Supersonic SC-1082 9-Band Portable Radio

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81%
19%
90%
Reception & Signal Quality
88%
Battery Life
65%
Build Quality
85%
Ease of Use
91%
Portability & Design
80%
Flashlight Functionality
78%
Sound Quality
83%
MP3 Playback
89%
Power Options (AC/DC)
82%
Value for Money
74%
Customer Support & Warranty
70%
Durability Over Time
More

Overview

The Supersonic SC-1082 9-Band Portable Radio is a versatile and compact device designed for both entertainment and emergency situations. This portable radio offers AM, FM, and shortwave (SW) bands, making it an ideal choice for those who need a wide range of listening options. With a rechargeable battery and a 360° antenna, it’s perfect for outdoor use. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or preparing for an emergency, this 9-band radio ensures you have access to essential broadcasts and a reliable light source when needed.

Features & Benefits

This portable radio stands out with its high sensitivity receiver, providing clear reception even in remote locations. The inclusion of USB and SD card slots enhances its functionality, allowing you to play MP3 files and charge devices on the go. Its built-in flashlight offers 8–10 hours of illumination, adding safety during outdoor activities or emergencies. With both AC and DC power options, you can enjoy uninterrupted service, whether you’re at home or off the grid, making it a reliable companion for various environments.

Best For

The Supersonic SC-1082 is well-suited for a variety of users. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate its portability and ability to provide entertainment and essential updates while camping or hiking. It’s also a great option for survivalists and emergency preparedness kits due to its flashlight and rechargeable battery. Additionally, travelers and campers seeking a compact, multifunctional device will find it to be a convenient solution for both radio and music playback. Its versatility and durability make it a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable portable radio.

User Feedback

User reviews for this portable radio highlight its strong reception and clear audio quality, especially in remote areas. Many appreciate the long battery life, which is particularly useful for extended outdoor trips. The flashlight feature is also a favorite, as it provides reliable illumination when camping or during emergencies. However, some users have noted that the build quality could be improved for the price. Despite this, most agree that the radio’s overall value and performance make it a worthy addition to any outdoor gear collection.

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Pros

  • The 9-band radio offers flexibility with AM, FM, and shortwave bands, ideal for varied listening needs.
  • MP3 playback via USB and SD card adds versatility for entertainment during outdoor activities.
  • Built-in flashlight with 8-10 hours of use makes it a practical tool for emergencies and camping trips.
  • Rechargeable battery ensures convenience for off-grid use without needing disposable batteries.
  • Compact design and 360° antenna make it easy to carry and optimize reception in different environments.
  • Dual AC/DC power options allow this device to be used both indoors and outdoors, enhancing flexibility.

Cons

  • The build quality could be improved, with some users noting that the plastic body feels a bit fragile.
  • Sound quality at higher volumes is not as clear as some users would expect from a portable radio.
  • Although compact, it may not be durable enough for heavy-duty outdoor conditions over the long term.
  • The controls, while simple, can feel a bit basic and less responsive compared to higher-end models.
  • Some users report that the reception could be better in more remote areas, particularly for shortwave bands.
  • Not all users find the USB/SD card playback feature as seamless as expected, with occasional connectivity issues.

Ratings

After analyzing a broad range of verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, the scores for this 9-band portable radio reflect both its strengths and areas for improvement. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure only genuine, high-quality feedback informed the results. The reviews highlight a generally positive user experience, particularly with its reception and battery life, while some concerns about build quality remain.

