Would like some feedback on crank and solar power radios. looking to add one the the gear bag.
looked a eton and freeplay.eton had to many gizmos and didn't look that well made, freplay summit looked much better made. eton under $50, freeplay summit under$80
what do you folks think any better models and copmanies out threre?

I have a "grundig" (I think FR200?) That has AM/FM/SW. It has an LED and replaceable "cordless phone battery" (that you can use when don't have batteries). It takes standard AA batteries. I like it as it will use AA batteries that are too run down for anything else. It will play 'forever' (you get the idea). If you want...they make one that doesn't have the SW but does have TV. Loking back....I'd go for the TV bands. That model also has cell phone charging capability.

I have used a Freeplay Plus for many years (solar or spring-driven). I've also had a Coleman Outrider (same as the Freeplay Ranger) which is solar or dynamo. I have used both as daily-use radios (still do) and think that Freeplay's are good products.

From what I've heard, the Eton FR series radios are also good products, and get better reception than the Freeplay's (at least the analog tuning Freeplay models). But no solar.

I've never actually seen one in person, but another product from a solid radio company is the Sangean MMR-77. No solar, but you can crank-recharge the NiMH battery, and it will also take 2AA's. Also water resistant. I saw it on the C.Crane website for $60.

i just wrote a review about such a radio: http://www.outdoors-magazine.com/s_article.php?id_article=266

The Grundig is now the Eton. I have been nothing but pleased with mine for in-place use or cache. Too big to carry, but I've found it to be very well made. Mine charged my cell phone in minutes.

thanks fot the imput , <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />gang