use the radio?
I use it around the house, I love the internet option for stations
Does it pick up CB radio frequencies? UHF and VHF?
CB yes, UHF/VHF, no.
Is the radio solar powered?
It is not, that would be pretty cool though
There is probably a school of radio enthusiasts who just love traditional radio and really don't consider internet radio to be real radio. I recently bought a radio and decided to go with the Tecsun PL-880. It's a terrific radio with very few shortcomings and does just what I want it to do. I did consider the LC90 in this decision, but I just didn't feel that the LC90 is a solid performer on the traditional radio end for my needs. Not having a radio stand and a logical location for the radio jacks is also a deal killer. I wanted a radio that would be very useful during times of emergency by being independent of the internet and cell towers. Though SSB is popular with ham operators, there is more on SSB than just hams. You can also pull in aircraft and air traffic control (ATC), ships at sea, military, spy network, clandestine, and pirate transmissions. Occasionally some shortwave broadcast stations use SSB as well. The LC90 is a nice beginning for an integrated radio. It can only get better and may someday be a radio I want to own. I would also like to see a base station radio in the future. For now it may be better to own two radios, a solid internet radio and a solid traditional radio until a better integrated radio is made.
They are really missing the boat on Internet Radio. It's the RUclips of radio. Anyone can broadcast for free and reach a worldwide audience. I've been "On the Air" since late 1999 and still enjoy it to this day.
So many channels out there and those don't include all the smaller mom and pop AM stations scattered around the USA that I would never be able to hear over the air. It's what sold me on this radio and it's why I continue to feel it's the best radio I've reviewed.
Apparently it doesn't output stereo from the headphone jack. This is an oversight and deal-breaker for me. Both FM and internet radio are stereo signals, and for this "modern" radio to reduce that to mono on the headphone jack is unforgivable.
Sorry
What do you think of this radio?
Choyong A8W WIFI&4G Portable Internet Radio with FM,Micro-SD Card,All World Radios,Digital Radio,choyoung
On sale $95 today
I have one on the way! Can't wait to try it out.
@@FarpointFarmsI bought one for $95 prime days.I hope you make a video about it.. thumb’s up