Reception & Signal Quality
90%
Many users praise the strong reception, especially in remote or rural areas where signal strength can be an issue. This device picks up both AM and FM stations with ease, providing a reliable listening experience wherever you go. Shortwave bands add to the versatility, making it a great choice for diverse radio needs.
While the reception is generally solid, a few users noted that performance could vary depending on location. In some cases, certain shortwave stations were harder to tune in, particularly when surrounded by interference from other electronics or natural obstacles.
Battery Life
88%
Reviewers appreciate the long-lasting battery, especially for outdoor activities. With up to 10 hours of use from a single charge, this radio proves to be reliable during camping trips or emergencies. The rechargeable battery is an environmentally friendly feature, reducing the need for constant replacements.
A small number of users felt that the battery life did not meet their expectations for extended use. While it works well for short trips, some hoped for a longer-lasting performance during all-day outdoor excursions, especially when the flashlight is also in use.
Build Quality
65%
35%
The compact design makes this radio easy to handle, and many appreciate its straightforward controls. It feels sturdy for the most part, with a decent build for its price point. The antenna’s full 360° rotation adds to the overall usability, ensuring it can be adjusted to catch the best signal.
Several users reported concerns about the build quality, particularly the plastic housing. Some mentioned that while the device is functional, it feels less durable than they expected, especially in rugged environments or when dropped. This has led to a few complaints about longevity and wear over time.
Ease of Use
85%
Many users appreciate the simplicity of the controls, making it easy to operate, even for those unfamiliar with portable radios. The intuitive design allows quick access to different bands and playback options, making it a solid choice for both novices and seasoned radio listeners.
A few users have mentioned that the buttons could be more responsive, particularly when adjusting the volume or tuning to a station. While most found it easy to use, some thought the interface could be improved with a more tactile feedback for a smoother experience.
Portability & Design
91%
Its compact design and lightweight nature make this radio incredibly portable, ideal for taking on camping trips, beach outings, or road trips. The easy-to-carry size fits into small bags or backpacks, while the 360° antenna adds to its practical design for catching clear signals.
Despite its portability, a few users have pointed out that the device could be even smaller for easier travel. Some felt that the dimensions are just on the edge of being too bulky for lightweight backpacks, particularly when packing other gear for longer trips.
Flashlight Functionality
80%
20%
The built-in flashlight is a valuable addition, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency kits. It offers 8 to 10 hours of illumination, which users find handy during power outages or in dark environments. Many note that this feature significantly boosts the overall utility of the radio in emergency situations.
While the flashlight is functional, a few users felt that its brightness could be improved. Some expected a more powerful beam, especially in emergency situations where stronger light is needed for visibility during night-time activities or power failures.
Sound Quality
78%
22%
Most users find the sound quality satisfactory for a portable radio, with clear audio for both music and talk shows. The radio’s speakers are decent, especially considering the compact size of the device. It delivers acceptable sound quality for casual listening and typical radio use.
Some reviewers were disappointed by the sound quality, citing that it lacks depth and can be muffled at higher volumes. It’s sufficient for basic listening but falls short of expectations for those who seek richer or more dynamic sound experiences, especially when used outdoors.
MP3 Playback
83%
The MP3 playback feature is a nice bonus, allowing users to play their own music via USB or SD cards. This added flexibility is especially appreciated by travelers and campers who may want to listen to their favorite tunes when radio stations aren't available.
A few users mentioned that the MP3 functionality can sometimes be finicky, particularly when it comes to compatibility with different file formats or devices. Some also noted that the sound output from the MP3 playback was not as clear as expected, especially when compared to standard radio reception.
Power Options (AC/DC)
89%
The dual power options, AC and DC, offer excellent flexibility, making this device ideal for both home use and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re near an outlet or off-grid, the ability to switch between battery and plug-in power is a highly valued feature by users.
A couple of users reported that the switch between AC and DC modes could be smoother, as they occasionally faced difficulty in transitioning between the two power sources. Despite this, the overall functionality was not greatly affected for most users.
Value for Money
82%
18%
Users find this radio to be a great value considering its range of features—especially the multiple radio bands, MP3 capability, and flashlight. It offers a solid combination of reliability, portability, and versatility at a price that’s accessible for most buyers.
Some buyers felt that the build quality did not entirely match the price point, with a few expecting more robust materials. While functional, a minority of users believed the overall quality didn’t justify the cost, especially when compared to other similar products in the market.
Customer Support & Warranty
74%
26%
Some users have reported positive experiences with customer support, citing responsiveness and helpfulness when addressing minor issues. The warranty provides peace of mind, especially for those concerned about product longevity.
However, a few users found customer support lacking in some cases, reporting delayed responses or difficulty reaching the team for assistance. Some felt that warranty coverage could have been more comprehensive, particularly for issues related to long-term durability.
Durability Over Time
70%
30%
For casual or light use, this portable radio performs well, and users appreciate its functionality in various environments. Its design seems durable for everyday handling, and it handles basic outdoor conditions like camping trips without major issues.
Several reviews mention concerns about the device’s long-term durability. Some users reported that after several months of use, the radio started showing signs of wear, particularly with the antenna and buttons. For a product meant for outdoor use, a few wished it was more robust against extended exposure to elements.

