Tecsun PL-398MP Portable Digital Radio

1. Introduction

The TECSUN PL-398MP is a versatile multi-band stereo portable radio featuring an integrated MP3 playback function via an SD card slot. This device allows you to enjoy FM stereo, shortwave (SW), medium wave (MW), and longwave (LW) broadcasts. Additionally, it can play MP3 music files and includes a line input, enabling its use as an active small speaker.

Equipped with a SILICON LABS si4734 digital signal processing (DSP) chip, the PL-398MP digitally converts FM/AM broadcast signals and processes them using modern software radio technology. This advanced processing significantly enhances sensitivity, selectivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and anti-interference capabilities, providing a superior listening experience.

2. Package Contents

Please check the box for the following items:

• 1 x TECSUN PL-398 Radio
• 1 x Stereo Earphone
• 1 x Audio Cable
• 1 x Carrying Pouch
• 1 x User Manual (English)

3. Controls and Connectors

Familiarize yourself with the various controls and connectors on your PL-398MP radio:

1. Power on/off button
2. Band selector & ATS button
3. View memory (VM) & SCAN button
4. View frequency (VF) & SCAN button
5. Easy Tuning Mode (ETM)
6. AM/BW button
7. FM stereo button
8. Display mode / key lock button
9. Time set
10. Alarm set (Alarm by radio, Alarm by buzzer)
11. Delete / Confirm button
12. Memory button
13. Light / Snooze button
14. FM & SW external antenna jack
15. Line in jack
16. Earphone jack
17. USB 5V DC-jack
18. Multifunctional tuning knob
19. Volume knob

4. Setup

4.1 Powering the Device

The PL-398MP can be powered by batteries or an external USB power supply.

Battery Installation:

1. Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the radio.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert three (3) AA (R6) 1.5V batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-). You may also use Ni-MH rechargeable batteries.
4. Caution: Do not mix new and old batteries, or different types of batteries.
5. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

External Power Supply:

For continuous operation or to charge Ni-MH batteries (if installed), connect a USB 5V DC power adapter (≥250mA, not included) to the USB 5V DC-jack (17) on the side of the radio. Smart charging is possible via this port.

4.2 Antenna

For optimal reception, especially on FM and SW bands, fully extend the telescopic antenna located on the top of the radio. For MW and LW bands, the internal ferrite bar antenna is typically used, but extending the telescopic antenna can sometimes improve reception.

An external FM & SW antenna can be connected to the dedicated jack (14) for enhanced reception.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off

Press the Power on/off button (1) to turn the radio on or off.

5.2 Band Selection

Press the Band selector button (2) repeatedly to cycle through the available frequency bands: FM, SW, MW, and LW.

5.3 Tuning for Radio Stations

The PL-398MP offers several methods for finding radio stations:

• Easy Tuning Mode (ETM): Press the ETM button (5) to initiate an intelligent scan that stores all receivable stations into a temporary memory. This is ideal for quickly finding stations when traveling.
• Automatic Tuning Storage (ATS): Press and hold the Band selector & ATS button (2) to automatically scan and store stations into the permanent memory for the selected band.
• Manual Search (VF - View Frequency): Press the VF & SCAN button (4) to enter frequency view mode, then use the Multifunctional tuning knob (18) to manually tune to a desired frequency.
• Manual Search for Stored Stations (VM - View Memory): Press the VM & SCAN button (3) to browse through previously stored stations.
• Direct Frequency Input: Use the numeric keypad to directly enter a desired frequency.
• Direct Stored Station Address Input: Use the numeric keypad to directly enter the address of a saved station.
• Multifunctional Tuning Knob (18): Rotate this knob to fine-tune frequencies or navigate through menus.

5.4 MP3 Playback

1. Insert a TF (Micro SD) card containing MP3 audio files into the SD card slot located on the rear of the radio (refer to Figure 4.1).
2. Slide the MP3/Radio switch (located near the SD card slot) to the 'MP3' position.
3. Use the playback control buttons (PREV, NEXT, PAUSE/PLAY) to manage your music.
4. The radio supports common audio formats, including FLAC.

5.5 Volume Control

Adjust the Volume knob (19) on the side of the radio to increase or decrease the audio output level.

5.6 Display and Backlight

The LCD screen displays essential information such as station frequency, signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, temperature, time, and battery level. Press the Display mode / key lock button (8) to cycle through display modes or activate the intelligent keypad backlight for night use.

5.7 Time and Alarm Set

Use the Time set button (9) to adjust the current time. The Alarm set button (10) allows you to configure alarms, choosing between an alarm by radio or an alarm by buzzer.

5.8 Memory Functions

To store a station, tune to the desired frequency and press the Memory button (12). To delete a stored station or confirm a selection, use the Delete / Confirm button (11).

5.9 Audio Output and Input

• Earphone Jack (16): Connect stereo headphones (Φ3.5mm/32Ω) for private listening.
• Line In Jack (15): Connect an external audio source to use the PL-398MP as an active small speaker.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the radio with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Care: Remove batteries if the radio will not be used for an extended period to prevent leakage. Always replace all three batteries at once, and do not mix old and new batteries or different types.
• Storage: Store the radio in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

9. User Tips

• The PL-398MP offers excellent reception across various bands, particularly FM. Experiment with different tuning modes like ETM and ATS to discover local and international stations efficiently.
• Take advantage of the dual stereo speakers for an immersive listening experience without headphones, especially for FM stereo programs.
• The MP3 player supports a wide range of formats, including FLAC, providing flexibility for your audio playback needs.
• While the radio has many advanced features, some users might find the sound quality to be 'tinny'. Adjusting the radio's position or using external speakers via the Line Out can sometimes improve the audio perception.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the seller/manufacturer directly. The official user manual (PDF) can be accessed via the following link for detailed instructions and support: Tecsun PL-398MP User Manual (PDF).