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Review on πŸ“» Black Kaito KA321 Pocket-Sized 10-Band AM/FM Shortwave Radio with DSP (Digital Signal Processing) by Micheal Esquivel

Revainrating 5 out of 5

A lot of bang for the buck

You don't usually get much for a $20 bill these days, but in the case of the Kaito KA321, you do get a decent pocket radio. Right out of the box I was amazed at how small this receiver is (no bigger than a pack of cigarettes). Even more amazing is that you get everything for your $20. With the new digital signal processing (DSP) receivers, tuning is a little more involved than the analogue versions, but you'll be rewarded with a solid hold. Station lasting until you turn the knob again. The KA321 has a tuning wheel that is a bit difficult to turn, and I've found that it's easier to move the wheel with your fingernail once you've got it "close" to the station you want so I don't vote further than I have to. Train station. Tuning into this radio takes a bit of getting used to, but be patient and you'll get the hang of it. The dial is relatively easy to read, but as you would expect from a radio in this price range, the accuracy leaves a lot to be desired. Thoughtful features include a headphone jack (FM stereo, AM/SW mono), retractable swivel antenna, foldable table stand, tuning indicator and carrying strap. It even has a socket to connect an AC adapter for power, but since this radio has two AA batteries that last forever, the socket doesn't matter to me. In terms of performance, the little Kaito really stands out. The FM band picks up stations regular radio misses, works better on AM than many radios that cost twice as much, and easily picks up stronger shortwave transmissions. The tiny size of this radio means a tiny speaker has to be used so it's not as deep and loud as a larger radio, but it's pretty good for what it is. For those unfamiliar with shortwave broadcasting, don't be surprised if you find very little airtime during the day. Shortwave is at its best after dark and is much more difficult to tune in to than an AM or FM radio station. Static and fading are common problems no matter what radio you're using, and the number of foreign stations broadcasting in English in North America has declined in recent years. But there are many more things that the little KA321 brings me. RHC (Radio Havana Cuba) broadcasts in English every night on 6.00 MHz and is loud and clear on this radio as well as several other foreign stations and stations here in the States. Is this radio a good choice for anyone serious about getting into shortwave listening? Probably not, but it's great for those who want to learn shortwave on a budget. The Kaito KA321 is the perfect choice for those who are simply looking for an inexpensive pocket radio that really works on the FM/AM bands. Its tiny size, light weight and low cost make it the perfect choice for shirt pocket recipients worldwide. My conclusion: The Kaito KA 321 is the cheapest pocket radio that you will find in this price range. I highly recommend it.

Pros
  • Shortwave radios
Cons
  • Vulgarity