A fully analog Stereo FM / AM Radio Receiver project based on the TEA5711 radio IC, featuring dual LM386 audio amplifiers and a 10-LED stereo VU meter.
This project has been personally tested and successfully assembled on a working prototype.
📺 Build Video:
https://youtu.be/hSCuRKkPxRc
📌 YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@TeknoTrek
This project demonstrates how to build a high-quality FM stereo and AM radio receiver using classic through-hole components.
It is suitable for hobbyists, students, and electronics enthusiasts interested in RF reception, analog audio amplification, and signal visualization.
- FM Stereo & AM reception using TEA5711
- Dual-channel audio amplification (2 × LM386)
- Real-time audio level display (Stereo VU Meter – TA7666P / KIA7666P)
- Low-noise regulated power supply
- DIY-friendly single-layer PCB
The main RF section processes both FM and AM signals.
Highlights
- FM stereo and AM receiver in a single IC
- High sensitivity even at low supply voltages
- Manual tuning via variable capacitor
- Ceramic IF filters for FM selectivity (10.7 MHz)
Technical Details
- FM antenna: Telescopic antenna (AE1)
- AM antenna: Ferrite rod antenna (L2)
- FM IF filters: Y2, Y3 (10.7 MHz)
- Antenna protection: 1N4148 diodes (D11, D12)
Amplifies low-level stereo audio signals to speaker level.
Features
- Independent left and right channel amplification
- Dual-gang potentiometer for volume control
- Zobel networks at outputs to prevent oscillation
Notes
- Adding a 10 µF capacitor between pins 1–8 sets LM386 to maximum gain
- Designed for 8 Ω speakers
Provides visual feedback of audio signal levels.
Features
- 10 LEDs total (5 per channel)
- True stereo level indication
- Adjustable response speed via RC networks
Protection
- 1.2 kΩ current-limiting resistor per LED
Ensures stable operation of RF and audio stages.
Specifications
- Input: 9 V DC (battery or external supply)
- Regulated output: ~5.6 V for radio section
- Regulation: Transistor + Zener diode
- Large filtering capacitors for low noise and ripple
- Single-layer PCB
- Wide ground traces to minimize interference
- Clearly labeled silkscreen
- Optimized placement for AM IF transformers and ferrite antenna
- Tuning
- AM / FM mode switch
- Volume (dual potentiometer)
Mirror-image PCB layouts are provided for:
- Toner transfer
- Iron-on PCB fabrication
Feel free to open an issue or leave a comment on the YouTube video. I’d love to hear your thoughts and help if you get stuck!
'fm radio', 'am fm radio', 'stereo radio', 'radio receiver', 'diy radio', 'electronics', 'audio amplifier', 'tea5711', 'lm386', 'vu meter', 'audio electronics', 'rf electronics', 'analog electronics', 'pcb design', 'soldering', 'diy electronics', 'home electronics'
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📢 Disclaimer: This is an open-source project. Use at your own risk.
#electronics #diy #radio #TEA5711 #pcbdesign #kicad #amfmradio #engineering #teknotrek