Tecsun R9700DX AM FM Stereo Shortwave Portable Radio Review

[@todderbert]

▶ The Tecsun R-9700DX at Amazon USA: amzn.to/2HwQEu6 (paid link) As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There are no additional costs to you. ▶ The Tecsun R-9700DX at eBay: bit.ly/R9700DX (paid link) As an eBay Partner, I may be compensated if you make a purchase. There are no additional costs to you.

[@SyonanAshigaru]

Hey Todd, I'm trying to find the English language version of the Tecsun R-9700DX, but I don't seem to be able to. All the listings I found are for the Chinese version. I live in Asia. Do you know if there are other places that sell the English version that offer shipping to Asia?

[@todderbert]

@@SyonanAshigaru Ask Anon-Co.

[@SyonanAshigaru]

@@todderbert Thanks! They don't seem to list an English version on their site, but I'll contact them!

[@supamisphosrithong2932]

Ok citcsnnon good

[@chilicheesejay]

This is THE gold standard of analog radios still. Everyone well into the hobby of ShortWave listening needs this amazing radio. I use this way more than my Degen 1103 for shortwave listening in 2023. Single side band can be found elsewhere, but this radio is a must have and sadly over looked since it's totally analog for a slightly more expensive unit.

[@anulearntech]

do you use the supplied charger to charge the 4 AA batteries internally? thanks.

[@chilicheesejay]

Nope! @@anulearntech

[@anulearntech]

@@chilicheesejay thanks, I guess there's the chance of overcharging the batteries.

[@halibut1249]

It's really a terrific radio in that it features all 12 bands in one easy to read dial footprint, and the dial is lighted which is another fantastic feature (and not easy to find on analog radios). I don't know which is better at grabbing a station and locking onto it for clear reception---analog or digital---but if you like to manually scroll through the bands, this one's for you. And this is a true world traveller--go anywhere in the world on those sw bands!! Thanks Todderbert for review.

[@jbell7232]

Two Hands and a Radio sold me on this one. Great size, feel, speaker and sensitivity. Nice job. (Yeah, have it and still enjoying your review. Thank you.)

[@todderbert]

Your Welcome, I'm glad I picked one up.

[@captainbossman1016]

And a voice Don't forget the voice

[@TheGuitartube]

That was a great channel, so sad he shot down his channel.

[@dieselkilgore]

Love that lighted dial. Gives off a retro vibe, like a classic AM car radio from the 60's or 70's.

[@nap083node431]

This is the second radio I bought after the pl398bt based on your review. Both radios are great, but I can say that the R9700DX is all the radio anyone will ever need. Thankyou Todderbert.❤️

[@pappydc12]

Thanks for the review. I've had this radio for a few years and switch between this and the 310ET and the 660. Love the 310 for size and the 660 for the SSB capability. BUT, I'll take all 3 with me on our RV trips. (Yes, radio geek!) Can't beat sitting around a camp slowly scanning SW with the 9700. Toss a longwire up in a tree for amazing results. Turn the light on at night and I go back in time! Thx agn, 73 WR1Y

[@danielcharrie7125]

I just ordered it on Amazon, coming soon ty for your comments, well done

[@raymondg5643]

I just got the radio. It's a fantastic radio. It's reception in the same league of my Tecsun PL-880. The audio quality seems to be even better. It's a real fun to play with a real analog radio.

[@b.2221]

You want old school high quality then this is on par with your presentation, this is an outstanding radio that shows Tecsun can produce the goods when they have to, top notch 👍 Tam.

[@todderbert]

Thank you, its one smooth operator.

[@sandrolombardi888]

I bought this Tecsun R9700DX and its really a wonderful Radio for that price. Good receving and good audio quality. And stations are easy to find on shortwave. And yes, i also was tired of the digital receivers. Thats why i bought this. And its great. with that scale light, it looks fantastic

[@chuckermatinger3794]

I like mine a lot, it has a lot going for it for the price. Very good sensitivity on FM. On mine sensitivity drops a bit at the high end of the MW band, otherwise very decent. Good shortwave sensitivity. Love the audio! Thanks for reviewing this model!

[@todderbert]

Your Welcome Chuck, its a great portable for sure.

[@Radio_Activity]

Mine exhibits the same behaviour on MW. Many others have noted the same. Not significant to me really. Otherwise it's a wonderful radio.

[@ÆCME]

Great review Todd👍 I like that light too, bliss late at night when it's raining & a howling gale, tuning into some country thousands of miles away.... It's what the hobby is all about! Thanks for the antenna recommendation. Looking forward to seeing more of you're friendly informative content 👏

[@vimbembrook7408]

Holy Christ! This is the point. A totally analogue receiver, just like the old school. A super heterodyne PLL synthesized receiver 🙏.Great work 👌

[@alexuny]

It's a beautiful analog receiver! I've mine since 14 years ago, and works and looks like first day. I buyed rebranded and distributed like SCOTT RX-120AW, on a local store. But it's the same model.

