FM radios: features, popular models, selection criteria

The development of modern technology is proceeding rapidly, especially in the context of computer and television advances. A high-quality smartphone can replace almost any gadget for a person. Nevertheless, radio receivers remain in demand, and every year manufacturers release new models. This simple device remains useful to people in different conditions. For example, there is no better budget option for giving. Diverse design - futuristic or retro - allows you to choose a model for every taste. A modern radio receiver is a multifunctional device. In addition to a radio wave transmitter, it can contain many useful things: a flashlight, an alarm clock, a timer, a player.

FM radios come in several variations, classified according to the way they play the signal.

• Ethereal model. The signal is transmitted almost everywhere, it is caught by means of the antenna, which all receivers are equipped with. The most popular variety.
• Wired variation. Requires binding to a radio point, which is found in all types of modern housing. This is a stationary type of device that works almost without interruption, since the reception area is flat everywhere thanks to the wires. This is the most popular variety for summer cottages, country houses.
• Online radio. The signal is transmitted through special lines or telephone wires. The signal quality is always good.

Also, radio receivers are divided according to the method of adjustment.

• Analog - budget models, comfortable for those who listen mainly to one or two stations. The tuning scale is of a mechanical type, the station is selected by turning the wheel, the slider. Among the minuses - not too precise tuning of the range, no memory.

• Digital - with LCD displays, on which the necessary information is visible. Most often they are equipped with additional options: alarms, timers. This is a compact variation, suitable for home, summer cottages, travel. They are capable of playing MP3 format, there is a USB connector, SD / MMC, Aux. They allow you to comfortably search for the necessary radio stations, waves by autosearch, they perfectly receive the signal.

There are even pocket models that are indispensable on the road. An analog receiver is often purchased by people of an age who do not make high demands on the device.

The best models of radios on the market today are equipped with a digital tuner, remote control. They are waterproof, with an extended range.

• Perfeo PF-SV922. The module has an additional set of functions, an LED screen. It is possible to scan the range on the machine during operation. The memory function allows you to store the settings of several dozen stations, which are called up by pressing the corresponding button. Player mode allows you to read MP3 format from a flash card. It can function as a card reader with all the functions it needs when connected to a PC. It is allowed to be used as an acoustics system.

• Max MR 400. The receiver is portable, mechanical control, very reliable device, the risk of breakage is low. Nice design, the sound is quite clear, strong, there is no distortion. The range is wide, you can choose the station "to taste". There is a player that supports MP3 format, a USB port, Bluetooth, slots for connecting to a smartphone or PC.Equipped with a solar-type battery, the need for charging is minimized if a standard network is not available.

• Perfeo Huntsman FM +. Portable model, compact, with good sound, subwoofer. The extended range allows you to fish a variety of stations. Equipped with a digital format tuner, fine tuning, signal reception at a high level. Autosearch of stations, fixation of 50 settings make the use comfortable. You can manually enter the parameters of the desired radio wave. MP3 player allows you to listen to books and music, return to the bookmark after shutdown. The 1000 mAh battery allows you to listen to music for several hours without recharging.

• Bosch GML 50. Not too budgetary, but very high quality model with a spectacular design. Equipped with 4 speakers, subwoofer. Reads MP3 format from different media thanks to different connectors. Any audio systems (smartphones, PCs, tablets) are connected, turning the receiver into an acoustics system. Robust aluminum frame with anti-shock system. Powered by mains or battery, it itself can act as a charger.

• Panasonic RF-800UEE-K. High sensitivity, 4 ranges, vintage style wood cabinet. Broadband speaker with metal mesh, volume up to 2.5W. Reception is of high quality, the antenna can move to a height of 12–80 cm. MP3 content is reproduced thanks to the player, there are sockets for flash cards, built-in memory, and a headphone jack.

• Degen DE-1103. It has established itself as a highly sensitive device that perfectly catches even with a weak signal. The circuit is equipped with a DSP chip, which does an excellent job of receiving in the FM band. The liquid crystal screen is backlit, you can see the display of frequencies, signal reception, volume on it. Even the amateur band can be accepted. The antennas are flexible and telescopic, there is a lock for different positions.

• Tecsun PL-660. The device is of a digital type, covers a huge range of stations, including amateur, air. Sorts stations in auto mode, duplicates are deleted automatically. The desired frequency is selected with one button. Convenient search device, three possibilities of signal power regulation allow you to independently choose the sensitivity of the device, based on the distance to the signal source.

• Sony ICF-P26. A pocket-sized receiver, you can carry it anywhere, the sound quality is at the highest level, the broadcast mode does not matter here. There is a built-in speaker, headphone jack. The LED type sensor helps to control the charge, it is easy to set up, change the batteries. The tuner is the most sensitive, the range is extended, the selectivity is high, the broadcast is clear. The weight is minimal, it is very convenient to use, well suited for travelers and active people.

The choice of a receiver depends on many factors; the purpose and place of use decides a lot. In the village or in the country, there are enough simple models without complex functions. The pocket (small) option is good for travelers. It is worth paying attention to the technical characteristics.

• Sensitivity. With high sensitivity, the receiver works as efficiently as possible, picking up the largest number of stations.
• Selectivity. In relation to the adjacent channel, the perception of waves occurs without wheezing, squeak, and other unpleasant sounds. A larger number means better selectivity. Models less than 60 dB should not be considered.
• Output power. Allows you to estimate the sound volume: the lower the value, the quieter the sound.
• Additional set of functions. Here it is worth assessing which of these you really need. If you are not using most of the functions, you should pay attention to the simple models.If you need an alarm clock, an outlet for a flash card - consider more "packaged" options.
• Brand and price. If you can confidently say about the price that the high cost is not always justified, then the brand should be proven.

For the features of FM radios, see the following video.