== This listing is for one FA-5 FM tuner PCB module to add FM reception to a vintage AM radio. For the comprehensive description see \"other items\" and website. ==
With AM broadcasting dwindling and AM stations disappearing, particularly in the rural areas, vintage valve AM-only radios are losing their value and appeal. Therefore retrofitting FM tuners and/or Bluetooth modules is becoming more and more popular among vintage radio collectors.
The module FA-5 offered in the listing allows to receive FM band (87.5 -- 108MHz) on your AM radio.
FA-5 module is designed for performance and convenience.
The same dial and tuning knob is used to tune across the FM band, AM functionality (on the medium and short waves) is completely preserved in the radio with no physical connection or \"invasion\" of the sensitive RF / IF circuitry. It is achieved by a \"sniffer\" which contactlessly picks up the local oscillator frequency and translates it into FM tuning range.
FA-5 module activates automatically once its output is connected to the volume control pot, and shuts dow when disconnected. Thus any cross-talk between AM and FM reception is eliminated.
Therefore, only one switch is required -- to connect the volume control pot either to the existing AM detector or to the FA-5 output.
With the indication LEDs, your radio will look \"cool\", and authentic at the same time. Fa-5 can be easily \"uninstalled\" to revert to the original radio configuration, if needed.
The attached video demonstration illustrates the difference between AM and FM reception quality (in a garage of suburban Sydney house without outdoor aerial). AM band is all polluted by hum and buzz from numerous household appliances, gadgets, switch-mode power packs and chargers, fluoro and LED globe ballasts, etc. In contrast, there are far more FM stations which play music and are received noise-free with good sound quality, while the radio still looks authentic.
Compared to some other FM modules which may be available on the market, FA-5 has certain advantages:- high sensitivity due to an RF stage -- clear sound, free of static, with any surrogate antenna;- output to drive a tuning indicator LED;- larger output signal 1...1.5Vrms, provided by a quality operational amplifier, not a single transistor;- the MOST IMPORTANT -- when fitting FA-5, you do not sacrifice AM reception on MW and SW, no disconnecting the tuning capacitor, no major rewiring, no extra \"AM saver\" relays, no detrimental effect to the operation of the radio in AM mode;- no any calibration or adjustment -- apply 6.3Vac, make a \"sniffer\" gimmick to the oscillator section of the tuning gang and it works.
Installation is easy, but shall be undertaken by a person with adequate skills, due to lethal high voltages in the radio circuit. The module can be fitted into any radio with 450...480kHz
Questions are welcome. I am happy to give advice regarding particular radios you have in mind and assist retrofitting the FM module into your favourite radio.
Related Items:
FA-5 FM tuner - converter PCB module for FM reception to vintage AM radio
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FA-5 FM Tuner - Converter Module Vintage AM Valve Tube Radio Upgrade Kit
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FM tuner / converter FA-5 PCB (lot of 4) to add FM band to an AM valve radio
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