Cambridge SoundWorks i525 AM/FM Table Radio with iPod Dock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I understand this radio sold for as high as $200 and at that price, one might be disappointed. Not because the sound isn't phenomenal for it's size, but because most $200 table top radios will have a sub-woofer, which the i525 does not.
But for $99, this radio exceeded my expectations. (and frankly, as a bedside music system, I'm not looking for a high volume performer. Don't get me wrong, the sound quality on this radio is very full. I'm never thinking, "wish it had a sub-woofer")
Three things set this radio apart: 1.) ipod interface is great. (my iPod is 32 GB 3rd gen touch) The i525 produces the kind of impressively rich, clean audio from an iPod one typically expects from much more expensive audio systems w/o frills! CSW attributes this superior iPod sound reproduction to something they call X-Fi Crystalizer technology, "restoring the crisp treble and bass punch erased by audio compressor processing employed to create MP3..." . All I know is "Marky likes it, and it enhances FM too".
2.) CSW has developed a reputation for audio systems with impossibly good sound given their small footprints, and i525 is no exception. Certainly, audio preference has a subjective element, yet no one should be able to quibble with tonal clarity through out the range. One is startled by the lack of any mushiness, and taut bass reproduction. As a bedside music system, it produces clear bass, mid-range and treble far beyond most clock radios. 3.) FM reception is the best I've experienced! FM reception is clean, clear and distortion free. I recently returned the AR Art1, possessing a much larger external antenna, however the reception fidelity was no where near the i525.
What about the alarm clock function? Well, to be honest, I've not set the alarm. However, even if the alarm function is "behind the curve" as some professional and reviews on this site have said, my demands are not great in this area. I simply need an alarm to wake me up reliably. HOWEVER, I will complain about no battery back-up. There's an internal power cell storing 10 mins of power, saving settings---well, for 10 mins of power interruption. That's not good enough. Battery backup should be " de rigueur" for clock radios.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cambridge SoundWorks i525 AM/FM Table Radio with iPod Dock

Cambridge SoundWorks - SoundWorks i525 iPod/AM/FM Clock Radio System

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Cambridge SoundWorks i525 AM/FM Table Radio with iPod Dock

Read More...

Sony ICF-CD543RM Kitchen CD Clock Radio (Silver) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I tried other radios in the kitchen, but none could compare to the sound of this unit. FM reception's pretty good too. The "kitchen friendly" controls are easy to clean. Mounting is done by drilling three holes, for which it has a paper template, and it has adjustable spacers to accommodate cabinets with recessed bottoms. It's about 11-1/2 inches deep and just an inch or two wider.
I don't seem to get any weather band channels, and the TV channels I get are very quiet so I have to remember to turn the sound down before switching to FM or CD. The timer's a nice feature for the kitchen but seconds can't be set and it takes a lot of turning to get to longer bake times, like an hour or more. The magnetic remote's also nice but you have to be able to see the sensor and stay within about 45 degrees for it to work.
Overall I'm very happy with it. The sound is great and makes spending all day around the kitchen less lonely, plus it doesn't take up any counter space. I do feel like I paid a small premium for the name Sony though.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony ICF-CD543RM Kitchen CD Clock Radio (Silver)

Sony has the perfect addition to your kitchen - the ICF-CD543RM CD/AM/FM/TV Band/Weather Band Kitchen Clock Radio. Featuring an Under Cabinet Interior Design Style, a Space-Saving Slim Look, a Built-in Dynamic Bass Reflex Sound System, CD-R/RW Playback, and a 4 Band Digital Synthesized Tuner (AM/FM/TV/Weather), this Radiorocks! Use the 25 Random Memory Presets, CD Play Modes (Shuffle-Repeat/Repeat-1/Repeat All), and Easy Set Kitchen Timer to make cooking to music simple and fun. In addition, the Magnetic Multi-Function Remote Control can be used as a refrigerator magnet so you will always know exactly where to find it. Listen in the kitchen with the ICF-CD543RM.