[@robmccarthy1018]

Loving this dual conversion analog Rx. Nice review, Got it cheap down here in Australia AU$54 (approx US34) Solid construction, great feel, very sensitive and pulls in nearly the same number of stations on FM, AM and SW B'cast bands as my Tecsun S2000 desktop. I'm using an outdoor 50 foot wire in a tree. Works best with it loosely coupled to the 9700's whip. Has great audio quality for a real portable too. Only criticisms are the occasional 'birdies' (heterodynes) on some SW b'cast bands- maybe a problem with the dual conversion circuit? And the volume slider is too stiff and jerky. Otherwise a great radio. Keep up the great review work and keeping 'Iron Man' busy. 😁

[@davidbutton8281]

Yet another great review and yet another radio I purchased because of it! I'm an old guy and grew up in the analog only days and wanted to get back into scanning the airwaves. I enjoy this radio, the sound from the speaker and the headphones (tho there is a little hiss at the low end but not enough to care). The backlight is awesome to check where you are on the band during those night scans (though...I did take your advice ...and on a recent trip to Walmart ....purchased a couple of those $1.00 LED headlamps. They are awesome!) Next up is a "digital" style radio to upgrade from my Grundig G6 Buzz Aldrin Edition radio. Thank you sir for all your hard work. It's appreciated by me....and clearly....many others!

[@theekopper]

Thanks for the review. I just ordered one of these from Amazon with a gift card I got for Xmas.

[@davidbeal8054]

Thanks. Nice video. I just bought one for 42 cents less than todderbert paid. Very excited to explore analog again. 20 years ago, I had something very similar, but have really only used digital radio in the last 15 years. I use an Eton Grundig Field Elite most of the time so it will be fun to listen to something new/old.

[@genem2768]

Have you ever tried using another analog am radio as a bfo to receive ham signals on a non ssb receiver such as this? When you tune to a ham signal on the 9700 turn on the other am radio with its volume all the way down, place it so the internal ferrite antennas are close to each other and tune across the band on the second radio slowly until it demodulates the signal on the 9700. I've done this and it works quite well and is really cool. Could also be a fun video, maybe the tecsun 2p3 would be good as the second radio. Thanks for all the fun tests you do. I really enjoy you style and humor.

[@Madmax-TV]

Finally this radio just arrived awhile ago. Thanks for the best review sir! Now i got 380, 310ET and this R-9700DX. Big thing for the antenna i can use it on my 310ET. "Cool radio"

[@dylandopsovic7045]

This radio is definitely one of Tecsun's masterpieces. I love the purely analog tuner and the smooth sounding speaker!

[@alphaandomegaministry2718]

I bought a Tecsun pl660 first but it was not pulling in SW stations that my cheepo little SW radio does on 19inch whip. So i sent it back and got a digital/analogue combo. The XHData D808 and the Tecsun R9700dx for less money! Both are amazing sensitive radios and i get a modern + old school radio experience.

[@ArndroidInc]

Wow, that radio really pulls in the AM stations.

[@todderbert]

Yeah, I was going really fast too. Going to do a more in depth band scan in the future.

[@csautterson]

Dude .. just got this radio today. WHAT A FREAKING BLAST! Thanks for the reviews .. keep up the good work!

[@stuartwilkie4887]

I've had mine since about 2009, bought in China. There are several reasons why this is a fantastic choice. The first one I think to note is that although it sells for toy money - it is not a toy. It is a well built precision device (save for the little plastic flap at the rear that acts as a stand). Some of the AM receivers today are an after thought to the FM. They include it only to say it is there. The MW is quite good, and the SW is very comprehensive. One thing you might want to know is SW doesn't really work all that well inside.Outside however, I have picked up a diverse range of stations from as far away as Japan and Korea and Hong Kong. I especially like the analogue tuner. I find digital tuning radios slightly tricky to use and sometimes I feel a station is actually half way between tune-able settings. The last point I would like to make is how good the FM earphone section is. They may have put this on as an after thought - but no. When paired with a set of desktop speakers it's very listenable. In it's lifetime it's had a new back support flap (now I know how fragile they are I take care of it better), and a replacement telescopic and wire aerial. The people at the Tecsun service center knew the model very well and (still I imagine) regard it as a market leading product.

[@DarrenN72]

I love mine. Reminds me of the old analog radios from the 70's & 80's when I was growing up with the tuning dial instead of a digital readout, and the backlight is cool. Gives it that vintage look. It's definitely the best analog radio around today. Being dual conversion keeps the breakthrough out compared to the cheap $10 & $20 radios. Definitely worth the $60 I paid for it

[@johnsuarez1404]

I'm sold. Digital is a disqualification for me. I don't want an MP3 player alarm clock radio, I want a radio

[@Radio_Activity]

One of my all time favourite radios. The only issue I find is spurious signals popping up where they shouldn't be on the shortwave bands. This is made worse when using an external antenna. I just use the whip antenna with this radio. Seems a common issue with this radio. It's very sensitive on the whip so no big deal.

