| Radio | ATS Mini v4 receiver |
|---|---|
| Coverage | AM, FM, LSB and USB reception in a small portable package |
| Best for | Shortwave listening, casual broadcast band scanning and portable radio tinkering |
| Good bits | Metal case, better knob, decent audio from the jack and refined stock firmware |
| Caveat | Tiny speaker, small controls and still very much a cheap enthusiast gadget |
A hands-on look at the ATS Mini v4 receiver, covering AM, FM, LSB and USB reception in a small portable radio package.
I've got a couple of these Si4732 based receivers. This is the v4, with the metal case and snazzy knob.They're super cheap and perform pretty well. This version 4 has got some shielding round the receiver an ESD on the antenna and a VCC power supply.The new aluminium case makes the radio feel like a proper device rather than a thrown together DIY jobbie that the previous versions felt like. The new fat knob is much easier to use, and the textured knurls on the rim feel nice.
The firmware out of the box is more refined than the v3, so much so that I've left it on stock, maybe I'll flash something later, but right now I'm perfectly happy with it.