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CC Solar Observer AM/FM/Weather Windup Emergency Radio
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In Stock: Usually Ships
Within 1 Business Day.
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 You
may have noticed this new acronym popping up on some of our products.
RoHS stands for Restrictions on Hazardous Substances, and it's a
directive that could have a huge impact on the production and disposal
of consumer electronics. First adopted in Europe in 2006 (and later
adopted in California in 2007), RoHS restricts the use of six dangerous
substances in lots of common electronics. According to the official
RoHS compliance Web site (www.rohs.eu),
the RoHS symbol indicates that "new electrical and electronic
equipment put on the market does not contain any of the six banned
substances: lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, poly-brominated
biphenyls (PBB) or polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), in quantities
exceeding maximum concentration values."
While some military and medical equipment is exempt from RoHS compliance,
the electronics governed by the standard are among the most common
you’ll find in your home, from radios to MP3 players to cell phones
and (increasingly) computers. In practical terms, the standard protects
factory workers at the production level, sharply reducing their
exposure to hazardous substances. The standard also has a profound
impact on the disposal and recycling of electronics, in that disposed
substances will no longer have at least six of the most hazardous
chemicals formerly found in electronics, and recycled electronics
will not expose workers to toxics as they harvest components.
Read
The Official RoHS Directive
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$49.95
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Item #
COBS
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| The CC Solar Observer is a C. Crane-designed, wind-up emergency radio with AM/FM and Weather Band, and an LED flashlight built into the side of the radio. We made sure that the reception and audio is above the norm....more |
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60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee
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Lifetime Tech Support
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- CC Solar Observer
- Standard USB Cellphone Adapter
- Instruction Manual
- One Year Limited Warranty
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Peace in a time of crisis In a power outage it is critical to have a radio that has good reception and that you can depend on. There are also plenty of other emergencies the radio can be used for. The CC Solar Observer is a wind-up emergency radio with AM/FM and Weather bands, and a built-in 3-LED flashlight. It has about as many different power options as a radio can have: - The easiest way to use the Solar Observer is to put it in the sun with the solar panel up. After charging for 8 hours in full sun, the Observer can play for about 4-6 hours depending on volume. Please keep in mind the melting point of the plastic is about 194° F. It should not be charged in a hot car or any other unusually hot places. The plastic can melt under these circumstances.
- No sun? No problem. Crank the handle moderately for about 90 seconds to get approximately 12 minutes of radio play, or purchase the AC adapter to charge the battery pack. If you purchased the AC adapter it is best to cycle the battery by plugging the radio in, charging the battery overnight and then unplugging it. It is also a good idea to “cycle” the battery pack every 4 to 6 months if you are going to store the radio and use it only for emergencies. This keeps the rechargeable batteries conditioned to take a charge once you are ready to use the radio.
- Don't want to crank the radio? You can insert 3-AA alkaline batteries for power.
Listen to the Observer through its built-in 2-inch speaker or headphone jack for private stereo listening. The radio is tuned by a simple needle and dial, and the display is easy to read. The display light can be turned on or off or to flashlight by the same switch. Charges iPhone® and other phones with included standard USB port adapter and a full Observer battery or by cranking. This will allow for up to 40 minutes of talk time. Weight: 1 lb. Size: 7.25" W x 5.5" H x 2" D Below is a quick list of items that are important to have on hand in an emergency. - 5 gallons of water
- CC Solar Observer
- Flashlight(s) and extra batteries
- Canned goods and non-perishable snacks that can last at least 2 weeks
- An extra supply of needed medication(s)
- Pet food
- Games, books, cards, radio
- Emergency contact list with family and doctors
For a more complete list of items for your Emergency Supply Kit go to: calamitykit.com |
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On a full charge, the CC Solar Observer should play for over 15 hours.
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To achieve a full charge, the CC Solar Observer must be cranked at a moderate speed (about two revolutions per second) for about 80 minutes.
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Two revolutions per second will produce good results.
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Yes, but you if you plan on using the optional charging adapter for days to power the radio, we recommend unplugging the battery pack. Constantly charging the battery pack for more then 12 hours at a time will shorten its life.
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The rechargeable battery pack may not be plugged in completely. To check this, make sure the battery packs white connector is completely secured.
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The rechargeable battery pack may be depleted. Charging the unit for a few minutes should clear up the sound.
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The CC Solar Observer can charge an iPhone but the iPhone takes much more energy to run than older cell phones. After the iPhone battery is depleted, it requires a 5% charge before the phone is usable again. Using the CC Solar Observer, it takes about 35 minutes of crank time to charge up the iPhone to 5%. This gives you about 15 minutes if talk time before the battery is depleted again.
