ETON 960 Classic AM/FM Shortwave Radio

ETON 960 Classic AM/FM Shortwave Radio Review

ETON 960 Classic AM/FM Shortwave Radio Feature

• 50th Anniversary model replicates the original 960's styling
• Solid wood cabinet with brass-accented knobs
• Auxiliary input allows connection to CD, TV, or VCR
• 2 3-inch side speakers and 1 4-inch front speaker
• 3-watt power output

The classic is back, but this time, it's even better. Rich sound, accurate tuning, and the ultimate in retro-cool; it's all built into this updated version of the legendary Grundig Model 960. Gather the family around and relive radio days gone by with this stunning replica of a classic. In addition to AM/FM tuning, the Model 960 also tunes on the shortwave band, so you can listen to broadcasts from around the world.

The Model 960 doesn't scrimp on sound or features. The analog tuner offers great accuracy, with a smooth operating tuning dial matched to an easy-to-read frequency indicator. Volume, bass, and treble thumbwheels are arrayed on the front of the cabinet. Three-inch side speakers on the left and right of the radio are paired with a four-inch, front-firing speaker to reinforce the radio's bass response. Total power is rated at three Watts. It all adds up to rich, room-filling sound.

While many replicas retain the look of the original, they often scrimp on materials and workmanship. Not so with the Model 960. The radio's cabinet is made of solid wood and the gold-tone, illuminated dial and knobs are accented with solid brass. In a bow to modern sensibilities, the Model 960 does feature a stereo line-in jack for connecting a CD player or other external device.

What's in the Box
Model 960 Radio, AC adapter, and owner's manual. The Grundig 960 Classic 50th Anniversary model blends a functional AM/FM shortwave radio with the quality design of Grundig's 1950s-era box radio. Replicating the original wood construction with brass accents, the 960 provides rich, warm sound through its three-speaker cabinet. Also included is a very contemporary external audio input, which supplies the option of connecting a TV, CD player, or VCR.

This solid retro unit has an attractive cloth-covered speaker and sturdy manual volume and tuning knobs. Tuning initially requires developing something of a feel; we found that it was easy to spin past our preferred frequency at first. But with a little practice, we began to feel quite expert, and we were soon tuning in very clear FM, medium-wave, and shortwave signals, both foreign and domestic. Since there are only a few controls, setup is easy, allowing plenty of time to sit back and listen.

Two 3-inch side speakers and one 4-inch front speaker with 3-watt power output produce a clean, crisp sound. Grundig's instruction book is designed to look like the original, but its text is thoroughly contemporary. As an attractive conversation piece or an opportunity to discover shortwave radio, the Grundig 960 Classic is a real turn-on. The unit comes with a one-year warranty on parts and labor. --David Greenberger

Pros:

• Great radio reception
• Classic styling
• Auxiliary input for CD, TV, and VCR
• Shortwave fun for the neophyte

Cons:

• Constructed of wood-based particle, not solid wood
• Precise tuning takes some practice