Angelo's Review of the Ross Commando Radio

Just received:  The Model 2920 Ross Commando

This is a rugged multi-band radio (AM, SW, FM, PB1, Air/PB2/Weather, UHF).

Many earlier Ross radios were made in Japan.  This one was made in Hong Kong, indicating that it might be from the 1970's.  There is a very unusual and at the same time very functional rotating toggle lever that controls volume and tone.  By moving the lever around like a joystick, you can find the sweet spot for loudness and treble/bass.  It will take some getting used to, but I already like it. 

The handle is a metal tube.  There are dual antennas too---something Ross equipped many of their radios with---even their lower priced models.  The tuning dial looks like a radar screen.  There is a pleasing patina on the radio and for the life of me, I can't figure out if it's oxidation and use, or if Ross designed the radio to have the appearance of an old, used, military set.  It's probably a comination of design and age.

Preliminary performance comments:  Loud and clear, with reasonable reception for being in a high rise office building under oodles of fluroescent lights.  I can't wait to bring it home tonight for a closer inspection.

Ross is one of the underrated and underapprciated brands I heartily recommend.  Along with Lloyds and Arvin, many of their radios are ignored by collectors.  It's a pity, because they made some seriously good electronics.  Problem is, they made some toys too, which is probably why people are more comfortable with Sony and Panasonic.  But for the relatively small gamble, I suggest that radio enthusiasts give consideration to these lesser known brands.

Comments

[Angelo]

Quick update: This thing is a shortwave beast. I'm able to get as many stations on the shortwave band as on my "better" sets, including a Trans-Oceanic 7000.
I'd have to compare more closely to see if it's as good as my Sony 5800 or Grundig Ocean Boy. I sure wish I could pick up SSB. I can hear distorted voices, very loud and clear---but can't understand them.