Radio Russ Compares the Sangean WR-1 and WR-2

Addressing my Sangean WR-2 update, Radio Russ writes:

I had both the Sangean WR-1 and the WR-2. The WR-1 was too boomy with no tone controls but it had a great analog tuner which performed well on AM and FM. I plugged the bass port on the back with a wad of removable foam which cut down on the bass noticeably. The WR-2 had tone controls but it just never sounded as good as the WR-1. I was also disappointed with its AM section and found it unusable without a Select Antenna sitting on top. I sold my WR-2 because I was so unimpressed with it. I still have the WR-1 and I'm very curious about the new Sangean WR-11 to see what changes they made to it. 

Comments

[Tim]

I bought a Sangean WR 1 and was very pleased with it. Yet, I could see how people complained about its "boominess." When the WR 11 came out as a replacement, I bought one, intending to replace my WR 1 with it.

The WR 11 is less boomy and a bit brighter. But in the end, I preferred the WR 1, so I actually sold my WR 11!

The lower end of the WR 1 is naturally effected by the immediate environment. I suppose in a kitchen or bathroom, and in solid settings in general, the bass could become annoying. I have it, however, on a shelf in my study where it sounds full and well-rounded. Yes, tone controls would have been tremendously helpful. But in the end, I'm quite pleased with the WR 1, and I think it offers a rich sound and decent reception, moreso than most other tabletop radios in production.