Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio

Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio — image 1
86%
92%
Reception Performance
85%
Build Quality
88%
Ease of Use
90%
Tuning Accuracy
87%
Display Clarity
80%
Portability
78%
Battery Life
93%
Preset Memory
90%
Value for Money
94%
Functionality (Band Support)
80%
Customer Support
75%
Size/Weight
More

Overview

The Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio is a versatile portable radio that covers a wide range of frequencies, including AM, FM, SW, LW, and Air bands. This multi-band radio offers exceptional reception and flexibility, making it a great choice for those who enjoy listening to a variety of broadcasts. With advanced features like SSB tuning and RDS display, this radio allows users to fine-tune their listening experience. It also includes a built-in battery charger with faulty detection to ensure your device stays powered up for longer adventures.

Features & Benefits

The Sangean ATS-909X2 offers a remarkable set of features designed for both casual listeners and serious radio enthusiasts. With 1674 station presets and 42 time zones, it allows you to quickly access your favorite channels worldwide. The large, backlit LCD screen ensures visibility even in low-light environments. It also offers multiple tuning methods, including auto scanning, manual tuning, and rotary controls, providing precise control over your listening experience. The radio's dual conversion technology enhances its reception, offering clearer signals for distant stations.

Best For

This multi-band radio is perfect for a variety of users. It's an ideal choice for radio enthusiasts who appreciate the broad frequency coverage and flexibility it offers. Its portability and advanced tuning options make it a great companion for travelers or outdoor adventurers who need reliable reception in remote areas. Additionally, those with an interest in shortwave and airband frequencies will appreciate the specialized tuning capabilities for niche radio bands, making it an excellent tool for exploring diverse broadcasts.

User Feedback

The Sangean ATS-909X2 has garnered positive reviews for its broad range of supported bands and strong reception quality, with many users praising its performance in both urban and remote locations. However, some users have noted that the radio's size can be a bit bulky for travel. While the large preset memory is a standout feature for convenience, a few customers expressed disappointment over the lack of included batteries, which adds extra cost. Despite these minor drawbacks, most users agree that this radio delivers impressive value for serious listeners.

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Pros

  • This multi-band radio offers excellent reception across a wide range of frequencies, including AM, FM, SW, LW, and Air bands.
  • The large preset memory allows users to store up to 1674 stations, making it ideal for frequent travelers.
  • With 42 time zones and dual conversion capabilities, it's easy to stay connected to broadcasts from around the world.
  • The advanced tuning options, such as auto scanning, rotary, and manual tuning, provide precision and flexibility.
  • The built-in battery charger with faulty detection ensures that the device remains powered without issues during use.
  • Its backlit LCD screen offers clear readability in both bright and low light conditions, enhancing the user experience.

Cons

  • The lack of included batteries means users must purchase AA batteries separately, which adds to the initial cost.
  • Some users find the size of the device to be bulky, making it less portable for casual use or packing on the go.
  • Beginners may struggle with the advanced tuning features, such as SSB tuning and manual frequency adjustments.
  • The lack of Bluetooth connectivity limits the device’s versatility in connecting to modern wireless devices.
  • While the large preset memory is convenient, it may be overwhelming for users who prefer simpler, more intuitive devices.
  • Occasionally, users report challenges with signal clarity in very remote or rural areas, despite the strong reception capabilities.

Ratings

The Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio has received solid feedback from users worldwide, with reviews carefully analyzed from a wide range of platforms and languages. Authentic, high-quality user reviews were considered, filtering out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized content. Both the radio’s impressive strengths and a few common drawbacks are reflected in the scores, providing a balanced and comprehensive assessment for prospective buyers.