[@jeffking4176]

Reminds me of a couple of radios I had some decades ago, Panasonic RF-788 Sony ICF-7600-a Both of them were excellent. Seems this would be Tecsun ‘s replacement for them🙂. And it’s been on my wish list for about a year. Other reviews concur with yours. Excellent radio.

[@todderbert]

It's a solid radio. Does everything well for the cost. Thanks for watching :)

[@colescuckooclockshop754]

I just bought this yesterday. It will be added to my Sony icf-7600gr, Tecsun pl-660 and Eton s350dl among a Grundig fr200, Eton frx-1 Eton frx-2 and an old bell and Howell shortwave receiver. I’m hoping this one doesn’t disappoint.

[@k5wxp22]

I really enjoy watching your videos. You get "little kid on Christmas morning" excited about your new present, just like I do! 🎉 I now have a Tecsun 660, 330, and the xhData D808. Obviously all ssb radios, but for 50 bucks, this one looks very tempting. Thanks for the review and all your videos! 73, Brett K5WXP

[@sidneycavalcant]

Comprou o r9700 ?

[@dutchbeef8920]

I got a chinese version of this in the end, it was second hand and at a much reduced price. All the bands are still listed with numbers and the functions moulded into the cabinet are still in english anyway. I really enjoy using this radio. AM reception sounds really good on it. And with decent headphones and tuned to an FM stereo station it sounds really nice. On SW it seems to pick up some fairly distant stations. In all im really pleased. Im adding a tecsun an 200 soon. Also it still used the original 4 aa batteries. It doesn’t seem to go through batteries quickly at all.

[@Wezleigh]

I already have the tecsun models r9012 and pl-310et, and I love both of them. This will probably be the next one I get, mainly for the analog tuning combined with the external antenna jack

[@radellaf]

I have the 310et and am trying to choose this or one of the 9710/909/9012. Other hobby experience says get this AND one of those (9710 probably). The 9700 really appeals for having: a big speaker, (real)shortwave,

[@sandeepsharma2810]

Is there any updated version of the model or any other analogue radio which can campete the same.

[@betmulligan6192]

Very nice! I'm doing some newbie radio shopping at the end of the month and that is now on my list.

[@Manny_News_Blogs_Tutorials]

I bought a radio about 7 years ago similar to this Tecsun, but goes with the AITKENSON brand, model AT-MD930. Very similar radio but with a big digital readout display on the front with analog tuning knob on the right side. Same band switch AM/ FM/ SW1-10 with the addition of 7 push button keys for clock adjustments and alarm function. The cabinet is black but with same size and dimension. Speaker is about same size placed on the exact spot on the left, and same DX/ Local, Mono Stereo switch, DC input and external antenna jack placement on the left side, tuning and volume control on the right side. "Aikenson" red font logo was silk screened at the exact spot where R-9700DX and accompanied texts were printed on this radio. Well, my Aitkenson radio itself was decent but the digital display faded and came hard to read after about a year of use.

[@herrkrickmeyer9718]

I have a question. I really like this receiver. But, I bought mine from kaito USA. In their website it shows continuous coverage on sw. Never thought about it in the year I had it. Yesterday I went to tune in to 12160 and 9350. and realize it doesn't tune there. Disappointed a bit. Wharves a radio like this with a needle that had continuous uninterrupted coverage.

[@eduardoquirino8131]

I bought this radio online and it sounds wonderful on FM, even AM but most of the shortwave stations are in many chinese languages ( I live in Manila, Philippines) . I usually do not even use the line antenna or the dx as there are so much noise interference. Wish I could get an english station in SW though. but mostly I listen to a classical music station in FM here in Manila. Thanks, EddieQ

[@SaSa-sd2ve]

Hello, I'm also from Philippines I'm looking a radio that can receive middle east station. Maybe you know which one is the best.

[@georgemercado8676]

Hello I am planning to buy this later in Lazada. This would be my second shortwave radio, the 1st one is the xhdata 808. I live in Lipa Batangas and most of the time I pick up stations from china. This radio is cool ang classic.

[@radellaf]

Odd thing I notice compared to other radios is that on relatively weak signals the hiss has a tone to it depending how exactly you're tuned in. You have to fiddle to get the lowest pitch noise. Happens on AM and SW. On a strong enough station to get any AGC gain reduction, that effect goes away. Not sure if I have a slightly defective or misaligned unit or if that's just a characteristic of this radio. I'm used to slightly off-tune AM being more noisy or distorted, or just weak, but not with a hiss that has a not-flat frequency contour.

