Grundig Traveler II Digital G8 AM/FM/LW/Shortwave Radio with Auto Tuning Storage Review

All reviewers have been unanimous in their praise of this Chinese-made model, but they may be unaware of the primary reason for this radio's breakthrough AM and FM selectivity. The Grundig G8 is a clone of the Tecsun PL-300WT Chinese-market model, and it contains a DSP (digital signal processing) IC chip which controls all of the AM and FM functions. This fact is not mentioned in any of the Grundig advertising, although it is common knowledge among the Ultralight Radio AM-DXing enthusiast group.
The G8's AM selectivity is in a class by itself among pocket radios, as is its FM selectivity. FM sensitivity is also outstanding, providing reception of fringe stations typically only heard on communication receivers. Although my G8 model from Amazon arrived with very good AM sensitivity, there have been variations in the AM sensitivity levels of the identical PL-300WT Chinese-market models, due to the Tecsun company's manufacturing process (specifically, their neglect in matching the inductance of the loopstick coil to the value required by a varactor in the DSP chip). Since Tecsun also manufactures all of the G8's for Grundig, this may also be an issue with these G8 models, although it's too early to tell.
Despite this, the Grundig G8 is a superlative value for both AM and FM DXers, especially with Amazon's free shipping option. This model's DSP-enhanced performance is sure to please those who enjoy fringe-station chasing on either band.

73, Gary DeBock (N7EKX)

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