Audio Department

KA500 Voyager
Dynamo & solar powered radio with advanced features

By Kaito (KA500)

We loved this radio the first moment we got our hands on it. The KA500 is the perfect radio for emergency preparedness, or for a weekend trip to the cabin. The KA500 Voyager comes with all the features that you need in an emergency situation, including a source of light and information.

Self-Powered...

The KA500 Voyager is built around a high-quality AC-type brushless generator, that is cranked easily, and offers a smooth, quiet action (we test & sell a wide variety of these dynamo/solar radios, and a smooth quiet crank is very important - it speaks to the quality & reliability of the unit). Together with the built-in solar panel, you have the ability to keep the Voyager charged at all times. Keep it in a bright window and ordinary sunlight will charge & maintain the internal battery pack. Should you run out of power in the internal battery during a prolonged blackout, simply crank the handle to get additional charge. 30 seconds of winding provides over 30 minutes of play (at moderate volume).

To maximize sunlight exposure, the solar panel is tiltable so you can find the optimum angle to receive sunlight. On the back side of the solar panel is a 5 LED reading lamp that you can use it to read while the power is out.

LED lighting on board...

The KA500 Voyager is also built with a multi-function LED flashlight on one end. The super bright LEDs turn the radio into a handy flashlight, or use the red beacon setting for emergency.

The KA500 Voyager radio can also be used as an emergency charging station for many electronic items. It is built with a USB jack that can connect with many standard USB enabled gadgets like iPods & smart phones. It comes with 6 cellphone tips for many popular brands like Nokia & Samsung.

In addition to AM, FM & Shortwave band reception, the KA500 Voyager receives 7 NOAA weather bands. It also has a weather alert setting that announces emergency weather alerts.

The fit & finish of the Voyager is excellent. A solid feel. Strap handle with rubber grip. Well laid out control knobs with easy to read & understand labels. Smooth tuning. Compact size.

6 Power options...

1. Dynamo Cranking Power
2 turns per second (120 turns per minute) cranking will power the built in Ni-MH battery pack with strong current and voltage.

2. Solar Panel Power
Under direct summer sunlight, the solar panel is able to power the radio directly. The panel also charges the internal battery pack when the radio is off, or when the panel is producing more power than the radio is using. Keep the radio in a bright window, and it will always be charged & ready.

3. AA Batteries
You can also use 3 normal AA batteries to run the radio with max reception.

4. The built-in Rechargeable battery pack
The Ni-MH battery pack will run the radio for over 12 hours when fully charged by the dynamo, solar, AC adaptor (not included), or USB source.

5. AC adaptor
This allows you to charge from a wall outlet. With so many other ways to charge, this is an accessory you may not need.

6. USB source
Charge from a computer via USB port, or use any USB wall adaptor.

LED Lighting Features...

1. 5 LED reading lamp for camping and emergency use.
2. White LED flashlight
3. Red LED blinking for emergency alert.

Radio Receiver Features...

1. AM: 520-1717 KHz
2. FM: 88.00- 108.00 MHz
3. SW1: 3.20-9.00KHz
4. SW2: 9.00- 22.00KHz
5. Weather Band: 7 standard bands for all stations
6. Weather Alert: To be activated by weather alert signals

PLL crystal control circuit for stable reception

What's in the box?

1. 6 Cellphone Tips
2. Earphone
3. USB Cord
4. AC adaptor (optional... see order form)

Who's buying?...

The KA500 Voyager appeals to both the emergency preparedness & rural lifestyle markets. It is one of the best utility radios we've seen yet. A full spectrum of radio bands, combined with LED lighting, accessory charging, and self-sufficient power options makes this perhaps the ultimate personal radio receiver yet.