[@MrBrian8749]

I really like this radio...I had plans to purchase this one next. Very nice review, thanks for taking the time to share this video. looking forward to seeing how this radio will do on a 50 meter longwire. 73s .....Brian, Adelsheim Germany

[@todderbert]

Your Welcome, glad to have you aboard. I would love to have an external antenna setup...need to find a way to make it work with my home owners association.

[@MrBrian8749]

todderbert check out the Bonito Boni whip active antenna. It's small and easy to conceal. It will also give you performance even random and long wire antennas can't match. You can install it in the eve of your house or the attic and no one would ever know.

[@ianharrison6597]

Thanks for the video. A good analogue radio with impressive MW and exceptional audio for its size. It will be interesting to hear how the MW performs on the (over)crowded MW in the UK and continental Europe at night. The only feature missing is SSB, but it's MW I'm really interested in anyway. Your review has sold it; I'm off to Amazon.

[@todderbert]

Your Welcome, I hope it serves you well.

[@scriptguru8]

I wish there was a similar model with SSB and continuous SW coverage... It would be an ideal SW radio for me. Even better, the SSB part should be digital, so there is no drift, and non-SSB part should be analog for fast manual scanning.

[@radellaf]

I'd love SSB, too, but for the price....? I have a couple of other radios for ham bands anyway. Or, more often these days, I look for a good SDR site on the web. No good in an emergency, but fun when the power is on. Those waterfall displays are just incredible for finding stuff. Wish I had those when I was seriously into HF.

[@ianharrison6597]

@@radellaf I agree. If only SDR had been available in the ‘seventies when the MF and HF bands were full and constantly busy. Having said that, a high quality and regularly maintained analog radio can do a very good job. Without the waterfall unfortunately.

[@thomasniner001]

Match it up with the loop antenna. Shootout with the Crane EP and/or the GE Superradio for DXing? Could be a modern contender. Good review-

[@todderbert]

I have the new EP coming in soon. Maybe an old EP vs new EP. I plan to do some band scans with this radio, and possibly a loop session.

[@thomasniner001]

todderbert I can't wait, thank you!

[@matthewspaltro7142]

Yes, good case. Both Tecsun and Grundig make good cases. I mention Grundig as well because they also make cases which are pretty nice.

[@scriptguru8]

Both Tecsun and Grundig are made on the same factory (Kaito), and many of their radios are sharing cases and other parts, so yes :) But yes, good cases.

[@chuckermatinger3794]

Thanks!

[@todderbert]

Awesome Chuck! Hopefully you are enjoying some fair weather tuning :)

[@chuckermatinger3794]

@@todderbert when I give you a thank you amount, does it really help you? I'm just wondering. It's fun to do!

[@todderbert]

@@chuckermatinger3794 It does! I think KZbin takes 30% of it for themselves, and I see 70%.

[@mylessmith8980]

What I prefer about the Analogue Tuner Radios is they don't shut off on low Battery Power like the Digital Tuner ones and the analogue ones also save more battery life.

[@mylessmith8980]

Because with the digital tuner radios if there's not enough battery life to run the computer or micro chip inside then the whole radio won't go.

[@marcosmza1962]

What I think after months using this analogue? The sound in first place. Is really pleasant. The sensitivity is average in MW, a bit better SW performance (They declare 30uV or something for SW) quality construction an the option for continuous light amber coloured: a goal. Low battery consumption even using the light. I hate that Tecsun does not take the time to align the dial needle properly.The Tecsun R9012, with lower price and declared 50uV in SW lacks light, but at least better calibrated dial needle.

[@scriptguru8]

I think their alignment is hit and miss. My 9700DX is spot on, and R9012 is way off (but still a fun and cheap radio).

[@herrkrickmeyer9718]

I've had mine since December. The band selector switch seems to allow a lot of dust to get in under the dial cover. Do you folks have this issue. The gap at the switch is very large and I've never had this issue before.

[@ricktemmen6272]

Reminds me of my. Sony ICF- 7601. I love that old radio and still play it every so often. The Nice thing about analog is there isn't a lot to go wrong. Nice and simple but no SSB so I don't use it as much as I would. Great review. Thanks 😎👍📻

[@Radiodog]

What did you tune at around 9:50? Are you using an antenna tuner?

[@yutongzhang488]

Thanks for your review! R-9700DX is a great start point for radio, and will be a good supplement even if you get an advanced digital radio in the future.

[@stickstickley8944]

That is a good looking analog, looks well built, really thinking about picking one of these up.

[@radellaf]

Real flaw with this is the battery charger. It's an 8 ohm trickle charge resistor in series with the batteries (plus a 2 ohm and diode for up to ~1 amp charge if the batts are low). So it will overcharge NiMH/NiCd, and try to charge alkalines. If the case isn't too hard to remove, those components are all next to the power jack so could be removed. Conceivably it would be OK for NiCd, but that's a little more retro than I care for. Not sure if the PL310's NiMH charger is better but I presume so (and I think you have to manually activate it).

