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Description
With AM, FM, Shortwave, Weather + Alert, Scannable VHF Aviation Band and Single Side Band
The Swiss Army Knife Of Portable Radios
One of the smallest multiband radios with SSB, the new Skywave-SSB has everything the original Skywave has. But we continue to have a select group of radio enthusiasts who want more... "The CC Skywave has shortwave but it would be perfect if it had Single Side Band". The entirely new circuit also allowed us to improve the audio and reception slightly while keeping the button layout as intuitive as possible.
You can now listen to FEMA, long range aviation, ships at sea (think coast guard), space, even transmissions and other worldwide communication when nothing else is available. Single Side Band in not available on your smartphone which makes it the ultimate off the grid format.
Included is a CC Shortwave Reel Antenna, a pair of our original CC Buds, and a faux leather carry case.
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Weight: 6.0 oz. (without batteries). size: 4.75" W x 3" H x 1.1" D
Review of the C. Crane CC Skywave SSB Radio by Jay Allen of RADIOJAYALLEN.COM |
Reviews
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San Marcos, TX
June, 19 2019
Tiny but mighty
In my opinion, the CC Skywave SSB is a veritable multitool among currently available portable radios, in that within its diminutive dimensions lies a band coverage which probably exceeds the needs of all but the most demanding of radio listeners. With so many capabilities packed into its very small form factor, I would absolutely recommend the CC Skywave SSB to anyone in the market for a high-quality, highly-portable, yet easy-to-use and feature-rich radio for traveling, hiking, or everyday listening.
In my opinion, the CC Skywave SSB is a veritable multitool among currently available portable radios, in that within its diminutive dimensions lies a band coverage which probably exceeds the needs of all but the most demanding of radio listeners. With so many capabilities packed into its very small form factor, I would absolutely recommend the CC Skywave SSB to anyone in the market for a high-quality, highly-portable, yet easy-to-use and feature-rich radio for traveling, hiking, or everyday listening.
PROS
Surprisingly capable for its size
CONS
None come to mind
BEST USES
Everyday listening, traveling, hiking
Surprisingly capable for its size
CONS
None come to mind
BEST USES
Everyday listening, traveling, hiking
St. Petersburg, FL
April, 2 2019
Shortwave in your pocket
I have been impressed with the capability of this radio in a very small truly portable form. The sound is very good for a small speaker. It is clear and easy to understand. With the included antenna, you can pick up a large number of stations on shortwave. This radio is really a pocket radio and something you can take with you in a briefcase, overnight bag or whatever.
I have been impressed with the capability of this radio in a very small truly portable form. The sound is very good for a small speaker. It is clear and easy to understand. With the included antenna, you can pick up a large number of stations on shortwave. This radio is really a pocket radio and something you can take with you in a briefcase, overnight bag or whatever.
PROS
The digital display is easy to read and bright. The ability to store stations is really greatWhile the controls are small, they are large enough to comfortably use.I found the features on this radio easy to use and the instructions clear and precise.
CONS
The only con I would mention is that the power button should probably be designed to come on with a little less ease. I have had this radio in a bag and it bumped against something next to it and depressed the power button. The radio was pretty much dead when I pulled it out. Not sure how to fix this, but maybe a double press and hold should be used to power up the radio to keep this from happening.
BEST USES
This can be used for just about anything where you want a radio. Its ability to be used for pleasure listening on shortwave or standard AM-FM stations or to be used for emergencies makes this a very versatile radio.
The digital display is easy to read and bright. The ability to store stations is really greatWhile the controls are small, they are large enough to comfortably use.I found the features on this radio easy to use and the instructions clear and precise.
CONS
The only con I would mention is that the power button should probably be designed to come on with a little less ease. I have had this radio in a bag and it bumped against something next to it and depressed the power button. The radio was pretty much dead when I pulled it out. Not sure how to fix this, but maybe a double press and hold should be used to power up the radio to keep this from happening.
BEST USES
This can be used for just about anything where you want a radio. Its ability to be used for pleasure listening on shortwave or standard AM-FM stations or to be used for emergencies makes this a very versatile radio.
BAYSIDE QUEENS NYC.
March, 26 2019
crane skywave ssb is the total package.love it so much I bought 2.
THE SKYWAVE SSB HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT IN A RADIO. LOVE IT SO MUCH I BOUGHT 2. IT WILL BE A CLASSIC IF IT ISNT ALLREADY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK CCRANE.
THE SKYWAVE SSB HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT IN A RADIO. LOVE IT SO MUCH I BOUGHT 2. IT WILL BE A CLASSIC IF IT ISNT ALLREADY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK CCRANE.
PROS
THE EASE OF USE USING SSB
CONS
CANT THINK OF ANY
BEST USES
SHORTWAVE LISTENING IN ON HAMS AND SHORTWAVE IN GENERAL.
THE EASE OF USE USING SSB
CONS
CANT THINK OF ANY
BEST USES
SHORTWAVE LISTENING IN ON HAMS AND SHORTWAVE IN GENERAL.
Georgia
January, 27 2019
Was skeptical....
At first I was skeptical of what I read about this radio. Really small, probably wouldn't sound good, can it really be as good as they say it is. Well, I was pleasantly surprised! I checked out several features. Was impressed by the reception on AM, FM was good as well. The sound is good for a speaker this size. But what really got me was listening to the ham bands. I listened to a ham radio conversation QSO on 40 meters and was blown away. The sideband operation was superb - the only portable shortwave radio I have seen where USB and LSB worked as advertised. I'm sold! Love the radio and the portability of it. My number 1 travel radio and I use it around the house too. Get one! You won't regret it!
At first I was skeptical of what I read about this radio. Really small, probably wouldn't sound good, can it really be as good as they say it is. Well, I was pleasantly surprised! I checked out several features. Was impressed by the reception on AM, FM was good as well. The sound is good for a speaker this size. But what really got me was listening to the ham bands. I listened to a ham radio conversation QSO on 40 meters and was blown away. The sideband operation was superb - the only portable shortwave radio I have seen where USB and LSB worked as advertised. I'm sold! Love the radio and the portability of it. My number 1 travel radio and I use it around the house too. Get one! You won't regret it!
