Thanks for your reviews, after watching these I recently purchased a PL-880 from a US Ebay seller. The SSB performance is adequate and seems stable to me so I'm presuming it is fixed in mine. The sync AM is still terrible though. I also discovered it's easier to change the bandwidth by pressing the key then rotating the tuning dial until I get the setting I want rather than pressing the key multiple times. AM shortwave performance is impressive even using just the whip but I intend to test it with external antenna to see how it handles big signals.
I am expecting delivery of my first SSB Radio (Tecsun PL-880) this coming week. Been watching all of your PL-880 details videos. -Thanks for your honest reviews Tom.
@@gregorgman Hey Greg, Absolutely pleased with the Tecsun PL-880 radio. I ordered from ANON-CO.com a few months back. Exceptional signal sensitivity, and audio clarity has to be one of the clearest I've heard. I use it alongside a Yaesu FT-857D. Reception quality & clarity on the Tecsun PL-880 is far clearer. I would strongly recommend and I would purchase again. Have used it Daily since receiving the radio. Also enjoy the long lasting 18650 Lithium batteries it uses.
I bought that radio last year (2018) and it doesn't have that problem, but I have a Sony ICF-SW-55 radio which does. In only thing I find is that the Tecsun tends to make SSB sound a bit raspy on speech peaks. In fact the Tecsun PL-880 is better than any Sony radio I've ever had.
I got this radio from amazon its the newest firmware and like this radio very much. I like it so much its going to be my primary shortwave radio. The audio is nice along with ssb and has tons of features . I tested this radio last night along with tecsun pl600 and seems to edge the tecsun pl600. The Sangean 405 is a solid radio but lacks the external port which stinks.
Tom , I've been enjoying your videos for the past couple of years . You've helped me make choices on several radios that I've purchased . I'm very satisfied with the Tecsun PL-660 and the PL-600 . Thanks for the info. on the PL-880 model . I usually purchase radios online from " Universal Radio " out of Ohio .
I would LOVE to see a video on how to actually assemble a long wire cable where you connect it to the "shielded cable". I have tried in vain for years to make my old radios we lost in fire work better by just stringing the wind up Sangean wire unite all over the living room. Of course THEN the wife has a contract on my life... I would LOVE to be able to string it OUTSIDE but I am ignorant on how to convert to the shielded cable part?
It is pretty straight forward. Use single bare for antenna. Make sure it is not touching anything and use insulators to hang it. Connected shielded coax cable to uaing the center conductor in the coax. Bring that into your house and then ground the shield part of the coax either to the radio or somewhere else. The key is to have shield cable in the house to keep the stray RF from other appliance off the antenna. If you need more help you can email me at trrs73 at gmail.com.
I realize this is 4 years old but I wish I would have seen this earlier. I'm expecting my PL-880 on Mon. 28 Dec 20. I listen to a lot of sideband. I might not have ordered this radio had I known.
It’s not really that bad on shortwave, sideband not perfect but if you get used to it’s quirks (namely having to offset it a bit ) it’s quite good even off of the built in antenna... something I wish my ata 909x could do (you literally can’t get it loud enough on ssb with the antenna)
I love mine, it doesn't have any of these issues. Sounds like you got a lemon. Maybe try another one before posting a video. You'd probably be much happier with it.
I normally don't make recommendations because there are so many variables in these radios but I have all three and I like the PL680 the best for my use.
I had considered that radio when I first saw the nice big knobs. I am a knob- turner. But, I went for the Kaito KA1103 instead. It is a nice radio, but you need 3 hands to do most of the functions and the buttons are way too small.
Nice Video Tom. I have the PL-880, and I am happy with it. Audio as you say is outstanding in AM. It really is that good. I however, have been unable to get a " good " PL-660. I bought one a few years ago from Amazon, but the Synch detector would not work, so I sent it back for refund. Just a few weeks ago, I figured I would try to get another PL-660, but this one came damaged in the mail, so I have not had any luck. I see reviews saying the tuning of the BFO for SSB is better on the 660, just flat out sounds better than the PL-880. I don't think the PL-880 is bad on SSB, but I agree with you it could be better. I have one of the units where you can check the firmware, and my 880 is firmware revision 8820. I'm not sure, but I think that is the latest one, as far as I know. How is the PL-680....I think you have that radio, but I didn't see a review of it. In your opinion, is it a good radio ? Good for SSB ? Better than the 8800 on SSB ? Just curious ...Hal
Thanks for your comments. The quality control on the Tecsun radios is poor. Quality of the particular radio you get can very a lot from one that someone else gets. On the 880 they quit changing the version number after 8820 because so many people were not satisfied with either the 8819 or 8820. My 8820 was a little better than my 8819 on SSB. On the 660, same thing but opposite for me. My 660 was good from the start but I got a much later model. I did do some reviews on the 680 and of the three I like it the best. Again quality will vary from radio to radio.