Click here for more information about Sony ICF-CD543RM Kitchen CD Clock Radio (Silver)

Read More...

SONY ICF-C211-BLK AM/FM Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had my Sony Clock Radio for quite a while now. It's durable (I've dropped it several times down several flights of stairs, but it's still here and working) and performs as advertised. One minor complaint though. The radio doesn't go very loud without distortion. But who would want to crank an alarm clock radio up anyways??? Overall, this is a great product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: SONY ICF-C211-BLK AM/FM Clock Radio

This clock radio from Sony features a large highly readable display that can be seen form just about anywhere in the room, even at night. Wake to the sound of music from your favorite radio station or to the standard digital alarm sound.Large easy-to-see LED display is highly readable from a distance, even at night. AM/FM Tuner lets you choose from the wide variety of news, talk radio and music programming. AM Wide Band Reception allows reception of all AM radio stations in the new expanded AM band. Easy Operation with Single Function Keys makes it a simple matter to set time, select alarm preference (buzzer or radio), and all other functions in easy, convenient steps. Alarm-On Indicator tells you at a glance if alarm is set. Snooze Bar shuts off alarm temporarily to allow for a few extra minutes of snoozing before it turns on again. Sleep Timer shuts off radio automatically after a pre-set length of time. Full Power Memory Back-Up uses single 9V battery (optional) to maintain clock and alarm settings and operation in event of blackout or other power failure. Antennas include built-in ferrite bar antenna for AM, convenient wire antenna for FM.

Click here for more information about SONY ICF-C211-BLK AM/FM Clock Radio

Read More...

My Powerthoughts Wake Up Call Motivational Alarm Clock Messages (Month 1) with iPod Dock Alarm Clock Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)MY WAKE UP CALL? Motivational Alarm Clock Messages awaken you each morning with positive energy instead of that annoying buzzer or the "alarming" news on the radio!
MY WAKE UP CALL? has been featured in SHAPE, SELF, and other major publications, as well as on NBC TV and Fox News.
MY WAKE UP CALL? months of messages are available as stand-alone iPhone/Smartphone/iPod (MP3) files or CDs, OR included FREE with our iPod, CD or USB Motivational Alarm Clocks!
My Powerthoughts Wake Up Call(tm) - John St. Augustine powers up your mornings with Powerthoughts! John is also the Executive Producer, (formerly the long time Oprah Radio Senior Producer.)
My Workout Wake Up Call? - Daily messages from a Personal Trainer, who motivates you to wake up and work out!
My Wellness Wake Up Call(tm)- Wellness focused messages awaken you each morning with a healthy mind-set!
My Wealthy Wake Up Call(tm)- Awaken to your prosperity every day with messages based on "The Science of Getting Rich."
My Wisdom Wake Up Call? - Mary Morrissey's inspiring words of wisdom lift you out of bed each morning, both physically and spiritually!
My Good Grief Wake Up Call(tm) - Messages of hope & resilience from a mother who lost her child to cancer. Debi Tibbles helps others walk through their grief by sharing her personal story of learning to use her grief for good.
For a wonderful way to start your day, please visit [...]

Click Here to see more reviews about: My Powerthoughts Wake Up Call Motivational Alarm Clock Messages (Month 1) with iPod Dock Alarm Clock