Reception Performance
92%
Many users are impressed by the radio's ability to receive signals from a wide range of bands, including AM, FM, shortwave, and airband. The reception quality remains strong even in remote areas, making it a solid choice for travel or outdoor activities.
Some users report that reception can be spotty in extremely rural areas or under certain weather conditions. A few also mention that the radio occasionally struggles with clarity on certain frequencies, despite its overall strong performance.
Build Quality
85%
The radio is praised for its sturdy and well-made construction. It feels solid and durable, with users mentioning it holds up well to outdoor use and handling during travel.
While generally robust, some reviewers note that the radio's plastic exterior feels slightly cheap compared to other premium models. There are occasional complaints about the buttons being a bit stiff or not as responsive as expected.
Ease of Use
88%
Many users find the radio intuitive and easy to operate. The large display and simple button layout make it user-friendly, and the quick access to presets is particularly appreciated by those who frequently change stations.
A few reviewers mention that the advanced tuning options, like SSB tuning, can be complicated for beginners. It may take some time to get familiar with all the features, especially for those new to multi-band radios.
Tuning Accuracy
90%
The tuning accuracy is highly praised, with many users noting how precise the device is when locking onto stations, especially for shortwave and airband frequencies. The multiple tuning methods, including manual and auto-scanning, add to the overall ease of use.
Some users feel that the auto-scanning feature could be improved, as it may skip over certain stations or take longer than expected. There are also occasional complaints about the manual tuning dial not being as smooth as it could be.
Display Clarity
87%
The large, backlit LCD screen makes it easy to read the display in various lighting conditions. Users appreciate the clarity and visibility, especially when tuning or checking station presets.
A few buyers mentioned that the screen could be brighter or more contrast-rich in direct sunlight, which sometimes makes it harder to read. Additionally, the size of the display may feel bulky for some users seeking a more compact device.
Portability
80%
20%
For a multi-band radio, this model is relatively compact and easy to carry around. Its lightweight design is praised by those who use it for travel, camping, or other outdoor activities.
While portable, some users find the radio's size to be a bit bulky compared to other handheld devices. It's not the most convenient option for those seeking an ultra-compact model for daily carry.
Battery Life
78%
22%
The built-in battery charger and faulty detection features are appreciated by many, ensuring that the device has reliable power during extended use. It's a convenient addition for frequent users.
Some buyers report that the battery life doesn't last as long as expected, particularly when using high-power features like the radio’s full range of bands. Additionally, the lack of included batteries is a common complaint.
Preset Memory
93%
The large preset memory, allowing up to 1674 stations and 42 time zones, is a standout feature. Many users love the ability to quickly access their favorite stations, making it convenient for both home and travel use.
A few users find the process of editing or managing presets a bit cumbersome. There are also some complaints about the presets being slightly difficult to navigate when you have a large number stored.
Value for Money
90%
Given its wide range of features, including multi-band support and advanced tuning capabilities, most users feel the radio offers excellent value for money. The solid performance and additional features make it a worthwhile investment for hobbyists and travelers alike.
A few buyers feel that the price is a bit high for a portable radio, especially considering the size and lack of certain high-end features. While the radio offers great performance, some users think there are more affordable options available for casual listeners.
Functionality (Band Support)
94%
Users are highly impressed with the broad band support, which includes AM, FM, shortwave, longwave, and airband. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for those who need global band access in one device, whether for travel or specialized listening.
Some users report that the frequency range for some bands could be more expansive or provide better fine-tuning. While it supports a wide range, certain niche bands may require additional adjustments or antennas for optimal reception.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Customer support receives mixed but mostly positive feedback. Users mention that responses are generally helpful when addressing concerns or issues with the device.
There are occasional reports of slow response times or unhelpful solutions from customer service. A few users noted that resolving issues with warranty or repairs could be more efficient.
Size/Weight
75%
25%
The radio is lightweight enough for outdoor use, with a manageable size for taking on trips. It’s not overly heavy or cumbersome, making it suitable for those who want a functional device without the weight.
Several buyers mention that the radio feels too bulky for a portable device. Some find it too large to comfortably carry in a backpack or small bag, which can limit its portability.

Suitable for:

The Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio is ideal for radio enthusiasts and travelers who need a portable, versatile device with access to a wide range of frequencies. Its ability to receive AM, FM, shortwave, longwave, and airband signals makes it a solid choice for people who enjoy tuning into global broadcasts, whether for news, hobby listening, or weather updates. Its compact design and large preset memory also make it perfect for outdoor users who need reliable reception in remote areas. Additionally, those who regularly adjust to different time zones will appreciate the 42 time zone options and easy-to-use features like automatic station scanning and SSB tuning.