[@ashab1]

So how would I know if the battery's are charged on this? would it be better to charge them separate from the radio?

[@radellaf]

@@ashab1 Either just go by time (not sure exactly, I'd guess 2-3h but could be wrong), feel if the cells get warm, or, yeah, charge them separately. What to really avoid is leaving the radio connected to AC for days, with batteries inside. If using alkalines, just don't connect to AC.

[@LeonidSh]

I love this radio.

[@vimbembrook7408]

I will have mine in a couple of days from now 👌

[@Gogogordy1]

Hi Todd-I know this is an older review, but I did just order this unit last night based on your review, after returning a CCrane Skywave which I didn't warm-up to. After a long absence from SW where I used to enjoy meticulously tuning an old Hallicrafters S40-B as a boy, with my dad that all-digital Skywave unit just didn't float-my-boat in use. I wish to re-capture fine-touch, tactile, tuning/hunting experience from years gone by, and I really believe this one will, So thanks for the review and influence! I do have one question, (maybe its addressed in the manual that will come with the radio when I get it) and that potentially silly question is: I noticed a series of different length vertical lines in the dial next to each band when it was illuminated, and what do those lines signify? BTW- another great KZbin reviewer whom I also enjoy, whose passion is primarily wrist watches and timepieces is Greg Anderson (elmer the clep) and he has a VERY similar review style, and tone to yours making you both among the best reviewers on KZbin IMO. Did you and he attend the same KZbin correspondence school?! LOL I'm enjoying your flashlight series as well...Thanks for the great content.

[@todderbert]

The lines signify the broadcast portion of the particular shortwave band.

[@Gogogordy1]

@@todderbert thanks for the comeback and the info!

[@migsvensurfing6310]

Nice radio ! I would like it to have a soft handle instead of the strap because of the size. About charging ... often radios has a switch in the battery compartment to select wheter recharge or normal batteries are installed.(charge on/off function).

[@todderbert]

This one does not have a switch so those who use the AC adapter, make sure you have NiMH batteries installed or your alkaline batteries removed from the unit. I wish it had a switch or a charge button. For those not informed, I see trouble.

[@csautterson]

Todd .. I initially loved this radios. Still do. But returned it because the scale was up to 50 Khz off. Tried to live with it, but it bugged me too much. I may order another one. Is the scale on yours accurate? Seems like it is in the video.

[@todderbert]

Mine is accurate enough. I tend to tune by ear, and use the dial for general locating.

[@marcosmza1962]

Bluegrass identified on 17:28 :)

[@FrancoDX]

Nice review. Are your frequency readings accurate on SW? Bought one of these because it’s analogue, I like manually tuning around, the external antenna jack and backlight were also a big bonus, but the SW readings are way out. Checked them alongside my other two Tecsun radios and a Sihuadon. Love the sound and everything else but going to have to return it, really disappointed.

[@todderbert]

Mine seems close enough. Wasn't bothered by it.

[@FrancoDX]

Thanks for the reply. I might try it using just the whip, I notice someone else commented stations pop up where they shouldn’t with an external antenna. Tempted to live with it but for £50 I expect it to be more accurate than the R-9012.

[@fredsands9220]

Excellent review Todd!

[@artur19846]

I have a dilemma which one to choose: Tecsun 9700 Dx or Grundig Yacht Boy 10? MW, SW reception is crucial for me.

[@BayouGusto]

Hey Todd Bert I picked this radio up recently it’s great. The only thing is the dial indicator appears to be a little “off” Is there anyway to make an adjustment to get it closer to where it needs to be when the frequency is coming in without having to open it or is there maybe a how to video floating around somewhere?

[@todderbert]

You would have to do some adjustments on the inside, AM would be the easiest, the SW would be a little harder unless there are single adjustment pots for each band.

[@plcasper]

I've been looking at purchasing one of these. Thanks for this video! I'm a bit confused though... are you saying the shortwave doesn't work when the headphone jack is in use?

[@Andy-kw5nw]

Wow! it even includes the antenna and power adapter. It’s like getting the radio for 35$!

[@todderbert]

Don't forget the cool case! :)

[@scriptguru8]

Some sites (anon-co) sell it for $31 without power adapter but with an antenna. Amazing value.

[@baneverything5580]

I just ordered one of these. I`m trying to buy as many analog radios (to use on AM) as possible before they stop making them. I hope I get a good one. I bought the analog Tecsun R9012 and it does very well on shortwave and has acceptable AM reception but FM is really bad. I didn`t buy it for FM though so I still rate it at 5 stars. It works very well on AM at night and the first set of batteries lasted several months of moderate use. I didn`t even notice that the batteries were dead until I turned it up and heard distortion and I suspect I could have continued to use it with earphones for another week. Gotta love analog radios!