PROS
Small sizeAmazing sensitivity and selectivityGood sound for a speaker of this size PortabilityHas air band, weather alert as well as other bandsCan charge batteries internallyComes with case, ear buds great sound! and reel antenna.
CONS
Can't think of a thing
BEST USES
Any time you want to listen to a radio station.
Small sizeAmazing sensitivity and selectivityGood sound for a speaker of this size PortabilityHas air band, weather alert as well as other bandsCan charge batteries internallyComes with case, ear buds great sound! and reel antenna.
CONS
Can't think of a thing
BEST USES
Any time you want to listen to a radio station.
Seattle
January, 6 2019
An outstanding radio, especially for its size
This radio is one amazing performer!. It does more than any compact receiver I know of, and does all of it better than most. Short-wave reception is surprisingly good with the short built-in whip, although serious listeners will want to use the supplied reel antenna. FM is great, and the AM broadcast mode features outstanding sensitivity and selectivity with just the built-in ferrite bar. Selectable bandwidth and tone, 1-KHz AM tuning increment, selectable sideband, and 10-Hz SSB frequency resolution show that C.Crane has exercised its usual expertise and care with the design and manufacture of this model. I own five C.Crane radios, and I wouldn't give up any of them. This one doesn't offer longwave AM handy in Europe, but I doubt the ferrite coil is big enough to receive that band in a unit with this small footprint. One complaint It should have better sensitivity on the Air Traffic Control band. My Uniden Trunk Tracker III portable, with a comparable whip, gets at least a
This radio is one amazing performer!. It does more than any compact receiver I know of, and does all of it better than most. Short-wave reception is surprisingly good with the short built-in whip, although serious listeners will want to use the supplied reel antenna. FM is great, and the AM broadcast mode features outstanding sensitivity and selectivity with just the built-in ferrite bar. Selectable bandwidth and tone, 1-KHz AM tuning increment, selectable sideband, and 10-Hz SSB frequency resolution show that C.Crane has exercised its usual expertise and care with the design and manufacture of this model. I own five C.Crane radios, and I wouldn't give up any of them. This one doesn't offer longwave AM handy in Europe, but I doubt the ferrite coil is big enough to receive that band in a unit with this small footprint. One complaint It should have better sensitivity on the Air Traffic Control band. My Uniden Trunk Tracker III portable, with a comparable whip, gets at least a
PROS
Overall high product quality.Covers nearly every band a listener wants.Outstanding performance on most bands.Great selectable user features.Shortwave Birdies are minimal.Excellent alkaline battery life.
CONS
Low sensitivity on aircraft band.No antenna jack.SSB should not be selectable on AM broadcast band.
BEST USES
Travel.On the porch, deck, or patio. But if your RF noise level is low, it works fine inside the house or apartment.NOTE TO C.CRANE This window didn't render properly in IE11. I had to use Firefox. - Phil
Overall high product quality.Covers nearly every band a listener wants.Outstanding performance on most bands.Great selectable user features.Shortwave Birdies are minimal.Excellent alkaline battery life.
CONS
Low sensitivity on aircraft band.No antenna jack.SSB should not be selectable on AM broadcast band.
BEST USES
Travel.On the porch, deck, or patio. But if your RF noise level is low, it works fine inside the house or apartment.NOTE TO C.CRANE This window didn't render properly in IE11. I had to use Firefox. - Phil
Bronx, NY
December, 27 2018
I love my CC Skywave SSB radio
There's so many things that I love about this radio but my favorite features are the size and that it only takes 2 AA batteries. A fresh set of batteries lasted 6 days of me using the radio 10+ hours a day on high/low volume, channel scanning, changing stations...
There's so many things that I love about this radio but my favorite features are the size and that it only takes 2 AA batteries. A fresh set of batteries lasted 6 days of me using the radio 10+ hours a day on high/low volume, channel scanning, changing stations...
PROS
Small enough to fit in a pocketExcellent battery lifeJust 2 AA batteriesWeather channels
CONS
No longwave
BEST USES
Everyday useEmergency use
Small enough to fit in a pocketExcellent battery lifeJust 2 AA batteriesWeather channels
CONS
No longwave
BEST USES
Everyday useEmergency use
Virginia
December, 15 2018
Amazingly small with good value and performance
Exactly the same size as my CC Skywave. Has more AM noise when my distant station fades out, compared to my CC Skywave. The CC Skywave SSB might have slightly better sensitivity overall, though.SSB feature can be tricky to use, but once adjusted properly for conditions, it is stable and clean. Buttons most commonly used have better tactile shapes than in the CC Skywave, so I can more easily use the radio in the dark. Dial light is still too bright for me. The rod antenna might be a little better 3 longer than on the CC Skywave.I mostly use this radio with headphones or at very low volume at night. I like the rechargeable battery support. The AC adapter for the CC Skywave is completely usable with this CC Skywave SSB.
Exactly the same size as my CC Skywave. Has more AM noise when my distant station fades out, compared to my CC Skywave. The CC Skywave SSB might have slightly better sensitivity overall, though.SSB feature can be tricky to use, but once adjusted properly for conditions, it is stable and clean. Buttons most commonly used have better tactile shapes than in the CC Skywave, so I can more easily use the radio in the dark. Dial light is still too bright for me. The rod antenna might be a little better 3 longer than on the CC Skywave.I mostly use this radio with headphones or at very low volume at night. I like the rechargeable battery support. The AC adapter for the CC Skywave is completely usable with this CC Skywave SSB.
PROS
SSB function is a big improvement. AM sensitivity might be a little better.
CONS
Dial light too bright for use in the dark.
BEST USES
Travel, night time AM
SSB function is a big improvement. AM sensitivity might be a little better.
CONS
Dial light too bright for use in the dark.
BEST USES
Travel, night time AM
San Diego, CA
December, 5 2018
Didn't quite add up to what I expected...
