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So now to examine the question: how does the ATS25 Max Decoder compare with other portable radios on shortwave?

The rules are simple. An MLA-30+ amplified loop antenna will be connected to an A/B switch, which will in turn be connected to two radios. First you’ll hear the ATS25 Max Decoder and then you’ll hear another radio. I’ll try to keep the volume level the same. The recording will be made with an iPhone 13.

I live in central Virginia just about 400 miles from Toronto, Canada. One of my favorite testing stations is the commercial station CFRX whose mission is to broadcast to northern Canadian territories with little radio coverage. Time stations are good at various times of the day as well, WWV and CHU.

Note: in the footer following this post are links to other articles about the various radios mentioned here.

The Setup

On the left is a BSCANE battery supply powering the MLA-30+ Biasing Tee that feeds a SONY ANS-34 Antenna / Video Tape Recorder switch (from a time when that made sense). The switch then feeds directly to the two radios, in this case a Qodosen DX-286 and of course the ATS25 upper right.

Here’s the wiring:

Testing is simple. Just pick a radio, flip a switch and make sure the other radio is muted. Take a video.

The Validity of the Test

This is all done in an unscientific way. It just shows results with one type of antenna. It’s done at different times of the day and different frequencies. Shortwave conditions change from moment to moment. And one big issue is ambient noise from the electronics in my house. Your reception may vary. I should do this at a secluded spot, but it’s freezing outside.