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If your radio is left on for an extended amount of time after the battery pack is fully depleted, and your radio will not turn on, then it will be necessary to unplug the battery pack (and remove AA batteries if installed) for 60 seconds to allow a reset of the microprocessor.
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The simple answer is exercising the batteries to condition for an optimal charge. To do this, charge the batteries to full and discharge them completely. Doing this procedure about three times or so will bring your batteries to optimal efficiency.
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No.
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No.
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No. Lithium batteries can damage the radio.
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| POWER SOURCE |
| | Batteries (optional): | 3 AA size | | Internal Battery Pack: | NiMH 2/3 AA 650 mAh | | Battery Pack Charging Jack: | Internal Battery Pack can be charged with optional AC Adapter 5V 100mA DC | | Winding Generator: | 250-500 mA DC | | POWER CONSUMPTION AT MODERATE VOLUME |
| | AM: | 38mA | | FM: | 45mA | | Weather: | 45mA | | Flashlight: | 15mA | | Display light: | 4mA | | FREQUENCY COVERAGE |
| | AM Band: | 520 - 1710 kHz | | FM Band: | 87.5 - 108 MHz | | Weather Band: | Ch. 1: 162.400 MHz
Ch. 2: 162.425 MHz
Ch. 3: 162.450 MHz
Ch. 4: 162.475 MHz
Ch. 5: 162.500 MHz
Ch. 6: 162.525 MHz
Ch. 7: 162.550 MHz | | AUDIO |
| | Speaker: | 2.5" | | Headphone Jack: | 1/8" (3.5mm) Will accept stereo or mono jacks. | | ANTENNA |
| | AM Band: | Built-in Ferrite Bar | | FM and Weather Band: | Telescopic whip antenna | | DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT |
| | Dimensions: | 7.25" W x 5.5" H x 2" D | | Weight: | 1 lb. | | Note: | Specifications are subject to change without notice. |
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When the Observer battery pack is fully charged, it can supply charge to an iPhone® up to about 17% in 45 minutes time. 17% is enough to talk for 40+ minutes or browse on the internet for 20+ minutes. After 45 minutes charging the iPhone®, the Observer battery pack is depleted.
****** The AC Adapter offers about 100mA to the observer battery pack. The iPhone® requires about 400mA to charge. If less than 400mA is supplied to the iPhone® then it will discontinue charging. If the battery pack for the Observer is fully charged and the AC adapter is plugged in, then the Observer will charge the iPhone® for about 75 minutes and give about 40% charge to the iPhone®.
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We currently have two different ways that you can review a product that you purchased from us.
We do look at all reviews/testimonials for content and only refuse those with profanity or inappropriate content. All
others usually get approval for posting (good and bad) within 48 hours. If you have a problem with any of our products please contact us
as we are able to resolve most issues.
| Alex H. |
5/12/2013 |
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Chesterfield, NJ
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| Bill H. |
5/5/2013 |
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Tuscaloosa, AL
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A great product! And the solar power really does work!
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| Terry C. |
4/2/2013 |
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Koosharem, UT
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Great radio! Works as advertised. Everything I wanted. And sound and reception is much better than expected. I live in a small town USA, far from the big cities in the Rocky Mountains. This little jewel picks up stations like an automobile radio or better. I was surprised at how many stations it picked up at the lake. And the weather station also was loud and clear. I had read all the reviews on all the popular brands and was leery about purchasing a emergency radio. Glad I decided on this one!
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| Brenda M. |
4/1/2013 |
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Seattle, WA
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| Terry Z. |
12/18/2012 |
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Grants Pass, OR
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Everything and more than I expected.
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| Ralph P. |
12/14/2012 |
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Leonidas, MI
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Sound is much better than expected for the price range of this radio and the flash light is very good.
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| Vernon P. |
12/5/2012 |
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Dufur, OR
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I have had only one, thank the lord, occasion to use this in and emergency situation and it worked flawlessly. Only one in the area with radio for two days of power loss... Thank you CCrane!!
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| Wayne P. |
12/4/2012 |
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Seguin, TX
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This is a great radio, everything I wanted. However, if you use separate rechargeable batteries(in the alkaline battery spots), the dynamo or solar panel cannot recharge them. I love the fact that it can recharge a cellphone and that function works well.
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| Elizabeth A. |
12/1/2012 |
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San Antonio, TX
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Love it so much I want 2 more for gifts!
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| Sandra R. N. |
11/21/2012 |
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Morgan, UT
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Like it but it needs a space to store the USB port; I'm afraid I'll lose it.
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| Cathy S. |
11/20/2012 |
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Appleton, WI
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Just received this and checked out all the features. I like it so much I am online ordering another one for my daughter. I always worry about the power going out and not being able to contact anyone. With the phone charger that is one less worry! Fantastic little gadget. Thanks C.Crane!
