Which is better? Sony ICF 506 or ICF 704

A comparison between the two portable radios from Sony — the Sony ICF-506 and the Sony ICF-704 (and its variants) — showing their key features, strengths & trade-offs, to help you decide which might suit you.

Key specs & features:
• 2-band: FM (87.5-108 MHz) and AM (530-1710 kHz) tuning.
• Mono speaker.
• Built-in carrying handle for portability.
• Battery or AC operation: According to one listing it uses 3× AA batteries or plug-in.
• Earphone jack included.
• Reviewers mention good sound and good sensitivity for its size.
• From the official specs: output 640 mW, battery life ~35 hours (when using batteries) according to spec sheet.

Pros / What stands out:
• Simple, straightforward AM/FM portable radio — good for everyday use.
• Highly portable, compact design.
• Good reviews for basic sound & ease of use.
• Suitable if you don’t need shortwave or extra bands.

Cons / Potential trade-offs:
• Only FM + AM (no shortwave or other bands).
• Mono sound only.
• Probably less feature-rich or premium compared to larger models.
• If you’re looking for long-distance reception or shortwave bands, it may fall short.

Key specs & features:
• The base ICF-704 (AM/FM) and variants:
• ICF-704S = FM / MW (AM) / SW (Short Wave) 3-band.
• ICF-704L = FM / MW / LW (Long Wave) 3-band (in some markets).
• Speaker: approx 10.2 cm (4˝) diameter.
• Output power: 0.45 W (450 mW) in the 704S spec.
• Dimensions / weight: e.g., ICF-704S approx 282.5 × 153.5 × 83.5 mm, weight ~1.21 kg incl batteries.
• Power: AC mains + 4× AA batteries.
• Good reviews: One review said “This radio’s strong point is the powerful audio it achieves … from 4 AA batteries or AC input” for the 704S.

Pros / What stands out:
• More bands available (especially if you get the SW or LW versions). So if you want shortwave listening or broader band coverage, this is a big plus.
• Larger speaker implies potentially better sound/volume.
• More “serious” portable radio rather than ultra-compact; suited if you treat this as a main radio.

Cons / Potential trade-offs:
• Heavier / larger, less ultra‐portable than smaller models like the ICF-506.
• Perhaps more expensive (though this will depend on market/used condition).
• If you only need FM/AM and portability, you may be paying for extra features you don’t use.
• Mono sound still (if no stereo variant).