Table of Contents
Introduction
The Sangean ATS-405 FM-Stereo/AM/Short Wave World Band Receiver is a versatile and feature-rich radio designed for the avid radio enthusiast and world traveler. With its capability to receive FM stereo, AM, and shortwave signals, this receiver opens up a world of possibilities for exploring a vast range of radio content from local stations to international broadcasts. Whether you’re seeking news updates, cultural insights, or simply tuning in to your favorite music, the ATS-405 promises an immersive and enjoyable listening experience. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the design, audio performance, reception capabilities, user interface, portability, and overall value of the Sangean ATS-405. Join us as we uncover why this world band receiver remains a top choice for radio enthusiasts who crave global connectivity and a variety of radio content.
- Design and Build Quality
The Sangean ATS-405 boasts a compact and portable design, making it an ideal companion for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. The receiver’s black and silver finish exudes a timeless elegance, while the robust build instills confidence in its durability during extensive use and travel.
The control buttons and tuning knobs are strategically placed for ease of use, allowing users to navigate through different frequency bands and adjust settings effortlessly. Additionally, the backlit LCD screen provides clear information, including frequency, time, battery status, and signal strength, ensuring a user-friendly experience in various lighting conditions.
- FM Stereo, AM, and Shortwave Reception
One of the standout features of the Sangean ATS-405 is its ability to receive FM stereo, AM, and shortwave signals. The FM stereo reception delivers clear and immersive sound quality, perfect for music enthusiasts seeking high-fidelity audio. The AM band captures local broadcasts, including news, talk shows, and sports updates, providing access to essential information even in areas with weak FM signals.
The shortwave reception is perhaps the most exciting aspect of the ATS-405. Shortwave bands allow users to explore a vast array of international broadcasts, including foreign radio stations, cultural programs, and unique music from different regions. This capability transforms the ATS-405 into a powerful tool for those eager to connect with the global airwaves and gain insight into the world’s diverse cultures.
- Audio Performance
Despite its compact size, the Sangean ATS-405 delivers impressive audio performance. Equipped with a high-quality speaker, this receiver produces clear and dynamic sound that surpasses expectations for a portable device. The ATS-405’s audio output remains distortion-free even at higher volume levels, ensuring a pleasurable listening experience for both music and radio enthusiasts.
- Shortwave Bands Coverage
The Sangean ATS-405 offers extensive shortwave coverage, allowing users to explore a broad range of frequencies, including the popular bands like 2.3-7.3 MHz (49m), 9.3-12.2 MHz (31m), 13.6-16.2 MHz (22m), and more. This wide coverage enables access to a diverse selection of international broadcasts, making the ATS-405 an excellent choice for radio enthusiasts and travelers who enjoy tuning in to far-reaching stations from around the world.
Sangean ATS-405 FM-Stereo/AM/Short Wave World Band Receiver, Silver: Buy it now
Digital Tuning and Manual Tuning Options
The ATS-405 features both digital tuning and manual tuning options. Digital tuning allows for precise and effortless station selection, ensuring users can find their favorite stations quickly and accurately. Manual tuning provides a more hands-on experience, allowing for fine-tuning and exploration of frequencies beyond standard stations.
The combination of digital tuning and manual tuning options offers the best of both worlds, catering to users who prefer either method of frequency selection.
- Display and User Interface
The backlit LCD display on the ATS-405 is clear and easy to read, providing essential information such as frequency, time, battery status, and signal strength. The user interface is straightforward, featuring clearly labeled buttons and knobs for navigating through various frequency bands, adjusting volume, and accessing other features.
- Memory Presets and ATS (Auto Tuning System)
The Sangean ATS-405 comes with memory presets, allowing users to store their favorite stations for quick access. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who wish to save local stations or international broadcasts they have discovered during their journeys.
Additionally, the ATS (Auto Tuning System) function enables the ATS-405 to automatically scan and store available stations in the shortwave bands. This automated process simplifies the exploration of shortwave stations and saves users the hassle of manually tuning each frequency.
- Alarm and Sleep Timer Functions
The ATS-405 includes alarm and sleep timer functions, enhancing its versatility as a travel companion. The alarm feature allows users to wake up to their favorite radio station or an alarm buzzer, making it an excellent alternative to traditional alarm clocks during travel.
On the other hand, the sleep timer function allows users to set a specific duration for the radio to play before automatically turning off. This feature is ideal for those who enjoy listening to music or radio content as they fall asleep, providing a convenient way to conserve battery power.
- Power Options and Long Battery Life
The Sangean ATS-405 offers multiple power options to suit different scenarios. It can be powered by four AA batteries, making it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures, camping trips, or areas with limited access to power outlets. Additionally, the ATS-405 includes an AC power adapter, enabling continuous operation in locations with a stable power supply.
The receiver’s power efficiency ensures that battery consumption is optimized, allowing for prolonged listening sessions without frequent battery replacements. The option to use standard AA batteries makes it convenient for users to find replacements worldwide.
Portability and Carrying Case
The compact and lightweight design of the Sangean ATS-405 makes it highly portable and convenient to carry during travels. The included carrying case provides added protection for the receiver, ensuring it remains in top condition even when transported in a backpack or suitcase.
Limitations
While the Sangean ATS-405 excels in many aspects, it does have a few limitations worth noting. Firstly, some users may find the included telescopic antenna to be relatively short. While the antenna is sufficient for most reception scenarios, those in remote locations or with weak signals may consider using an external antenna for improved reception.
Secondly, the ATS-405 does not have built-in Bluetooth connectivity or the ability to stream audio from external devices. While these features are becoming more common in modern radios, their absence does not significantly detract from the ATS-405’s core function as a world band receiver.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sangean ATS-405 FM-Stereo/AM/Short Wave World Band Receiver stands as an exceptional choice for radio enthusiasts and world travelers seeking to explore the global airwaves. Its sleek design, robust build, and impressive audio performance make it a reliable and portable companion, whether you’re at home, in the great outdoors, or on a journey across the world.
The ATS-405’s capability to receive FM stereo, AM, and shortwave signals, along with its extensive shortwave bands coverage, opens up a world of radio content, including local stations and international broadcasts from various cultures and regions. With memory presets, digital tuning, and ATS (Auto Tuning System), the receiver makes it effortless to store and explore favorite stations, simplifying the radio listening experience.
The ATS-405’s user-friendly interface, alarm and sleep timer functions, and power options enhance its versatility and practicality as a travel companion. Whether you’re seeking news updates, immersing yourself in diverse music, or simply enjoying the serendipity of exploring distant broadcasts, the Sangean ATS-405 FM-Stereo/AM/Short Wave World Band Receiver is your gateway to a captivating and enlightening radio journey around the world.