I've spent a little time with the radio, but threw it in my bag for a business trip to NYC this week. The first time I pulled it out and powered it up on this trip the antenna broke off. Hoping there's an easy way to fix this.
I've spent a little time with the radio, but threw it in my bag for a business trip to NYC this week. The first time I pulled it out and powered it up on this trip the antenna broke off. Hoping there's an easy way to fix this.
PROS
Haven't found one yet...
CONS
Broken antenna
Haven't found one yet...
CONS
Broken antenna
Buenos Aires, Argentina
October, 23 2018
Un SWL Argentino muy contento!!
La mejor radio que he tenido!! Muy pequena, excelente selectividad, duracin de la batera, filtros seleccionables, escaneo de frecuencias rapidsimo. Filtros de audio Msica Vos seleccionables!!
La mejor radio que he tenido!! Muy pequena, excelente selectividad, duracin de la batera, filtros seleccionables, escaneo de frecuencias rapidsimo. Filtros de audio Msica Vos seleccionables!!
PROS
Tiene SSB, cargador de NiMH incorporado, auriculares, estuche y antena reel INCLUIDOS!!!
CONS
cero, nada
BEST USES
Viajes, salidas, picnic, en todo lugar!!
Tiene SSB, cargador de NiMH incorporado, auriculares, estuche y antena reel INCLUIDOS!!!
CONS
cero, nada
BEST USES
Viajes, salidas, picnic, en todo lugar!!
Lincoln, Ca
October, 13 2018
Great pocket radio
I took my new Skywave to the Monterey area this week. I was happy with its performance. On AM it really pulled in stations from Seattle, Salt Lake City, etc with clear audio. FM was good. Air was great, I listened to tower traffic and planes. Weather was fine. Short wave was good also. I do like the scan feature and memories. All in all, a great radio I will actually use. Alkaline or rechargeable batteries and the ability to charge them in the radio are serious plus's in my book. Overall it is a great little radio and well worth the price.
I took my new Skywave to the Monterey area this week. I was happy with its performance. On AM it really pulled in stations from Seattle, Salt Lake City, etc with clear audio. FM was good. Air was great, I listened to tower traffic and planes. Weather was fine. Short wave was good also. I do like the scan feature and memories. All in all, a great radio I will actually use. Alkaline or rechargeable batteries and the ability to charge them in the radio are serious plus's in my book. Overall it is a great little radio and well worth the price.
PROS
Goes anywhere. Much better than I expected
CONS
None noted
BEST USES
The perfect emergency radio. Get two, leave one in the car and one at home. With a solar pack it will never run out of power.
Goes anywhere. Much better than I expected
CONS
None noted
BEST USES
The perfect emergency radio. Get two, leave one in the car and one at home. With a solar pack it will never run out of power.
East Texas
October, 1 2018
Can't go wrong!
I got this radio about a week or so ago. I've been playing with it ever since. This is one great radio. Originally, I was drawn between this one and the sangean 909 X. I'm glad I chose this one. It is nothing short than awesome. I even did an FM a.m. comparison to the crane pocket radio. The skywave SSB came out on top in every way. I couldn't think of a time that I've had a better radio than this.
I got this radio about a week or so ago. I've been playing with it ever since. This is one great radio. Originally, I was drawn between this one and the sangean 909 X. I'm glad I chose this one. It is nothing short than awesome. I even did an FM a.m. comparison to the crane pocket radio. The skywave SSB came out on top in every way. I couldn't think of a time that I've had a better radio than this.
PROS
Small, compact, Powerball Easy to use Exceptional reception Great features Charges your batteries Comes with great accessories
CONS
The only con I can think of is that I didn't buy it sooner.
BEST USES
Camping, hiking, D X ing, anywhere you'd like to carry radio... Patio, yard, or in the car.
Small, compact, Powerball Easy to use Exceptional reception Great features Charges your batteries Comes with great accessories
CONS
The only con I can think of is that I didn't buy it sooner.
BEST USES
Camping, hiking, D X ing, anywhere you'd like to carry radio... Patio, yard, or in the car.
Western Oregon
September, 24 2018
Home run product
Did not think the original Skywave could be improved upon...I was wrong. This is such a fantastic product and the upgrades take it to a whole new level!
Did not think the original Skywave could be improved upon...I was wrong. This is such a fantastic product and the upgrades take it to a whole new level!
PROS
SoundReceptionSSBEase of use
CONS
None
BEST USES
BedsideCampingTravel
SoundReceptionSSBEase of use
CONS
None
BEST USES
BedsideCampingTravel
Oklahoma
September, 16 2018
GREAT little radio
Great radio for the money, I am still learning what all it can do but but so far I have been amazed what this small radio can hear. and with the wire antenna that it came with it can pull in stations from a long distance
Great radio for the money, I am still learning what all it can do but but so far I have been amazed what this small radio can hear. and with the wire antenna that it came with it can pull in stations from a long distance
PROS
Small and compact but powerful.
CONS
None that I have found so far
BEST USES
It does everything it is advertised to do.
Small and compact but powerful.
CONS
None that I have found so far
BEST USES
It does everything it is advertised to do.
Berkeley, CA
August, 30 2018
AM Bandwidth could be wider
Wish an AM bandwidth option of just under 10 kHz - to avoid hearing neighboring carrier tones - to allow maximum fidelity of MW stations.For 9 kHz spacing maybe an 8.5 kHz option?
Wish an AM bandwidth option of just under 10 kHz - to avoid hearing neighboring carrier tones - to allow maximum fidelity of MW stations.For 9 kHz spacing maybe an 8.5 kHz option?
Kingston, NY
August, 29 2018
Crazy Good!
This radio is so good it's crazy. Sensitive on SW/AM/FM. Shortwave is outstanding, including SSB and better than some of the old classics I own which makes it great for traveling, or simply carrying with you. AM is sensitive, and superior. You can zero-beat quite well. Day and night an excellent DX machine. I live in a tough area for SW/MW signals and the new Skywave will pull in Stations my other radios cannot. At night it's amazing what you can pull-in on AM. The previous Skywave is a great radio, this version is a cut above. Doesnt matter if there is no sync detection, a great radio, is a great radio, most of my radios don't have sync, theSkywave is good as it is. Everyone who loves radio should own one - worth every penny. Thanks C Crane for advancing state of art.