[@radellaf]

Most of the chips are spec'd to run as low as 3V, and 0.75V at low drain is dead,dead,dead for an alkaline. FM stereo chip says 3.5V. Frankly, seems like you could run this off 3 AA and a spacer if dimmer LEDs was OK.

[@Sanctified_Leather]

Love the review , and loving your Rocking Radio Shop . Great resources and Information , Thanks Toddrebert ....👍

[@todderbert]

Your Welcome Steven. The shop was a good idea. Puts everything in categories.

[@Sanctified_Leather]

@@todderbert I'm loving it , Thank you , very helpful ....👍

[@johnharris1846]

hello todderbert, love your reviews! question for you, how much do or don't am/fm transmitters help with getting stronger signals? also when you do your own music testing radios, what are the classical songs? thanks and by the way I just ordered the Tecsun R9700DX and looking forward to it!

[@todderbert]

Transmitters are useful on the FM band, because of less RFI worries. I use mine sometimes to broadcast my Panasonic RF-2200 AM Signal through out the home so that my various smaller FM radios can pick it up. Cool stuff. The Songs I use are in the KZbin music library and are Royalty free.

[@jeffreyduff4269]

Todderbert, Master of the Radio Airwaves: Although you suggest in this review that you would do some follow-up R9700DX, I can not find any evidence that you ever did so. Since you have developed some new review methods since April 2018, wouldn't this be a great time to do a more extensive evaluation of the R9700DX? This seems like a most excellent radio and I would love to see your review and comments of this new-but-classic analog radio. Are you up for the challenge?!

[@jeffreyduff4269]

Oops, I see where you did do a follow-up loop session on the R9700DX back in April 2018, so my bad. Any way, it would still be fun to see you compare and contrast the R700DX against 2-4 other AM/FM/SW radios, all of them priced at (or around) that $50 mark, Just a suggestion ,,,

[@namesurname4666]

No LW :(

[@elliotkennel4584]

How much difference is there between the 9012 and 9700DX?

[@believe88]

is the ebay english version? on product page it shows chinese texts on the radio itself

[@arnoldgibbs3089]

Dr T., I have this model and I don’t think it is as sensitive as my other Tecsun which are smaller with a similar layout. MW is decent and FM is very nice on this radio. FYI, Audiovox has a walk man style FM HD pocket hd stereo. Sangean also has hd radios with both am hd as well as fm hd.

[@gunner6639]

Is there a similar to this where the backlight can stay on permanently if desired? I kind of like my radios to double as a night light..i sleep better knowing there's a radio near by lol.

[@todderbert]

There is a switch on top of this radio that lets you keep the light on permanently.

[@duythinh252]

Hi todderbert, thank you for the review. I know it's quite late now but does this little guy still worth to buy in 2022 ? I see my local is selling one and I'm looking for a decent radio for under 60$

[@soldierloz]

Hi there, great vid! Just ordered my one so looking forward to trying mine out. Can I ask you what you thought of the Grundig yacht boy 207? Thinking of trying to get one for my collection?

[@sturmBAQ89]

My Tecsun 9700dx has a weird problem. When the external antenna is plugged in, almost all frequencies of the SW Band 1, 3 and 4 are the same. If I listen for example a broadcast from 7.40 Mhz on the SW4, if I switch to the SW3 ou SW1 I can ear the same broadcast ! Has anyone have this problem too ? Without the external antenna the radio works just fine.

[@F4LDT-Alain]

Great review! although I *really* didn't need yet another radio, I have fallen for this one. And your review was kind of decisive 😁. I wanted it for being a good quality analog radio and for the large backlit display. Now is it because it's becoming rare? (not manufactured anymore, is it?) It sells for significantly more nowadays. Even on Aliexpress it goes for 60 euros or more. I've bought the Chinese variant (no choice) from Amazon for almost that price too. Although it's supposedly cheaper than the export variant. Well, I don't regret my purchase so far. It's a lovable radio, sound is very good, sensitivity seems above average in SW and it has this special touch. So thanks for helping me making my mind...

[@Radiodog]

Looks really nice. I'm an analog guy at heart. I'll put this on my wish list. (Christmas is coming!)

[@todderbert]

Hi Radiodog, thanks for stopping by. I am an analog fanboy myself.

[@lunes-1]

I just purchased the same model.arrived just know and I am 👀 watching your video review to get familiar with my new 📻 radio. Great review 👏

[@mohsenpanahi6773]

You have to spin the antenna in 360 degree to receive better singal at SW.

[@JeEeEs87]

Can the power supply be used to charge when using rechargeable batteries?