MY WAKE UP CALL ? iPod/MP3 Dock Alarm Clock, Includes 1 Month of MY POWERTHOUGHTS WAKE UP CALL Messages with John St. Augustine! Written and Narrated by John St. Augustine, well-known radio personality, best selling author and longtime former senior producer of Oprah Radio! * Each morning, awaken to specially structured 5-minute Powerthoughts messages. * Wake up to daily uplifting, positive messages instead of annoying, jarring alarm buzzers or "alarming" news on the radio! iPod Dock AM/FM Radio Alarm Clock Features * iPod Docking Station to Play and Charge Your iPod * AM/FM Radio * LED Alarm Clock Display * 6.75" by 5" by 4.75"* 1.3 lbs * Made for iPod, iPod video, iPod nano (2nd gen), iPod mini* Wake Up To Music Or AlarmMy Wake Up Call? Motivational Alarm Clock Messages awaken you each morning as specially structured, five-minute motivating messages instead of an annoying buzzer orthe "alarming" news on the radio! Each month of messages is downloadable for your iPhone, Smartphone or iPod, or on CDs, OR is included FREE with My Wake Up Call? CD or iPod Alarm Clocks. My Wake Up Call? has been featured in SHAPE, SELF, Oxygen, Woman's World, ADDitude, Experience Life Magazine, and other major publications, as well as on NBC TV and Fox News.

Click here for more information about My Powerthoughts Wake Up Call Motivational Alarm Clock Messages (Month 1) with iPod Dock Alarm Clock

Read More...

Boston Acoustics SOLO2B Solo II AM/FM Radio with Clock (Gloss Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The sound quality is amazing for a 3.5 inch speaker, with very smooth bass that really fills a room. When the radio first comes on at your preset alarm time, it is whisper quiet, slowly building in volume level to whatever level it was when you last used it. It's a very pleasant way to wake up.
The alarm-setting process is easy to control, and you can be awakened with the radio, an alarm sound, or it can try waking you with the radio at first and then use the standard alarm if you don't wake within 5 minutes.
It has an automatic brightness control that dims the display when the room gets dark, with 20 levels of adjustment that you can control manually if you're sensitive to light in your room.
The radio tuner is quite good -- it digitally locks on to the signal, with very little if any static on weak signals. It's the strongest radio receiver I own, including the one in my car. If the built-in antenna doesn't suffice, you can even connect an external antenna to a port in the back.
The build quality of this radio is very high, giving a feeling that it's truly a luxury product, something to be proud of owning.
One of the coolest features -- and there are several -- is that it can hold its own radio and clock settings if the power goes out, without need for a battery. It uses a capacitor to maintain a charge, which it says is good for one or two days without being plugged in. I've only tested this feature moving the radio from one room to another, but it held all settings.
Overall, this is a great clock radio. I'm so glad to have it instead of using my cell phone to wake me, a poor substitute in comparison to such a fine product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Boston Acoustics SOLO2B Solo II AM/FM Radio with Clock (Gloss Black)

Room-filling Sound That Fits Anywhere Boston Acoustics' Solo II has been designed to look great -- and engineered to sound even better. It measures only 5¼" x 8¼" x 6¼" (134 x 210 x 159mm) and contains a precision AM/FM tuner capable of locking in even distant radio stations. In addition, its advanced full-range driver with Boston's patented BassTrac audio processing provides rich, clean bass at all listening levels. Your ears will hear all the bass and none of the distortion. A complete home theater system that maximizes your. Viewlarger.

Get 1% OFF

Click here for more information about Boston Acoustics SOLO2B Solo II AM/FM Radio with Clock (Gloss Black)

Read More...

Philips AJ3600 Time Projection Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I just received this clock yesterday and have already fallen in love!
To avoid hitting the snooze or reset button(s) and never waking up, I keep my alarm clock across the room from my bed. This way I wake up enough to get out of bed and walk across the room before I hit any buttons. As my eyes are getting older it has become increasingly more difficult to focus on the clock when I wake up in the middle of the night.
When I decided that a projection clock would solve my problem of focusing on the clock in the middle of the night, I started to look around for one and I was not pleased with what was out there. I did not need nature sounds, nor did I need a light to turn on as part of the alarm. I do not have an MP3 player to dock into my clock, and I do not need a complete weather report when I open my eyes (LOL, I will find that out soon enough when I shlep out of bed and let the dogs outside!). I do not need to know what time the alarm is set (I just like to be reassured that it is on), and I am perfectly capable of pressing a few buttons to set the time all by myslef.
This little guy projects the time and whether or not the alarm is on...the two things that I am most interested in when I open my eyes in the middle of the night. The projection can be moved 180 degrees and the further away you project the time, the larger it is. It has an adjustable backlight on the face so it is not too bright. It has an AM/FM radio with ten station presets, and when the alarm is set to chime instead of the radio, it starts gentle so as not to jar you awake. It does have two alarms, but instead of having a choice of alarm types (chime or radio) Alarm 1 uses the radio and Alarm 2 uses the chime. The chime is a little bit quieter than I am used to, but it woke me up just fine this morning.
So far (after one night) I love this clock, it's a great price, and I would defiantly recommend it!