I have a TecSun PL880 which at the time had the latest firmware version. Is there a method to download newer firmware versions to the processor of an earlier product, as there is with other devices?
The was the second version which still had a lot of problems. After that they quit changing the revision numbers so people would not ask for an upgrade.
what's the best SW radio under $200 in your opinion, with SSB? I realize it is 2020 so there must be something newer than the PL 880. I do see there is a Tecsun out with a remote control but that is just an extra item to have to keep track of:)
Tom, do you think a future firmware revision might fix the strange SSB audio issues on this model? Seems like a great radio except for that. Thanks for the helpful reviews! ~David
I think one could but it looks like they are not going to fix the problem as it has been there for over a year. It may have been fixed but I have not heard of it being totally fixed. Note they have stopped changing the revision number so you don't know if you have a newer firmware version or not.
Hi I have a Sony 2010 radio that really brings in single sideband. The Tecsun PL 880 is lacking on single sideband. The Tecsun PL 880 has a beautiful speaker in it.
Tom, I'm reading comments from people who are saying the SSB mode on the PL-880 is very good now. Sounds like it really depends on how new your radio is.
Yes, I have heard that too. Unfortunately, since they stopped changing the revision number you have no idea whether you are getting an old one or a new one.
This video was recorded in my office which has 6 computers running, a router, a modem, several tablets connected via WIFI, several Echo devices, numerous LED lightbulbs, 3 fans, just to name a few things. I did use an external antenna with heavy shielded cables connected to an antenna outside.
The pl-660 is a far better radio and is very sensitive....only bad thing for me is the speaker which is of a poor quality....shame really. Shame about the pl-880...such a nice looking radio...few months a go I was looking to purchase one....but I'm so glad I didn't....managed to purchase a Sony icf-2001d instead...now that is an excellent radio....amazing what you can receive on it. Love the videos Tom.....always look forward to seeing what your reviewing....so keep up the good work....best wishes from the u.k
ANYONE have on opinion on which is the better choice of radios between the TECSUN PL-380 and the Pl-660? THANK you for everyone here who do so much to help out with this hobby.
![ประสบการณ์ จ้าง Developer ที่ผมจะไม่มีวันลืม [ภาค2]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/pZbsSDRrmXA/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks for your reviews, after watching these I recently purchased a PL-880 from a US Ebay seller. The SSB performance is adequate and seems stable to me so I'm presuming it is fixed in mine. The sync AM is still terrible though. I also discovered it's easier to change the bandwidth by pressing the key then rotating the tuning dial until I get the setting I want rather than pressing the key multiple times. AM shortwave performance is impressive even using just the whip but I intend to test it with external antenna to see how it handles big signals.
Thanks for your comments.
Did they fix the oscillator?
I am expecting delivery of my first SSB Radio (Tecsun PL-880) this coming week. Been watching all of your PL-880 details videos. -Thanks for your honest reviews Tom.
You are welcome and please give us a report on your particular one.
Mark, how do you like the 880 now that you own one?
@@gregorgman Hey Greg, Absolutely pleased with the Tecsun PL-880 radio. I ordered from ANON-CO.com a few months back. Exceptional signal sensitivity, and audio clarity has to be one of the clearest I've heard. I use it alongside a Yaesu FT-857D. Reception quality & clarity on the Tecsun PL-880 is far clearer. I would strongly recommend and I would purchase again. Have used it Daily since receiving the radio. Also enjoy the long lasting 18650 Lithium batteries it uses.
@@Pirahnaxxx thanks Mark, you convienced me. Appreciate it!
Can I hear people talking through this radio
I bought that radio last year (2018) and it doesn't have that problem, but I have a Sony ICF-SW-55 radio which does. In only thing I find is that the Tecsun tends to make SSB sound a bit raspy on speech peaks. In fact the Tecsun PL-880 is better than any Sony radio I've ever had.
been a Ham for 48 years just got a new pl-880, ssb is great no drift, but I;am using a 300 foot long wire
Thanks for the report and have a great day.
