DeWalt TSTAK Portable Bluetooth Radio + Charger

Experiencing the DeWalt TSTAK Portable Bluetooth Radio + Charger (DWST17510) on the jobsite has been an intriguing blend of highs and lows. This compact, robust unit is part of DeWalt's well-regarded TSTAK system, known for its modular design and rugged durability. Here’s my detailed take based on my firsthand use of the tool.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the TSTAK Radio makes a solid impression. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, which is essential for any jobsite equipment. The unit is IP54 rated, meaning it’s resistant to water and dust—a crucial feature given the often harsh conditions of construction sites. The single-hand operation storage compartment is a thoughtful design choice, offering easy access to your phone or other devices, although it can get cramped when using larger FlexVolt batteries.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of this radio is, without a doubt, one of its standout features. Equipped with four full-range speakers, one active subwoofer, and a bass resonator, the audio output is rich and clear. Whether you're streaming music via Bluetooth or tuning into an FM station, the sound is loud enough to cut through the noise of a busy jobsite. The 3-band equalizer allows for some customization, though it’s somewhat limited with fixed Q settings.

Connectivity and User Interface

Bluetooth connectivity is a significant advantage of this model, allowing for seamless streaming from various mobile devices. The color flip screen and touch-sensitive buttons are modern touches that make the user interface intuitive. However, the mobile app, which is supposed to enhance the user experience, falls short. It’s functional but needs refinement, especially on Android devices. The app’s capabilities for remote control and firmware updates are promising but currently underwhelming due to stability issues.

Battery and Charging

One of the main reasons I opted for the TSTAK Radio was its compatibility with DeWalt’s wide range of lithium-ion batteries, including the high-capacity FlexVolt series. The ability to charge these batteries while using the radio is a convenient feature. However, I encountered some issues with the charging functionality. Occasionally, the unit displayed a 'faulty battery' symbol, requiring the battery to be re-seated or the power cord to be reconnected. This inconsistency is frustrating, especially when you’re relying on it to keep your batteries charged throughout the day.

Radio Tuner Performance

The radio tuner performance is where the TSTAK Radio shows some weaknesses. The FM tuner is decent, with a fast auto-scan feature and the ability to recall presets. However, the AM tuner is a different story. It suffers from significant internal electrical noise, making it almost unusable unless you’re very close to a strong signal. Additionally, the absence of a proper battery state indicator on the screen is a missed opportunity. The tiny multi-color LED is not as informative as the more traditional 8-segment battery icon found on other models.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is a mixed bag. While the unit feels robust and is well-protected against the elements, there are some concerning reports about long-term reliability. I haven’t experienced any major failures yet, but there are enough instances of power cord failures and subwoofer issues to warrant caution. The external power adapter is another point of contention. It’s not as durable as an internal power supply would be, and finding replacements can be both difficult and expensive.

Additional Features

The TSTAK Radio includes some handy additional features, like the USB charging outlet and AUX port. These are great for keeping your devices charged and connected. The graphical display is a nice touch, showing song titles and battery levels when streaming via Bluetooth. However, the display can become pixelated when using the Bluetooth feature, which detracts from the overall user experience.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DeWalt TSTAK Portable Bluetooth Radio + Charger is a mixed bag of excellent audio quality and some frustrating flaws. The sound it delivers is top-notch, making it a pleasure to use on the jobsite. Its rugged build and compatibility with DeWalt’s battery ecosystem are significant advantages. However, issues with the radio tuner, inconsistent charging performance, and a less-than-stellar mobile app hold it back from being a perfect tool.

Would I recommend the TSTAK Radio? It depends. If you prioritize sound quality and already use DeWalt’s battery system, this radio could be a great addition to your toolkit. However, if you need a reliable AM/FM tuner or are looking for flawless integration with a mobile app, you might want to consider other options. The TSTAK Radio has the potential to be a fantastic jobsite companion, but it needs some refinements to fully live up to its promise.