Click Here to see more reviews about: Philips AJ3600 Time Projection Clock Radio

Philips Clock Radio with Time Projection that beams the time on any surface - just wake up, open your eyes, and you'll see the time!

Get 2% OFF

Click here for more information about Philips AJ3600 Time Projection Clock Radio

Read More...

Philips AJ260 Weather Station Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)After reading all the other reviews I wasn't too sure. But reading between the lines I decided to take a chance. I bit the bullet and bought it and so far I am happy I did. I did find one thing I would like changed, one thing I would like enhanced.
The negative and needing changed is that the dual alarms will both sound by the same method. Either both by buzzer or both by radio. I personally like to use one alarm by radio, one by buzzer. That gives me a gentle wake up and then a reminder alert a little later.
To make the clock better, it would be nice if you could dim the weather LED. It is bright, no doubt about it. You can set it so that it only comes on for 10 seconds when you press a button, but I'd still like to see it dimmable.
As far as the other complaints... almost all the bad reviews could be corrected and attributed to user error. If people would RTFM before moaning, life would be easier.
Time resets to central but you live in the west, well read the manual. Not getting the auto time update, RTFM. Weather indicator light stays lit and keeps you up at night, read the manual. Outside temperature sensor giving inaccurate readings, read the flipping manual and mount the sensor in an appropriate place. As far as the sensor only measuring barometric pressure indoors and not outside, well unless you live in a submarine or a minute-man missile silo and use the airlock, the pressure inside and outside your house are the same. Humidity might be different, but pressure is the same, and that is what gives the clock its rudimentary weather predictions. Yes, it is really basic weather predictions, but what do you expect. It's a clock radio, not a meteorologist. Turn on the radio if you want more details.
I'd buy one again, but I would prefer separate buzz/radio selections for each alarm.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Philips AJ260 Weather Station Clock Radio

Philips Personal Weather Forecast Clock Radio with wireless outdoor temperature sensor. Start your day right - every day! The compact AJ260 features an atomic clock and graphical weather forecast icons with multi-color light indicators. Your trusty weather forecaster always keeps you punctual. Stylish design with all the functions you need, weather forecast display with graphical animations. Multi-color light weather indicator which displays indoor-outdoor temperature has abuilt-in hygrometer display of the indoor humidity. Convenient digital tuning presets to start the day your way. Dual alarm time, wake up to your favorite radio tune or a buzzer for gentle wake with increasing alarm volume.Digital radio-controlled clock for accurate time settings with large backlit LCD display (bightness controlled) for easier viewing in low light

Click here for more information about Philips AJ260 Weather Station Clock Radio

Read More...