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| Sal G. |
11/18/2012 |
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Chesapeake, VA
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Item works as advertised.
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| Patrick M. |
11/2/2012 |
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Nashua, NH
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I ordered this Radio before Hurricane Sandy as I am in the process of building up a disaster readiness kit for my house. The next thing I knew, We were actually getting a Hurricane! I wanted something that could last for days on batteries but that was reliable. I had heard the C. Crane name many times on Coast to Coast a.m. radio show. This Radio came in yesterday and I am more than happy with it. It does everything they say that it will. I am going to order another one as a gift for my parents. The only regret I have is, that I did not pay attention when they told me that I had to buy the AC adapter seperately. I now have to order it, but that is no big deal as I will be ordering another radio anyway and then I will save on the shipping. I highly reccomend this lightweight, portable, multi powered radio.
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| Andreas A. |
10/31/2012 |
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Pensacola, FL
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Love It Very nice all the way around ...
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| Michael W. |
10/5/2012 |
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Hanford, CA
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| Kenneth W. |
9/28/2012 |
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Sun City Center, FL
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Not looking for the best receiver. Using it as an emergency radio. It is good to have 4 sources of power during a blackout. The weather radio isn't the strongest. But during a storm it is satisfactory. I live near Tampa, Florida and depend on NOAA during bad weather. All in all, the radio does what it is supposed to do for the low price paid.
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| Glen B. |
9/17/2012 |
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Bethlehem, PA
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This radio is totally fantastic!!! It will provide service in any condition and works as engineered and advertised. I am going to order more units for all family members.
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| Anna G. |
9/12/2012 |
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Melbourne, FL
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| Brian D. |
9/10/2012 |
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San Luis Obispo, CA
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The price I paid and the features of this radio put it at 5 stars. The only issue I have is with the solar "panel" (a small strip in the back): maybe if one is at the beach on a sunny day it works, but inside near a window, forget it.
I mainly use the hand-crank, and a good 30-60 seconds of cranking, with volume set reasonably low/medium, gives several minutes (5-10+) of listening, so it's a nice "in the kitchen" or portable, around-the-house, radio!
My kids love it for the light and they're just discovering radio, so it made a solid buy even better!
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| Albert H. |
9/6/2012 |
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Victoria, TX
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For the first time since I received the radio, yesterday, I just finished listening to a program on AM frequency. The sound is great. Easy to understand instructions and works just as it was said to work. It is a great gift item. I am thinking of buying one as a gift. The only problem I have found is the adaptor for charging my cell phone was not a part of the group of adaptors sent with it. That is not a problem that I consider a worry.
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| John W. |
9/5/2012 |
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Hemet, CA
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The Solar Observer has exceeded my expectations!!! Although we keep batteries in it, we have NEVER used them. Between the "solar & dynamo" hand crank options, re-charging is never a problem... (Note: Wish you guys would develop a "stereo" FM radio with the same features.) Your products are outstanding!
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| Jerry R. |
8/31/2012 |
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Pensacola, FL
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| Caroline W. |
8/26/2012 |
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Pahoa, HI
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| Karen L. |
7/22/2012 |
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Portland, OR
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| Steve K. |
7/4/2012 |
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Lake Zurich, IL
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Just received my CC Solar Observer, seems to be a nice little radio, passed all of the initial tests. Nearly had a chance to use the solar power feature as the electrical power is out all over our area. I would recommend the radio.
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| Spencer S. |
6/8/2012 |
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Cornelius, NC
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I find the CC Observer a great product. Just glad haven't had to use it for real. Just ordered my sixth one, they make great gifts. First Solar.
Thanks,
Spence
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| Margaret B. |
5/30/2012 |
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Naples, FL
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Super product! My son visited, saw the radio, liked it so I got him one for his birthday. He was thrilled. Two daughters will get them for their birthdays, too. Hurricane season is soon upon us. Radio and all it's features work perfectly. Gets lots of use and will be helpful, no doubt, for years to come.
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| Virgil T. |
5/25/2012 |
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Goodwin, SD
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| Don B. |
5/2/2012 |
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Victoria, BC
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I love this little radio. Other transistors that I have are unable to pick up the stations across the straight. This radio can pick up this stations way better. It is even far more superior than my Super Tuner that is in my truck.
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| Marge W. |
4/21/2012 |
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Lytle, TX
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Very nice, compact, handy features, good reception, economical on battery use, was glad to have the weather channels during the last tornado storm when all our power was out.