[@todderbert]

Yes, in fact you must remove Alkaline batteries before using the Power Supply since there is no switch to stop the AC Adapter from charging them. I recommend installing NiMH batteries for safety.

[@JeEeEs87]

OK thank you

[@navidansari1895]

Thanx for the review. Does the DC adaptor charges the rechargeable batteries?

[@ashab1]

Yes don’t use adapter with non rechargeable batteries though.

[@marcosmza1962]

I have one. Is a cute sensitive and good sound receiver.

[@todderbert]

Everyone owns one...glad I finally picked one up..I love being part of the 9700DX club.

[@marcosmza1962]

I love it. You will too

[@lunes-1]

Sorry to bother you.been testing the same radio that just bought today inside the house but the antenna coming on the box is pretty useless trying to listen worldwide bands.could you Recomended a better budget Antenna to purchase instead? Many thanks 😊

[@todderbert]

Try extending the wire through a sliding door or outside a window. If that doesn't work the Kaito T-1 wire is 22' long, but is best used strung outdoors. Mine is attached to my outdoor balcony, then fed through the sliding door, it works well because it is thin wire. Reception is best during good solar conditions. Dusk/Dawn are good as well. The T-1 at Amazon USA: amzn.to/3gxz3Bj

[@lunes-1]

@@todderbert many thanks for the information 😊

[@paulbainjr]

The light option I think is great always on lights at least as an option is great.

[@robmccarthy1018]

I gave this radio positive review recently with great audio, sensitivity and solid construction. BUT the tuning knob on the side of mine is too stiff and it makes the tuning very touchy especially on SW. Does anyone else have this problem or is it just mine?

[@andrewmcphee8965]

Hi Rob, the tuning knob on mine is too stiff as well, the volume slider is stiff as well. Thinking about taking the back off and seeing if there’s anything I can ‘adjust’ to make them smoother.

[@robmccarthy1018]

@@andrewmcphee8965 Hi Andrew. Yep As well as stiff it caused backlash. So I got desperate. Carefully pulled it apart and disassembled the dial, mechanism and cords etc. I tried stretching the tension springs on the wheel on the tuning cap. with limited success. I re-routed the tuning dial cord away from a centre spindle and double wrapped the cord around the tuning wheel. It felt good so nervously re assembled the thing. Fiddly, but it works fine now. 😁

[@momosgarage]

How does this compare to the PL-680?

[@hoggwilletts1492]

Hi! I bought this on your recommendation. I've been using it everyday for about 6 months. Let me ask. I noticed with the backlight on that small dust particles are migrating underneath the screen. Anyway to prevent or cure this? I don't live in a dusty environment. I also don't want to take the radio apart. It is not noticeable in the light at all. Only in a dark room with the lights on. Little specks that o first thought were fine scratches, but are in fact dust or extremely fine fiber.

[@todderbert]

I would get used to it, unless you feel comfortable taking a radio apart. Compressed air will just stir up more stuff.

[@hoggwilletts1492]

@@todderbert thanks. So I guess it's normal. I wouldn't take it apart for just that. I'd be taking it apart several times a year then, probably causing more serious issue.

[@todderbert]

@@hoggwilletts1492 I have it in new radios :) I tend it just live with it...though it can bug me.

[@colescuckooclockshop754]

@@todderbert thanks. It does bug me a little. But I guess it doesn't matter.

[@PaulTaylor1]

I like this radio, but there's something odd about the antenna jack on mine (on shortwave). If you have only a single wire connected to the tip of the jack plug, it works. But if you have the sleeve of the plug connected to an earth (or you're using a dipole), it shorts out and kills reception. None of my other Tecsun radios do this - and they all give better reception with the earth connected, so it's a bit of a shame.

[@radioenthusiastseoul8930]

The upper side (above 1300kHz) of the MW band is not quite sensitive.

[@marksommers4868]

I've had REAL GOOD LUCK, With TecSun Radios- I currently have 4, Three With SSB - I'll probibly get one of these "9700", I love late nite AM DXIng-- I've been trying to experiment with home brew Antennas - Ferrite rods are a problem to find locally - I did manage to Aquire some more 1n34a Diodes- Magnet wire is another thing to aquire- If people want these kinds of radios. Get them now- I beleive they'll only get harder to find --- ( I'm in North side of Chicago, Il )-

[@minniyoutubaster]

For SW reception, does the included Reel Antenna clip on tightly? Does the other end need to be extended outdoors? What if that's hard - I can't find any demo which shows how people set this up indoors. Also, is the included antenna as good quality as the Kaito-retractable one?