This radio is so good it's crazy. Sensitive on SW/AM/FM. Shortwave is outstanding, including SSB and better than some of the old classics I own which makes it great for traveling, or simply carrying with you. AM is sensitive, and superior. You can zero-beat quite well. Day and night an excellent DX machine. I live in a tough area for SW/MW signals and the new Skywave will pull in Stations my other radios cannot. At night it's amazing what you can pull-in on AM. The previous Skywave is a great radio, this version is a cut above. Doesnt matter if there is no sync detection, a great radio, is a great radio, most of my radios don't have sync, theSkywave is good as it is. Everyone who loves radio should own one - worth every penny. Thanks C Crane for advancing state of art.
PROS
Everything, easy to use, sensitive, compact, good even with the small speaker, great on headphones. Filters are great.
CONS
None though a plug for a long wire would have been nice, it's not essential.
BEST USES
On trips, at home, a real good DX radio.
Everything, easy to use, sensitive, compact, good even with the small speaker, great on headphones. Filters are great.
CONS
None though a plug for a long wire would have been nice, it's not essential.
BEST USES
On trips, at home, a real good DX radio.
Surprise AZ
August, 23 2018
Awesome
I have two of these radios. I love them I use one for travel. I highly recommend it.
I have two of these radios. I love them I use one for travel. I highly recommend it.
CONS
Wish there was a button to turn off the light.As I sleep with it.
BEST USES
Just love the am.
Gothenburg, Nebraska
August, 18 2018
Terrific Portable Multi-Band Radio
Here in flyover land the CC Skywave SSB does a terrific job at night on AMBC. There is only one listenable daytime AM that everyone listens to but at night there are many more. The Skywave finds all the AM Coast to Coast stations and makes them listenable from hundreds of miles away. The Wx band is another reason I bought this radio. I have others with the wx band as we have many severe wx alerts here. Only a couple button pushes needed to get to the channel. I have many vintage and old radios but the Skywave SSB is the one I listen to at bed time.
Here in flyover land the CC Skywave SSB does a terrific job at night on AMBC. There is only one listenable daytime AM that everyone listens to but at night there are many more. The Skywave finds all the AM Coast to Coast stations and makes them listenable from hundreds of miles away. The Wx band is another reason I bought this radio. I have others with the wx band as we have many severe wx alerts here. Only a couple button pushes needed to get to the channel. I have many vintage and old radios but the Skywave SSB is the one I listen to at bed time.
PROS
Small foot print, no external antenna or power cable needed. Good audio and sensitivity, AGC.
CONS
None so far!
BEST USES
Terrific bedside radio for just about anything you would want to listen to.
Small foot print, no external antenna or power cable needed. Good audio and sensitivity, AGC.
CONS
None so far!
BEST USES
Terrific bedside radio for just about anything you would want to listen to.
St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
August, 9 2018
perfect travel radio
my wife and I both hams travel outside of North America often. We were looking for a radio we could listen to our ham nets as well as short wave broadcasts in a all around travel radio, This little radio is unbelievable with very good quality SSB and sensitivity . Air bands and weather bands work great. we are very pleased. Tnx C Craine.
my wife and I both hams travel outside of North America often. We were looking for a radio we could listen to our ham nets as well as short wave broadcasts in a all around travel radio, This little radio is unbelievable with very good quality SSB and sensitivity . Air bands and weather bands work great. we are very pleased. Tnx C Craine.
PROS
excellant
CONS
excellant
BEST USES
travel
excellant
CONS
excellant
BEST USES
travel
New Florence, PA
July, 31 2018
Vary happy user of the new CC-Skywave-SSB
The weather alert works great, while it turns off the radio and thankfully I have other radios that can monitor it also, its also just vary happy to know of alerts from NWS. The Shortwave is vary sensitive and vary selective, a few birdies but outside of the broadcast band for the most part. Air-band is nice and sensitive, I especially enjoy the scanning of the hole band, squelch is a little slow locking onto signals especially if their faint, the compressor does a great job however at fixing that up and thanks to the Skywaves low noiseflore you dont even need the squelch. VHF broadcast FM does fantastic, it's a vary well performer, I have nothing bad to say about that. MW or Medium wave is not that great on this radio, however paired with the TWIN COIL FERRITE booster is a blast, so much fun. Its vary hard to interfere with and thats vary good, Ive not tried the long wire antenna that came in the package however I did try the one I got from you guys a long time ago and did not make m
The weather alert works great, while it turns off the radio and thankfully I have other radios that can monitor it also, its also just vary happy to know of alerts from NWS. The Shortwave is vary sensitive and vary selective, a few birdies but outside of the broadcast band for the most part. Air-band is nice and sensitive, I especially enjoy the scanning of the hole band, squelch is a little slow locking onto signals especially if their faint, the compressor does a great job however at fixing that up and thanks to the Skywaves low noiseflore you dont even need the squelch. VHF broadcast FM does fantastic, it's a vary well performer, I have nothing bad to say about that. MW or Medium wave is not that great on this radio, however paired with the TWIN COIL FERRITE booster is a blast, so much fun. Its vary hard to interfere with and thats vary good, Ive not tried the long wire antenna that came in the package however I did try the one I got from you guys a long time ago and did not make m
Council Bluffs, Iowa
July, 26 2018
EXCELLENT RIGDe KD0OIA
Very Sensiive. I recommend others buy it.
Very Sensiive. I recommend others buy it.
PROS
SSB circuit worked better than I expcted. Battery consumptioo has been good.
CONS
Lack of an port, phino jack or usb, for an n wexternal antenna. Lack of a 2-meter band/.
BEST USES
Day I got it we were storms which were activating NOAA Alerts. I could monitor those and my 2-Meter Rig at same time.
SSB circuit worked better than I expcted. Battery consumptioo has been good.
CONS
Lack of an port, phino jack or usb, for an n wexternal antenna. Lack of a 2-meter band/.
