Introduction
The Choyong A8W is a versatile portable internet radio designed for global use. It offers access to over 40,000 internet radio stations worldwide, along with FM radio functionality, Micro-SD card support, and 4G/Wi-Fi connectivity. Its compact design, clear sound, and advanced features like voice search and dual alarms make it an ideal companion for listening to news, music, and podcasts wherever you go.
Key Features
- Global Internet Radio: Access over 40,000 internet radio stations.
- FM Radio: Supports local FM reception (87.5-108MHz) with automatic station search.
- Connectivity: 4G SIM Card (Bands 2/4/5/12/38/39/40/41) and 2.4G Wi-Fi.
- Storage: Micro-SD card slot (supports up to 32GB).
- Audio: Full-range multimedia speaker for clear and loud sound.
- Interface: IPS LCD with backlight, dual knobs for console and tuner control.
- Convenience: Voice search for stations, save favorite stations, add custom streaming stations.
- Power: 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery.
- Additional: Dual alarms, Type-C charging port, Type-C earphone jack (Type-C to 3.5mm cable included).
- Advanced Features (Firmware v4.7+): Podcast aggregator (10M+ episodes), ChatGPT integration for enhanced voice search, Choyong website subscription function for radios/podcasts, VF/VM function in FM mode.
Setup Instructions
1. Initial Charging
Before first use, ensure the radio is fully charged. Connect the provided Type-C cable to the radio's charging port and a suitable USB power adapter. A full charge typically takes more than 3 hours.
2. Power On/Off
Press and hold the power button (red button) located on the top right side of the radio to turn it on or off.
3. Network Connection (Wi-Fi or 4G SIM Card)
The Choyong A8W supports both 2.4G Wi-Fi and 4G SIM card for internet connectivity.
- Wi-Fi Connection:
- Turn on the radio.
- Navigate to the settings menu (usually indicated by a gear icon).
- Select 'Wi-Fi' and turn it 'ON'.
- Choose your desired 2.4G Wi-Fi network from the list and enter the password.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi network is 2.4G, as the radio only supports WAP/WAP2 encryption protocols.
- 4G SIM Card Connection:
- Locate the SIM card slot on the side of the radio.
- Insert a compatible 4G SIM card (supports Band 2/4/5/12/38/39/40/41).
- The radio should automatically detect and connect to the 4G network.
- E-SIM Card (Supported Regions Only): E-SIM card functionality is available in specific regions including USA, Canada, Japan, Australia, Ireland, Estonia, Austria, Poland, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, Czech Republic, Croatia, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Latvia, Malta, Portugal, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria, Norway, United Kingdom, Turkey, Switzerland, and Iceland.
4. Micro-SD Card Insertion
Insert a Micro-SD card (up to 32GB capacity) into the TF card slot on the side of the radio for local media playback.
Operating Instructions
1. Navigation and Controls
The radio features dual knobs: one for console control (e.g., menu navigation) and one for tuner control (e.g., scrolling through stations). Use the 'OK', 'MENU', 'NEWS', and music control buttons for various functions.
2. Internet Radio
- Browsing Stations: Once connected to the internet, navigate through categories (continent, country, genre) to find stations.
- Saving Favorites: Press the heart icon button to save your currently playing station to your favorites list.
- Adding Custom Stations: You can add new internet radio stations by entering a valid URL directly on the radio. The radio supports various audio formats including MP3, AAC, and M3U8.
- Voice Search: Press the microphone icon button to activate voice search. Speak the name of the station or podcast you wish to find. The integrated ChatGPT speech-to-text engine enhances search accuracy.
3. FM Radio
- Tuning: Press the 'FM' button to switch to FM mode. Use the tuner knob to manually adjust the frequency.
- Automatic Search: The radio supports automatic FM station search, making it easy to find local broadcasts.
- VF/VM Function (Firmware v4.7+): In FM mode, press the main knob to switch between VF (Variable Frequency) and VM (Variable Memory) functions for tuning.
4. Podcast Feature (Firmware v4.7+)
The Choyong A8W includes a podcast aggregator with over 10 million episodes across 18 genres. Podcasts are updated automatically. You can find programs from Spotify and Apple Podcasts and use voice search to locate your favorite podcasts.
5. Subscription Function (Firmware v4.7+)
You can directly search for radio stations and podcasts on the Choyong website and push them to your A8W device.
6. Dual Alarms
The radio features dual alarms. Refer to the on-screen menu for setting and managing alarms.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the radio's exterior. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Battery Care: The radio uses a rechargeable lithium battery. To prolong battery life, avoid fully discharging it frequently and store it in a cool, dry place if not used for extended periods.
- Software Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.
Troubleshooting
Firmware Upgrade (Version 4.6)
If your A8W radio is not running the latest version (4.6 or higher), it is recommended to perform an Over-The-Air (OTA) upgrade. Follow these steps:
- Insert a TF card (Micro-SD card) with a capacity not larger than 32GB into the radio.
- Restart the radio and ensure that the Wi-Fi is well connected. Confirm the connection by playing streaming radio stations.
- Press the settings menu, select "Version info," and follow the instructions.
- Important: Once the upgrade begins, do not press any keys! The radio will automatically restart after the upgrade is complete. The whole process will take about 1-2 minutes.
- The radio will restart automatically, signifying the upgrade is complete and it is ready for use.
Radio Fails to Switch On with Low Voltage
If your radio fails to switch on due to low voltage, follow these steps:
- Keep charging for more than 3 hours to ensure the radio is fully charged.
- Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds, then release it and press and hold the power button again for 5 seconds.
Cannot Connect to Wi-Fi
If you are unable to connect to Wi-Fi:
- Please make sure your Wi-Fi is 2.4G.
- If yes, then please look at the router settings; the encryption protocol part, whether it is set to WAP2/WAP3, the radio only supports WAP/WAP2.
Specifications
| Attribute | Value | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | CHOYONG | Model Number | A8W |
| Weight | 195g | Size | 139 x 72 x 32mm |
| FM Frequency | 87.5-108MHz | FM Step | 100KHz |
| Speaker | 5W | Battery | Rechargeable lithium battery 2000mAh |
| Network | 2.4G WIFI/ 4G SIM CARD | TF Card | Maximum 32 GB |
| Earphone | Type-C Jack | Body Material | Plastic |
| WIFI | Yes | Bluetooth | No |
| Power Supply | Rechargeable Battery Pack | Screen | Yes |
| Function | Built-In Speaker, Clock, Built-in Amplifier | Type | AM / FM, FM, MW, SW, LW, Internet Radio |
| Certification | CE, FCC, WEEE | Origin | Mainland China |
User Tips
- Sound Quality: The Choyong A8W is equipped with full-range multimedia speakers, providing clear and loud sound for an enjoyable listening experience both indoors and outdoors.
- Battery: The radio features an internal 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery. While not externally replaceable by the user, it offers good portability.
- Bluetooth: Please note that this model does not include Bluetooth connectivity.
- Timer/Alarm: The radio includes a clock function and supports dual alarms, which can be configured through the device's menu.
- Player Resume Function: The device's ability to resume playback after being turned off or changing modes may vary. Check the latest firmware for specific behavior.
Product Demonstration Video
Warranty and Support
For any issues, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact the official Choyong Radio store or your point of purchase. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
