A radio is any device that can receive or pick up the electromagnetic waves in a field either by an antenna or other material and translate this wave to a sound that is then heard through this device. The basic function of a radio is to convey information from one place to another through some media like air, space, or non-conducting materials. Radios pick up signals from radio stations to deliver sound to users in their homes, offices, or any other place. Aside from this function, astronauts can also use radio to communicate from space to the earth. Navigators also use it to communicate with people at the station. Radios now come with some other functionalities like alarm, torch, MP3 player and so on. There has also been an improvement in the audio for better clarity in the sound produced. Our review of the best radios has given you a glimpse of the quality radios available in the market. Considering the abundance of quality on display, choosing one may not be easy. This buying guide will help you to simplify your selection process by pointing you to the things to consider when buying a radio as well as the likely budget. The guide also has a FAQ section for answering common questions about radios.
What are the Types of Radio?
In the past, radio devices were very small in number and are specifically built to transmit information. The types of radios are discussed below.
Analog Radio
Analog radios have been around longer than digital radios – they are the precursors to digital radios. They operate on two modulations – Amplitude Modulation (AM) and Frequency Modulation (FM).
AM radios are designed to pick up AM signals. In AM radios, the amplitude is varied. They operate in a low-frequency range between 535 and 1705 kHz. The sound quality on AM radios is not as good as FM radios.
FM radios pick up FM signals. Changes in amplitude also occur in FM radios; however, they are negligible. They operate between 88 to 108 MHz and generally have better sound quality than AM radios. Some radios are able to receive AM and FM signals. These analog radios are called AM/FM radios.
Digital Radio
Digital radios were developed to build on the gains of analog radios to provide a seamless listening experience. However, analog radio is still much useful in communication technology. The digital radio provides several advantages over the analog. Digital radios have increased channel capacity, longer range, clearer audio, longer battery life, GPS, and other advanced features. The digital radio uses the same mode of operation as the analog type. However, there is an extra layer of encoding between the voice signal and the carrier wave. The sound here is encoded in binary packets of ones and zeros.
What are the Things to Consider When Buying a Radio?
It is important to consider some key factors when buying a radio. Some of the few things to consider are highlighted below:
Size
It is important to take note of the size of radio you intend to buy. If you are constantly on the move and need to have your radio by your side, it is important to choose a smaller one that can be carried around with ease. This characteristic is important for both the analog and digital types.
Power source
The radio’s power source is very important when choosing a radio. A radio’s power source is mostly either one of alternating current or dry cells. Some radios can be powered by both. Suppose you are the type that stays in an area with an epileptic power supply. In that case, it is advisable to get a radio that runs on batteries instead of an alternating current system. In an area where there is a constant supply of electricity, getting a radio that uses only electricity is not a problem. If you opt for a battery-powered radio, it is important that you check out the specific type of battery it uses to ensure it is one that you can easily find in your locale.
There are also some types of radios that run on rechargeable internal batteries.
Sound Quality
Radios are sound only devices hence the quality of sound they produce should be given utmost importance before buying one. The quality of sound is usually dependent on the quality and size of the speakers inside the radio. A good radio should produce clean audio that reduces static sound to the barest minimum.
Extra Feature
These days radios are built with additional features. Radios are now equipped with MP3 player devices, lamps, calculators, and so on. Choosing a radio with extra features depends on what else you need from the device, apart from the radio. Depending on the number of additional features the radio has, you could be carrying up to four devices around in a single radio set.
How Much do Radios Cost?
Depending on the size and power source of the radio, the price of a radio device ranges between $5 and $300. Radios within the price range of $100 and above are considered high-end. It is important to note that radios with additional features tend to be more expensive due to other features found in them.
Radio FAQs
Q – What radio frequency is harmful to humans?
A – The restriction of whole-body exposure is in the frequency range of 30-300MHz, so watch out for radios in this frequency range.
Q – Is radio still relevant??
A – Yes, radios are still relevant. Despite the advancement in television, radios are still the go-to media channel in terms of reach as more people listen to the radio.
Q – What is an internet radio?
A – It is the type of radio that needs internet connectivity to access it; they are tuned into via a website or a mobile app that leads to the frequency.
Q – Can you listen to the radio on your phone?
A – Many mobile phones are equipped with built-in FM/AM radio receivers. Smartphones with an internet connection can also be used to access internet radios. However, they may not perform optimally since they are not primarily made for this purpose.