Mine came today. Sun is interfering a bit . Only received one battery, but will order more. I did have to turn off two surge protectors to reduce noise. Also received a really nice connector cable to go from the MLA 30 to the radio.
Well, there's no one whose opinion and advice I trust more in the field of SWLing (and Windows, too). So, I just sent Anon-co an order for a 990X! I like my Skywave SSB for casual listening and I still miss my Sony 7600 (died, bad caps). Really looking forward to having a high end portable that is truly a joy to tune around with.
Hello, just watched your videos on this radio and purchased it. Your vids definitely help me make this decision. Seems to be just the one I was looking for. Great videos.. thanks!! 73s
My most saught after feature on this radio so far is its use of the telescopic antenna for MW. Can't wait to hear more and especially, Gilles' opinion on circuitry-induced noise (not birdies, just noise). Keep the reviews coming Gilles.
PL-990x : PLL will blow out by strong signals in SSB/CW reception ... Problems regarding SSB/CW reception with the PL-990x : ====================================================== The PL-990x has a very high RF-sensitivity. At first I was thinking the PL-990x would have a faulth in the construction , because many demodulated SSB/CW signals have showing FM-effects ... Thats why I made an reset , but it gaves no solution of the problem . My test result is : On large - e.g. real amateur radio - antennas the PL-990x causes problems because of the strong signals (original voltage from the antenna) when demodulating SSB/CW strong FM effects happen because the PLL is simply "blown out" by high levels , the PLL starts working unstable !!!! The PL-990x is NOT designed for large antennas with very high signal levels in terms of dBµV !!! The more the signal level drops below 40 dBµV, the higher the S/N ratio and the demodulation is correct and clean without FM effects! For example, when using a G5RV antenna, I have e.g.achieved a 3 dB attenuator in front of the PL-990x antenna input and the antenna switch of the PL-990x is NEVER in the "DX" position ... but mostly in the "Norm" or even "Local" position. You could also open the PL-990x and put in an attenuator potentiometer. (1 kΏ to ground). On this occasion - when you have the unit open - you can also install a sensible and better antenna socket, e.g. an SMA socket. Then everything is wonderfully in order and the reception is excellent, for the most part even better than with my IC-7300 !!!!
How does the Kaito KA-1103 compare? Is it also good for SSB that way? The Tecsun PL-990x is a little out of my price range... lol... my XHDATA D-808 does about all I want it to, except it’s a hassle and sometimes an impossibility to get SSB voices tuned to where I can hear them...
I have a new 990x. When I use ssb the bandwidth 3 and 4 sound exactly the same. I'm thinking of taking it back. In your video, it seems yours does the same thing. Do you notice a difference in yours between 3 and 4 on ssb?
nothing wrong with it, on SSB you never use more than 3 wide signals are not wide enough, that is why you do not notice a difference, typical SSB voice is around 2.3 - 2.7 kHz wide. your radio is fine
@@OfficialSWLchannel I have the 501x also and that one I notice a difference between 3 and 4 ssb, it has more treble or static I should say on 4. On the 990x, 3 and 4 is the same on mine and it could use that extra treble sometimes. I do understand what you're saying about the 2.3-2.7 kHz though. Thank you for replying back.
Fine tune is what top of the line receivers use , you are actually tuning the frequency to get the SSB audio you want. a BFO works well, but it lacks the precision needed. Fine tuning will often make it easier to tune into a SSB signal you know the frequency
The whole zero-beat thing sounds so unimportant to me. It seems to me an obsessive digital radio issue, that (of course) did not even exist in the old analog days. A station not on the exact number? Isn't that what tuning and fine tuning are for?
I have an old TBX-8 WWII radio, and it has a BFO pitch knob that I can use to get a zero beat. Seems pretty important on side band. Maybe I'm reading your post wrong? BTW, I haven't fired up the old radio for several years. I'm afraid of losing a tube. It came with spares placed in dummy sockets inside and the spare TX tube is gone. Still have the RX spare. But it's like playing Russian roulette if i fire it up. Lol
I just ordered the PL 990 on Amazon but I noticed that you have the 990x, what’s the difference? Should I return it and order the 990x? I live in New England USA. Thanks! Love the channel.
This receiver has the same performance on SW as PL-330. But it is really good on LW. But there are no LW stations in the USA so you probably wasted your money
there are many things in the LW band from ham experimental stations to non directional beacons and with a good antenna .. you can sometimes receive European LW stations. no waste of money at all, I decoded a weather navtex with it
Also this is a far superior tuning and audio. Not in the same league. only someone that does not know what he talks about says waste of money....why waste time posting comments
By pressing and holding the "3" button it will recalibrate the SSB to
.000
Mine came today. Sun is interfering a bit . Only received one battery, but will order more. I did have to turn off two surge protectors to reduce noise. Also received a really nice connector cable to go from the MLA 30 to the radio.