Curtis IP215 Alarm Clock Radio/iPod Docking Station Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've had this iPod docking station for a couple of years, and it's probably one of the best purchases I've made. I don't know why people buy bargain speakers and expect theatre quality sound, but they do. Don't make that mistake with this unit. It will pump up the volume (exactly what I need!) but this is not a surround sound Dolby THX'ed Wonderdock. It's a clock radio with a place to dock your iPod so that you can play it and charge it at the same time.
I frequently move this between a couple of rooms, and I've dropped it more than once. I've also spilled stuff on it, and it works the same as it did when I took it out of the box the day I bought it. I don't use the clock or alarm, so I can't really comment on how well that functions, but the buttons appear to be pretty straightforward and easy to understand if I wanted to start. I occasionally listen to a local radio station on it, and I have no issues with reception.
There's a place in the bottom for a couple of AAA batteries in case of a power outage, and in the back there are in & out aux outlets, along with a "video out" port. I've never used the ports, but it does appear to be a versatile dock. There's also a switch in the back to turn doiwn the brightness of the clock display. The display is VERY bright at night and could double as a night light. I find the brightness disturbing to my sleep even at the low setting and stuck a label over it since I don't use the clock portion anyway.
The design is very sleek and modern looking, sure to go well with most decor, and it looks nice on a dresser (if you haven't spilled something on it like I have!). For the durability, sound quality, volume output, and apparent multi-functionality, I don't think there's a lot out there that can surpass this iPod dock. It's an excellent little workhorse for someone like me who plays their iPod 24/7, needs the volume output and is a little bit clumsy. I think overall it will please most users.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Curtis IP215 Alarm Clock Radio/iPod Docking Station

CurtisAlarm Clock Radio/iPod Docking Station

Click here for more information about Curtis IP215 Alarm Clock Radio/iPod Docking Station

Read More...

Sangean RCR-22 AM/FM Atomic Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I was looking for a high-quality alarm clock after about 12 years with an unimpressive Sony Dreammachine. This clock delivered on that front, and unlike most consumer electronics devices I've purchased in the past several years, it is clear that lots of thought was put into this device (and very little into the manual).
PROS:
There are tons of little nuances that the manual does not detail that I've discovered using the clock for a few weeks. For example the display can be dimmed with a dial on the bottom (which on my unit did not take effect until my alarm goes off the first time). The clock remains dimmed at your preset level, but goes to full brightness when the alarm goes off, making the clock easier to find. Combined with the pleasing blue light and the HWS (makes the alarm bell go from soft to loud) it's really nice to wake up to.
Another thoughtful touch is that alarm indicators only light within 24 hours of your alarm. Either alarm can be set to go off on particular days, with any combination of Su-Sa set for each alarm (i.e. alarm1 can be set for Monday, Thursday and Sunday, no weekday/weekend restrictions like some others). The alarm indicators however only light up when your alarm will ring the next morning. Very nice.
Other functions like the snooze, nap timers, etc. all work well. Like most alarms you need some time to figure out how it works, but after a few mornings most functions were intuitive.
The radio functions well, and pulls in way more stations than the Dreammachine. The speaker is fine, that is to say neither exceptionally good or exceptionally poor. If I want the ultimate music experience, I have an expensive stereo for that.
The clock is a true atomic time clock (not just a "preset" clock like many others). I don't know all the nuances of atomic cock synchronization, but the weather and location of the antenna seem to affect the two atomic clocks I have at home. Try moving the antenna towards the window if you have problems.
CONS
It is nicer than average plastic and construction, but still not going to win any design awards. I can't figure out why all alarm clock designs are frozen in 1992.
The manual was clearly written by a bunch of engineers. It is no nonsense, and explains how to set/use everything, but does not mention any of the usability features I noted above. For example if it's Monday and you set an alarm for thursday, You might wonder why the alarm indicators do not all light up. No mention at all in the manual. I thought the clock was broken since the dimmer did not function until the first time an alarm went off. Again, no mention in the manual of what turned out to be a very nice feature, and one I almost returned the clock for!
Another example is the unwieldly "Time Machine" antenna for the atomic clock. It is big and odd looking, but fits nicely to the back of the clock. Again, no mention in the manual save for a single line drawing.
When I initially plugged the clock in, all kinds of crytic numbers flashed on the display while it synced the time, again, no mention of what was happening or why in the manual. The manual does tell you how to DO everything, but does not explain WHY certain things work the way they do, or explain the various nice features someone clearly took time to think through.
Overal a great buy, especially for something you'll likely use every day for 5-15 years. I would like to see a better manual, autodimming of the display (it is BRIGHT when set to max), Sangean using a designer that is somewhat current, and perhaps a user manual rewrite, other than that, this clock works very well and will be on my nightstand for years to come.
I agonized over what to put on my nightstand (everything from Bose to Timex) and am very happy with my choice.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sangean RCR-22 AM/FM Atomic Clock Radio

