PAL

The PAL (Portable Audio Laboratory) was the last project Mr. Kloss was working at before passing away, it is a Model One-technology based portable radio. It is different from the One for cabinet dimensions and build material: in fact it is smaller than its famous sister (9.3 x 15.9 x 7.9 centimeters). The cabinet is made of a special waterproof plastic and, of course, it has no reflex pipe since it is thought for a beach usage as well. Eight colors are available. Tuning still employs a 5:1 knob; the radio has no fine tuning instrument but has an AFC (Automatic Frequency Control) function, it is not a novelty but it is an efficient circuit anyway, improving reception stability while on the move. It is interesting to notice that the headphone outlet is a stereo jack, while the rest of controls and the input / output set are the same as in the Model One; we also find an AUX input to connect an external source. In this case the aerial is a built-in one and is collapsible. A set of NiMH no-memory-effect, mercury-free batteries, that allow a 16-hour operating time without recharging, assure portability. One thing that is missing and that I would have appreciated - being this a portable radio - is a retractable handle (like the one of the Brionvega TS 502 for instance) to make transportation easier; two side grooves for a better grip are available instead.

Sound clearly shows the portable nature of this unit and cannot rely on the low frequency extension of its "indoor" sister but the same, great reception performances and the sound pleasure and easy listening are present all the way. The main character of the PAL is the merger of portability and sound quality. I took it to the beach and to the mountains and it proved to be a faultless and pleasant mate; at home I placed it in the bathroom (I love listening to music while taking a shower or shaving). In that room it sounds great, especially if placed into a corner, where low frequencies get exalted. My conclusion is for the price: too high in my opinion, and this could endanger its diffusion; the street price is about 200 Euro.