Suitable for:

The Supersonic SC-1082 9-Band Portable Radio is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and travelers who need a reliable, portable radio with multiple band options. Its compact design, rechargeable battery, and built-in flashlight make it perfect for on-the-go use, especially in remote or off-grid locations. The MP3 playback via USB/SD card also offers additional entertainment during outdoor activities, making it versatile for different environments. This device is particularly well-suited for emergency preparedness kits due to its flashlight and long battery life, ensuring it’s ready in situations where traditional power sources may not be available.

Not suitable for:

This portable radio may not be the best choice for users seeking high-end sound quality or extreme durability. While it performs well for basic radio and MP3 playback, some users have found its audio output lacking in depth, especially at higher volumes. Additionally, the build quality has raised concerns, with a few reviewers mentioning that the plastic housing might not hold up well to rugged use over time. If you're looking for a radio that can withstand frequent drops or harsher conditions, or if sound quality is a top priority, this device might not meet your expectations.

Specifications

  • Radio Bands: Supports AM, FM, and shortwave (SW) bands for diverse radio listening options.
  • MP3 Playback: Allows music playback via USB and SD card slots, providing added functionality.
  • Flashlight: Built-in flashlight offers 8–10 hours of usage, ideal for outdoor or emergency situations.
  • Rechargeable Battery: Equipped with a rechargeable battery for convenience in off-grid or outdoor settings.
  • Power Options: Dual AC/DC power options provide flexibility for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • Antenna: 360° antenna enhances signal reception for improved audio quality on all bands.
  • Receiver Sensitivity: High sensitivity receiver ensures clear reception even in remote areas with weak signals.
  • Dimensions: Compact design with dimensions of 7 x 4 x 6 inches for easy portability.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.74 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry on outdoor adventures.
  • USB Charging Support: Supports USB charging, allowing the device to be charged with compatible power sources.
  • Build Material: Constructed with durable materials, though some users have noted room for improvement in build quality.
  • SD Card Slot: Equipped with an SD card slot for easy music playback and file storage.
  • Manual: Comes with an included manual for easy setup and operation without requiring assembly.
  • Color: Available in black for a sleek and practical design.
  • User Controls: Simple and intuitive controls make tuning and operation user-friendly.
  • Charging Time: Charging time varies based on power source but typically offers efficient recharging.
  • Flashlight Features: Flashlight provides bright illumination for camping, emergencies, and nighttime use.
  • Sound Quality: Offers good audio quality for its size, though some users report limited bass at higher volumes.

FAQ

The Supersonic SC-1082 offers 9 radio bands, including AM, FM, and shortwave (SW), with MP3 playback via USB/SD card. It also features a built-in flashlight, rechargeable battery, and dual AC/DC power options, making it versatile for outdoor use and emergencies.

You can charge this portable radio using the included AC power cord, or via DC power for off-grid use. The built-in rechargeable battery ensures you have power even when you're away from electrical outlets.

Yes, the Supersonic SC-1082 allows you to play MP3 files through USB or SD card slots while still tuning in to any of its radio bands. It's a great way to enjoy both your favorite tunes and live radio broadcasts.

This portable radio uses a rechargeable battery that provides up to 8–10 hours of flashlight use and long-lasting radio listening. The exact battery life may vary depending on the power source and usage conditions.

The device is designed for portability, with a compact and lightweight structure, making it suitable for outdoor activities like camping. However, some users have noted that the build quality could be better for more rugged outdoor conditions.

Yes, the built-in flashlight, long battery life, and multiple power options make this radio a solid choice for emergency preparedness kits. It's especially useful during power outages or when you're in remote areas without access to electricity.

The Supersonic SC-1082 features a high-sensitivity receiver, ensuring clear reception even in areas with limited signal. However, some users mention that the reception can be inconsistent for certain shortwave bands in very remote locations.

The Supersonic SC-1082 is designed with simple, easy-to-use controls that make tuning into your desired band and adjusting the volume straightforward. The compact design includes a 360° antenna for better reception, further simplifying use.

The Supersonic SC-1082 supports standard USB drives and SD cards for MP3 playback. While it works well with most USB/SD cards, users should ensure their media is properly formatted (e.g., FAT32) for optimal compatibility.

While the Supersonic SC-1082 offers excellent radio reception and battery life, some users have pointed out that the sound quality at higher volumes could be improved. Additionally, the build quality may not be as rugged as other radios meant for extreme outdoor conditions.