Sangean's RCR-22 Clock Radio is the atomic clock radio you can set once and forget.It connects to the atomic clock in Boulder, Colorado to set the most accurate time available.Once the clock is set you can program the dual alarms to wake to your favorite AM or FM station.Take advantage of the Humane Waking System that begins with a low volume beep and gradually increases in intensity to slowly wake you instead of receiving a firm jolt that others provide.There is also a handy sleep timer that allows you to fall asleep listening to your favorite radio station from 15 minutes up to 2 hours.You can also connect your iPod or a CD player to the auxiliary input to enjoy your favorite soothing sounds CD or digital music collection to fall asleep.

Get 27% OFF

Click here for more information about Sangean RCR-22 AM/FM Atomic Clock Radio

Read More...

Panasonic RC-CD500 Dual-Alarm CD Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)For being such a small device, it really does give nice sound. In fact, I popped in some obscure CD that had a recording of birds twirping to test it out, and my cat came running in the room. It's lightweight and compact, so if fits nicely on the stand. The numbers are much easier to read than you would think, judging from the picture here. The screen gives you all sorts of information as to what you have programmed, so when you wake up at 3:00 in the morning, wondering if you have programmed your alarm so you don't miss your flight, it's very easy to see whether or not your alarm is on and how you will wake up. The tuner picked up a station 60 miles away, too. The only thing I wish it had is a graduwake feature. But that's about it. It's easy to use. I had it all set up in less than four minutes. The doze alarm lasts for six minutes, and it's easy to find due to the good design. No worries about hitting the wrong button and shutting off your alarm.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Panasonic RC-CD500 Dual-Alarm CD Clock Radio

With 20-preset memory (10 AM and 10 FM), the RC-CD500 dual-alarm CD clock radio gives great sound as well as keeping good time. A MASH 1-bit digital converter and XBS extra-bass augment this clock's dual alarms and Sure-Alarm battery backup system.

Click here for more information about Panasonic RC-CD500 Dual-Alarm CD Clock Radio

Read More...

RCA RP3721 Dual Alarm Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)In addition to the features listed in the product review, this radio also has a battery back up. The front panel is huge, angled, and hard (impossible) to set things on. The displayed numbers are smallish.Reception can be very sensative to how the power cord is routed. Despite the few disadvantages, I like this clock radio, especially the digital seek tuning with 10 presets. It appears that it has the capability for the two alarms to tune to different stations, but I didn't test it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: RCA RP3721 Dual Alarm Clock Radio

Here's a kinder, gentler alarm clock from RCA. The dual-alarm AM/FM clock radio has a suitcase full of features, from the Graduwake ramp-up alarm with two different settings to the time-hold capacitor that stores enough energy to keep your time and alarm settings intact during momentary power outages (or if you decide to move the clock to a different room).Other noteworthy features are the front-panel adjustment for a custom view, seek tuning, and push-button controls. Measuring a slight 5.5 by 8 by 5 inches, the unit won't take up much space on your nightstand.
A one-year limited warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship.

Click here for more information about RCA RP3721 Dual Alarm Clock Radio

Read More...

iMode Alarm Clock Radio iPod Docking Station (White) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)My daughter loves this clock radio. I don't like the fact that it does not charge her Ipod. Charging was a very important part of our decision to buy this product. The information in the ad stated that it was compatible with all IPODS. When we put the Ipod on the clock radio it says the it does not charge this Ipod! That was very frustrating. I called the manufacturer and they told me it doesn't charge the 5th generation Ipod!

