Sangean DT 210V -- A Review

If ever a pocket radio could be said to be beyond cutting-edge, it's the Sangean DT 210v. It weights a bit less than a cell phone and its size is comparable to an iPod. And like those devices, this represents the newest thing in communications. It's the device that serious radio fans have been clamoring for.

Let's talk about what makes this such a revolution in radio. First, it has a mono/stereo speaker, which is excellent on several levels. A weak FM station which might cause a lesser radio to noisily bounce back and forth between stereo and mono mode is, with this unit, forced to mono so that the signal sounds much clearer. If you decide you want to listen via a speaker, just leave the headphones plugged in. They'll serve as an FM and TV antenna, and won't keep you from listening via the speakers. (If you prefer, you can use the included antenna wire, plugged in, for a superior quality antenna).

Naturally, without selectivity, sensitivity is pointlessly. By selectivity, we mean a tuner's ability to pull in weak stations right next to stronger ones. Cheaper models fail this test miserably, but this is where this Sangean unit expertly shines. The Sangean will get nearly ever radio signal, even the small ones sandwiched in between more powerful signals.

After you tuned in your desired station, you'll want the experience to be enjoyable. And the DT 210v makes this a wonderful experience. It has a nicely balanced small speaker designed to maximize the richness of the human voice. Even when listening to weaker stations, voices will come through the static clearly.

sangean dt 210v

The best experience comes when you use either the included earbuds or, better yet, a good set of headphones. This produces a stellar hi-fi sound. The unit boasts a bass boost, which will help balance out even cheaper earpieces.

We should mention a couple of negatives with the unit. It has an interface, which relies on just one set up down-and-up keys. This means a third button must toggle between memory and tuning presets. This is somewhat stilted and will require a little practice before you're able to scan your presets without taking a quick look. Also, if you decide to use your headphone as an antenna, obviously you won't be able to listen to FM without having something plugged into the jack. But this is a trivial concern.

Bottom line: Is the Sangean DT 210V something you should plunk down your money for? The answer: If you're the type who notices a notable, difference in your portable radio,'s reception and that of your car radio, or if you know of a station that your friend can get but you can't--and you'd like --it's time to spend the $50 for this unit. The price at first might seem a bit steep, but the quality is definitely worth the price differential. For serious radio fans, it's a small investment to make.