Accessory Review:
etón E1-XM AM/FM/Shortwave/XM Satellite-Ready Radio
by Jeffrey Reed, Editor, LondonOntarioGolf.com

When you’ve been a radio hobbyist for more than three decades like I have, you put a lot of miles on a lot of radios: AM, FM and shortwave radios. Today, we have a growing number of Satellite Radio Service channels, offering a unique and eclectic array of programming available through paid subscription.

I’ve regularly listened to an etón S350DL AM/FM/Shortwave radio in my office, and at my night stand. It has performed admirably. But as a radio hobbyist, I was most curious about a radio widely considered the “Cadillac” of table-top radios: etón’s EI-XM radio – the world’s first radio to combine AM, FM, Shortwave and Satellite-Ready radio reception.

When etón provided an E1-XM for review, it opened Pandora’s Box. Rather, I opened the box to the highest quality radio I have ever listened to – and much more. In fact, to call the E1-XM a radio would be to underestimate this high-tech receiver. It is, rather, a Cadillac of a radio disguised as a Ferrari.

As mentioned, the E1-XM is the first ever radio to offer AM, FM, Shortwave and Satellite radio all in one package. Weighing in at 4 lbs. 3 oz. and measuring 13 in. x 7.5 in. x 2.5 in., the E1-XM is a table-top, multi-faceted radio designed in an ultra-sleek modern style. It even boasts a rubberized coating, great for gripping and for protecting the radio from scratches and bumps. A very large digital dot matrix display measuring 5.7 sq. in. shows all modes and selected functions – no more searching the current play mode: it’s all here, right in front of you on a large screen. And, the display backlighting is evenly lit, too, allowing for viewing under all lighting conditions.

Let’s cut to the chase: this is the best sounding radio I have ever listened to. Period. Separate continuous bass and treble controls work equally as well when listening to spoken word or music. A calibrated LCD signal strength meter tracks the power of your received station, and there’s a selectable automatic gain control feature – fast and slow mode.

I was blown away by all modes of reception, in particular the shortwave reception. The sync feature on this radio is excellent. It’s easy to eliminate most of adjacent interference. And the DX button which turns on the pre-amp greatly increases signal strength. Selectivity and sensitivity is unmatched. I love the scan feature, too, and I appreciate the fact there is an old-fashioned tuning knob! The E1-XM can be enjoyed while it is sitting upright, or resting on its flip-down rest.

Here are the frequencies covered by the E1-XM: 100-30,000 KHz, including Shortwave, medium wave AM broadcast band and long wave; 76-90; and 87-108. Reception modes include AM, FM-stereo, Single Sideband (selectable USB/LSB) and XM Satellite Radio. In total, there are 500 user programmable memories with alpha labeling, plus 1,200 user definable country memories, for a total of 1,700. Direct frequency entry for all band via keypad, and memory scan function make this radio a winner. 
The E1-XM is no doubt the most sophisticated radio to ever boast dual-event programmable ON/OFF timers, which can be used for recording, or alarm clock function. There are dual programmable clocks: imagine waking up to the sweet sound of this radio? You might not want to get out of bed. A stereo line-level allows listening to other devices, including a CD player, through the E1-XM. Stereo line-level output for recording or routing the output to another device such as a home stereo is a big feature. And there is an input for headphones, and external antenna i.e. shortwave, AM, FM. Plus, high-frequency and FM antenna options include internal versus external.

The E1-XM is powered by an AC adaptor, or four D batteries. Make sure to remove the batteries if the radio is not in use for an extended period of time. If batteries are installed, and external power is lost, the receiver will continue to operate on battery power.

XM Satellite Radio is a subscription radio service providing more than 170 digital channels. By paying for this service, and connecting the necessary XM tuner antenna module and dock (available as separate items), you are ready to enjoy the world of Satellite Radio. Again, here you will discover a whole new world of eclectic listening enjoyment.

What more can I say about the E1-XM radio from etón, other than it is well worth the MSRP of $500 US? This is a radio that will last a lifetime, while providing listening enjoyment from around the globe. AM, FM, Shortwave – and now XM Satellite Radio: the choice is yours.

For more information on the E1-XM, visit www.etoncorp.com.