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| Samuel C. |
4/20/2012 |
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Indianapolis, IN
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THIS CC SOLAR OBSERVER IS AN EXCELLENT PRODUCT. I USE IT IN PLACE OF MY REGULAR RADIO BECAUSE OF THE WEATHER FEATURE. THE SOUND IS EXCELLENT. I HAVE NOT TRIED THE SOLAR FEATURE, BUT WILL VERY SOON. I WOULD HAVE NEVER KNOWN ABOUT IT IF NOT FOR GEORGE NOORY ON COASTTOCOASTAM.
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| Darius L. |
4/5/2012 |
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Fort Worth, TX
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Wonderful in every regard!
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| Ronald P. |
3/23/2012 |
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Bedford, OH
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Excellent! Works as advertise and has better clarity than any table top radio in my home and is easier to tune in due to the large dial.
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| Connie B. |
3/14/2012 |
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Huntington Beach, CA
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Great Sound - very happy with it and would buy again.
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| James F. |
3/1/2012 |
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Cullman, AL
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This radio worked perfectly for a few months. Then the crank handle broke off. I would not depend on this radio in an emergency. If you buy it get a good supply of batteries.
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| John D. |
1/27/2012 |
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Peoria, AZ
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The perfect little radio companion on my hobby bench! Powered up straight from the box with no problems. Will need to order another for my roadside emergency kit. Performed and looks as advertised.
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| Caroline S. |
1/25/2012 |
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Spanaway, WA
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Several years ago I ordered Freeplay Plus wind up radio. That radio has been dropped, left out in the weather, really abused but still is working great. That radio was a real blessing during the 5 day power outage we just had in Western Washington. I thought it was now time to add the CC Solar Observer to my emergency preparation, I ordered 2, one for us and one for my daughter. Thanks for all of the wonderful products you provide.
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| Susana C. |
1/24/2012 |
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Calgary, AB
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| Christopher C. |
12/28/2011 |
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Buffalo, NY
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A very compact radio that does it all. Solar, hand crank, or internal battery. This lil' radio delivers more than promised. It should be in very home emergency kit. Plus the price is right!!
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| Carol S. |
12/27/2011 |
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Sierra Madre, CA
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Ditto on the 5 stars. After several days without electric due to hurricane-strength winds here in SoCal, and the threat of major earthquake living on the San Andrea, it was about time to think seriously about my emergency equipment. This radio is one part of the package, and I couldn't be more pleased. While other radios fail to get any reception at the cabin, the Solar Observer succeeds on several bands! Really impressed. Plus, I love all the power options and the flashlight. For now, I plan to keep it in the car so I can use it anywhere, but I'll likely buy more radios to keep permanently at different locations, including the office. Thanks C. Crane Company!
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| Larry R. |
12/23/2011 |
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Brookfield, WI
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| Karen H. |
12/14/2011 |
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Independence, MO
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This radio is great! It's a gift for my husband but I had to play with it before I wrapped it. I was surprised to find the flashlight on the side - I guess I didn't read the description thoroughly. I am so glad I got this - if the power goes out, we still have a radio that works, AND not on batteries!
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| Thomas M. |
12/10/2011 |
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Tampa, FL
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Purchased this radio because of threats of hurricanes here in Florida. Nice little radio. Excellent reception. I Liked it so much that I purchased one for my brother and bought a CC Observer "orphan" for work.
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| Robert B. |
11/25/2011 |
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Wilson, NY
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I love this radio, I can listen to it day or night and not need to spend money on batteries.
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| Charles B. |
10/14/2011 |
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Auburn, WA
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Truly impressive reception. Perfect size for camping. I still haven't used batteries...A great buy, everyone should have one of these.
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| Paul H. |
10/1/2011 |
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Ann Arbor, MI
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Wonderful radio. Picks up many distant stations, and the solar/windup feature is great for camping or to bring on long trips. Very fun radio with excellent reception.
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| Bobbie H. |
9/23/2011 |
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Scottsdale, AZ
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Wonderfully powerful and light. I only use the solar and crank options. I even pulled in a station from San Diego. I am in Central Arizona. Much better reception than I expected. Very small and convenient.
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| William M. |
9/22/2011 |
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Central Point, OR
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By Golly this is a great radio! Where do I start? The size in mid-way between a shirt pocket radio and the full sized CCRadio. The LED emergency flashlight! Great slide rule dial lit up with LED lights. Three sources of power for this radio. Dynamo, AA batteries and integral solar panel. Reception is a plus on both the AM and FM bands. Truly amazing reception. The Weather band is great to have too. I bought this radio for camping and emergencies. It will go with me on many camping trips into the wilds of Oregon.
Great product C.Crane!
Regards
Bill Martin
Sam's Valley Oregon
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| Alyce T. |
9/22/2011 |
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Jamaica, NY
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So wonderful--just ordered another for my brother.
