First Look--the Panasonic RF-2600 AM/FM/SW Radio

As explained on DXing, the RF-2600 was on the market between 1979-1981 and cost a whopping $200-250, which is about $500 in today's money. Big and sturdy like Samsonite suitcase, the RF-2600 usually costs about $150 on eBay after a sweaty, stressful bidding war.

Ed let me borrow both his RF-2200, a legend that commands about $225 on eBay, and the lesser esteemed RF-2600. Having tested them both, I prefer the RF-2600. First, it's a bit newer. It's heavier and feels sturdier. It has digital read-out. It takes 6 "D" batteries, which should keep it powered for a long time. It has a bigger speaker, about the size of my cherished RF-888. Last but not least, its reception, for me anyway, was as strong as the legendary 2200. AM was outstanding. No background noise, even on weaker stations. FM was loud and clear, even on the weakest FM station, 88.9.

If you don't feel like getting a cheap plastic $99 Eton/Grundig S350DL (Ed and I disagree about the Eton and Grundig. I say they're clones. He says the Grundig version is better. I still think I'm right.), then fork out an extra $50 and get yourself a mint condition RF-2600. 

Comments

[Mike W]

Jeff, I just finished setting all the clocks I had let go since we changed times a while back and am waiting for the rage to subside and my blood pressure to come back down. Let's just say it's a pet hatred of mine.

The Eton E10, the Sat 800, the Sony ICF-SW7600GR, my answering machine, etc., all have non-defeatable time displays.

As I walked past my RF-2200, I was reminded of another reason to like the vintage sets - never having to set the bloody time on them.

The RF-2600 looks nice. I think I'd love the speaker but miss the gyro antenna.

[jeffrey McMahon]

I like the gyro on my RF-1130, but the AM is so strong on the 2600 I wouldn't miss it much.

I too hate changing the time. The Kitchen is 5 different devices. The bathroom is 2 radios. I'd say about 15 total time changes if I add my car. Sheesh.

[Paul]

Jeff,

This is probably worth picking up if it's in good shape:

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/wst/ele/911486216.html

[jeffrey McMahon]

that's a nice looking radio, but I'm on buying hiatus for now. My next radio might be a Redsun 3100 and that's a few months away, at least.

[Paul]

From what I've read and heard the Redsun RP3100 development is on hiatus too ...

[jeffrey McMahon]

Oh well, I don't need a radio. I despair now that I don't use my attractive vintages.

[Wals]

That's a handsome looking radio. My old "Radio West" Catalog was listing them for $209 in 1984.
The top of the line Pana'portable RF6300, was going for $549.

[jeffrey McMahon]

I'd like to see a photo of the RF-6300.

[Wals]

It's not that cool (as the 2600) looking Jeff. Appears like a light gray from the photos. But it was twice the price as the 2600 in '84.
http://www.dxing.com/rx/rf6300.htm

[jeffrey McMahon]

Thanks. I found that link last night. I like the 2600 and the 9000.

[tom blakley]

I have an RF-2600,and I want to know if there is anything I can do myself to make it work better.Like cleaning switches,ect.Is there a web site I can go to to find more info?

[ed]

I have a 2600 also, Tom, and I think it is just normally a poor performer on SW. The back cover unscrews but you have access to only a few controls that can be sprayed.

[Chuck E]

I've heard that the RF-2600 is a clone of the GE 7-2990. The GE version has a nylon gear that, once it breaks (inevitable) renders tuning impossible. Does the RF-2600 use this same tuning mechanism and faulty gear?

[Jeffrey McMahon]

I've heard the RF-2600 does NOT have the defect of the GE version.

[Chuck E]

Thank you! This info greatly enhances my desire for a 2600. I have two surviving GE 2990s from the three I've collected. One has had the gear repaired by expert Andy Vavra, and one is still working with the original gear. My 2990s are great on MW and SW.