How to Fix Bad FM Reception? – Avantree Support

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PowerByte – How to Fix Bad FM Reception?

Having trouble finding FM stations, or hearing static? Follow these steps in order.

FM reception depends on your location, antenna position, and nearby electronics. Start with the antenna before scanning again.

Step 1 – Fully Extend and Adjust the Antenna

Pull the FM antenna out all the way. Do not leave it folded or partly extended.

Start with the antenna upright. If the station still has static, slowly change the antenna angle and pause for a few seconds after each adjustment.

You can also turn the PowerByte slightly to the left or right. A small change in position may improve reception.

Important: Always fully extend the antenna before scanning for FM stations.

Step 2 – Move the Radio to a Better Location

Walls, cabinets, and metal objects can weaken an FM signal.

Try placing the PowerByte near a window or higher on a table or shelf, away from thick walls and large metal objects.

Easy Test: If reception improves near a window, the original location was probably weakening the FM signal.

Step 3 – Move Away From Electronics

Nearby electronics can cause FM static. Move the PowerByte a few feet away from Wi-Fi routers, TVs, computers, phone chargers, and other electronic devices.

If the static improves, keep the PowerByte farther away from the device causing interference.

Step 4 – Station Found but Has Static? Fine-Tune It

If the station was found but sounds noisy, you may not need to scan again.

Use the 〈 TUNE / TUNE 〉 controls to adjust the frequency in small 0.1 MHz steps.

Make small adjustments and stop when the station sounds clearest.

Step 5 – Compare Other Stations and Locations

Try several local FM stations.

Only one station sounds bad?
That station may simply have a weaker signal in your area.

If many stations are weak, move the PowerByte to another room or another part of your home, preferably near a window, and listen to the same station again.

Reception improves somewhere else?
The PowerByte is receiving FM normally. The original location likely has a weaker signal or more interference.

Something Doesn't Sound Right?

Very Few Stations Found? Scan Again

Before scanning again, make sure the antenna is fully extended and the PowerByte is in a better location away from interference.

Press and hold the FM button for about 2 seconds.

Let the scan finish before pressing another button.

Only One Station Sounds Bad

Try other local FM stations. If the others sound clear, the weak signal is probably coming from that particular station rather than the PowerByte.

FM Is Poor, but Bluetooth Sounds Good

If Bluetooth audio sounds clear but FM has static, the speaker itself is likely working normally. The issue is more likely related to FM signal strength, antenna position, interference, or your location.

Need More PowerByte Help?

View PowerByte Guides

Still Have Poor FM Reception?

If FM reception is still unusually poor after these checks, submit a support request.

Please tell us:

Whether the problem affects one station or many stations
Whether you hear static or cannot find stations at all
Whether reception improves near a window or in another room
Whether Bluetooth audio sounds normal

Contact Avantree Support