A TIP TOP TRANNIE (Sony ICF 303B)

Member Name: jojopillo

Product:	Sony ICF 303B
Date:	27/10/09 (85 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: COMPACT, DURABLE, BATTERY LIFE, SOUND QUALITY

Disadvantages: NOT DIGITAL

I'd be lost without listening to my radio while I'm getting ready in the mornings. I've been through quite a few in my time but they always seem to lack that clarity or volume, but I suppose with compact radios of this type that is only to be expected... or is it?

Rescued from a charity shop looking forlorn and unloved on a bric-a-brac shelf, the simplicity and compact nature of this radio seemed perfect for my needs. So for a mere £2 I reckon I picked myself one heck of a bargain!

This Sony ICF-303 transistor radio is a very compact and easy to use radio. I know that nowadays it all seems to be about DAB but I like the good old fashioned feel about this radio. Obviously the only downside to this is that you are geographically restricted to what you can receive.

Measuring approximately 6" (w) x 3½" (h) x 1" (d) this AM/FM set's face is one half speaker and the other half tuning window with a big AM/FM switch. It has two controls on the right side; volume and tuning, a headphone socket on the left side and a retractable aerial on the top. The back features the battery compartment and a handy flip out hook (which I've never used but I'm sure it would be handy!) which would enable you to hang when necessary.

Powered by 2 x AA batteries this unit has proved to be very economic (I can't remember the last time I replaced the batteries - at a guess it must've been about 7 or 8 months ago!)

The reception is fantastic and it has a little red LED that tells you when it's tuned clearly. I use it without the need to extend the aerial as the tuning is crystal clear! The unit is very solid and durable and has taken quite a few knocks in its time. I often take it out with me to the beach or picnics and find it nice to have it on in the background.

The sound quality I can only describe as fabulous, considering it is a very small (about 3" diameter) mono speaker. Where you'd normally expect quite a tinny sound from such a small speaker, this, somehow, manages to produce a very full, deep sound; only distorting at the very top of its volume capabilities. I can only imagine this is because it's made by Sony that the quality is so good. I couldn't describe it in decibels or anything but the volume itself certainly packs a punch!

This little unit never fails to deliver, every time I switch it on it gives the same perfect performance. It's my friend; it's my company when all the world is quiet. It's my get up and go, and I don't know how I'd replace it if I ever had to (hope I've not jinxed myself there)

When it comes to electronics I suppose Sony are a name you can trust and this is one reason why I'd sing their praises. Full marks for a top notch product in every way!

Five solid-state stars for my little trannie! :o)

Summary: A GREAT SONY PRODUCT

Processing/Quality:
Reliability:
Ease of use:
Features:
Sound quality: