Herculodge Reader Finds Subpar Performance on Newer Versions of the Sony SRF-84 Pocket Radio

 

 

Joe Maffuccio writes:

I've had a couple Sony SRF-84 radios, the earlier models are very quiet and seem to be aligned but the later versions (86?) had alot of background noise. The radio is stellar on battery life, 60+ hrs. and is very small.

I then tried, and immediately resold on Ebay for profit, an SRF-M97. It was terrible.

I finally ordered a Sangean DT-180, supposed to get in today. I'm certain, from reviews here, that it will be much better than either Sony.

Overall, a small radio with no speaker or clock is a different animal than one with those features plus digital tuning and presets. The DT200/400 is still a little bulky for me (walking, falling asleep). That is why I like my old ICF-SX3R, it's super thin.

The only other thin radio, besides newer Sony radios, is the Grundig M400...POS.

Final Thoughts:

We look forward to Mr. Maffuccio's impressions of his newly acquired Sangean DT180. I have one and I can say it's worth every penny of its $38 price tag. 

 

Comments

[Bob C]

Late last year, I bought an SRF-84 from a Hong Kong-based seller on eBay and the radio performed as well as expected. Very good AM band reception and decent FM as well. In fact, it's selectivity is surprisingly good.

Although not my best radio, it's a solid performer that can go anywhere because of it's diminutive size. Given this, I purchased another from the same HK seller and it too is a good performer. All I can say is that I haven't had this issue. By the way, I paid a lot less than the prices quoted on the posts that I've read. Something like $40 or so, including shipping.

[Randy]

Very good performer given it's size and even compared to larger radios. Will even respond to a long wire, just get the end of the wire to touch the earphone plug. I've picked up shortwave with it doing that. Very good nulling! But you need to have SUPER fine thumb action when tuning or you'll miss a bunch of stations. Sloooooooow does it. Great take along radio with great sound especially on FM. Worth every penny.