Software Shenanigans: The Arduino-Powered Magic<\/h2><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The ATS-20+ runs on an Arduino-based platform, which is like giving a kid a LEGO set and saying, \u201cGo wild!\u201d The SI4732 chip is the brains of the operation, delivering DSP (Digital Signal Processing) goodness that makes this radio a tinkerer\u2019s dream. Out of the box, it comes with firmware that supports FM, AM (MW & SW), and SSB (LSB & USB), plus 22 pre-configured commercial and amateur radio bands. Want to fine-tune your listening? You\u2019ve got audio bandwidth filters (0.5, 1, 1.2, 2.2, 3, and 4 kHz) and frequency step options (1, 5, and 10 kHz) to dial in your signal like a pro.But here\u2019s where it gets really<\/em> fun: the ATS-20+ is open-source, so you can flash new firmware like a tech wizard. Upgrading to something like Goshante\u2019s firmware (available on GitHub) is like giving your radio a software glow-up. It improves the interface, making it more user-friendly, and lets you tweak the BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) to nail those SSB signals with pinpoint accuracy. <\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n The ATS-20+ is a bit like a scrappy underdog\u2014it\u2019s not perfect, but it punches above its weight when you treat it right. Here are its superpowers: Versatile Band Coverage<\/strong>: This radio covers FM, AM (MW & SW), and SSB (LSB & USB), so you can hop from local FM bangers to distant ham radio QSOs or shortwave broadcasts. It\u2019s like having a backstage pass to the entire radio spectrum.Surprisingly Sensitive<\/strong>: With a tuned antenna (more on that in a sec), this thing can pull in signals that\u2019ll make your jaw drop. Users have snagged ham signals on 75m LSB with just a 9-foot wire or heard Australia from Georgia with a 60-foot dipole.Loud and Clear Audio<\/strong>: The speaker pumps out room-filling sound, and SSB audio is surprisingly crisp for such a budget-friendly device. It\u2019s like having a mini concert hall in your pocket.Tinkerer\u2019s Paradise<\/strong>: The open-source nature and Arduino compatibility mean you can mod, hack, and upgrade to your heart\u2019s content. Add inductors, tweak firmware, or even pair it with a Zachtek \u201cFlea\u201d CW transmitter for QRP transceiving fun.Auto-Hold Settings<\/strong>: Power outages? No problem. The ATS-20+ remembers your settings, so you can pick up right where you left off.<\/p><\/li>Now, let\u2019s talk antennas. The included telescopic whip is fine for FM, but for shortwave and SSB, it\u2019s like trying to fish with a paperclip. Slap on a tuned antenna\u2014like a long wire, a loop, or a dipole\u2014and this radio transforms into a signal-sniffing beast. A Reddit user mentioned wrapping a 20-30 foot wire around the stock antenna and dangling it out a window for a quick boost, while others swear by outdoor loops or dipoles for DXing glory. A tuned antenna is like giving the ATS-20+ a megaphone to shout across the airwaves.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n No radio is without its quirks, and the ATS-20+ has a few. The display is tiny, so don\u2019t expect to read it from across the room. Without a tuned antenna, it can struggle with weak signals or get swamped by local AM\/FM stations due to limited front-end filtering. Some users report the UI takes a bit of getting used to, and the stock firmware can be clunky until you upgrade it. Also, don\u2019t expect Drake R8-level performance for $40, this is a budget radio for tinkerers, not a high-end rig.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n So, grab a long wire, crank up the volume, and let the ATS-20+ take you on a radio road trip. Happy DXing<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"ATS-20+](\"https:\/\/mm0zif.radio\/current\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-21-090156.png\")
Strengths That Shine (With a Tuned Antenna!)<\/h2><\/p>\n\n\n\n
A Few Quirks (Because Nobody\u2019s Perfect)<\/h2><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Final Verdict: A Fun, Feisty Companion<\/h2><\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the price (around \u00a335-\u00a360), the ATS-20+ is like finding a hidden gem at a flea market. It\u2019s not going to outshine a Tecsun PL-880 or a Belka DX, but it\u2019s a ridiculously fun and capable little radio for the cost. Pair it with a tuned antenna, flash some fresh firmware, and you\u2019ve got a portable SDR that can hold its own for casual listening, ham radio, or shortwave adventures. Whether you\u2019re chilling on the patio, camping under the stars, or geeking out in your shack, the ATS-20+ is like a trusty sidekick that\u2019s always ready to explore the airwaves with you.