Digital radios: features, selection criteria

To date, digital models have replaced classic radio receivers, which are able not only to work with on-air broadcasting, but also to provide broadcasting of stations via the Internet. These devices are presented on the market in a huge range, therefore, when choosing them, it is necessary to take into account the basic performance characteristics. The presence of additional functions also plays a huge role.

A digital radio receiver is a modern type of device that has the ability to receive radio waves with the subsequent reproduction of an audio signal. Modern digital frequency tuned models can also support MP3 and feature dedicated connectors such as AUX, SD / MMC and USB.

All radio receivers differ in design features, they can not only receive the signal, but also digitize it, amplify and convert it into another form, performing filtering at the frequency.

The main advantages of such devices include:

• automatic channel search;
• the presence in the design of a timer, a clock with an alarm clock and channel memory;
• high quality sound reproduction;
• supplement with RDS system;
• the ability to work with flash cards and USB.

Radio with digital frequency tuning works similarly to conventional radio receivers, the only thing that can be additionally used for radio broadcasting is the Internet. The principle of operation of this device is quite simple. The interaction between him and the radio stations takes place through special gateways on the Internet, so it is not at all necessary to use other types of technology (for example, a computer). A list of radio stations that are supported by the gateway and are suitable for broadcasting is automatically recorded in the radio memory from the Internet. To listen to your favorite radio stations, the user only needs to perform switching, as is done in simple models with a frequency synthesizer.

Currently, manufacturers are releasing modern models of devices that use a streaming version of the WMA format, with a bit rating of up to 256 Kbps, which allows you to receive radio stations with high quality Hi-Fi.

In addition, digital models have the ability to process signals in SDR format. This happens as follows: the device receives signals in real time, then, using software processing, transfers them to a fixed intermediate frequency. Due to this, a high sensitivity in the entire range and selectivity is obtained.

During processing of signals, the frequency of which does not exceed 20-30 MHz, the playback speed is up to 12 bits. Band-pass sampling is used to process high-frequency signals in digital devices. It allows you to bypass all possible restrictions and convert narrowband signals.

Digital receivers are presented on the technology market in a huge range of species. Now on sale you can find both stationary (powered from the electrical network) and portable models, each of which has the following performance characteristics.

• Stationary receiver... It is distinguished by its heavy weight and solid dimensions, but it provides an excellent signal and great sound. These devices often come with extended FM range, built-in memory and stereo sound. Fixed station lock receivers are easy to use and well suited for music lovers.
• High sensitivity handheld receiver... Compared to stationary models, it has a compact size, low weight and is additionally equipped with an autonomous power supply. Portable radio with digital tuning of frequency is usually bought for trips to summer cottages and for travel. When choosing such a model, you need to pay attention to the presence of a dual type of power supply: from the mains and batteries.

In addition, digital radios differ among themselves and in the way they are powered, distinguish between rechargeable, battery and network models. The latter option is very popular as it can provide high quality sound.

Giving preference to one or another version of a digital receiver, you should pay attention to many indicators, the main of which is considered an acceptable price and high quality. The best receiver models that have received many positive reviews include the following devices.

• Perfeo Sound Ranger SV922. It is a portable device with pretty good reception and high quality broadcasting, it has a miniature MP3 player and has a durable plastic case that can withstand heavy physical activity. The product is produced with one speaker, which is located on the front side of the panel and hidden under a metal mesh. Additionally, the design provides connectors for working with microSD cards and a flash drive. In addition, there is also a stylish LED display that shows the information you need. The memory of such a radio can store up to 50 stations, the range of which is scanned both in manual mode and automatically. The advantages of the device: compact size, high and high-quality sound, long-term operation.

• Degen DE-26... This high-end foreign receiver has compact dimensions and can work with radio stations in the SW, MW and FM bands. The manufacturer has supplemented the device with a special Digital Signal Processing system, thanks to which the signal from the station is received without interference, stable and amplified. The design also provides a slot for installing microSD cards, a backlit display and a telescopic antenna. The digital radio operates on both mains power and batteries. Pros: Affordable cost, good build, and beautiful design. Cons: autosearch of waves is not provided.

• Ritmix RPR-151. This model is produced with high sensitivity and fixed programs, has the ability to work with all wavelengths and MP3 files. The product comes with a built-in high-capacity battery that allows you to take it with you on trips. The radio speakers are quite loud and work both in mono and when headphones are connected. Advantages: fast search for waves, affordable cost, long service life.

• HARPER HDRS-033. This is a professional receiver that is especially popular with many music lovers. The design weighs 2.2 kg, so it is difficult to take such a radio with you on a trip.A radio receiver with a station search scale, a digital signal amplifier, two large speakers and a telescopic antenna is produced. It can operate both on batteries and mains, the body is made of MDF panels.

• Luxele RP-111. Differs in chic design and compactness (190 * 80 * 130 mm). The design has a powerful front speaker and a knob that controls the tuner. The device operates with a wide frequency range, a small flashlight is also provided in the design, an additional charger is included in the package, so the receiver can be used both stationary and in a portable version. The device comes with trays for two types of cards - microSD and SD, a convenient headphone jack and a retractable antenna for signal stability.

In addition to the above models, the following novelties can be distinguished separately.

• Makita DMR 110. This digital radio operates on both mains power and lithium-ion batteries, and supports FM, AM and DAB digital format. The product is equipped with a liquid crystal screen and LED backlighting, control is carried out by a conventional regulator and a convenient push-button keyboard. The receiver is designed to withstand harsh conditions, it is protected from moisture, dust and has an IP64 reliability class. Programming can be done via the USB port, for each individual range in the product memory there are 5 slots. Advantages: excellent quality, large informative display. Disadvantages: decent weight and high cost.

• Sangean PR-D14. This is one of the most popular radio receivers, which is characterized by low weight, compact dimensions and excellent build quality. All controls are located on the front panel, the device has the ability to store up to 5 radio stations, which are switched between each other by numbered buttons. The display of the product is liquid crystal, monochrome, has a unique backlight.

Going to buy a digital receiver, you need to pay attention to many nuances, since the length of operation of the device and the quality of playback will envy from the correct choice. First of all, you should check how the receiver picks up the signal. It is recommended to give preference to models with clear sound, which have the loudest broadcasting, without interference... Then you need to decide where you plan to use the device most often: at home or on trips. In this case, either stationary models or portable ones are selected. The first option is considered the best, as it is characterized by increased sensitivity.

The range in which the receiver can operate also plays a huge role. Most devices are capable of supporting a broadcasting grid starting from 80 MHz, but sometimes there are places (outside the city, in nature) where digital broadcasting turns out to be incomplete.

Separately, it is worth finding out if the radio is equipped with a built-in DAB module, which is responsible for stable operation in the search for waves. Sound quality is also considered an important indicator, since most devices are produced with only one speaker, which provides reproduction at all frequencies. A model equipped with multiple speakers and a mini subwoofer is a good choice.

In addition to all of the above, the radio must necessarily have special connectors for connecting external devices. It is best to choose products with the ability to connect a flash drive, they can be used in the future not only as a radio receiver, but also as a small music center. Do not forget about the presence of outputs for connecting headphones.

All about radios, see below.