O que está achando do rádio até o momento ?
Nice, I have 2 older radios Realistic DX-440 and the very huge Panasonic RF -4900, I love the compact radios
Well, there's no one whose opinion and advice I trust more in the field of SWLing (and Windows, too). So, I just sent Anon-co an order for a 990X! I like my Skywave SSB for casual listening and I still miss my Sony 7600 (died, bad caps). Really looking forward to having a high end portable that is truly a joy to tune around with.
Hello, just watched your videos on this radio and purchased it. Your vids definitely help me make this decision. Seems to be just the one I was looking for. Great videos.. thanks!! 73s
On the PL-880 you could calibrate the SSB by pressing and holding the snooze bar on top of the radio.
My most saught after feature on this radio so far is its use of the telescopic antenna for MW. Can't wait to hear more and especially, Gilles' opinion on circuitry-induced noise (not birdies, just noise). Keep the reviews coming Gilles.
PL-990x : PLL will blow out by strong signals in SSB/CW reception ...
Problems regarding SSB/CW reception with the PL-990x :
======================================================
The PL-990x has a very high RF-sensitivity.
At first I was thinking the PL-990x would have a faulth in the construction , because
many demodulated SSB/CW signals have showing FM-effects ... Thats why I made an reset ,
but it gaves no solution of the problem .
My test result is :
On large - e.g. real amateur radio - antennas the PL-990x causes problems because of the strong signals (original voltage from the antenna) when demodulating SSB/CW strong FM effects happen because the PLL is simply "blown out" by high levels , the PLL starts working unstable !!!!
The PL-990x is NOT designed for large antennas with very high signal levels in terms of dBµV !!! The more the signal level drops below 40 dBµV, the higher the S/N ratio and the demodulation is correct and clean without FM effects!
For example, when using a G5RV antenna, I have e.g.achieved a
3 dB attenuator in front of the PL-990x antenna input and the antenna switch of the PL-990x is NEVER in the "DX" position ... but mostly in the "Norm" or even "Local" position. You could also open the PL-990x and put in an attenuator potentiometer.
(1 kΏ to ground). On this occasion - when you have the unit open - you can also install a sensible and better antenna socket, e.g. an SMA socket.
Then everything is wonderfully in order and the reception is excellent, for the most part even better than with my IC-7300 !!!!
Yes it works better when the radio is in NORM or LOCAL mode when connected to an external loop/antenna
With a bandwidth of 500 Hz, you should be able to isolate a Morse Code signal. Impressive!
Nice, it's like tuning SSB on the PL-880.
Seems to be a very capable portable.
Very nice video with good and clear explanation.
Why doesn't this radio have a noise blanker?
A nice s meter would have been nice. The numerical db thing? Who thought that up?!
I hate that stupid db thing too, makes no sense
It looks like the radio is still switched to "Internal" antenna??
Thank you very much!
Gilles I like you review on the Tecsun 990x
What are the differences between the Tecsun PL-990 and the PL-990X?
Quero saber também, pois atualmente no Aliexpress apenas tem o modelo sem o "x"
1 HUG OF BRASIL 👍😎🇧🇷 TKS
Good video and thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Gilles your Tecsun 990x mw lw fm SW ssb 5 bands receiver is cool
How does the Kaito KA-1103 compare? Is it also good for SSB that way? The Tecsun PL-990x is a little out of my price range... lol... my XHDATA D-808 does about all I want it to, except it’s a hassle and sometimes an impossibility to get SSB voices tuned to where I can hear them...
Excellent interpretation on zero beat.
Gilles your utube videos are awesome
The pl 330 for the money is the best buy.
Havia assistindo vídeos que informam que o SSB do PL 990 distorce, percebe o mesmo ?
How does it do with Synch AM?
please explain the difference between Tecsun PL 990 and Tecsun PL 990x
I have a new 990x. When I use ssb the bandwidth 3 and 4 sound exactly the same. I'm thinking of taking it back. In your video, it seems yours does the same thing. Do you notice a difference in yours between 3 and 4 on ssb?
nothing wrong with it, on SSB you never use more than 3 wide signals are not wide enough, that is why you do not notice a difference, typical SSB voice is around 2.3 - 2.7 kHz wide. your radio is fine
@@OfficialSWLchannel I have the 501x also and that one I notice a difference between 3 and 4 ssb, it has more treble or static I should say on 4. On the 990x, 3 and 4 is the same on mine and it could use that extra treble sometimes. I do understand what you're saying about the 2.3-2.7 kHz though. Thank you for replying back.
