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As a long-time ham radio enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the ever-evolving world of multi-band receivers. Whether I’m chasing DX signals or just scanning the bands for interesting chatter, a reliable, feature-packed pocket receiver is a must-have. Over the years, I’ve tested quite a few receivers, but my latest adventure led me to four intriguing contenders: the SI4732 0.5–108MHz Pocket Mini Radio, the Retekess TR110 HF/VHF/UHF All-Mode Receiver, the Retekess TR113 HF/VHF/UHF All-Mode Receiver, and the Malahit-DSP2 SDR Radio Receiver.
Each of these radios has its strengths and quirks, and in this chapter of my radio journey, I’ll share my experiences with each—digging into the technical details, their performance in real-world conditions, and how they stack up against each other. Let’s dive in.
SI4732: A Compact Marvel for Simplicity Seekers
The first receiver I picked up was the SI4732 0.5–108MHz Pocket Mini Radio, a tiny device that immediately caught my eye. It’s no larger than a pack of cards, but don’t let its size fool you—it’s packed with functionality. Covering a range of 0.5 to 108 MHz, it’s perfect for FM, AM, and shortwave enthusiasts.
The 1.9-inch IPS screen is surprisingly bright and clear, displaying frequency and mode details neatly. Despite its size, the SI4732 supports SSB (both USB and LSB), which makes it a rare gem in the entry-level category. I was impressed by its sensitivity; even faint AM signals came through clearly when paired with the BNC-connected external loop antenna I use for portable setups. However, its small internal speaker wasn’t quite up to par, and I found myself plugging in headphones for better clarity.
The device’s battery life is another highlight. The 800 mAh lithium battery gave me nearly 10 hours of uninterrupted listening. Charging it through USB Type-C was convenient, and its lightweight design made it perfect for slipping into a pocket when heading out on hikes. For its price, the SI4732 punches well above its weight, but its lack of higher frequency coverage and basic build quality might leave advanced users wanting more.
Retekess TR110: A Mid-Range Powerhouse
Next, I turned to the Retekess TR110, a larger and more advanced all-mode receiver that brings HF, VHF, and UHF into its repertoire. Right off the bat, I appreciated its 4-inch TFT display. The spectrum and waterfall visualization made hunting for signals feel intuitive and immersive—especially during busy contest weekends on the 20-meter band.
In terms of audio, the TR110 really shines. Its DSP features (like noise reduction and automatic notch filtering) cleaned up even the noisiest CW signals. During a DX contest, I tuned into weak signals on 40 meters, and the audio clarity was remarkable. Having separate ports for HF and VHF/UHF antennas was a game-changer for me, as I didn’t need to constantly switch connections.
Portability is where the TR110 showed its versatility. While it’s larger than the SI4732, it’s still compact enough to carry to field days. I powered it using a small battery pack, and it worked seamlessly. For operators who want a robust all-mode receiver without stepping into the high-end price range, the TR110 is a solid choice.
Retekess TR113: The Big Brother
If the TR110 is a powerhouse, then the Retekess TR113 is its big brother. It’s very similar in many ways but offers a slightly extended frequency range—covering up to 600 MHz—and a larger, more detailed 4.3-inch touchscreen display. When I first turned it on, I was blown away by how intuitive the interface was. The touchscreen made navigating through menus a breeze, and the additional real estate gave the spectrum analyzer a more dynamic feel.
Performance-wise, the TR113 builds on the strengths of the TR110. The DSP features are even more refined, and I found the auto-notch filter particularly effective during a QSO with heavy adjacent-channel interference. Its ability to fine-tune weak signals is excellent, and the larger battery capacity gave me a full day’s use during a portable outing.
However, with its larger size and higher price point, the TR113 might not appeal to everyone. But for operators like me who demand top-notch performance and are willing to pay for it, the TR113 is a worthy investment.
Malahit-DSP2: SDR Brilliance in the Palm of Your Hand
Finally, I took a deep dive into the Malahit-DSP2 SDR Receiver—a true marvel for anyone who loves the power and flexibility of SDR. This little device packs an incredible frequency range, covering 50 kHz to 2 GHz, which puts it in a class of its own. I used it to scan everything from HF bands to local VHF repeaters, and its performance was flawless.
The 3.5-inch color touchscreen is sharp and responsive, and I loved the SDR-like interface, which allowed me to adjust settings with precision. Its wideband capabilities make it perfect for exploring everything from ham bands to air traffic and public safety frequencies. The SMA antenna connector worked well with my various antennas, and the internal battery lasted around 8 hours on a single charge.
However, the Malahit-DSP2 is more of an SDR device than a traditional receiver. It’s incredibly powerful, but beginners might find its interface and options overwhelming. For seasoned operators or tech-savvy listeners, though, it’s a dream come true.
Final Thoughts
After spending time with these four receivers, I realized that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Each of these devices caters to a specific audience:
- The SI4732 is a great entry-level choice, offering excellent portability and basic multi-mode functionality.
- The Retekess TR110 is a step up, with advanced features and wideband coverage, making it a perfect mid-range option.
- The Retekess TR113 adds even more functionality and refinement, ideal for those seeking high performance in a portable form factor.
- Finally, the Malahit-DSP2 stands out for its SDR capabilities and unmatched frequency range, appealing to tech-savvy operators who want ultimate flexibility.
In the end, your choice will depend on your needs, budget, and where your radio journey takes you. For me, each of these radios brought something unique to the table, and I’m excited to see how they’ll continue to shape my adventures on the airwaves.
Comparison Table
| Feature | SI4732 | Retekess TR110 | Retekess TR113 | Malahit-DSP2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frequency Coverage | 0.5–108 MHz | 0.1–500 MHz | 0.1–600 MHz | 50 kHz–2 GHz |
| Modes | AM, FM, SSB | AM, FM, SSB, CW | AM, FM, SSB, CW | AM, FM, SSB, CW, WFM |
| Display | 1.9-inch IPS | 4-inch TFT | 4.3-inch TFT | 3.5-inch Touchscreen |
| DSP Features | Basic | Advanced | Advanced | Advanced |
| Portability | Lightweight | Medium | Medium | Compact |
| Price | Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range | Mid-Range+ | High-End |
