The little speaker in my Sangean CL-100 is far more clear than the muffled dual speakers of my PR-D5, which got so bad they degraded to distortion, on both FM and AM, as I noted a week or so ago.
I should add that I bought my first PR-D5 in 2007 (I looked up my Amazon review); I had to exchange it for a new one when the power supply stopped working. So this PR-D5 is a replacement.
The AM on the CL-100 is well above average and I hear voices crystal clear with little background noise, so the PR-D5 doesn't have a huge advantage here.
The FM on the CL-100 is far more sensitive than the PR-D5's.
The CL-100 has a smaller footprint.
The CL-100 has better ergronomics. You can press the buttons without knocking it down. With the PR-D5, you need two hands because of its upright position.
My only complaint about the CL-100 is the volume fade every time you change the station and upon initial turning on of the radio. The volume takes a few seconds to restore to original position. I don't know why Sangean did this but it's not a deal killer by any means.
At present, the CL-100 is in the guest bathroom and it performs admirably. No buyer's regret.
It's a shame the PR-D5 has lost its appeal for me. I really like the new black model that come out a few weeks ago.
Jeff - Is your PR-D5 distorted on both AM and FM?
Posted by: Gary | January 26, 2012 at 03:21 PM
Gary, yes on FM as well. I remember I heard distortion on KPCC and KCRW when I complained about the distortion to my wife.
Posted by: Jeffrey McMahon | January 26, 2012 at 03:36 PM
Too bad, Jeff. I guess it could either be the speakers or the audio amp section. Maybe you should update your review on Amazon. How old is your PR-D5?
Posted by: Gary | January 26, 2012 at 03:45 PM
PR-D5 is about 2 years old. I should update that review.
Posted by: Jeffrey McMahon | January 26, 2012 at 04:34 PM
Oops, I just ordered a PR-D5 based on older reviews. Maybe I'll have better luck. Sorry about yours, Jeff.
Posted by: Keith B. | January 27, 2012 at 12:11 AM
I'll be curious to find out what you think of those speakers. MIne went from muddled to distorted.
Posted by: Jeffrey McMahon | January 27, 2012 at 06:18 AM
I recall some reviewers complained that the voice alert volume is too loud, and that it cannot be changed, as can the siren alert. Is this the case with recent production units?
Posted by: Gary | January 27, 2012 at 09:36 AM
My new PR-D5 arrived today. I agree, AM audio is a bit muffled or muted, better on strong stations than weaker ones; but reception is great, as good as anything I have. FM stereo audio is very good to my ears; surprising given the small speakers and how close together they are. FM reception is better than average, but not as good as my best portables. Build quality seems good except for the preset push-buttons; they feel flimsy. I won't be using them very much for fear of wearing them out.
It's an odd bird; not as robust-sounding as a good boombox or tabletop, but not exactly a portable, either. Still, I'm glad I have it; it fills a niche in my collection.
Posted by: Keith B. | January 28, 2012 at 12:39 AM