Is there much difference tuning between the 680 and the 990X?
Qual sua opinião comparando o PL 990x com o PL 680 ?
i see its quite expensive any alternatives
get the 880. It's as good except for the blue-tooth.
Love your videos. Curious how the 990x compares to a Sony ICF2010?
much better filters on the 990x the Sony has a only wide/narrow. Audio from the 990x is much better.
Can this radio pick up aircraf? After all this is an expensive radio.
No it can't receive aircraft
How different is the PL990x from the PL990?
the 990 is domestic to china. However, the 990x - x= xport for the word Export.
I love my 990
When will this radio be available for purchase? thanks ⚘
at anon-co by end of this month back in stock for $ 235
does the fine tune work the same as a bfo or is a bfo better for tuning ssb??? im considering a tecsun pl-680
Fine tune is what top of the line receivers use , you are actually tuning the frequency to get the SSB audio you want. a BFO works well, but it lacks the precision needed. Fine tuning will often make it easier to tune into a SSB signal you know the frequency
The whole zero-beat thing sounds so unimportant to me. It seems to me an obsessive digital radio issue, that (of course) did not even exist in the old analog days. A station not on the exact number? Isn't that what tuning and fine tuning are for?
I have an old TBX-8 WWII radio, and it has a BFO pitch knob that I can use to get a zero beat. Seems pretty important on side band. Maybe I'm reading your post wrong? BTW, I haven't fired up the old radio for several years. I'm afraid of losing a tube. It came with spares placed in dummy sockets inside and the spare TX tube is gone. Still have the RX spare. But it's like playing Russian roulette if i fire it up. Lol
Wich one do you personnaly prefer, the PL-990x or the 501x for mainly utility RX?
Thank you kindly.
Happy Holidays from Belgium
both are amazing... I would choose the 501x...but both will do a great job
@@OfficialSWLchannel Thank You. The radio is just arrived...
Can you hear eams on that radio
Nice radio I AM have pl 880
I just ordered the PL 990 on Amazon but I noticed that you have the 990x, what’s the difference? Should I return it and order the 990x? I live in New England USA. Thanks! Love the channel.
same radio, the X is for the export version
Thanks..I am getting one today.
Does this radio also have AGC, slow or fast?
yes, but, in your opinion, is it worth the price tag?
yes
Im sorry, is this radio can listen a radio amateur bands?
Gilles I want to get Tecsun 990x mw lw fm SW ssb 5 bands receiver
Can you take the batteries out and run it with a cord to the wall?
wall adapter creates lone noise / RF so no. very sensitive receiver
may i buy it radio???
Should the ANT. switch be on EXT. instead of INT. ?
yes for external antennas... but in this video I tried something with the loop clipped ... that is why the switch was on int
@@OfficialSWLchannel Must be the invisible antenna clip that created the magnetic storm :-)
Does the Tecsun H-501 have this easy SSB tuning feature as well?
No only ATS
This receiver has the same performance on SW as PL-330. But it is really good on LW. But there are no LW stations in the USA so you probably wasted your money
there are many things in the LW band from ham experimental stations to non directional beacons and with a good antenna .. you can sometimes receive European LW stations. no waste of money at all, I decoded a weather navtex with it
Also this is a far superior tuning and audio. Not in the same league. only someone that does not know what he talks about says waste of money....why waste time posting comments
@@OfficialSWLchannel Thank you for explaining. Are you planning to compare it with Sangean 909?
How can MP3 playing in this radio, do you have a usb port on this model?
SD card
Can I ask for its price？
$235 US on Anon Co
What about the MP3 feature - can you record with it? ... like program a schedule that will be recorded automatically? Does it have AirBand?
I guess you have find out by now, but for most new users reading now ... no recording ... no air band
I do have tecsun Pl 880 should i change?
no
aaa very nice but too bad no AIR band .
Too bad for atmosphere conditions. Would buy it if it used standard alkaline batteries.
Too bad, that they missed out a TNC-antenna connector..
way too big of a connector for a radio that size.. 3.5 mm is fine
If it MUTES between stations it.'s not a Radio!
990X does not mute
@@OfficialSWLchannel I stand corrected and ready to try one out. Thank You!
a lot of noise..