Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio

Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio — image 1
81%
19%
89%
Value for Money
91%
Portability & Design
75%
Sound Quality
65%
Build Quality
88%
Ease of Use
80%
Connectivity Options
84%
AM/FM Radio Reception
82%
Auxiliary Input Performance
92%
Size & Weight
60%
Long-Term Durability
95%
Setup & Installation
70%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio offers a simple yet functional way to enjoy music. This compact music system combines CD playback and AM/FM radio, making it a versatile option for casual listening. With an auxiliary input, you can easily connect external devices like smartphones or tablets to play your favorite tunes. The LED display ensures that you can easily track your current track, and its lightweight design makes it a breeze to move around, whether you're at home or on the go.

Features & Benefits

This portable CD boombox excels at offering multiple ways to enjoy music. It supports standard CDs for those with existing collections, while the AM/FM radio functionality provides additional entertainment. The aux input allows for seamless connection with smartphones or tablets, making it easy to play music from virtually any source. Its affordable price makes it an attractive option for those looking for basic, reliable audio equipment. Its small size and lightweight build make it easy to transport, adding an extra layer of convenience.

Best For

The Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio is perfect for casual music lovers who enjoy listening to CDs and radio. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a simple, portable audio solution, whether for use in the living room or while traveling. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers, it provides all the essential features without the frills, making it an excellent option for those who want a straightforward boombox for everyday use.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the ease of use and portability of this boombox, making it a convenient choice for daily use. Many enjoy the CD playback and radio features, noting that it performs well for its price. However, some have mentioned that the sound quality is decent but not exceptional, which is expected given its budget-friendly nature. A few users also raised concerns about the durability of the plastic build, suggesting it may not withstand heavy use over the long term.

#Boomboxes
#Portable Audio & Video
#Electronics

Pros

  • This portable CD boombox is lightweight and easy to move, making it perfect for travel or outdoor use.
  • The AM/FM radio functionality provides additional entertainment options for users who enjoy tuning in to local stations.
  • Its compact size makes it a space-saving choice for small rooms or on-the-go listening.
  • The aux input allows you to easily connect smartphones or tablets, offering versatility beyond just CDs and radio.
  • Users appreciate the affordable price for a basic but functional music player.
  • The LED display makes it easy to track your music or radio station while using the device.

Cons

  • Some users have found the sound quality to be underwhelming, especially for larger spaces or more critical listening.
  • There are reports of the build material not being very durable, with some noting that it may not withstand long-term use.
  • Lacks advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, which some buyers expect in modern audio devices.
  • The volume may not be loud enough for outdoor use in noisy environments or larger rooms.
  • A few buyers mentioned that the radio reception can be spotty, especially in areas with weak signals.
  • Not suitable for those who need high-end audio performance or more robust, premium build quality.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages worldwide, the ratings for the Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio reflect a balanced perspective. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were considered, filtering out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized content. Both the strengths and the pain points of this product have been carefully weighed in the scoring process, providing a thorough overview of its performance and value across diverse user experiences.

Value for Money
89%
Many users find this device a great bargain for the price, especially considering its decent performance in basic functions. The combination of CD, radio, and auxiliary input makes it a solid option for those on a budget, offering versatility without breaking the bank.
A few users feel that while the product is affordable, it lacks premium features. Some complain that the sound quality and build materials don’t justify the price for those looking for more advanced features or durability.
Portability & Design
91%
Reviewers appreciate the compact size and lightweight design, making this portable CD boombox easy to move around. It’s perfect for taking on the go, whether for a picnic or a small gathering, with its slim profile and simple, functional layout.
However, some users note that its lightweight build, while convenient, feels a bit flimsy. For those looking for a more robust, sturdier option, the plastic construction might not seem durable enough for long-term use.
Sound Quality
75%
25%
Several buyers mention that the sound quality is quite good for the price. It’s clear and functional for casual listening, providing an enjoyable experience for music and radio in small spaces.
On the downside, others feel the sound lacks depth or volume for larger rooms or outdoor use. While it’s acceptable for light listening, it may not meet expectations for audiophiles or those seeking a powerful, immersive sound.
Build Quality
65%
35%
Some users are satisfied with the overall design and find the unit easy to handle. The simplicity of the design makes it straightforward to use without complicated setups or fragile parts.
However, many note concerns about the long-term durability of the plastic build. The materials feel cheap, and there are reports of parts breaking or showing wear after moderate use, leading to lower confidence in its longevity.
Ease of Use
88%
Buyers frequently highlight the straightforward user interface, with easy-to-understand buttons and a clear LED display. Setting it up and switching between CD and radio functions is intuitive, making it ideal for non-technical users or those who want a hassle-free experience.
A few users, however, feel that the controls could be more responsive. The buttons sometimes require a firm press, which might be inconvenient for those with mobility issues or those expecting smoother touch-sensitive controls.
Connectivity Options
80%
20%
The auxiliary input is praised by users who want to connect their smartphones or tablets. This added functionality gives extra versatility to the device, especially for streaming music from other sources when CDs aren’t an option.
That said, some buyers express frustration with the lack of Bluetooth or other modern wireless connectivity options. While the auxiliary input is useful, it feels outdated compared to other similar products that offer wireless audio streaming.
AM/FM Radio Reception
84%
The AM/FM radio functionality works reliably for most users, providing clear reception in a variety of environments. It adds value for those who enjoy catching up on news or listening to live radio while on the go.
However, a few users mention that the radio reception can be spotty in certain areas, especially in rural or remote locations. The antenna may not always pick up signals clearly, which can be a drawback for some listeners.
Auxiliary Input Performance
82%
18%
Users appreciate that the auxiliary input allows them to easily connect external devices, such as smartphones or MP3 players, to enhance their listening experience. This adds flexibility and value for users who want to use the boombox with non-CD media.
While generally useful, some buyers mention that the auxiliary input feels less secure than other types of connections. There are occasional issues with the jack being loose or the connection intermittently cutting out, which can be frustrating during use.
Size & Weight
92%
The compact size and light weight make it a breeze to transport. Whether you're moving it from room to room or taking it on a trip, this boombox is easy to handle, and its portability is a major selling point for many users.
While lightweight, some users find that the smaller size limits the speaker’s volume and bass, making it less suitable for larger spaces. It's great for personal or small-scale use, but not ideal for filling a big room with sound.
Long-Term Durability
60%
40%
Some users are satisfied with the initial performance and ease of use, making this device a good choice for short-term casual listening needs. It’s ideal for users who don’t need a highly durable or premium product.
However, long-term durability is a significant concern. Many users report issues with the device breaking down after a few months of use, whether due to mechanical failures or degradation of the plastic housing, leading to lower satisfaction over time.
Setup & Installation
95%
Setting up the portable CD boombox is quick and easy. Most users find it takes just a few minutes to plug in and start using it, with no complicated installation or setup process required.
While the setup is simple, some users would have preferred more detailed instructions or troubleshooting tips included in the manual. A few felt the lack of guidance on advanced features or maintenance was a downside.
Customer Support
70%
30%
Some users report satisfactory experiences when dealing with customer support, especially when addressing initial setup questions or warranty claims. The response time is generally acceptable.
However, others have had negative experiences with slow response times or lack of helpful solutions. A few complaints highlight difficulties in reaching support or unsatisfactory resolutions to problems, which diminishes overall satisfaction.