BEST USES
Day I got it we were storms which were activating NOAA Alerts. I could monitor those and my 2-Meter Rig at same time.
Ashtabula, OH
June, 20 2018
My new favorite radio!
I have compared this radio to many of my other good shortwave radios with SSB and it works as well or BETTER than all of them! I was totally shocked at the sensitivity it has. The tuning is spot on! No need to tune it a bit one way or the other. this guy must have one heck of a good DSP chip. It has 5 bandwidth settings on AM and SW and 6on SSB mode! It's true SSB also. Thats with a real Upper and Lower side band and not a BFO. The fine tune is truly great too. Well worth the money! Be sure to get the AC adapter! It does NOT put out the huge noise that the usual switching ones do. It will charge NiMh batteries in the radio. So just get one!!!
I have compared this radio to many of my other good shortwave radios with SSB and it works as well or BETTER than all of them! I was totally shocked at the sensitivity it has. The tuning is spot on! No need to tune it a bit one way or the other. this guy must have one heck of a good DSP chip. It has 5 bandwidth settings on AM and SW and 6on SSB mode! It's true SSB also. Thats with a real Upper and Lower side band and not a BFO. The fine tune is truly great too. Well worth the money! Be sure to get the AC adapter! It does NOT put out the huge noise that the usual switching ones do. It will charge NiMh batteries in the radio. So just get one!!!
PROS
does it ALL! Super sensitive!good soundeasy to use.
CONS
Mutes when tuning
BEST USES
Travel, pocket, desk, anytime!
does it ALL! Super sensitive!good soundeasy to use.
CONS
Mutes when tuning
BEST USES
Travel, pocket, desk, anytime!
Philadelphia, PA
June, 3 2018
The ultimate all around travel do it all travel radio.
Wanted a travel radio with SSB my old skywave lacked. Radio has a lot to offer and I got a lot to learn operating it to it's full potential. Best travel radios out here does it all.
Wanted a travel radio with SSB my old skywave lacked. Radio has a lot to offer and I got a lot to learn operating it to it's full potential. Best travel radios out here does it all.
PROS
Versatility on all bands, weather alert, and compact size. A lot to master and learn.
CONS
A lot to master and learn.
BEST USES
Travel radio ??
Versatility on all bands, weather alert, and compact size. A lot to master and learn.
CONS
A lot to master and learn.
BEST USES
Travel radio ??
Toronto, ON
May, 24 2018
The Best Just Got Better!
The CC Skywave was the best portable travel radio ever made so what did C. Crane do? They made it even better! Say hello to the CC Skywave SSB. All the features of the original Skywave and now including Single Side Band, better audio quality and better reception. Now you can have a radio that does it all and is small enough that you never need leave it at home.I also must add that C. Crane's support and service departments are absolutely fantastic. They'll take good care of you.
The CC Skywave was the best portable travel radio ever made so what did C. Crane do? They made it even better! Say hello to the CC Skywave SSB. All the features of the original Skywave and now including Single Side Band, better audio quality and better reception. Now you can have a radio that does it all and is small enough that you never need leave it at home.I also must add that C. Crane's support and service departments are absolutely fantastic. They'll take good care of you.
PROS
A full featured radio that fits in your pocket!
CONS
You won't know what to do with your original CC Skywave. Suggestion Give it to a young person to stimulate their interest in radio!
BEST USES
As a companion radio. Take it with you everywhere to stay informed and entertained.
A full featured radio that fits in your pocket!
CONS
You won't know what to do with your original CC Skywave. Suggestion Give it to a young person to stimulate their interest in radio!
BEST USES
As a companion radio. Take it with you everywhere to stay informed and entertained.
Venice Florida
May, 9 2018
New Radio
Great radio!
Great radio!
PROS
Great AM reception!
CONS
No complaints so far.
BEST USES
Works well when I use CPAP. CCrane 2E am will not work with when I use CPAP.
Great AM reception!
CONS
No complaints so far.
BEST USES
Works well when I use CPAP. CCrane 2E am will not work with when I use CPAP.
Ohio
April, 30 2018
The More, The Better
The more I use my Skywave SSB, the more I like it. Have had no problems with radio, cosmetically though, one of the button's label is printed on crooked but I can live with that
The more I use my Skywave SSB, the more I like it. Have had no problems with radio, cosmetically though, one of the button's label is printed on crooked but I can live with that
PROS
Functionality Nice carry size
CONS
AC Adapter sold separately.
BEST USES
Radio of course Sleep Timer. SSB listening.
Functionality Nice carry size
CONS
AC Adapter sold separately.
BEST USES
Radio of course Sleep Timer. SSB listening.
San Diego
March, 24 2018
Like the porridge...just right !
CC SKYWAVE SSB
CC SKYWAVE SSB
PROS
Great physical fit in my Trump size hand .Wonderful tonal quality with easily accessible features . Long run times too .
CONS
No external antenna input that is well mitigated with the included CC SW Reel Antenna ....a fine fit .
BEST USES
An ALL AROUND pocket radio
Great physical fit in my Trump size hand .Wonderful tonal quality with easily accessible features . Long run times too .
CONS
No external antenna input that is well mitigated with the included CC SW Reel Antenna ....a fine fit .
BEST USES
An ALL AROUND pocket radio
EastTennessee
March, 13 2018
Great radio
Ordered my Skywave SSB on Wednesday and got it an Friday. The radio works great and I would recommend others to buy one. I have all of the radios that C.Crain sell and I love them all. They are a great company with good customer service. John H.
Ordered my Skywave SSB on Wednesday and got it an Friday. The radio works great and I would recommend others to buy one. I have all of the radios that C.Crain sell and I love them all. They are a great company with good customer service. John H.
PROS
Good reception and work well. 5 stars
CONS
None
BEST USES
Listening to13117 far away stations
Good reception and work well. 5 stars
CONS
None
BEST USES
Listening to13117 far away stations
AZ
March, 2 2018
Should have bought a lot sooner
I have been promising myself a new radio for a while, the SkyWave has all the features I was looking for. the long and the short is, it does every thing that is promised on the box. the instructions are well written and easy to use. it feels and sounds like a quality product. I do like the way the volume fades away, as opposed to just switch off, when the off button is pushed. somebody had to think about making that happen. I get the feeling that the whole radio has been 'thought through'.