Tom's radio room show I learn lot from you about shortwave receivers and antenna for shortwave receivers and what to lisn to on shortwave and ssb
I got this radio from amazon its the newest firmware and like this radio very much. I like it so much its going to be my primary shortwave radio. The audio is nice along with ssb and has tons of features . I tested this radio last night along with tecsun pl600 and seems to edge the tecsun pl600. The Sangean 405 is a solid radio but lacks the external port which stinks.
Toms radio room I watch on utube gilles he has Tecsun Pl 880 he has no problem with recivering ssb
Toms radio room your utube videos are awesome
Many thanks for your time,,
Tom's radio room show your utube videos are awesome my friend
Toms radio room your Tecsun Pl-880 shortwave receiver is cool
Tom , I've been enjoying your videos for the past couple of years . You've helped me make choices on several radios that I've purchased . I'm very satisfied with the Tecsun PL-660 and the PL-600 . Thanks for the info. on the PL-880 model . I usually purchase radios online from " Universal Radio " out of Ohio .
I have heard that is another good place for shortwave and HAM radio equipment.
I would LOVE to see a video on how to actually assemble a long wire cable where you connect it to the "shielded cable". I have tried in vain for years to make my old radios we lost in fire work better by just stringing the wind up Sangean wire unite all over the living room. Of course THEN the wife has a contract on my life... I would LOVE to be able to string it OUTSIDE but I am ignorant on how to convert to the shielded cable part?
It is pretty straight forward. Use single bare for antenna. Make sure it is not touching anything and use insulators to hang it. Connected shielded coax cable to uaing the center conductor in the coax. Bring that into your house and then ground the shield part of the coax either to the radio or somewhere else. The key is to have shield cable in the house to keep the stray RF from other appliance off the antenna. If you need more help you can email me at trrs73 at gmail.com.
I realize this is 4 years old but I wish I would have seen this earlier. I'm expecting my PL-880 on Mon. 28 Dec 20. I listen to a lot of sideband. I might not have ordered this radio had I known.
It’s not really that bad on shortwave, sideband not perfect but if you get used to it’s quirks (namely having to offset it a bit ) it’s quite good even off of the built in antenna... something I wish my ata 909x could do (you literally can’t get it loud enough on ssb with the antenna)
Tom's radio room show the tecsun pl 880 ssb needs a fast and slow agc switch my friend
Hi wath connector you used for esternal antenna for pl 880? Bnc to 3,5mm mono?
Yes
Thanks for the info on this radio mr Tom was about to get one l will have to stick with the yeasu 897 and 817 have a great day 73s
You are welcome. Remember, I am no expert.
I love mine, it doesn't have any of these issues. Sounds like you got a lemon. Maybe try another one before posting a video. You'd probably be much happier with it.
This was my second one. Still not happy.
The ssb problem is afc pulling due to poor regulation.
Thanks for the info.
Hello, I would like to buy Tecsun, but I am not sure which PL660,PL 680 or PL880 could you please give me a tip? Thanks 🇨🇿🇺🇸
I normally don't make recommendations because there are so many variables in these radios but I have all three and I like the PL680 the best for my use.
@@hamrad88 Thank you 👍
I had considered that radio when I first saw the nice big knobs. I am a knob- turner. But, I went for the Kaito KA1103 instead. It is a nice radio, but you need 3 hands to do most of the functions and the buttons are way too small.
I can be complicated especially with all the undocumented features (880).
Went with the PL-660. Cheaper than the 680 and form most accounts they seem to be identical but for form factor.
Good choice.
I can only agree with you Tom. SSB is very disappointing. But it performs nicely in AM and FM.
Jean-Luc
I really had high hopes for this radio.
What antenna adapter are you using? Is there one that will connect to the pl259 male?
Yes, it is a pl259 to 3.5 mm adapter. You can get them off Amazon or eBay.
Thank you sir
Nice Video Tom. I have the PL-880, and I am happy with it. Audio as you say is outstanding in AM. It really is that good. I however, have been unable to get a " good " PL-660. I bought one a few years ago from Amazon, but the Synch detector would not work, so I sent it back for refund. Just a few weeks ago, I figured I would try to get another PL-660, but this one came damaged in the mail, so I have not had any luck. I see reviews saying the tuning of the BFO for SSB is better on the 660, just flat out sounds better than the PL-880. I don't think the PL-880 is bad on SSB, but I agree with you it could be better. I have one of the units where you can check the firmware, and my 880 is firmware revision 8820. I'm not sure, but I think that is the latest one, as far as I know.