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| Ronald E A. |
9/13/2011 |
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Pine Valley, CA
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I live in the east county of san diego where am reception is very poor. it takes a really good radio to pull in KOGO ON AM 600. THE EMERGENCY RADIOS furnished by SDGE are practically useless. during the recent power outage the only radio that performed was my cc SW. the observer arrived today and i tested it. I am amazed on how well it performed. the Grundig red cross radio can't compete with it. this is the best i have tested. thanks for a superior performing emergency radio. it is just what i have been looking for!
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| Benjamin N. |
9/13/2011 |
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Hayward, CA
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Absolutely love this radio!!! Amazing reception and sound. Fast shipping.
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| Paul B. |
9/12/2011 |
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Lagrange, GA
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Far exceeded my expectations. I'm ordering another one today. Everybody should have one of these!
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| Kenneth N. |
9/11/2011 |
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Kingsville, TX
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| Patricia F. |
9/4/2011 |
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Afton, NY
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What a wonderful product and company.
The shipping was superior even during hurricane Irene, i got it in 3 days! My husband loves his gift and to whomever's job it is to wind these before they leave the factory so that they have power....Thank you! What a wonderful touch it was for him to take it out of the box,turn it on and have it work.
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| Frank G. |
7/30/2011 |
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Decatur, AL
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| Binkey B. |
6/5/2013 |
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Mansfield Center, CT
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The Observer Emergency Radio is unquestionably the best radio (of its caliber) I have every owned. Vy 73, Bink
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| K H |
4/27/2013 |
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Lago Vista, TX
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I just bought it yesterday. Today I read the manual and thought I''d try the crank feature. I started winding it for the 90 seconds, as suggested by the manual, in order to obtain approximately 45 minutes of use. At about the 60th second, the crank broke off! I was not winding it roughly either. I am returning it Monday. I bet it was made in China.
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| gary brooks |
2/27/2013 |
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, AA
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Purchased two via ebay vendor. The reason for that is that the first one died soon after I bought it. first one bought had INCREDIBLE am and fm reception..never saw such a sensitive and selective radio on both bands, and I have a lot of experience with radios in general. what happened was I tried cranking the radio without the NiMi battery installed and it DIED. (I would advise Ccrane to put this warning in the manual). Took it apart found a blown transistor but that only fixed part of the problem ( had white noise audio but no signal coming from the RF section after replacing the transistor).. noticed it had a chipset that tuned with a pot or rotary encoder. anyway tried to fix it but cant get those chipset parts it seems.
Gave up and ordered a second one- but the second one had performance nowhere near the first one. I would have given it 5 stars otherwise. Seems there are two versions of this radio, one that tunes with a rotary encoder or pot, the other with a conventional tuning cap.
My advice is ask before ordering to see if you can get the version with rotary encoder if this version is still being made. you will be amazed at it''s performance.
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| Rob C |
2/18/2013 |
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East Granby, CT
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I love this radio. The AM reception exceeded my expectations with sensitivity and clarity that surpasses much more expensive radios. FM band and Weather band reception are also excellent. The LED dial light only draws 4ma of current and is very handy when using the radio in dark areas. The Solar Observer is a keeper!
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| Alan B. |
2/14/2013 |
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Westport, CT
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We had an older Emergency Radio which failed, due to a broken winding belt. It needed to be retired.
Exploring the internet for a replacement we checked availability and going, in part, by customer reviews, decided to try a company we had never heard of. Price and features, along with positive reviews tipped the balance in favor of the CC SOLAR OBSERVER from the C. Crane Company, Inc, in Fortuna, CA.
Out of stock at the time we ordered, with almost a two month wait, it arrived yesterday.
It is a very nice one pound piece with usable features, including an LED flashlight. The operation provides AM, FM and Weather Radio Reception, with power provided by a hand cranked dynamo, or from a built-in Solar Cell, with rechargeable battery pack, and the ability to run on three AA batteries (not furnished) but ready for use otherwise, if one chooses.
The radio is very sensitive and properly tunable, as desired. It turned out to include some newer improvements over the discontinued prior model, at the same price.
This radio is usable as a portable at any time as well as a nice backup in the event of a power failure or other fill-in communication need.