I have been promising myself a new radio for a while, the SkyWave has all the features I was looking for. the long and the short is, it does every thing that is promised on the box. the instructions are well written and easy to use. it feels and sounds like a quality product. I do like the way the volume fades away, as opposed to just switch off, when the off button is pushed. somebody had to think about making that happen. I get the feeling that the whole radio has been 'thought through'.
PROS
added extra, SW antenna rechargeable battery
CONS
maybe the small speaker, its good considering the size of the radio, personally , I wanted the small size for traveling
BEST USES
every day, its never far from my side
added extra, SW antenna rechargeable battery
CONS
maybe the small speaker, its good considering the size of the radio, personally , I wanted the small size for traveling
BEST USES
every day, its never far from my side
Dayton, WA
February, 19 2018
Best small shortwave radio
This is the best small shortwave radio for the money
This is the best small shortwave radio for the money
PROS
Small size for travel
CONS
Great if next model has bluetooth
BEST USES
Shortwave am fm sub reception
Small size for travel
CONS
Great if next model has bluetooth
BEST USES
Shortwave am fm sub reception
Clearlake California
December, 31 2017
An Absolute Winner.
I got this radio for a Christmas Gift. It has exceeded all my expectations. It's performance is incredible. The sensitivity and Selectivity is great on all bands. It out performs some radios that are double the price. The pro is that is a fantastic radio. The con is that it mutes when tuning with the dial. Hopefully that can be defeated on a future version.
I got this radio for a Christmas Gift. It has exceeded all my expectations. It's performance is incredible. The sensitivity and Selectivity is great on all bands. It out performs some radios that are double the price. The pro is that is a fantastic radio. The con is that it mutes when tuning with the dial. Hopefully that can be defeated on a future version.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
December, 16 2017
An excellent radio for the price.
I thought that the CC Skywave radio was good, man! this one blows the dance off the skywave. I'm totally blind, but was able to figure out how to get to shortwave, and in to the BFO settings, both upper and lower sidebands. The reception on shortwave for this small radio is amazing. Not being able to see the screen, I can't tell you how the signal readout is, but the audio is quite clear. The AM is still the great AM as it is on the regular skywave. So is the FM and weather. I think the air band is a bit more improved. But what makes this radio shine is the BFO, and shortwave reception. And I forgot to mention that this radio is full coverage on shortwave. Just the thing to drop in your pocket or back pack and go traveling. Love this radio. CCrane, you've developed another winner.
I thought that the CC Skywave radio was good, man! this one blows the dance off the skywave. I'm totally blind, but was able to figure out how to get to shortwave, and in to the BFO settings, both upper and lower sidebands. The reception on shortwave for this small radio is amazing. Not being able to see the screen, I can't tell you how the signal readout is, but the audio is quite clear. The AM is still the great AM as it is on the regular skywave. So is the FM and weather. I think the air band is a bit more improved. But what makes this radio shine is the BFO, and shortwave reception. And I forgot to mention that this radio is full coverage on shortwave. Just the thing to drop in your pocket or back pack and go traveling. Love this radio. CCrane, you've developed another winner.
PROS
Ease of operation. Great sensitivity for such a small radio. Performs amazing using the telescopic antenna. Excellent selectivity for such a small radio.
CONS
Could have improved the tuning in the BFO setting. Would have liked it to down to a lower frequency so as to make the audio easier to understand.
BEST USES
Great for sitting in my recliner and EXing up and down the bands.
Ease of operation. Great sensitivity for such a small radio. Performs amazing using the telescopic antenna. Excellent selectivity for such a small radio.
CONS
Could have improved the tuning in the BFO setting. Would have liked it to down to a lower frequency so as to make the audio easier to understand.
BEST USES
Great for sitting in my recliner and EXing up and down the bands.
Clermont, Florida
December, 9 2017
One of the best SW RADIO ever
4.5 Star review of the Skywave SSB, I bought this unit about 2 weeks ago. When I received the radio, I was surprised at what a little radio it was for the price$$$ you pay! This is my first little radio in my collection! That being said this little radio is a little beast! It has excellent SSB listening with USB and LSB with excellent fine tuning and wide and narrow filters, On AM/SW and Air Bands there are 5 bandwidth settings that can be used to filter out unwanted noise or adjacent overlapping stations. On SSB LISTENING there are 6 bandwidths available to filter out unwanted noise or adjacent overlapping stations. The speaker of the Skywave SSB is not so strong or deep but good for a small portable! With respect to buttons they are way to small for a person with big Arthritic fingers as mine although you adapt as you use the unit! With respect to MW, FM and SW and aircraft and weather listening it is a strong performer although small in size big in technology and features! For the p
4.5 Star review of the Skywave SSB, I bought this unit about 2 weeks ago. When I received the radio, I was surprised at what a little radio it was for the price$$$ you pay! This is my first little radio in my collection! That being said this little radio is a little beast! It has excellent SSB listening with USB and LSB with excellent fine tuning and wide and narrow filters, On AM/SW and Air Bands there are 5 bandwidth settings that can be used to filter out unwanted noise or adjacent overlapping stations. On SSB LISTENING there are 6 bandwidths available to filter out unwanted noise or adjacent overlapping stations. The speaker of the Skywave SSB is not so strong or deep but good for a small portable! With respect to buttons they are way to small for a person with big Arthritic fingers as mine although you adapt as you use the unit! With respect to MW, FM and SW and aircraft and weather listening it is a strong performer although small in size big in technology and features! For the p
PROS
Look at review
CONS
Look at review
BEST USES
SSB, AM, FM, Weather and SW Dxing
Look at review
CONS
Look at review
BEST USES
SSB, AM, FM, Weather and SW Dxing
Ohio
December, 2 2017
Very good
Very pleased. I must say that the performance exceeds my expectations. Great for AM DX. FM reception excellent. Many of these new dsp receivers have funky audio. This is the best I've used.
