Measuring nine inches across and almost ten inches high, the Panasonic RF-877 emerged from its box looking rather small. Something about its military bearing that suggested a larger size, but no matter, its looks did not disappoint. Evoking a past era when materials were of a higher grade and the distinction between phoniness and authenticity was sharply drawn, the sturdy RF-877 proved to be an apex performer.
Disclosed flaw was a missing antenna tip, which kept the bidding low. I bought the RF-877 for a parsimonious $62 plus $18 shipping. The question is does the missing tip compromise FM performance? A little, maybe. FM performance on weak stations such as 89.3, 88.9, 103.1 seemed only slightly compromised based on the tuning/battery indicator. The compromise is so negligible however that I do not feel compelled to replace or repair the telescopic FM antenna.
AM sound, enhanced with the Gyro pop-up antenna, is the real standout here. The notorious 710 ESPN comes in with nor birdy background noise.
The speaker is clear and full, but does not offer as much sound as the RF-888. In terms of pure volume, the RF-888 appears to be three times stronger than the RF-877. Comparing the two, I find the heavier, more stout 888 to be a superior radio. I really like the RF-877, but I truly love the RF-888. Of course, the RF-888 cost me a handsome $210. While I prefer the RF-888, I give the RF-877, especially one with a fully-extending FM antenna, the highest recommendation.
Update: My esteem for the RF-877 has increased as I've become more familiar with it. As I write, the speaker sound is really filling my office rather well. I must say I was guilty of exaggerating the disparity of sound between the RF-877 and the RF-888. I'm listening to the pennant match between the Rays and the Red Sox on the dreaded "birdy" station 710 AM. I popped up the Gyro AM antenna (6.5 inches long) and moved it until the birdy was completely gone. If you can find one of these "GI Joe" radios in mint condition for $150 or so, snatch it.
Very cool. It has a definite "G.I. Joe" look about it.
Posted by: Ed | October 16, 2008 at 06:50 PM
In fact, GI Joe had a "field radio" toy perhaps modeled after the RF-877.
Posted by: jeffrey McMahon | October 16, 2008 at 07:43 PM
That's it! I thought there was a toy field radio that looks like this. I guess I'm still looking for one that looks like an IDEAL Electronic Fighter Jet... the best toy ever.
Posted by: Ed | October 16, 2008 at 07:45 PM
http://boomervilleusa.blogspot.com/2008/07/ideal-electronic-fighter-jet.html
Posted by: Ed | October 16, 2008 at 07:47 PM
That blog reminds me of a childhood show, Fireball X15, a British puppet show or I should say marionettes. A lot of Fireball X15 is available on You Tube.
Jeff on my wife's computer.
Posted by: Carrie | October 16, 2008 at 08:00 PM
I found an RF-888 today at a garage sale, for $3.00! You better believe I snapped it up. The thing is grimy, but everything works. I'll have to purchase a new can of DeoxIt for the controls and switches, but even the timer works.
The only thing missing from the radio is the shoulder strap. For $3.00, I don't mind. It has the power cord and earphone. The battery compartment is clean, though the foam on the inside of the battery cover has deteriorated.
You weren't kidding about the great reception and awesome AM sound of the 888.
It was quite clear that the owner didn't realize what he had, as he had a broken table lamp marked for more than the 888.
Posted by: Brian (Scooby214) | October 18, 2008 at 12:12 PM
Brian, you hit gold. I'm happy for you. Three dollars is insane.
Posted by: jeffrey McMahon | October 18, 2008 at 12:42 PM
Holy cow! That's awesome.
Posted by: Ed | October 18, 2008 at 12:48 PM
I think my next radio purchase may be an RF-877. I will probably pay a bit for it, as I want to get one in good condition. That radio has the greatest look, especially with the gyro AM antenna. I like its look better than the coveted RF-2200.
Posted by: Brian (Scooby214) | October 18, 2008 at 02:55 PM
One is selling now on eBay. Current bid for the 877 in mint condition is $120 with about a day to go.
Posted by: jeffrey McMahon | October 18, 2008 at 03:08 PM
I'm watching the 877 now. With nine bids on it now, I expect it to go much higher than the current $120.
Posted by: Brian (Scooby214) | October 18, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Probably go for $160-200? Sheesh. I'm wondering if I should put a new FM antenna on mine. It might be worth $20.
Posted by: jeffrey McMahon | October 18, 2008 at 05:52 PM
I got one today for Xmas. The wife paid $150 and it is mint condition. Helped by the fact it came with its original cover. Even has the original headphone in the battery compartment and everything works. Great sound, finially radio while working outside..yes
Posted by: Nigel | December 24, 2019 at 02:37 PM
Copy of old Handic ML http://www.radiohistoria.fi/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?action=downloadfile&file=Handic%5Fml%2Ejpg
Posted by: John | April 03, 2021 at 02:39 PM