Though the C Crane CC 2E is among some of the best tabletop radio listees, you’ll probably find yourself taking off the tabletop to your next adventure more often than not. With great functionality to get crucial weather updates and access to ham band, this is one serious portable radio. If you like what you have read so far, check out our review of some of the best speakers around.
Why We Like It – C.Crane CC 2E Review
This C Crane CC 2E portable radio is essential for those heading into the elements and in need of reliable access to weather updates. With access to AM, FM, ham radio, and NOAA weather band, it has everything you need from a reliable radio.
- Access to FM, AM, ham radio, and NOAA weather band frequencies
- Amazing battery life
- Great, long-range reception
- Expensive
- No AC power
Performance
As far as portable radios go, this Crane Radio is a bit more serious than the somewhat comparable Panasonic RF-2400D. The two radios are good for outdoor use, but the CC radio has a 2-meter ham band and it’s easy to get the latest weather alert. Battery life is very long, with up to 250 hours of run time. The sound quality is nothing to write home about, but the key is the good FM reception. The twin coil ferrite external antenna provides long-range reception that you can rely on. The tuning knob is precise enough to easily navigate stations, and you can even preset five stations. If you like radios with fantastic sound quality and are easy to use, check out our Bose Wave Sountouch Music System IV review.
Design
The C Crane has a simple, no-frills design that you’d expect out of an FM portable radio. It’s battery-powered, which is convenient for portability and slims the design because there’s no power cord. The radio’s controls are straightforward and intuitive. There’s even a line input and line output if you want to use headphones or input from another source. That said, the Braven BRV-1 Bluetooth speaker also has minimalistic designs, yet rugged features.
Related: Also check out our Crosley Solo review.
Value
The C Crane Company has clearly put a lot of thought and work into building a great radio. It’s especially great if you’re into amateur radio and enjoys scanning frequencies. That being said, it’s hard to get around the steep price for a no-frills FM radio. At this price, you can get a top-of-the-line model radio like the Sangean WR-11 Wood Cabinet. And for much, much less, you can get the Soundance SDY019, which also doubles as a wireless speaker. It all depends on what you’re looking for, and this could be it if you’re willing to spend more.
C.Crane CC 2E Review Wrap Up
If you want a reliable radio for FM weather updates and access to ham radio, then the ultra-portable C Crane CC 2E is a one-of-a-kind option. The design won’t wow you, especially at its price, but its functionality will make any avid radio user happy.