Very pleased. I must say that the performance exceeds my expectations. Great for AM DX. FM reception excellent. Many of these new dsp receivers have funky audio. This is the best I've used.
PROS
AM/FM reception and travel
BEST USES
AM DX
AM/FM reception and travel
BEST USES
AM DX
Sandy, UT
November, 26 2017
Best portable shortwave radio receiver ever!
Just got my new CCrane Skywave SSB radio and have been using it for a week or so. Same size as my wife's CCrane Skywave. AM, FM, WX and Airband all work just as well on the Skywave SSB as the regular Skywave.So far, I am very satisfied with the SSB reception on the new Skywave SSB. It has one strange quirk - when you press the SSB button, it takes about 3 to 4 seconds to go into SSB mode. Five dashes appear on the display during this wait. After that, it is great. I enjoy aeronautical communications and I get good reception of San Francisco radio and aircraft flying between the west coast and Hawaii. This is on the built in whip antenna. Also been tuning through the ham bands and it does a nice job. There is an extra 0.5 KHz bandwidth on SSB mode so it is possible to do some casual CW listening. I like how the Band button works on shortwave. When in AM mode, it cycles through the shortwave broadcasting bands. In the SSB mode, it cycles through the ham radio band
Just got my new CCrane Skywave SSB radio and have been using it for a week or so. Same size as my wife's CCrane Skywave. AM, FM, WX and Airband all work just as well on the Skywave SSB as the regular Skywave.So far, I am very satisfied with the SSB reception on the new Skywave SSB. It has one strange quirk - when you press the SSB button, it takes about 3 to 4 seconds to go into SSB mode. Five dashes appear on the display during this wait. After that, it is great. I enjoy aeronautical communications and I get good reception of San Francisco radio and aircraft flying between the west coast and Hawaii. This is on the built in whip antenna. Also been tuning through the ham bands and it does a nice job. There is an extra 0.5 KHz bandwidth on SSB mode so it is possible to do some casual CW listening. I like how the Band button works on shortwave. When in AM mode, it cycles through the shortwave broadcasting bands. In the SSB mode, it cycles through the ham radio band
PROS
Tiny size - perfect for camping, traveling and emergency use.Full 1.7-29.999MHz shortwave coverage.Selectivity and fine tuning on SSB is fantastic!Squelch and scanning on airband.
CONS
None.
BEST USES
Camping and traveling.Checking activity on amateur bands without having to go in my ham shack.Great bedside radio.
Tiny size - perfect for camping, traveling and emergency use.Full 1.7-29.999MHz shortwave coverage.Selectivity and fine tuning on SSB is fantastic!Squelch and scanning on airband.
CONS
None.
BEST USES
Camping and traveling.Checking activity on amateur bands without having to go in my ham shack.Great bedside radio.
CALIPATRIA, CA United States
November, 23 2017
perfect little radio
I was one of the people who commented that I wish you would put ssb in the skywave, you listened. I have a grundig 800, grundig 750, neither of them will fit in my pocket, the skywave ssb does and still out performs both of them. plus it scans the preset air band frequencies. LOVE this little radio.
I was one of the people who commented that I wish you would put ssb in the skywave, you listened. I have a grundig 800, grundig 750, neither of them will fit in my pocket, the skywave ssb does and still out performs both of them. plus it scans the preset air band frequencies. LOVE this little radio.
PROS
small size, wonderful features, gooood price. and make a wonderful companion.
CONS
none.
BEST USES
can carry it anywhere easily, constant information companion.
small size, wonderful features, gooood price. and make a wonderful companion.
CONS
none.
BEST USES
can carry it anywhere easily, constant information companion.
Los Angeles, CA
November, 21 2017
Yes!
Yes... This is the radio I have been waiting for. I have only had it for a few days but it quickly has become my favorite. Its audio is crisp and very listenable, has great AM performance for such a small radio and a well thought out layout. The use of standard AA batteries and its size makes it the perfect travel companion.My only complaint would be that the last section of the rod antenna was slightly bent out of the box. If you are looking for a radio that can go with you anywhere or just sit on a table at home and give you the world, consider this radio.
Yes... This is the radio I have been waiting for. I have only had it for a few days but it quickly has become my favorite. Its audio is crisp and very listenable, has great AM performance for such a small radio and a well thought out layout. The use of standard AA batteries and its size makes it the perfect travel companion.My only complaint would be that the last section of the rod antenna was slightly bent out of the box. If you are looking for a radio that can go with you anywhere or just sit on a table at home and give you the world, consider this radio.
PROS
Audio quality, ease of tuning, use of readily available batteries, small size.
CONS
Last segment of rod antenna slightly bent on my radio but otherwise perfect.
BEST USES
At home or away, small enough to go anywhere but still offer great performance.
Audio quality, ease of tuning, use of readily available batteries, small size.
CONS
Last segment of rod antenna slightly bent on my radio but otherwise perfect.
BEST USES
At home or away, small enough to go anywhere but still offer great performance.
San Antonio, TX
November, 21 2017
Give it a chance
I've been using the CC SkyWave SSB for the past few days and it is now my favorite radio from CCrane. I'm a general-class amateur radio operator and I wanted a small companion radio to have with me to listen for when I'm not in my shack. The bands right now are in rough shape so give it time. On qrz.com you can see the current band conditions which will give you some indication of what you might find. If you want a place to start listening I suggest 14.332 MHz during the day. It's a net that's on from sun-up to sun-down and people are on all the time.
I've been using the CC SkyWave SSB for the past few days and it is now my favorite radio from CCrane. I'm a general-class amateur radio operator and I wanted a small companion radio to have with me to listen for when I'm not in my shack. The bands right now are in rough shape so give it time. On qrz.com you can see the current band conditions which will give you some indication of what you might find. If you want a place to start listening I suggest 14.332 MHz during the day. It's a net that's on from sun-up to sun-down and people are on all the time.
PROS
It's a handy tool to have to stay informed about many things. It comes with an external SW antenna that really works to pull in more signals. And most of all it does not require the internet.