Suitable for:

The Sylvania PRCD261 Portable CD Boombox with AM/FM Radio is ideal for casual listeners who prefer simplicity and portability in a music player. It’s a great fit for students or budget-conscious individuals who are looking for an affordable yet functional way to enjoy their CD collection or tune into their favorite radio stations. The compact design makes it perfect for people on the go, whether for a road trip, a picnic, or just moving between rooms. Those who don’t need high-end sound quality but want an easy-to-use, budget-friendly option will appreciate this device for daily use in small spaces or on the move.

Not suitable for:

This device may not be the best choice for audiophiles or those who demand high-quality sound performance. The audio output is decent for casual listening but lacks the depth or power needed for larger spaces or more critical listening. Additionally, its build quality has raised concerns about durability, meaning it might not withstand heavy use over the long term. People looking for advanced features such as Bluetooth or superior radio reception might also find this boombox limiting. It’s not ideal for those seeking a high-performance music system or a rugged, long-lasting portable player.

Specifications

  • Product Type: Portable CD boombox with AM/FM radio functionality.
  • Radio: Supports both AM and FM radio for a variety of listening options.
  • Connectivity: Includes an aux input for connecting external devices like smartphones or tablets.
  • CD Compatibility: Plays standard CDs, making it ideal for users with existing CD collections.
  • Display: Features an LED display to easily track your music and radio stations.
  • Power Source: Powered by an AC adaptor, which is included in the package.
  • Dimensions: Measures 9 x 5 x 10 inches, compact for easy portability.
  • Weight: Weighs 1 pound, making it lightweight and easy to move.
  • Audio Output: Equipped with stereo speakers for audio playback.
  • Color Options: Available in a vibrant purple color.
  • Auxiliary Input: Allows connection of external devices such as smartphones or tablets via a 3.5mm aux cable.
  • Build Material: Constructed from plastic materials with some concerns about long-term durability.
  • User Feedback: Generally positive reviews highlight its ease of use and portability.
  • Audio Quality: Sound quality is adequate for casual listening but may lack depth for audiophiles.
  • Radio Reception: Radio performance is generally good, but some users report occasional issues with weak reception in certain areas.
  • Brand: Manufactured by Sylvania, a brand known for budget-friendly audio products.
  • Warranty: Standard warranty coverage is provided, with specifics depending on retailer.

FAQ

To set up the Sylvania PRCD261, simply plug it into an AC power source using the included adaptor. Insert a standard CD into the CD slot to play music, or tune into AM/FM radio stations using the radio dial. The aux input allows you to connect external devices like a smartphone or tablet with an audio cable.

No, this boombox does not support Bluetooth or any wireless connections. It features an aux input for wired connections to external devices like smartphones or tablets.

The Sylvania PRCD261 is compatible with standard CDs only. It does not support MP3 or other digital formats on CD.

This boombox is designed to be very portable. Weighing just 1 pound and with compact dimensions (9 x 5 x 10 inches), it's easy to carry around, making it ideal for travel or outdoor use.

The boombox uses an AC adaptor (included) for power. It does not have a battery option, so it must be plugged into a wall outlet for use.

The sound quality is decent for casual listening, with stereo speakers that provide clear audio for a basic boombox. However, it may not be loud enough or have the depth desired for larger spaces or audiophiles.

The AM/FM radio reception is generally good, but some users have noted that it can be spotty in areas with weak signals. It works best in locations with strong reception, especially for FM stations.

Yes, you can connect your smartphone, tablet, or other devices using the aux input. Simply plug an aux cable into the input and enjoy music from your external device.

While the Sylvania PRCD261 is great for casual use, some users have expressed concerns about its long-term durability. The build quality may not hold up well under heavy use, especially with frequent transportation.

The Sylvania PRCD261 is available in a stylish purple color, adding a fun and vibrant look to its design. It's an attractive choice for those who want a colorful portable music system.