Quick verdict
The DT-160CL is a clear-cased digital pocket radio with presets, a clock and excellent battery life. It is one of the best choices if you need see-through electronics.
The Sangean DT-160CL is the clear-cased version of the DT-160 pocket radio. It was made for settings that require transparent electronics, such as correctional facilities, but it works just as well for walkers and commuters who want a small radio that runs for a long time on regular batteries.
What you get
You get AM and FM stereo with a DSP tuner and 15 presets (10 FM and 5 AM). The LCD shows the frequency, a clock, a signal strength indicator and a battery indicator. Other features include Dynamic Bass Boost, a stereo/mono switch, an adjustable tuning step, a lock switch and a 90 minute auto shutoff. It runs on two AA batteries, and Sangean rates the DT-160 series at about 100 hours. Clear earbuds are included, and the earbud cord works as the FM antenna.
What I like
Battery life is the headline. A long-running radio blog ran a DT-160CL for more than 116 hours on one set of alkaline AAs, which matches owner reports that this radio goes for weeks between battery changes. The presets save a lot of thumbing through the band, and the stereo/mono switch helps clean up weaker FM stations. Sangean’s build quality has a good reputation, and the case feels sturdy.
Things to know
This is an earbud radio. Plan on listening through headphones, and remember the FM antenna is the earbud cord, so FM reception depends on having them plugged in. The clear case looks a little cloudy rather than glass clear. If you do not need a clear case, the standard DT-160 offers the same features.
Bottom line
Buy the DT-160CL if you need a clear radio or just want a pocket radio that sips batteries. For a simpler analog clear option, see the Sangean SR-32CL.
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