CONS
It's minor...tuning resolution limited to 1 KHz.
BEST USES
You are always connected to the world.
It's a handy tool to have to stay informed about many things. It comes with an external SW antenna that really works to pull in more signals. And most of all it does not require the internet.
CONS
It's minor...tuning resolution limited to 1 KHz.
BEST USES
You are always connected to the world.
Puyallup, WA
November, 15 2017
Great Radio
I have tested everything on this radio and it works and sounds great! Since I love aviation, I really appreciate the scanning ability of the aircraft band. FM has great reception even without the antenna pulled up. Build quality is great also
I have tested everything on this radio and it works and sounds great! Since I love aviation, I really appreciate the scanning ability of the aircraft band. FM has great reception even without the antenna pulled up. Build quality is great also
PROS
Aircraft ScanningReceptionBuild quality
CONS
None
Aircraft ScanningReceptionBuild quality
CONS
None
Greenfield, WI
November, 11 2017
Great Radio
Became my bedside radio. Replacing my Sony ICF-2010 which I bought new in 1986 from Bob Grove of Monitoring Times. I am amazed at it's small size and the features
Became my bedside radio. Replacing my Sony ICF-2010 which I bought new in 1986 from Bob Grove of Monitoring Times. I am amazed at it's small size and the features
PROS
Small size and ssb capable.
CONS
Nothing so far
BEST USES
Air band and SWL plus SSB
Small size and ssb capable.
CONS
Nothing so far
BEST USES
Air band and SWL plus SSB
Elk Grove, CA
November, 11 2017
Amazing little radio that packs a punch
The Skywave SSB arrived this afternoon. The first thing that amazed me was how small it is only slightly larger than my ICF-SW100S. This will be an awesome radio to put into the briefcase. Putting it through its paces, I started with the WX radio channel. Here in Sacramento, reception is scratchy at best, but the Skywave SSB had no problem getting a readable signal WITH THE ANTENNA UNEXTENDED. Once I did extend the antenna, I was surprised at how short it was; can it really pull anything in? I walked out into the backyard and turned to 80 meters and yes, the band as alive with ham. The SSB reception was excellent, no warbles or wobbles. The fine tuning brought in both sides of the conversation, which can sometimes be a challenge. What really shocked me was my AM torture test A 5,000 watt AM Mexican radio station about 10 miles east I seem to have one close by, no matter where I happen to live with a nighttime directional pointed right my house. The station is at 990 and pulling in KOMO
The Skywave SSB arrived this afternoon. The first thing that amazed me was how small it is only slightly larger than my ICF-SW100S. This will be an awesome radio to put into the briefcase. Putting it through its paces, I started with the WX radio channel. Here in Sacramento, reception is scratchy at best, but the Skywave SSB had no problem getting a readable signal WITH THE ANTENNA UNEXTENDED. Once I did extend the antenna, I was surprised at how short it was; can it really pull anything in? I walked out into the backyard and turned to 80 meters and yes, the band as alive with ham. The SSB reception was excellent, no warbles or wobbles. The fine tuning brought in both sides of the conversation, which can sometimes be a challenge. What really shocked me was my AM torture test A 5,000 watt AM Mexican radio station about 10 miles east I seem to have one close by, no matter where I happen to live with a nighttime directional pointed right my house. The station is at 990 and pulling in KOMO
PROS
- Portable- Razor-sharp filters- Sensitive- Fun to use- Use standard AA batteries
CONS
Soft muting. Not a dealbreaker. The one thing I miss about analog radios.
BEST USES
On the go, vacation, outdoors, emergency.
- Portable- Razor-sharp filters- Sensitive- Fun to use- Use standard AA batteries
CONS
Soft muting. Not a dealbreaker. The one thing I miss about analog radios.
BEST USES
On the go, vacation, outdoors, emergency.
Downloads/Manuals
Videos
Articles
FAQ
How do I do a complete factory reset?
Can the firmware version of my CC Skywave SSB be updated?
How do I find what firmware version of the CC Skywave SSB that I have?
Why is my CC Skywave SSB not charging my rechargeable batteries when it is plugged into AC power?
I am trying to tune my CC Skywave SSB using the Tuning Knob or the Up/Down buttons on the AM band, but it is not showing my radio station's frequency. What am I doing wrong?
Can the CC Skywave SSB operate on AC power?
I noticed my display light is blinking on and off. Why is this happening?
Does the CC Skywave SSB Radio include a beat frequency oscillator (BFO) that can be adjusted?
In The Box
| What's in the Box | |
|---|---|
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Specs
| General Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Input Power | AC Adapter: 5V DC 300 mA with Mini USB Tip (not included) Batteries: (2) AA (not included) |
| Power Consumption | 30-100 mA DC (depending on headphone, speaker usage, and volume) |
| Run Time (on batteries) | ±70 hours (earbuds) ±60 Hours (built-in speaker) |
| Audio Output | 0.5 Watts 1/8" Stereo Earphone Jack |
| Speaker | 1.5", 25Ω, 0.5W |
| Frequency Coverage | AM 520 - 1710 kHz (10 kHz Steps) AM 522 - 1620 kHz (9 kHz Steps - International) FM 87.5 - 108 MHz (Regular Mode) FM 76 - 108 MHz (When 9kHz is Selected) Shortwave 1711 - 29999 kHz Aviation 118 - 137 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 |
| AM Antenna | Internal Ferrite Bar - 5.5mm High x 7.65mm Wide x 70mm (2.75")Long |
| FM, Weather, Shortwave and Aviation Antenna | 21.5" Whip Antenna |
| Presets | 400 Total |
| Lock Switch | Yes |
| Sleep Timer | 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 Minutes |
| Alarm | Yes |
| Clock | 12/24 Hour Format |
| Display | Lighted LCD |
| Dimensions | 4.8" W x 3" H x 1" D |
| Weight | 6 Ozs. Without Batteries |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited Warranty |
| Included Accessories | CC Earbuds SkyWave SSB Carry Case CC SW Reel Antenna |
|
Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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