Pogo Electronics Radio YourWay Mini 1GB AM/FM Radio Recorder

List Price: $99.99 Discount Price: $99.99

Features:

• AM & FM Radio and Voice Recorder with 5 AM/FM/Voice Presets
• 1 GB Memory Records Up to 593 Hours
• Can Capture up to 1 Minute of Missed Radio Broadcasts, Up To the Moment You Press "Record"
• Built-in Speaker and Microphone
• Includes Headphones and Batteries

Customer Reviews:

Reception issues, but I like what it does... [Posted on 2007-12-31]
I have used the radio for about 1 month now, and will attempt to relay my perspective now as best I can. I may edit this review if I learn more. I agree with the 1st reviewer in that it was difficult to learn the menue system, and operations. The manual does not explain some things all that well, and does not cover some of the operations clearly. I hate useless technical info. but this manual is vague in some areas. I admit that it took me some hours of trial and error.
I use this unit to pre-program talk radio, (like a vcr), and Pogo is about the only unit that I had found to make something like that.
Here are some comments; 1) Get rechargable batteries, 2) No usb port, however you can use the earphone output to connect to the input of a home stereo system, or compact stereo with an aux. input. I connect it to my home stereo for improved sound. They include a short 1/8" or (3.5mm) cord with the radio for this. You may have to adapt this to your own system depending on its input. I got an (1/8" to rca) at Radio Shack. 3) No place to attach a strap, 4) The view screen is small, 5) No Antenna... The ear phone doubles as one. I live approx. 35-40 miles from the broadcast towers, and getting a clear signal can be an issue. It works ok when I listen to live radio as I can turn the unit to get a good signal, however finding the right position, and placement in my house when I'm not connected to the radio is a problem. Apparently all the heavy metals from eating Lake Michigan seafood has turned me into human antenna. Finding that good location when the radio is unattended is an ongoing experiment. Ear bud cord placement is critical, different locales in the house are also. I've even tried aluminum foil. Setting the unit on a sheet of it may aid reception? (The reception may be good when you set the radio down, but turn into static when you walk away). I would compare fm reception to a small desktop fm radio, or alarm clock radio. If they work OK for you, chances are the Pogo will too. I (may) consider a powered fm antenna that will plug into the earphone port, or input port when I am gone. I have NO idea if that will work, or is recommended because the POGO has no designated antenna input. Moving closer to the broadcast towers however is not an option for me at this time.
With that said; With time I have gotten fairly comfortable using, placing, and programming the radio. The sound quality is very good for talk radio with the 1 earbud, assuming you get good reception. The built in speaker is weak and is meant only for very close, and quiet conditions. I prefer connecting it to my stereo for a nice sound, and freedom from the earbud.
Conclusion; Even with the reception issues it has, I am able to listen to programs I would otherwise miss, (although sometimes with static).
Overall I like the unit and recommend it with the reservations mentioned.
I would buy another POGO knowing what I do.
Also; I was a bit unsure how to rate this unit (1-5) stars. I had considered giving it 4 stars, and easily could (would) have if I did not have reception issues. Remember though that I do live somewhat on the fringe of civilization. Your scenario may be different.
Best!

Works great, Instructions confusing [Posted on 2008-02-17]
This little thing works like a charm but the programming instructions are very confusing (thus the 4 stars instead of 5). I had to call the company for clarification, but once you get the hang of it, it's very cool. Invest in some rechargable batteries for it. Battery life isn't that good.

bad display [Posted on 2008-04-14]
This radio exceeded my expectations except that it is monophonic. Sadly, after
three weeks the display turned black and is no longer useable.

Battery Hog & Hard to Use [Posted on 2008-04-26]
The two AAA batteries last about 24 hours. If you want to record a radio show everyday this means changing the batteries every day! The directions are very cryptic, I have yet to get it to erase a file. You can reformat the drive to clean things up, but then all your settings are gone too. This radio is a pain to use, I suggest you avoid it. The no longer available PogoXL was far better than this cheaply made item.

Great Product [Posted on 2008-04-26]
I love this product - great for recording long radio programs - hours of storage.

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