Review: Supersonic SC-126U Stereo Radio Cassette Recorder

Five or six weeks ago, I bought a Supersonic SC-126U portable stereo. My old tape deck had failed; I also found the SC-126U's features and styling impressive for its price. This stereo combines a four-band radio, an MP3 player and a cassette recorder into one relatively compact unit. The Supersonic SC-126U also features a graphic equalizer, two built-in speakers and a large carrying handle.

Although it's almost entirely made of plastic, this stereo seems sturdier than many modern electronics. A couple of minor quality issues do exist. The detachable AC power cord is poorly-made and short; it easily falls out of many wall outlets. Fortunately, the Supersonic SC-126U uses a generic cord type, so I didn't have any difficulty finding a better replacement. Also, the FM stereo indicator light does not work properly.

So far, all of its functions work well. The speakers produce sound of good quality and prove capable of reaching a high volume level without distortion. The MP3 player can play music from SD/MMC cards, USB drives and pocket MP3 players. The stereo offers an earphone jack but no input or microphone jacks. The cassette recorder will record from the radio or the built-in mini microphone. The Supersonic SC-126U also runs on six type "D" batteries.

Reception is good on FM, fair on AM and mediocre on shortwave radio. The radio can pick up a few of the strongest shortwave stations, but most vintage multiband receivers and even some pocket SW radios outperform it. The Supersonic SC-126U is worth buying as a stereo, MP3 player, cassette recorder or AM/FM radio, but not for use primarily as a shortwave receiver. However, the four-band reception offers an interesting bonus most modern stereos lack.

Despite the minimal instructions, poor AC cord and lack of a tape counter, I recommend the Supersonic SC-126U for its sound quality, ease of use, attractive styling and wide range of features. This unit also makes it easy to record songs from the radio and play MP3 music through stereo speakers. Considering the Supersonic SC-126U's relatively low price, it's worth obtaining a better AC power cord.