How is the PL-680....I think you have that radio, but I didn't see a review of it. In your opinion, is it a good radio ? Good for SSB ? Better than the 8800 on SSB ? Just curious ...Hal
Thanks for your comments. The quality control on the Tecsun radios is poor. Quality of the particular radio you get can very a lot from one that someone else gets. On the 880 they quit changing the version number after 8820 because so many people were not satisfied with either the 8819 or 8820. My 8820 was a little better than my 8819 on SSB. On the 660, same thing but opposite for me. My 660 was good from the start but I got a much later model. I did do some reviews on the 680 and of the three I like it the best. Again quality will vary from radio to radio.
I have a TecSun PL880 which at the time had the latest firmware version. Is there a method to download newer firmware versions to the processor of an earlier product, as there is with other devices?
Not that I know of.
Does anyone have a problem with their PL 880 turning ON by itself? Mine does this a lot.
Does it do it randomly?
Is the alarm icon showing? If so just hit the alarm button to clear
I have heard that the older pl-660 is better for audio quality. Have you had a chance to test the pl-660 ?
Many times. See my other shows.
Older review, wonder what version the radio is?
The was the second version which still had a lot of problems. After that they quit changing the revision numbers so people would not ask for an upgrade.
I still prefer Tecsun Pl-680 over Tecsun PL-880 for SSB listening. Audio on 880 is weird.
I agree. So you have not had any problems with the 680?
hamrad88 There are no issues with the 680 so far. I strongly recommend it.
Thanks, I guess it's time to order one. :)
hamrad88 Unless there is a U.S. outfit I overlooked, I found 680s on EBay. They ship out of Hong Kong...
I agree 100%.
what's the best SW radio under $200 in your opinion, with SSB? I realize it is 2020 so there must be something newer than the PL 880. I do see there is a Tecsun out with a remote control but that is just an extra item to have to keep track of:)
I like the PL-680 for an under $200 radio.
Tom, do you think a future firmware revision might fix the strange SSB audio issues on this model? Seems like a great radio except for that. Thanks for the helpful reviews! ~David
I think one could but it looks like they are not going to fix the problem as it has been there for over a year. It may have been fixed but I have not heard of it being totally fixed. Note they have stopped changing the revision number so you don't know if you have a newer firmware version or not.
Thanks for the Review, which external Antenna do you use?
I use many but my best right now for HF is a 31' vertical antenna from MFJ.
Hi I have a Sony 2010 radio that really brings in single sideband. The Tecsun PL 880 is lacking on single sideband. The Tecsun PL 880 has a beautiful speaker in it.
My PL880 sets in a drawer collecting dust.
@@hamrad88 PLEASE !! SEND IT TO ME !!
Tom, I'm reading comments from people who are saying the SSB mode on the PL-880 is very good now. Sounds like it really depends on how new your radio is.
Yes, I have heard that too. Unfortunately, since they stopped changing the revision number you have no idea whether you are getting an old one or a new one.
Maybe purchasing directly from the manufacturer (or contacting them) would help? I'll look into this, because otherwise this is an exceptional radio.
This radio looks like a scientific calculator.
Q: Do you know what causes the noise? A: It's the LED lightbulbs you might have in your shack on the electrical power line. ☀️
This video was recorded in my office which has 6 computers running, a router, a modem, several tablets connected via WIFI, several Echo devices, numerous LED lightbulbs, 3 fans, just to name a few things. I did use an external antenna with heavy shielded cables connected to an antenna outside.
That wasn't China Radio, that was Radio Australia on 9580 kHz. They have signed off last week.
Thanks
I miss Radio Australia.😭
Nice video Tom. What in your opinion is the best portable radio for SSB?
That is always a tough questions as people have different desires. For me it's the PL-660.
Good review.
Thank you.
Just got this radio & sent it back & got the PL-660 much better radio.
This was my second one as the first one did not work on SSB and this one is not much better. It spends most of it's time in the drawer.
good video
Thank you, Nick.
The pl-660 is a far better radio and is very sensitive....only bad thing for me is the speaker which is of a poor quality....shame really.
Shame about the pl-880...such a nice looking radio...few months a go I was looking to purchase one....but I'm so glad I didn't....managed to purchase a Sony icf-2001d instead...now that is an excellent radio....amazing what you can receive on it.
Love the videos Tom.....always look forward to seeing what your reviewing....so keep up the good work....best wishes from the u.k
Thanks for the information and kind words.
ANYONE have on opinion on which is the better choice of radios between the TECSUN PL-380 and the Pl-660? THANK you for everyone here who do so much to help out with this hobby.
📻🙂
VCO Drifting slightly !.
Crobular I drive me crazy. 😂