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| P. Mucciaccio |
1/21/2013 |
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Brooklyn, NY
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Wanted to tell you something amazing I found about my Solar Observer radio when I was without electricity during hurricane Sandy. I was listening to my radio on Sat. night. When Coast to Coast came on. WOR doesn't air Coast to Coast on Sat. So I thought they changed their programing. Here is the amazing part when they announced the call letters of the radio station it was WWVA 1170AM. My Solar Observer picked up Coast to Coast from West Virginia and I'm in Brooklyn NY. So now every Sat. night its my Solar Observer & Coast to Coast. It's true what you say about the Solar Observer "We made sure that the reception and audio is above the norm." Thank You P. Mucciaccio
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| N. Joseph Webb |
1/10/2013 |
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Boston, MA
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I listen to coast2coast radio and I love it but hated that even as an Insider the signal would drop on my iPhone and iPad. So I always heard George Noory talking about the CC Solar Observer. I was asked what I wanted for Christmas and all I asked for was for a CC Solar Observer and a flashlight too. Well listening to Mr. Noory I heard him say that you guys were sold out again, but on Christmas I received both. I love the radio and it never drops the show and I have been a bodyguard and bouncer for 20 plus years and the little flashlight I think was $7 works better then lights I have paid a lot more money for than that plus the cost of the batteries . Your products are a plus as I used the light working at a club outside New Years Eve and it was cold but the light was easy to use with gloves on and very bright. Kudos for putting out excellent affordable products. I won't even get into the benefits in an emergency or just for camping or in your own back yard. I tell everyone about your products! Oh and I can use the light when I'm out doing my Paranormal investigations. Be Well.
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| J. S. Z. |
12/26/2012 |
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Coos Bay, OR
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I just want to say that I have been praising your emergency radio in my news & political chatroom, and I am pleased to see it currently sold out. I would certainly rate the Solar Observer as a five, on a scale of one to five. I just recently bought two, one for myself and one as a gift for my son-in-law who hikes and camps on the Olympic Peninsula. I intend to buy more of these emergewncy radios as gifts in the future. I cannot think of a better gift for your loved ones.
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| Joey "Binky" |
12/24/2012 |
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staten island, NY
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I just received my CC Solar Observer for Christmas. I LOVE it! I have always wanted a radio like this. New York was hit with Hurricane Sandy 2 months ago and I struggled with finding ways to find power for radio with an antique telephone with a generator. I also made something to charge my cell phone using two Cassette motors and a solar cell connected to a USB. It worked but now I have this great radio with the USB charger for cell phones. The flash light is great too. I am very happy with this radio. I only wish it had short wave frequencies too. Thank you for selling a great little radio. I will be shopping for more goodies from C.Crane. Happy Christmas to all.
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| Randy Karnes |
11/12/2012 |
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Tulsa, OK
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I purchased the Solar Observer from REI because of free shipping just for Deer Camp, we camp in NW Arkansas in a valley 50 miles from the nearest town. Picking up stations has always been a problem. NOT ANYMORE this little radio picked up stations in Tulsa 125 mi. away like they were next door. Even picked up a Chicago station to listen to the Bears game on Sunday night. The dyno works great but we used batteries most of the time. Only problem we had was the last night of camp the radio was knocked off the table and someone stepped on the antenna and broke the first section off but the radio still worked great. I''ll have to get a replacement antenna.
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| Paul Sullivan |
11/10/2012 |
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San Francisco, CA
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The built-in speaker has very decent sound for its size; I'll be listening primarily to FM. I appreciate the power options and the lighted display. I wish a few station presets had been included.
Being in the left handed minority, a crank option on the left side would be convenient. The cranking action takes more effort than I anticipated. A fold out stand in back that would direct upward angled sound at my ears would be a nice feature. Construction seems solid for an item with this variety of features in this price range.
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| Sandra Campbell |
11/6/2012 |
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Flemington, NJ
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THIS IS ONE AWESOME PRODUCT!!!!!I have the radio charging in a south window. When hurricane Sandy came in my area and the power was gone for days, this baby was on constantly, and was vital for getting infomation. I just ordered another one. I keep telling people to get one " just in case " there is another weather event(and now we are looking at Nor'easter heading our way. Cannnot say enough about this radio!!!!
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| J. W. |
10/9/2012 |
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, FL
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I want to compliment your CC Solar Observer radio. I left it out (by mistake) in a Florida thunderstorm earlier this week. Next morning I thought geez I am going to have to get another one. Well I shook off the water and turned it on. Some channels came in. I left it out in the sun for a couple more hours, turned it on again and amazing all the channels came in. I was amazed. I don't know if I am imagining it or not but the channels seem to sound clearer. Anyway hats off to this product. I use it every day outside. I don't have to plug it in or use batteries. It just soaks up the energy and I hear my station.
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| Bruce Atchison |
9/14/2012 |
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Radway, AB
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This is a great radio for blind and sight-impaired listeners. It has no LCD screen or multi-function buttons to thwart disabled people from using it. The reception on AM, FM, and the weather band is excellent. I''m also glad the weather channel section of the radio is improved from the old Observer model. The battery pack lasts long as well when charged by the solar panel. I''ve owned some radios that ate up the stored energy far too soon. Being partially-sighted myself, I love the LED-illuminated sliderule dial and built-in flashlight. There''s only one improvement that I''d love to see made in the Solar Observer. A model in that bright yellow emergency colour would make finding the receiver easier. I often misplace the radio and its black colour makes it hard to find. Apart from that change, the radio is a great value.