Not suitable for:

However, the Sangean ATS-909X2 may not be the best choice for users who prioritize ultra-portability or simplicity. The device's size may feel bulky to those looking for an everyday, lightweight radio for casual listening. Its advanced tuning methods, while precise, can be challenging for beginners who are not familiar with shortwave or airband tuning. Additionally, the lack of included batteries and the occasional need for manual adjustments may not suit users seeking a more straightforward, hassle-free experience. Lastly, while it offers strong reception, users in very rural or remote areas may still experience some issues with signal clarity under certain conditions.

Specifications

  • Band Support: Supports AM, FM, SW, LW, and Air bands for a wide range of listening options.
  • Station Presets: Can store up to 1674 station presets for easy access to frequently used channels.
  • Time Zones: Includes 42 time zones with daylight saving time support and two editable city names.
  • Display: Features a 3.33″ x 1.95″ backlit LCD screen for clear viewing in any lighting condition.
  • Tuning Methods: Offers multiple tuning options, including auto scan, manual tuning, rotary, and memory recall.
  • SSB Tuning: Supports USB/LSB tuning with 10 or 20Hz fine tuning for precise frequency selection.
  • Battery Charger: Includes a built-in battery charger with faulty detection to prevent issues with charging.
  • Power Options: Operates on either AC power or four AA batteries (not included).
  • Audio Output: Equipped with a headphone amplifier for enhanced audio quality during private listening.
  • Size: Measures 8.17″L x 1.34″W x 5.31″H, making it compact enough for portability without being too small.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.6 lbs, providing a solid, durable build while still being light enough to carry.
  • Included Accessories: Comes with a carrying pouch, earbuds, portable antenna, and AC adapter for convenience.
  • FM Softmute: Features FM softmute technology to reduce noise and interference in weak signals.
  • Display Contrast: The LCD display includes adjustable contrast settings for optimal visibility in different environments.
  • Frequency Range: Covers a wide range of frequencies from 150 kHz to 30 MHz, ensuring access to various broadcasts.
  • Sensitivity: Offers high sensitivity across all bands for improved reception quality, even in remote areas.
  • Antenna: Includes a portable antenna for improved reception, especially for shortwave and airband signals.
  • Customization: Allows users to customize settings such as time zones and station presets for a personalized experience.

FAQ

The Sangean ATS-909X2 Multi-Band Radio stands out for its support of multiple frequency bands including AM, FM, SW, LW, and Air bands. It also offers advanced features like SSB tuning, RDS display, and automatic station scanning, making it ideal for both casual listeners and serious radio enthusiasts.

To set up the radio, simply plug it into a power source using the included AC adapter or install four AA batteries. Then, select the band (AM, FM, SW, LW, or Air) using the tuning dial or auto-scan function. The large LCD display helps you quickly view frequencies and station information.

This multi-band radio allows you to store up to 1674 stations, which makes it highly convenient for users who like to switch between a wide range of stations, whether at home or on the go.

Yes, the radio’s strong reception capabilities across AM, FM, SW, LW, and Air bands make it reliable even in remote locations, where many other radios might struggle to get a signal. It’s especially useful for travelers or outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, the Sangean ATS-909X2 can run on four AA batteries. However, keep in mind that you will need to purchase the batteries separately as they are not included in the box.

The built-in battery charger ensures that the radio stays powered by charging the batteries while the device is plugged into an AC outlet. It also has faulty detection to prevent issues caused by damaged batteries.

Yes, the Sangean ATS-909X2 supports shortwave (SW) frequencies, making it a great choice for users who enjoy tuning into international broadcasts or niche frequencies.

Yes, the radio includes a headphone jack with an amplifier for better sound quality when using headphones. This is especially useful for private listening or when you're in noisy environments.

The radio offers multiple tuning methods, including auto-scanning, manual tuning, and rotary tuning. It also supports fine-tuning via SSB (Single Side Band) modes for both USB and LSB, providing excellent control over the frequency selection.

While the Sangean ATS-909X2 is portable, it is on the larger side compared to some other portable radios. It weighs about 1.6 lbs and has dimensions that make it easy to carry, but it might be a bit bulky for some users who prefer very compact devices.