cassette players and walkman

Excellent sensitivity and selectivity (both front-end and IF) on the AM band--at least equal to and usually superior to the Sangean ATS-909 (digital AM/FM/SW/LW receiver). Analog tuning very easy despite the technology. Single alkaline AA cell estimated by Sony to last 140 hours on AM. No "soft" on-off switch, a plus to prevent accidental power-up. Battery compartment hatch is attached by hinges and snaps shut securely, so it won't just pop open if jostled nor get lost. Note: lack of speaker is also a plus; a speaker on a radio this small would be next to useless, as it is the case with the Radio Shack Optimus (cat. no. 12-610), another analog AM/FM pocket radio just slightly smaller than the SRF-59.

Over the years I have bought various "walkman type" radios from various manufacturers. This Sony is a fantastic radio. I have owned analog and digital tuners and find the sensitivity and selectivity of this radio to be on par, if not above, digital tuners. Don't let the low price and non-frills appearance fool you. The sound is top rate and the output is sufficient to drive the headphones with very little input from the volume control. Sure you don't get some features that one gets with digital receivers, but I listen to one station while exercising so channel surfing isn't an issue. I am very well pleased with this radio and for the money, you can't beat it.

This radio has the best AM reception of any portable that I've heard. Better than a Sony digital tuning portable radio, better than the various cassette/radios I've owned, better than an expensive Sangean portable that I tried. I also own a Grundig Yacht Boy and the AM reception is at least as good (using the reel antenna on the YB). It even has a local/dx switch, just like the Grundig. I should point out that I use this primarily at work, in a high-rise building in a city.

It's small enough to fit in shirt pocket and is very light. One NIMH AA rechargable battery will power this radio for over 40 hours (the length of a work week).

Though not in stereo, FM reception is also very good. This is an analog tuning radio, so it can take a little time to lock in some stations.

Currently I am on the third of these radios. I drop them a lot and after a 2-3 years of abuse, the antenna is dislodged, which ruins AM reception. This is my fault and I plan on being more careful with this latest one, maybe wrap it in foam or something to cushion it.

This is a great little radio that you should not overlook in favor of those with more features.