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| Paul Moore |
9/3/2012 |
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N.S., Canada, AA
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I got the radio about a month and half back and initially it worked great out of the box. At time of purchase, I also purchased an extra battery pack for the day the other pack became exhausted. After charging the battery pack for about 12 hours, the radio''s volume begins to decrease and eventually die...after 20-30 minutes of play. The dynamo, cranked for a total of 90 seconds or more, will bring it back ... for a grand total of five minutes or less. Obviously there''s a problem, but I can''t put my finger on it. The radio does work in the solar mode, so far. I''m about to install three AA rechargeables (NiMH) in the hope that the radio will not be a total write off. I''m disappointed in the lack of detail in the manual, too, regarding the various options to power this radio. Rudimentary at best. The switch shows "battery" and "dynamo" ... my question: which battery(s) are providing power to the circuit...is it the battery bundle I installed and (presumably) put a full charge into before using the radio, or the three AA batteries? The slide switch only seems to actuate when pushed full up to "dynamo".
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| Marilyn Sick |
8/20/2012 |
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Pataskala, OH
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Received this as a gift and seems like a good little emergency radio. Picks up the weather station nicely, but not so good for either AM or FM from inside an apartment (2-3 FM stations, 0 AM), and unfortunately, the cell phone adapter doesn''t fit any of my phones (Droid-mini USB) and no other adapters are available(per the manufacturer), or I would give it more stars.
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| Kevin Moore |
7/12/2012 |
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Reading, MI
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Great little radio! My family has used this radio several times over the last year. All bands receive well and speaker sounds good for a small radio. The hand crank and solar panel have worked flawlessly. The radio is fairly durable as it has been dropped a few times with only the antenna getting bent. When the power goes out this radio pays for itself again and again.
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| P. D. |
5/4/2012 |
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Wichita, KS
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Hello, I recently purchased a CC Solar Observer from amazon. I live in Wichita, KS, right in the middle of tornado alley. I am simply amazed at the quality of sound, features on this radio. During a recent tornados episode, we lost power for 48 hours, this radio kept me in touch with what is going on and honestly I think I cranked the dynamo only 5 times. Thanks for making a great product.
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| Ronald D. |
4/20/2012 |
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Wichita, KS
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I live in Wichita, KS. We had a severe storm with tornados Saturday evening. I had purchased three Observer radios months ago. One for me and two gifts, all live in the area. However, I felt a relative needed the third more than I. When the storm hit all had to go to their basements and, due to the storm, much of the city lost power. They ALL three used their Observers. I didn't have one but I did have a CC Witness which worked perfectly. My brother and his wife said it was the only portable radio they had and they had never opened until that night. It worked perfectly with the wind up. They said that it was the best gift they have ever received. The first thing all three said when I saw them after the storm was how much they appreciated the Observer radio. Cell phones, land lines, and electricity were mostly out. The only thing we 4 families had to follow the storm were C. Crane radios. I am a regular listener to Coast-to-Coast and found out about C. Crane there. None of us were hurt.
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| Mark Morrison |
4/19/2012 |
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Mount Airy, MD
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This is a great Radio PERIOD, and the price makes it a fantastic bargain. At 52 I felt like a Kid at Christmas when the Radio arrived. I work from home and use it daily listening to talk Radio while working. The sound is so crisp and clear that I barely turn the sound up while working at my Desk and still hear every word clearly, without distracting my focus. This little Radio brings back memories of when as a Kid and I got my first transistor Radio. I used to sneak and listen to Baseball games in bed at night while I was supposed to be sleeping. Those are some great memories. Now however, when I can''t sleep, it''s one of Your Sponsors "Coast to Coast" with George Noory. George is responsible for creating my interest in Your Product. That is also where I first heard of C. Crane and the CC Solar Observer. The only regret I have is that I should have purchased this product directly from C. Crane. I chose to purchase it from Cabelas since I had a $50.00 Cabelas gift card I''d been given. Unfortunately it was back ordered and took about 3 weeks to arrive (Apparently it’s a hot item?). My wife was amused with my anticipation and still chuckles when she sees me cranking up the power or carrying the radio into my office from the deck after a Solar charge. I have to admit I was disappointed when I found out the Radio is made in China. Perhaps one day your Company may find a profitable way to produce this Radio in the good ole USA. I''m still a believer though. Thanks for a great Radio that will serve well in emergencies, Camping, or even making work go smoother. Thank You and please keep producing great products!