[@scriptguru8]

The included antenna is basically just a reel of wire with a 3.5mm jack and a clip so that you can attach it to something. It works, but takes time to unwind and wind it back. SW reception at home mostly depends on where you are. In a small town, in a house without much electronics it will work just fine indoors. In a large city, where neighbors use all sorts of noisy electronic devices, even with an outdoor wire antenna the result is not going to be great, unless the outdoor antenna is noise-cancelling. Still, it's one of the very best analog portables IMO, especially taking price into account. At anon-co web store it consts just around $31. It's so good I've bought the second one shortly after I've bought the first one. The best radio to quickly scan the SW range. Also sounds amazing on FM (in headphones), true analog sound without digital artifacts or filtering. Too bad there is no SSB version, but still you can hear CW here and there anyway.

[@fredsands9220]

There's this kooky design where three batteries are installed together underneath with a fourth above. The deepest of the three underneath is buried and won't slide out. Of course I don't need to slide it out now, but one day will. I don't want to shake the radio too hard or pound on it. Do you have any suggestions, tricks of the trade, before I send it back as defective? Thanks a lot. Update: I eventually got the battery out, but it's obviously a bit too large for the space provided. Seems the trick would be finding AA batteries that are slightly smaller. Solved: I bought some generic looking 1.2 V 1300 Mah Chinese batteries off Amazon. Brand is "Brightown." They fit fine. The ones that didn't fit were Ever-Readys and Rayovac Platinums. All in question are rechargeables, of course...

[@fredsands9220]

I'm experiencing something strange with this radio. When I grab it and hold it the reception cuts out. It's more prone to do this when I grab from the top rather then the bottom. When I let go it goes back to normal. It only does this with MW and SW, never FM. Neither of my small Sony analogs do this, nor does my Xdata D-808. Could I possibly have a defective unit? Thanks a lot in advance.

[@todderbert]

I have this happen on some radios as well. Causing a ground in the AM circuit. The radio is most likely very sensitive on those two bands as well. If you were not getting decent reception with the radio sitting on its own then I would question if it was defective

[@fredsands9220]

@@todderbert Thanks a lot for the feedback. That makes perfect sense. Yes the radio is quite sensitive for AM and SW. Not quite as good as my XData D-808, but still very effective.

[@Huanchee]

Been going through a lot of your videos lately trying to decide on a radio, think I might go with this one. I kinda want the skywave ssb more, but that price is a little out of my budget atm....

[@scriptguru8]

In a way, this one is better than Skywave SSB. I own Grundig Executive which is similar to Skywave SSB and is a great portable radio, but I find myself using 9700DX more because it's much easier to find shortwave signals with it. It's pain to find shortwave signals with digital radios manually, and automatic search doesn't work well on a single radio I've tried. But manual search on this radio is fun. And it sounds great too.

[@Huanchee]

@@scriptguru8 I ended up getting the SKywave in the end. Kinda wish I hadn't seeing as I saw the eton executive satilite which also receives LW, And I enjoy getting as much function as I can. But I do enjoy my Skywave SSB enough anyway. While I definitely need the reel antenna to receive shortwave overseas, I have been able to get the BBC plenty of times from Ascension, the cuban spy numbers(which while kinda pointless since it's not possible to decode it, it's still neat to know I'm picking up the broadcasts), and several SSB ham conversations. I also get my local airports quite clear too. But I may get this one some day. I certainly don't mind more radios. I've got a couple of vintage SW receivers on top of some really old antique AM ones.

[@scriptguru8]

@@Huanchee Don't get me wrong, Skywave SSB is probably better as a first or the only radio, it is awesome. 9700DX is great as a second radio which you play with when you get bored with your first radio :)

[@sandeepsharma2810]

Want to buy in india, from where should i buy the same. Not available on amazon india. From where can i buy the same .

[@kich6172]

Came across your channel researching weather band radios. Purchased a C Crane Solar Observer based on your review. Thank you, BTW. Now I'm a subscriber because I've become fascinated with these shortwave radios...oh, and your Iron Man songs crack me up. :-D I have a silly question. Would you recommend a person with no knowledge of radios buy a used radio or a new one the seller says has "slight cosmetic damage"? I try to buy used or slightly damaged items from a sustainable view and to save some money, but with a radio I'm afraid if it doesn't work properly I won't know if it will be user error or the item being damaged. Any guidance would be appreciated.

[@todderbert]

Only buy used at a thrift store, or garage sale where you can plug it in, or check it with batteries to make sure it all works as it should. Too many times have I come across duds on eBay, and too many sellers making it difficult to return. If you can get used from Amazon, check the return policy, they are usually much easier to deal with :)

[@OttosTheName]

I had a PL-606 for a while and sold it, but I'm starting to miss Shortwave. Is this model about as sensitive as the 606 on short and medium wave? I'll mostly be using it indoors at night if that makes a difference.

[@scriptguru8]

The difference between this one and 606 is like day and night. 9700DX is better in every way IMO.

[@thestatenislander4755]

What kind of battery life Are you getting on this radio? I have been using mine since December 26th. For 1-3 hours a night and haven't changed the batteries yet. (With headphones)