Click Here to see more reviews about: iMode Alarm Clock Radio iPod Docking Station (White)

iMode IP220-WHITE features plug in iPod and playback music, PLL Digital AM/FM Tuner/Stereo Radio, iPod menu Navigation from the remote control, LCD alarm clock display, Alarm by iPod allows you to wake to iPod or Radio or Buzzer. Additional features include Sleep Control, electric volume, remote control for iPod and Aux in.

Get 42% OFF

Click here for more information about iMode Alarm Clock Radio iPod Docking Station (White)

Read More...

Sangean RCR-5 Digital AM/FM Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have nothing but praise for the Sangean RCR-5 clock radio. Specifically, here are the most noteworthy aspects of this truly amazing product:
Display
Here is where the RCR-5 truly shines, as it incorporates a backlit LCD with adjustable intensity: one may adjust the backlight to suit your needs, so you have a perfectly legible, yet not too bright display (at night) which can never be "washed out", even in direct sunlight. The display even has a clever feature whereby it will illuminate to full intensity when any of the buttons are pressed, after which it returns to the user's preset intensity after ten seconds. As you can see from the product photos, the display is of a soft, warm color, most conducive to a good sleeping environment; other clock radios using bright blue or green illumination, IMHO, should be avoided if you want to get any sleep.
Auxiliary Input
Very useful for listening to my podcasts at night; when an external source is attached, the Band button will cycle through AM/FM/AU; when none is attached, only AM/FM are available, thereby eliminating "clutter" for those who do not wish to enable this feature. (Note: I'm old-school, and prefer using this method over a "Dockable" iPod solution, as I prefer to completely run my iPod's battery source to zero before recharging...)
Flexibility in Programming
Only found on more expensive clock radios, this model will allow you to use the "Sleep" feature to listen to a particular station (or podcast with the Auxiliary feature) at night, and then to wake to radio on a different station. In addition, all alarms allow Daily, Mon-Fri, or Single, with the Audible Alarm using a gentle "ramp-up" feature.
Reception and Speaker Quality
The radio's receiver portion of this product is very good, rivaled by only my Sony short wave receiver (a great radio, by the way!); what looks like a 3-inch speaker provides a very warm, intelligible output, very suitable for the spoken word, adequate for music. If you need a strong system for powerful music, I would suggest purchasing an additional desktop speaker setup (such as for a computer) which can be attached to the headphone output by means of a standard mini-jack connection.
Finally, a no-nonsense Sleep function
Sangean has cleverly incorporated the Sleep function into the Power button (which is gently illuminated when the radio's off); to turn the radio on or off, press the button. To use the Sleep feature, press and hold the same button to select up to 120 minutes. Simple, effective, "it just works".
Final Recommendation
Well, what more can I say? This product works for me (and I'm purchasing three more for gifts) and has a lot going for it, including high value (very reasonably priced!). Is there anything that you should be aware of? Yes:
> As described in the previous customer's entry, setting the alarm may require a few extra key-strokes, as this product offers many options when it comes to waking by either the alarm or the radio; if you do not need all of these features, you may wish to consider something of simpler means. That being said, it took me only about 22 seconds to set the alarm; for me, it was relatively intuitive and logical.
> The built-in battery back up feature only works for about ten minutes worth of backup, according to the manual; in my neck of the woods, this is not a big issue, but should be noted if you experience many nighttime blackouts where you are located.
> Even though this model is referred to as an "RCR-5", it should be noted that it does not employ an automatic time synchronization feature as is found on Sangean's higher end clock radios. (Not a big issue for me, and may actually be desirable for those of us who prefer to set our clocks 5, 10, or 15 minutes fast to "keep us on time"!)
I hope this helps you in making the right decision! All the best!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sangean RCR-5 Digital AM/FM Clock Radio

Sangean's latest digital RCR-5 AM/FM clock radio is as attractive as it is unique offering features and performance generally found in the most expensive clock radios. Dual Alarm Timers for both "Waking Up to Radio" and/or "Waking up to HWS Buzzer" at different times for week days, weekends, daily or just once. Has both "Sleep" and "Nap" and "Snooze" timers if you need a little extra sleep. "Aux" input allows listening to your CD or any audio device through the RCR-5 radio.

