Ham Radio Hacks: External AI Noise Reduction

Ham Radio Hacks: External AI Noise Reduction

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Introduction

If you have an older radio or a budget-friendly radio that lacks digital noise filtering, stay tuned! We have something for you: the BenQ Travola U Bluetooth speaker. BenQ claims this speaker features AI filtering technology capable of removing static from radio communications. Let’s explore its features and see how well it performs in real-world scenarios.

Features

Connectivity and Input Options

• Bluetooth 5
• 3.5mm Auxiliary Input: Useful when your device doesn't support Bluetooth.
• 12-hour Battery Life: Equipped with a large lithium battery, though real-world usage may vary.

Additional Specs

• USBC Charging: Comes with both USB cable and wall adapter.
• Built-in Microphone: Suitable for phone calls, and can be used with ham radios.
• Different Modes: Music mode, Video Learning mode, and Live Learning mode (for noise reduction).
• Mobile App: Available for both Android and Apple devices to unlock additional features.

Physical Overview

The Bluetooth speaker comes with:

• A USBC cable
• A wall adapter
• A 3.5mm auxiliary cable (TRRS)

Measurements:

• Length: ~7 inches
• Height: ~4 inches
• Thickness: ~2.5 inches
• Weight: ~2 lbs

Setup and Operation

Connecting to Your Radio

For this test, we connect the speaker to a Yaesu FT-818, which lacks any digital noise filtering. Using the 3.5mm cord, we plug it into the headphone jack. The ports for charging and auxiliary input are located behind a small white panel at the back.

Real-World Test

Let's compare the radio output through the built-in speaker versus the BenQ Travola U:

1. Without Noise Reduction: Audio from the radio sounds filled with static.
2. With AI Noise Reduction (Live Learning Mode): Noticeable reduction in noise and static, making communication clearer.

Mobile App

The app offers various features, such as different sound profiles and settings adjustments:

• Sleep Mode: Auto turn-off after 30 minutes.
• True Wireless Stereo: Possible linking with another speaker.
• Auto Power-off: Saves battery if the device is idle for a period.
• Custom Sound Profiles: Tailor the sound output to personal preferences.

Final Thoughts

The BenQ Travola U Bluetooth speaker effectively reduces noise and improves audio quality for ham radio enthusiasts:

• Pros:

  • Effective noise reduction
  • No noticeable RFI interference
  • Several useful modes and configurations
  • Built-in microphone and versatile compatibility

• Cons:

  • Slightly bulky and heavy
  • Pricey at $ 129
  • Current color scheme and size might not be optimal

Would I use it in a park setting? Absolutely. For long hikes or soda activations, maybe not, due to its size and weight. However, for typical POTA activations and stationary use, it’s a great addition.

Keywords

Keywords:

BenQ Travola U, Bluetooth speaker, ham radio, AI noise reduction, digital noise filtering, Yaesu FT-818, POTA activations, USBC charging, 3.5mm auxiliary input, mobile app, built-in microphone

FAQs

FAQ:

1. What is the battery life of the BenQ Travola U Bluetooth speaker?

   • It claims a 12-hour battery life, though actual usage may vary.

2. Does the speaker interfere with radio signals?

   • No, it does not generate RFI interference.

3. Can this speaker be used for phone calls?

   • Yes, it has a built-in microphone suitable for phone calls.

4. Is the speaker portable for long hiking trips?

   • Given its size and weight (~2 lbs), it’s not ideal for long hikes but fine for short trips or stationary use.

5. What are the available modes on the speaker?

   • Music mode, Video Learning mode, and Live Learning (AI noise reduction) mode are available.

If you have any more questions or thoughts, feel free to leave them in the comments below. Thanks for reading, and 73!