Handcrafted TEF6686 FM Tuner by Umar (Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu – India)

[sriram_shol]

The TEF6686 chipset needs no introduction when it comes to RF and audio performance, well known for its excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and stable multi-band performance across AM, MW, SW and FM.

Sharing an interest check for a TEF6686-based FM tuner built by Mr. Umar from Thanjavur (Tamil Nadu, INDIA). This is a made-to-order audiophile FM tuner built around the highly respected NXP TEF6686 chipset, and in terms of performance.

Core Technology​

• RF Chipset: NXP TEF6686
• Controller & Connectivity: ESP32 with Wi-Fi
• Designed with a focus on RF purity, stability, and audio transparency
• Optimized firmware for clean stereo decoding, strong weak-signal performance, and low noise floor

Two Available Models​

1. Speaker Model

• Comes housed in a wooden enclosure
• Built-in audio amplifier
• In-built left and right speaker support, ideal as a standalone FM receiver
• Comes with in-built rechargeable batteries (3 X 3.7V lithium batteries)
• Perfect for users who want a compact, all-in-one FM listening solution without external gear
• Comes with wall-wart charger for charging the batteries.
• Link to the Built-in Speaker Model
• Price for this is Rs 7,500/- (Shipping extra)

2. Pre-Out Model

• Designed for serious Hi-Fi setups
• RCA pre-out only, intended to be used with an external amplifier or Hi-Fi system
• Clean line-level output with excellent channel separation and clarity
• Ideal for users integrating the tuner into an existing stereo or vintage audio chain
• Comes with wall-wart charger.
• Link to the Preout Model
• Price for this is Rs 5,500/- (Shipping extra)

Antenna & RF Design​

• Both models use an F-connector (female) for external antenna only
• No compromise on RF performance — external antenna support ensures:
  • Better sensitivity
  • Improved selectivity
  • Cleaner stereo reception
• Pairs extremely well with rooftop Yagi, folded dipole, or quality indoor antennas (Having F-connector male)

Performance & Sound Quality​

• Excellent weak-signal handling
• Stable stereo lock with minimal distortion
• Natural, open sound with very low background noise
• Audio character is comparable to popular TEF6686 builds like DEEPELEC / SPARKELEC, but with the added charm of being locally handcrafted in India
• Long listening sessions are fatigue-free

Build Philosophy​

• Built on request - Made to order, not mass produced
• Careful component selection and clean internal layout
• Each unit is assembled, tested, and tuned individually
• Emphasis on reliability, thermal stability, and long-term use

Who Is This For?​

• FM DXers
• Hi-Fi enthusiasts who still value high-quality analog FM
• Users looking for a modern replacement for vintage FM tuners
• Anyone who appreciates handcrafted audio gear over factory mass production

Projects like this require significant RF knowledge, careful experimentation, and many hours of hands-on work, and they help keep serious homebrew DX development alive in the community. It’s great to see such high-quality RF and audio work coming locally, and I genuinely believe this deserves attention among FM and Hi-Fi enthusiasts. Being locally built, this tuner avoids the long lead times, customs delays, and transit risks commonly associated with Banggood or AliExpress orders.

If anyone in the forum is interested, Mr. Umar is open to make for you! Some of the FM enthusiasts outside our forum have already purchased from him and they are enjoying longhaul channels effortlessly.

He can be reached in +91-8344829291.