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| Jess Moore |
3/5/2012 |
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Forney, TX
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I just received my CC Solar Observer. It looks very similar to the one I have from one of your competitors. That is where the similarity ends. I bought your radio because I have no confidence in the other. (Yours is still a small plastic radio that I am afraid to drop.) But unless I drop it, I am certain that it will work in an emergency. I wish I had found CCrane much earlier. Thanks so much.
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| Michael Bogdanik |
2/21/2012 |
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Sorrento, FL
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I just purchased this radio to replace my Kaito Voyager. There is no comparison between the two radios. The C. Crane radio is better made and the reception much better. Better yet, the C. Crane radio cost less!
I had even contacted C. Crane to inquire about an additional AM antenna because I live in the country and AM reception has always been a problem. Much to my surprise, upon receiving my radio, I had no need to add an external antenna.
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| Evelyn Buchanan |
2/18/2012 |
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Dallas, TX
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I am very pleased with this radio. The sound is quite remarkable as the radio is compact. The instructions were easy to follow. I've used the wind up charge, and it is easy to do and lasts quite a while with just a few minutes of cranking. The "Light" is very bright, making it easy to get around in the dark if necessary. Will try the solar charge as soon as it stops raining here, and plan to use rechargable AA's, which will save money. I will no longer need to worry about communication information when we have our tornados or power outages. I also purchased the adapter, so I have another easy way to charge the radio. I plan to use it for entertainment as well as for emergencies. It's another great C Crane product!
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| J. A. B. |
1/17/2012 |
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Seatac, WA
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Someone from C Crane sent an e-mail awhile back asking how I liked the product I bought. I love it, a CC Solar observer. Has perfect reception & works great. I accidently broke the antenna on it & got a replacement at radio shack & it works great still. In the future I'll look into other products as well you guys are a great company. George Noory correct about that. It was through listening to his show Coast To Coast that I heard about you folks. Thanks again for putting out Great radios.
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| C Y |
1/8/2012 |
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Novato, CA
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This is a great lightweight efficient radio that does it all (Plug in, solar, wind-up, and/or battery). Great reception with no drift and sound quality is very good. All the features are easy to use. Weather band is very handy for emergency situations. LED flashlight is very handy also. Well thought out product.
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| John Kowal |
1/5/2012 |
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Ewing, NJ
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I received this product as a Christmas Gift. This is a great addition to anyone's grab and go bag! While I have CC's short wave radio, I love the features this portable radio offers. It can't be beat. The sound quality is great, the reception is great and the weather station feature is great! I highly recommend this product!
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| Darres Cook |
12/19/2011 |
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Lodi, CA
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Our church likes to supply the missionaries we sponsor with items that will help in their jobs wherever they are located. The affordable price of these radios makes this possible - they are top quality for a low price. These radios are invaluable - especially with the new solar panel! They can be used as a flashlight, cell phone charger, for weather/emergency updates, etc. We had given one to a missionary in Cambodia just before the recent flooding - he was able to obtain weather, news and updates for the village, as well as maintain cell phone contact with people to reassure them of the village's safety or ask for help when needed. We have given several to our missionaries in Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Dominican Republic, Cameroon and Kenya. The wind-up crank feature really does work and the sound quality is excellent! They are small, very sturdy and easy to transport. We have only received positive feedback from the missionaries using them - not one complaint yet! We have also begun supplying them with C. Crane's wind-up lanterns!
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| Russell Johnston |
11/7/2011 |
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Catawba, NC
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Just wanted ya'll know that that little wind-up radio I recently bought is the best thing ever! I live in the middle of NC and listen to coast to coast AM from Cincinnati, OH. Over the years I've built a system worth well over $2000, BUT, your little weather radio beats the reception hands down. It is by far the best receiver I've ever owned. Keep up the good work.
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| G. D. |
9/22/2011 |
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Cortland, IL
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I recently ordered a CC Solar Observer and I love that radio! I need something light and dependable for work, and this thing really fits the bill. I've had Eton and Grundig, but they are so cheaply built that they last about 3 months and are done. I hope you never stop making small, portable radios. They are the best. I really like the solar panel charging feature; I get home from work and set my radio in the sun and never have to use the disposable batteries. Another feature I love about my radio is the flexible handle on top; it makes it very handy for me to move during work. I'm a contract janitor and I move about alot during a stay at each location I clean and I always have cleaning equipment that I'm carrying, so the handle makes it easy to grab the radio with one finger if necessary. Thanks!
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Copyright © 2013 by
C. Crane Company, Inc.
1001 Main Street
Fortuna, CA 95540
(800) 522-8863
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