Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio and ANT-60 Antenna review for ultimate reception experience

Description

Unpacking the Sangean ATS-909X2 and Sangean ANT-60 Short Wave Antenna

The Sangean ATS-909X2 multi-band radio paired with the Sangean ANT-60 shortwave antenna has been an intriguing duo to test. As someone who enjoys exploring radio frequencies and geeking out over crisp audio quality, this setup seemed promising. From its sleek design to the extensive list of features, the radio caught my attention right away. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—there are a few quirks worth mentioning.

Design and Build Quality

Holding the radio for the first time, I immediately noticed the premium build quality of the ATS-909X2. The device feels solid in hand, with an elegant design that’s easy on the eyes. The smart battery compartment is a thoughtful touch, allowing the radio to detect faulty batteries, which has already saved me from frustration once. The buttons and knobs give a satisfying tactile response, and the rotary tuning dial feels smooth, making manual tuning oddly satisfying.

The ANT-60 antenna, on the other hand, is incredibly compact and portable. It unwinds to an impressive 23 feet but can be neatly rewound into its carrying case when not in use. This makes it perfect for someone like me who hates clutter but loves good signal reception.

Performance and Features

This is where the ATS-909X2 shines. The radio boasts 1,674 station presets, which is honestly overkill but also reassuring—you’ll never run out of space for your favorite frequencies. I found the air band mode (118 MHz ~ 137 MHz) fascinating, especially for aviation enthusiasts who enjoy listening to aircraft communication. The Auto Tuning System (ATS) works like a charm, making it easy to scan through LW, MW, SW, and FM bands.

One of the standout features for me was the five tuning methods: direct frequency tuning, auto scanning, manual tuning, memory recall, and rotary tuning. Having all these options made the experience highly customizable. I spent an afternoon testing the ANT-60 antenna, and the improvement in reception was noticeable. It picked up signals that the built-in telescoping antenna struggled with, making it an essential companion for shortwave listening.

Audio Quality

The audio quality exceeded my expectations for a portable radio. The clarity of both FM and shortwave stations was impressive, and the speaker delivered a rich sound without distortion, even at higher volumes. Using headphones, the quality remained consistent, which was a relief since I often listen late at night. However, I did notice the bass could feel slightly flat at times, but it’s a minor issue in the grand scheme of things.

Key Benefits

• Extensive station presets allow you to store hundreds of your favorite frequencies.
• The smart battery compartment is a game-changer for detecting faulty batteries.
• Auto Tuning System (ATS) simplifies scanning through multiple bands.
• The ANT-60 antenna significantly enhances signal reception, especially for shortwave stations.
• Compact and portable design makes it easy to carry around or store.

Areas for Improvement

While I’ve been impressed by the radio and antenna combo, a few shortcomings stood out:

• The learning curve for new users can be steep due to the multitude of features.
• Bass response is slightly underwhelming for audiophiles.
• The antenna, while effective, can be cumbersome to fully extend in tight spaces.
• Some users might find the price point high compared to simpler radios.

Competing Products

Looking at similar products, the Tecsun PL-880 and the Eton Elite Executive come to mind. The PL-880 is known for its robust audio quality and slightly better bass response, but it lacks the air band mode that makes the ATS-909X2 so versatile. On the other hand, the Eton Elite Executive offers a more luxurious design but doesn’t have the same preset capacity or tuning flexibility. The Sangean ANT-60 antenna also outperforms most built-in options provided by these competitors, giving the ATS-909X2 combo an edge in overall signal reception.

Price Performance

In terms of value for money, the ATS-909X2 and ANT-60 are a solid investment for serious radio enthusiasts. While the upfront cost might be higher than entry-level models, you’re paying for advanced features and reliable performance. The air band mode, extensive presets, and multiple tuning methods justify the price if you’re someone who genuinely enjoys exploring radio frequencies. For casual users, however, it might feel like overkill, especially if you don’t need all the bells and whistles.

Testing this product has been a rewarding experience, especially with its ability to pick up a wide variety of frequencies and deliver clear, distortion-free audio. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a shortwave hobbyist, or just someone who loves high-quality radios, this setup could be worth considering.

Additional information