What to Look for When Buying Work Radios & How They Affect Workflow?
Did you know that listening to music while working can increase job satisfaction, boost your mood and have an overall positive impact on your productivity? Work radios can make it easier to endure tough working conditions and playing familiar music can help a new place feel more like home. Music can also reduce stress and increase focus and perception.
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However, when shopping for a work radio, you need to consider all the aspects of your working environment. If you work on a construction site, chances are your radio will be used around noisy machinery and will get exposed to the elements. Making a list with the desirable preferences, distinctive features and budget options can help you make the best buying decision. Here’s a bit of help on the matter.
Audio quality
In terms of sound, look for a powerful loudspeaker that provides a robust and rotating sound. Usually, work radios have large speakers, some of them even have high-fidelity audio and extensive volume reach. A 10-watt speaker that gives off a loud sound that’s above the noise level at work should do the job.
Heavy Duty Case
You can expect your radio to be used in harsh environments. If not full time, at least during some of the projects at which it will be taken to entertain you. This is potentially the single factor that determines its lifetime of use. Go for a unit that has a weather proof, splash-proof, dust-proof and shock-proof case. Some manufacturers include a safety frame around the radio to decrease the risk of injury and prolong its lifetime.
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Power supply
Availability of electrical power is a luxury at certain work stations. Make sure to double check the electricity requirements of the radio before buying one. Some have AC adapters while others need DC as a power source.
Most versatile radios are the ones that have both corded and cordless operation. That way you can use them based on what you have access to onsite. Operating a cordless radio has great advantage in terms of safety as it eliminates the cord – potential tripping hazard. On the other hand, this means that if there is no power source close by, you will be left at the mercy of the battery. Having this in mind, work radios are built to withstand long hours of continuous use without being plugged in. Some options allow charging during playback and this is another feature you should look for.
Last but not least, keep an eye for the package you are buying. The AC charger and battery may come separately and not with the set you are about to buy.
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Portability
Besides being sturdy and durable, your radio also has to be lightweight enough to be easily packed and transported. You do not want it to drain your power and you do not want it to be hard to lift. Chances are, you already have heavy objects to lift around. A compact size work radio improves portability when needed and is easy to store when not in use.
Additional Features
There are many intricate details regarding how your radio works. For example, you need to check if your radio plays AM and FM stations. Some come with a foldable antenna that can greatly increase the reception. Back-lit LCD display with clock is the standard setting.
When it comes to connectivity, keep in mind that not all radios focus on it. If this is essential for you, look for a Bluetooth model that will be compatible with the devices of your team. These usually have USB ports that can play MP3 file formats, however, you need to check this with the specific model you have chosen. Some even have a charging option via USB port. If you want cordless connectivity and headphones, some brands offer that as well.
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Manufacturers design these radios with workers in mind. Many models nowadays include extra storage for personal items, so you can also have your phone next to you.
Budget
In the world of today, finding work radios for sale online has become much easier than before. There is a diverse range of models to pick from, and in most cases you get what you pay for. The ones below $100 typically have an AM/FM digital tuner, few preset channels, USB ports and SD card reader. Their case is dust and water proof.
Next in range of pricing are radios from $100 to $200. These have FM stations, can play from a card or stream online music. Their output is loud and they have one to three-year warranty.
Starting from $200 and above, you can get the finest radio models. You can expect portability, sturdiness, good batteries, more than 20 radio stations and even subwoofers.
It all comes down to the importance of music in your workplace. Established brands offer high-quality audio experience, and you will need to go past a high price tag in favour of good beats and satisfactory, long-lasting quality audio.
