Cheap Timex T600B CD Stereo Clock Radio with Nature Sounds (Black) (Electronics) Price

Short and stout with rounded sides and a contrasting silver-and-black body, the T600B looks a little intimidating. It has far more buttons than most clock radios, which we suspect may puzzle first-time users. Fortunately, many of these controls are used for setup, while the most frequently used buttons are set apart and logically situated.

The Indiglo (blue) display shows time, date, radio frequency, CD track, and indicates which nature sound (ocean, brook, forest, or wind) is currently selected for the alarm. Setting the six AM and 12 FM presets is very straightforward, and when powered up the T600B's last-station memory automatically returns to the station selected before the radio was switched off.

The sound of the T600B is quite good, but the close proximity of the two speakers yields little stereo separation. And though it does deliver a full, clean sound, don't mistake this clock radio for a mini stereo system. Overdrive it, and the cabinet will start to buzz in protest. If you want to listen at higher levels, we'd suggest using the mini headphone jack or investing in a more music-oriented clock radio or shelf stereo.

All in all, the Timex T600B is a good value: it's small, sounds good, and is chock full of features. --Wayne Garcia

Pros:

• Very good sound, in moderation
• 18 tuner presets
• 3 alarms
• Headphone jack

• Faceplate is cluttered
• Buzzes if overdriven