Get 18% OFF

Click here for more information about Sangean RCR-5 Digital AM/FM Clock Radio

Read More...

Sony ICF-C153V Large Display Clock Radio with FM/AM/TV/Weather Band Reception Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Overall, we're happy with our purchase with one complaint. I wanted a clock radio with a weatherband, but it has nowhere that I can find to put batteries so it's worthless in event of power outage (which usually happens during a storm when I need the weatherband the most!).
We use it in the bathroom for a clock and to listen to the radio in the morning, so I can't comment on the alarm features. It's a little dim at night, but that might be desirable if it's by your bed.
I do like the daylight savings time feature and the preset buttons. It's also a very attractive clock and radio reception has been very good (with occasional adjustments to the antenna).

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony ICF-C153V Large Display Clock Radio with FM/AM/TV/Weather Band Reception

Sony ICFC153V Add Sony Style to you bedroom with the ICF-C153V AM/FM/TV/Weather/Band Large Display Clock Radio featuring a Digital Synthesized Tuner. This clock radio rises above the rest with its sleek exterior and vast array of special functions. Features include a Space-Conscious Cube Design, a Digital AM/FM/TV Band/Weather Band Synthesized Tuner Radio, and a Stand-By Weather Alert Mode that can be activated to provide an alert signal when a special weather condition is to be broadcast. Now thats cool Additional features include a Large Green LCD Display, 3-Level Brightness Control, 25 Random Memory Presets, a Dual Alarm permitting two separate wake-up time settings, the Snoozinator Extendable Snooze, and a Nap Timer. Rise and shine with Sony!

Click here for more information about Sony ICF-C153V Large Display Clock Radio with FM/AM/TV/Weather Band Reception

Read More...

Philips AJL303 3.5-Inch LCD Clock Radio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is an item I really wanted to like. It looks great on my desk and the photo images come out looking decent. It's not high def, but the screen is not huge so it is not a deficit per se, The list of functions is impressive (photo display, mp3 player, digital radio and it even functions as a clock :-). However, to get the full benefit you have to know your way around the unit's menu system and you must also know how to put music and photos on to the SC card in order to display you own photos and play your own music. Since there is no USB port, you must do this in a separate card reader/writer. Now, you may have all of this already, but I think it would have been much better to have a USB port for this clock so you could just hook it up to your computer and download what you need. Because of this, in practice, I suspect most people will put some items on this clock once, and then not revisit it.
The radio is very, very good. Surprisingly, it picks up stations at my home that other radios can't. I was surprised. The unit comes with an FM radio wire antenna, but I didn't have to extend it. It just worked. Controlling the radio requires using little buttons on the side of the unit. This is not a big deal, but you are likely to get fingerprints on the front screen since the unit is light weight and you have to hold it or pick it up to push the buttons. Since the front is an attractive mirrored finish, prints show up easily.
So, if you are not baffled by buttons and menus, and you are slightly technically handy in manipulating SD cards, this unit is great. Looks good, sounds OK and has a lot of features. The FM radio is super sensitive and has auto station seek. You'll like it. If you need your clock radio/picture frame to be brain dead simple, you should look elsewhere. Since my personal intellect is time of day dependent, perhaps a further summary is to say this makes a better desk clock than a bedside alarm clock for that reason.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Philips AJL303 3.5-Inch LCD Clock Radio

Philips compact LED clock radio with 3.5" LCD display lets you view photos and listen to music from built-in FM radio, or from an SD card. Also includes preloaded relaxation music to help you fall asleep peacefully, and gentle wake with increasing alarm volume.

Get 13% OFF

Click here for more information about Philips AJL303 3.5-Inch LCD Clock Radio

Read More...